Earn your kayak guide certification with Blue Dog Kayaking in Mill Bay. Dive into a week of hands-on training that prepares you to lead safe and exciting tours in BC’s breathtaking waters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7 days, full-day sessions
Fitness Level
Participants should have good upper body strength, cardiovascular endurance, and basic swimming ability to handle prolonged paddling and rescue scenarios.
Wildlife
History
Mill Bay has a rich indigenous heritage and served historically as a key coastal fishing and trading spot.
Conservation
Blue Dog Kayaking actively promotes Leave No Trace principles and partners with local groups to protect marine habitats.
Blue Dog Kayaking
Earn your kayak guide certification with Blue Dog Kayaking in Mill Bay. Dive into a week of hands-on training that prepares you to lead safe and exciting tours in BC’s breathtaking waters.
Blue Dog Kayaking is a professional sea kayaking company based in Mill Bay, British Columbia. Specializing in guided paddling trips, instructor courses, and multi-day expeditions, Blue Dog Kayaking offers experiences for beginner to advanced paddlers. The company operates locally in the Gulf Islands, around Quadra Island, and on remote Vancouver Island routes such as the Brooks Peninsula and the Bunsby Islands.
Instructors and guides hold recognized certifications and run Paddle Canada and ACSKG-aligned training programs, including Paddle Canada Level 1 and Level 2 instructor courses, a Rolling Instructor Course, and an Assistant Guide (ACSKG) course. Training focuses on practical paddling skills, safety, rescues, navigation, and leadership development delivered in real-world sea conditions.
Guided trips include short wildlife-watching tours, sunset paddles, and extended unsupported expeditions like the Kyuquot & The Bunsby's itineraries. Wildlife-focused outings highlight local marine species such as harbour seals, bald eagles, river otters, sea lions, and occasional whales and dolphins. Multi-day expeditions visit remote beaches, marine parks, and cultural sites, emphasizing low-impact travel and responsible stewardship.
Blue Dog Kayaking provides equipment guidance and skill-appropriate instruction, making excursions accessible while maintaining safety standards. The business is based in Mill Bay, BC, and organizes trips across the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. Travelers seeking certified instruction, wildlife viewing, or challenging exploratory expeditions will find clearly described programs and instructor-led learning pathways suited to varied experience levels. Booking information, trip dates, and specific equipment lists are available directly through Blue Dog Kayaking's official channels to help paddlers prepare properly and safely.
Base
Mill Bay, BC
Launch point for Gulf Islands trips
Tours Offered
10 trips
Guided tours and courses
Certifications
Paddle Canada • ACSKG
Instructor and guide programs
Trip Lengths
2 hours–multi-day
From sunset to multi-day expeditions
Check dates, skill prerequisites, and booking details to secure a spot on a guided tour or instructor program.
Practice Self-Rescue Techniques
Mastering self-rescue is crucial for paddling safety, especially in dynamic surf conditions around Mill Bay.
Wear Layered Clothing
Temperatures can fluctuate, so layering helps you stay comfortable and warm both on and off the water.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water during training days to maintain energy levels.
Respect Local Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from marine animals and avoid disturbing nesting areas.
PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Critical for safety during all kayaking activities.
Wetsuit or Drysuit
Protects against cold water temperatures in spring and early fall.
spring
Waterproof Layered Clothing
Keeps you dry and warm when facing unpredictable weather.
fall
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility on bright, sunny days.
summer