Sea Kayak - Hakai Protected Area

After catching the morning ferry in Port Hardy we’ll launch the afternoon of Monday, August 12th from Bella Bella. Multiple BC ferry reservations will be needed.

We’ll spend 12 days exploring the central BC coast from Athlone Island to the southern end of Hunter Island. I’m not planning on breaking camp daily but we will stay at multiple locations throughout the trip. Each day's launch time, distance, and paddling hours will be dependent on our route/conditions but do expect earlier launches as a general rule. We’ll experience a combination of protected paddles within the islands as well as open coastal paddling in swell. Wind or fog may be encountered anywhere we will paddle. Prior multi-day kayak/camping trips a must as well as recent experience paddling a loaded boat in conditions. This is a physically demanding trip both on and off the water. Some camping locations in the area may require a longer than usual carry to launch, depending on the tides. Dry suit and helmet required.

In addition to the border crossing, getting to the Bella Bella launch site requires taking a BC ferry from Tsawwassen to Nanaimo on day 1 and driving several hours north to Port Hardy. On day 2 we will take another BC ferry to Bella Bella, pack boats, and paddle to our first camp. We'll share any ferry, gas, hostel, camping, and parking fees.

In order to make this a successful and enjoyable trip for everyone please think about your own goals and skills before committing to ensure we are all on the same page. We’ll be together for 2 weeks and will need to rely on each other throughout.

My goals for this trip are to:

• Make good group/individual decisions that reduce risk and keep us safe
• Enjoy our time together and come back with good memories
• Explore the cultural and heritage sites of the area

Expectations for all participants:

• Participate in group decisions and proactively communicate concerns
• Abide by all trip leader decisions and support each other throughout the trip
• Be respectful of others and willing to put the group before self
• Raise issues/concerns in a thoughtful and constructive manner
• Do not take risks that others are uncomfortable with
• Show up with the appropriate equipment and skills for kayak/wilderness camping, a positive attitude, and physical fitness to handle anything we may encounter