Paddle through the outer-coast islands of Tofino aboard a guided sea kayaking tour with Remote Passages Marine Excursions. Spot otters, eagles, and seals while learning about the region’s unique natural and cultural history.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, comfortable with sustained paddling and balance on water.
Wildlife
History
The area around Tofino has been home to the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples for thousands of years, with rich traditions tied to the sea and islands.
Conservation
Remote Passages emphasizes low-impact travel and educates guests on protecting fragile marine habitats and wildlife corridors.
Remote Passages Marine Excursions
Paddle through the outer-coast islands of Tofino aboard a guided sea kayaking tour with Remote Passages Marine Excursions. Spot otters, eagles, and seals while learning about the region’s unique natural and cultural history.
Remote Passages Marine Excursions is a Tofino-based marine tour operator offering wildlife and coastal adventures in Clayoquot Sound and surrounding waters.
The company operates guided Zodiac and cabin vessel whale watches, sea kayaking trips, coastal bear-watching excursions, and Hot Springs Cove transfers to Maquinna Provincial Park. Experienced local guides lead small-group Zodiac outings (24’ ZODIAC) for Coastal Bear Watch trips where guests observe black bears foraging along fjord shores, plus sightings of seals and bald eagles. The Whale Watch Plus Program is offered aboard both Zodiac and cabin vessels, drawing on more than 30 years of regional expertise to locate Grey and Humpback whales, sea otters, and diverse marine habitats. Sea Kayaking • Islands tours provide guided paddle experiences around Tofino’s outer-coast islands, with opportunities to view eagles, otters, and intertidal life while learning about the area's cultural and natural history. The Hot Springs Explorer includes a boat transfer and a scenic 2-kilometre boardwalk to Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park, about 32 kilometres from Tofino, allowing visitors to access geothermal pools year-round.
Safety equipment and knowledgeable direction are emphasized across trips; flotation suits mentioned for some Zodiac excursions improve comfort in cool water conditions. Remote Passages focuses on responsible wildlife viewing within Clayoquot Sound’s protected ecosystems and supports visitor education about marine and coastal environments. Reservations, seasonal schedules, and accessibility details are available through the company’s booking channels. Tours operate seasonally with multiple daily departures during peak months and private charters available on request for groups and photographers.
Location
Tofino, BC
Operates in Clayoquot Sound waters
Tours Offered
6 experiences
Zodiac, cabin, kayak, Hot Springs
Years Experience
30+ years
Whale-watching expertise in region
Hot Springs
Hot Springs Cove
2 km boardwalk from dock
Reserve Zodiac bear watches, Whale Watch Plus trips, sea kayaking, or the Hot Springs Explorer — limited seats during peak season.
Dress in layers
Weather on the coast can change quickly; wear moisture-wicking layers that protect from sun and wind.
Bring waterproof storage
Use provided dry bags or bring your own to protect cameras and electronics from seawater and splashes.
Check tide schedules
Timing your trip around low tide gives the best access to intertidal zones and wildlife sightings.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure for check-in and safety briefing.
Waterproof jacket
Protects from wind and rain during unpredictable coastal weather.
spring
Sunhat and sunglasses
Essential for shielding face and eyes from strong coastal sun.
summer
Water shoes
Provide grip and protection when entering or exiting water and exploring tidal pools.
Dry bag
Keeps electronics and valuables safe from splashes and rain.