Sea Kayaking in Barkley Sound with Paddle West Kayaking
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness; moderate endurance needed for 2.5 to 3 hours of paddling.
Overview
Paddle through the coastal waters of Barkley Sound on a fully guided, four-hour sea kayaking tour with Paddle West Kayaking. Ideal for all skill levels, this journey reveals secluded beaches, rich wildlife, and rugged shorelines accessible only by kayak.
Ucluelet Coast Kayaking Tour
4 Hours • Ages 8+ • Fully Guided • Venture Out Into The Coastal Waters of Barkley Sound
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 4-hour sea kayaking adventure in Barkley Sound, where you'll paddle through stunning coastal waters and explore secluded beaches. Encounter diverse wildlife, including seals and bald eagles, while guided by certified experts. This unique experience combines scenic beauty with intimate exploration, perfect for adventurers of all skill levels.
Venture out into the coastal waters of Barkley Sound
Duration
4 Hours
Enjoy approximately 2.5-3 hours on the water and 1-1.5 hours on land
About
Leave the shelter of the Ucluelet harbour and explore the beautiful coastline of northern Barkley Sound. This tour offers excellent opportunities to view both marine and terrestrial wildlife as you paddle along shorelines and through island channels and reefs that can only be accessed by sea kayak. Enjoy a brief stop on land to rest, explore, and have a snack.
All tours are fully guided by professional certified sea kayak guides.
Additional Information
- Suitable to all experience levels
- 2 passenger minimum to confirm tours
- All passengers must be 8 years or older
What is Provided
- Waterproof dry bag
- All necessary paddling and safety equipment
It is not necessary to bring a backpack with you. Anything that needs to stay dry can be packed into a dry bag. Backpacks can be accommodated and will be stored in a water-tight hatch that cannot be accessed while on the water.
What to Bring
- Water, snacks, camera and make sure you are comfortable and prepared for the weather.
- Please do not bring any valuable items you do not want to possibly sacrifice to the ocean.
Clothing
- Light layer, warm layer and rain jacket (or windbreaker)
- Jeans and cotton clothing are NOT recommended. Synthetic and natural fibres that do not lose insulation when wet (ex. Merino wool and fleece) or other quick-dry materials are recommended.
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses
- Due to the glare of the water it is important to bring sun protection.
Footwear
- 4-hour tours: any comfortable footwear (sneakers, running shoes, sandals, etc)
- We do our best to keep your feet dry but we do paddle in a marine environment so there is potential for your feet to get wet.
Extras
- Snack, camera, water
- We recommend bringing a light snack (granola bar, piece of fruit, trail mix, etc) on the 4-hour tours.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Weather can shift quickly; wear synthetic or wool layers that dry fast and pack a rain jacket.
Bring sun protection
UV reflection from the water increases exposure, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Footwear choice matters
Wear sturdy sneakers or sandals that can get wet as feet may contact saltwater during paddling.
Pack light and use provided dry bags
Only essential gear should come on the kayak; valuables risk water exposure without waterproof bags.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Bald eagles
History
The Barkley Sound coastline has been a vital marine resource for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with traditional knowledge reflected in today’s sustainable tourism practices.
Conservation
Paddle West Kayaking emphasizes minimal-impact travel and educates guests on protecting fragile marine ecosystems, supporting local conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Victoria, British Columbia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Synthetic or wool base layers
Retains warmth and dries quickly if wet, essential for comfort on the water.
all specific
Waterproof rain jacket
Protects from wind and rain, crucial for coastal weather variability.
all specific
Sun hat and polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and protects from UV, improving visibility and eye comfort.
spring|summer|fall specific
Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sneakers
Keeps feet stable and comfortable when paddling and during shore stops.
all specific