Kayak Rentals - Lunds' premier Desolation Sound Outfitter

Launch your paddling adventure from our quiet, private bay tucked into Lund Harbour, the perfect gateway to the wild beauty of Desolation Sound, Copeland Islands, Cortes, Toba Inlet and more. Experience the beauty of Desolation Sound with high-quality kayaks, expert local knowledge, and a waterfront kayak base designed to make your trip smooth from start to finish. Terracentric Coastal Adventures provides premium equipment, detailed route knowledge, and the local insight you need for a safe and memorable paddling experience.

Why Rent with Us?

• Top-Quality Canadian Craftsmanship
  Our fleet features well-maintained Seaward and Nimbus fiberglass kayaks, with a few Current Designs in the mix — plus rugged plastic doubles for day users. Our kayaks are expedition worthy vessels.

• Everything You Need and More!
  Each rental comes with essential gear: PFD, primary and spare paddle, bilge pump, paddle float, spray deck, a 55-foot throw rope, and a waterproof map. We are also a full outfitter and rent camping gear - tents, water dromedaries, stoves, fuel, dry-bags, bear spray, and more.

• A Waterfront Kayak Base That Works for you
   Our convenient waterfront staging area offers drive-up access, potable water, and all the chart books or guide maps you’ll want to plan your route. We are aren't just a kayak rental shop, we're Desolation Sound's outfitter! We rent all gear including dry bags, water dromedaries, tents, thermarests, sleeping bags, cooking supplies and more! We even sell marine charts right here at our kayak base — as the only licensed chart dealer in Lund, we’ve got you covered.

• Expert Trip Planning and Local Knowledge
  A great trip requires great planning- let us help! With more than 25+ years of experience working in Desolation Sound, we’ve gathered the intel and want to share it with you! Weather, tides, checklists, safety management, permits, campsites, you’ll find it here on our website! More questions? Add a personalized pre-trip planning session with us for a small additional cost. This can be done before your trip at the kayak base, or over Zoom.

• Safety and Professionalism
  At Terracentric, we are first and foremost outdoor educators. We understand what goes into, and is required, for a safe and fun sea kayaking trip. We have policies in place and require detailed information in order to protect you, your group, and us! We want you to have fun, and be safe!

Are you Experienced Enough?

We want you to have an awesome trip, but we also want you to be safe!
We require at least one person in each group of 5 or less to have taken a formal sea kayaking lesson within the last 5 years.

 Here’s how we define “experienced”:

• Has formal sea kayaking instruction from a qualified instructor in the last 5 years.
• Has hands-on experience with self and assisted rescues within the last 2 years.
• Has familiarity with marine charts, tides, currents, and basic navigation
• Has respect for the power of the ocean: wind, weather, and your own limits

If you’re unsure, reach out. We also offer, and encourage lessons, which we can provide before your rental time. Lessons can be a fun way to not only learn essential safety skills, but get tips from the pros before your trip!  Visit our Criteria & Policies page or the FAQ's for for more information.
 

Consider - Single or Double Kayak?

Choosing the right kayak can make a big difference in comfort, confidence, and how enjoyable your day on the water feels. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Single Kayak:

Best for: confident paddlers, people who like independence, and anyone wanting a more active experience.
Single kayaks are nimble and efficient. They allow you to paddle at your own pace, practice more advanced strokes, and enjoy full control over your boat. If you already have kayaking experience, or you’re excited for a more hands-on adventure, a single is a great choice.
Our fleet includes: Seaward - Tyee, Ascente, Chilco, Chinook. Nimbus - Telkwa HV & Sport, Solander, Seafarer, Horizon, Njak. Current Designs - Solstice, Gulfstream, Nomad GTS.

Double Kayak:

Best for: beginners, families, mixed-experience pairs, or anyone wanting a more relaxed day.
Double kayaks are stable, spacious, and surprisingly speedy when both paddlers sync up. They’re the most comfortable option for guests who want extra stability or who may not have much kayaking experience. Many guests love doubles because one person can take short breaks while the other keeps the boat moving.
Our fleet includes: Seaward Passat G3s, Nimbus Skanas

Terracentric prides itself on providing primarily BC made kayaks for our customers. Seaward & Nimbus fiberglass kayaks make up the bulk of our fleet, with a few Current Designs boats as well. Delta plastic double kayaks are also available to our day renters. Our fleet is very well maintained and we ask our guests to take care of our equipment with the same care & attention so that our boats remain available to everyone.

Our waterfront kayak rental shop and launch site is strategically positioned in a private bay within the Lund Harbor. Lund is the gateway for accessing the waters of the Copeland Island and Desolation Sound Provincial Marine Parks and beyond.

Still not Sure? We Can Help.

Tell us a little about your experience, comfort level, and goals for the trip, and we’ll recommend the best fit. Whether you choose the independence of a single or the teamwork of a double, we’ll make sure you’re set up for a safe, comfortable, and memorable adventure in Desolation Sound.

Why Terracentric Is Different

Since 2001, our passion has been more than renting kayaks — we teach, guide, and support. You’ll find:

• Friendly staff ready to help you launch or return
• We provide local knowledge about campsites, wind, tides, and currents
• Quality, expedition style sea kayaks from quality brands like Seaward, Nimbus, and Current Designs
• High quality add-ons to complete your outfitting with equipment from MSR, SealLine, ThermARest, AquaLung etc.

How to Reserve your Kayaks

1. Ensure you meet the rental criterea on our "Criteriea and Policies" page. If you're not sure, send us a email at office@terracentricadventures.com
2. Click the 'Book Now' Tab at the top of the page.
3. After completing the booking form and paying your 10% deposit our team will review your sea kayaking experience. We may email you with follow-up questions if we have any.
4. If approved, you will be sent a link to complete your booking and payment. Your kayaks are reserved once full payment is made. You’ll also receive additional information like our gear and trip planning checklist.

Kayak Transport

We offer a limited shuttle service between Lund and Okeover for renters requiring vehicle repositioning. This service is for the kayaks and one passenger only, with no gear, and is not intended as a general transportation option. Availability is limited and scheduled around rental start times and staff availability. Service is provided between Lund and Okeover only.
If you’d like to add this option to your booking, please select it during checkout or contact us in advance to confirm availability.
Between Lund and Okeover Inlet (One way):

• 4 or more kayaks: $50 + GST per kayak
• 3 or less kayaks: $135 + GST Flat Rate

We do not allow our kayaks to be taken on a renter's vehicle, trailer, or any boat, be it a water taxi or pleasure craft.

Our  Waterfront Kayak Base

This is where you will unload your supplies, receive your equipment and get orientation for your trip. At the base you will find: potable water, parking (if booked in advance), a toilet, maps/charts for sale, our knowledgeable staff, and other amenities. Our kayak base is located behind the Lund Harbour and is well sheltered from wind and waves. Some parking is available (if pre-booked) and the water is less than 100m from the parking area making it very convenient for starting your trip!

Please note, the location of our launch site/kayak base is not the same location as our office.
The address is provided in the confirmation letter.

We’re here to help you prepare for your adventure. If you have any questions about our policies or kayak rentals, please contact us at kayaking@terrracentricadventures.com

Our Commitment to Your Safety

At Terracentric, we’re not just a rental company, we're outdoor educators. We know sea kayaking isn’t risk-free. In fact, safely navigating Desolation Sound’s waters requires respect for changing wind, tides, and marine weather. That’s why we take careful strides to make sure every renter is prepared, informed, and safe.

Who Can Rent?

Experience Requirements:

• We ask detailed questions about your kayaking background to assess suitability and safety.
• Sea kayaking is safest when you have real experience . We require formal instruction or substantial past trip experience. We offer lessons if you are unsure.
• For lessons to count: they must be delivered by a certified instructor, include both “hard” and “soft” skills (wet exit, rescues, self-rescues, navigation, interpreting marine weather ), and be in a fibreglass sit-inside kayak.

Group & Solo Paddlers:

• In a group of up to 5 people, at least one adult (19+) must have recent formal lessons (within 5 years) or equivalent experience.
• Every single-kayak renter (age 16+) must be able to describe the conditions they are comfortable paddling in, based on their trip experience.
• We don’t rent to unaccompanied minors under 16. Youths (5–16) must paddle with experienced adults.
• Solo rentals: paddling alone presents its own set of risks and challenges. We will approve solo rentals on a case-by-case basis.

Check-In, Orientation & Waiver

• Upon arrival at our kayak base, all renters must complete a 20–30 minute safety briefing and orientation at our launch site.
• Each person (or guardian, for minors) must sign a rental agreement + liability waiver.
• Before launching, you’ll submit a float plan with your intended route, campsites and return time.
• If, at check-in, our staff feels your actual skills or experience doesn’t match what you told us, we may refuse the rental - without refund.

Depending on your previous experience, our knowledgeable and friendly staff will cover some basic information with you at our launch site before you depart.  Topics may include:

• Anatomy and parts, pieces and packing of the kayaks
• Proper launching and landing techniques to avoid damaging the kayak
• The equipment we provide and how to use it
• Assisted rescue
• Self-rescue
• Paddling technique
• Tides and currents
• Weather concerns

For those needing (and we will know!) a full introduction to the above topics, charges may apply as a great deal of time is needed to properly introduce the information. Or, take a lesson, it's worth it!

Sea kayaking is an adventure activity that takes place in a dynamic marine environment. By renting from us, you acknowledge that paddling on the ocean involves inherent risks that cannot be eliminated, even when all safety guidelines are followed.

These risks include but are not limited to:

• sudden changes in wind, weather, and sea state
• cold water shock and hypothermia
• capsizing and entrapment hazards
• strong currents, tides, and shoreline obstacles
• limited or delayed rescue in remote areas
• collisions with rocks, boats, or marine life
• injuries from lifting, carrying, or loading kayaks
• risks associated with navigation errors or judgment mistakes

We expect all renters to paddle within their abilities, make conservative decisions, and use the safety skills and equipment provided. By signing our waiver, you agree that you understand these risks and accept full responsibility for yourself and your group while on the water.
Our goal is to help you prepare, stay safe, and enjoy an unforgettable trip, but being aware of the risks is an essential part of sea kayaking!

Rental Timing & Fees

• Check-in is by appointment only (no same-day/drop in rentals) at our private waterfront kayak base (different from office location!). Address and directions provided in your confirmation.
• Kayak rentals start every hour on the half-hour between 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM.
• Late arrival (20+ minutes) will incur a $25 / 30-minute fee.
• If you return early: no refund.
• For multiday rentals, kayaks must be back by 5:00 PM on the final day; returns after that are charged at $15 / 30 min.
• If you're not back by 7:00 PM, we’ll contact the Coast Guard.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

• Wind policy: We monitor Environment Canada’s marine forecast + real-time conditions. If winds exceed 22 knots, you can either delay your launch (no refund) or cancel that day’s rental for a refund of just that day.
• Rain is not a valid cancellation reason - we don’t refund for rain.
• Note that when paddling from Lund, the distances are quite short to the Copeland Islands Marine Park campsites (~ 4 nautical miles) and shelter can be found in amongst the islands from both SE and NW winds. The most exposure is immediately in front of the Lund harbour area itself to both wind directions.

Cancellation schedule:

• 45+ days before trip: Full refund, minus $25 per single kayak, $50 per double kayak
• 21–44 days before trip: 50% refund.
• 0-20 days before trip: No refund.

Booking changes: One free date change is allowed; further changes incur $35 admin fee per change.

Environmental Responsibility

• There are no garbage or recycling services at our launch site. Leaving trash will incur a $20 / grocery-size bag fee.
• We follow and encourage Leave-No-Trace principles. We expect renters to pack out their waste and minimize impact.

Parking & Waterfront Kayak Base

• Parking in Lund Harbour is paid (Lund Resort or Lund Parking lot). ($13/day)
• For multiday renters: you can prebook parking at our launch site if space is available. ($10/day)
• If someone in your group is bringing their own kayak / boat: $10 per watercraft launch fee applies.
• Parking in Lund is limited. Carpool when possible and park considerately.

Damage to Kayaks & Gear

Accidents happen - but repairs are expensive. To keep our fleet in excellent condition for all renters, the following policies apply:

• You are responsible for any damage to all rented gear beyond normal wear and tear.
• We review all gear with you at check-out so you know the condition prior to departure.
• Damage includes (but isn’t limited to): fiberglass cracks, punctures, gel-coat repairs, bent rudders, lost or broken hatches, heavily scraped hulls, damaged paddles, or lost safety gear.
• Lost or unrepairable equipment will be charged at replacement cost.
• Repairable damage will be charged at time/materials cost.
• If equipment is lost, stolen, or returned in a condition requiring repair or replacement, repair or replacement costs will be charged to the renter’s credit card on file. If you have paid via invoice or etransfer we will require you to provide your credit card informatin prior to departure.
• We encourage, and teach, renters to use proper landing techniques, avoid dragging boats, secure gear while camping, and follow all guidance provided during orientation - these small steps prevent most damage.
• No dogs are allowed in kayaks.
• Even in a medical emergency, we will ask that you store our equipment on shore in a safe location, and get your group members out, and let us come and retrieve our equipment. Renters will be responsible for any fees related to the retrieval of our equipment.

Our goal is to help you enjoy your rental without hassle. Being mindful of equipment helps keep costs down for everyone.

Why These Policies Matter

• Safety first: We’re operating in a marine environment that demands respect, our policies help us make sure renters are properly equipped and capable.
• Fairness & sustainability: Because we’re a small, seasonal operation, your bookings really matter. These cancellation and change policies help us manage resources and protect our irreplaceable assets!
• Environmental care: We ask that renters respect the areas they visit so we can all enjoy!

We’re here to help you prepare for your adventure. If you have any questions about our policies or kayak rentals, please contact us at office@terrracentricadventures.com

Sea Kayak Rental Rates

Launching from our quiet private bay in Lund Harbour, you’ll be paddling some of the best waters on the West Coast! We outfit you with high-quality, well-maintained kayaks built for coastal conditions. Our fleet is made up primarily of BC-made Seaward and Nimbus fiberglass kayaks, plus a handful of Current Designs boats and durable Delta plastic doubles for day users.

Our fleet is very well maintained and we ask our guests to take care of our equipment with the same care & attention so that our boats remain available to everyone.
All rentals start by appointment only, and must be pre-booked. We recommend booking early, especially in peak season!

Before reading the rates, please note the following:

• We highly recommend reserving your kayaks well in advance to ensure availability and selection.
• We are not accepting same-day or drop-in rentals at this time. 
• Rental start times are by appointment only.
• It is the renters’ responsibility to read our Criteria and Policies prior to reserving kayaks.

New Rental Rates: Effective January 1, 2026 updated rates listed below will be applied to any NEW or IN PROGRESS bookings that have not yet been paid in 2026.

Note:

• Payment options include Visa and Mastercard.
• Daily rental rates are based on a calendar day.
• To qualify for reduced daily rates when renting for more than one day, rental must be for consecutive days.
• Taxes are not included in the above rates.
• No refunds for early returns.
• All renters must have a valid credit card on file with their reservation in case of damage to kayaks.

How to Reserve your Kayaks

1. Ensure you meet the rental criteria on our "Criteria and Policies" page. If you're not sure, send us a email at kayaking@terracentricadventures.com
2. Click the 'Book Now' Tab at the top of the page.
3. After completing the booking form and paying your 10% deposit our team will review your sea kayaking experience. We may email you with follow-up questions if we have any. Your deposit is refundable should you not be approved to rent AND be unwilling to invest is some training.
4. If approved, you will be sent a link to complete your booking and payment. Your kayaks are reserved once full payment is made. You’ll also receive additional information like our gear and trip planning checklist. If not approved, and you are willing to get some training, we will work with you to determine the best lessons or instruction either with us or in your community to get you out on the water.

What's Included with your Sea Kayak Rental?

Every kayak comes ready for coastal travel with:

• Fibreglass Sea Kayak
• PFD
• Paddle (one per person) + spare paddle (1-2 per group)
• Spray deck/Skirt
• Pump
• Paddle float (1-2 per group)
• 55-ft throw rope
• Waterproof overview map of area

We can also rent dry bags, water dromedaries, additional camping gear and have marine charts and Wildcoast recreation maps for sale.

What’s Not Included

 To help you prepare, here are common items that are not included with your kayak rental (but some may be rented or purchased separately):

• Dry bags (available to rent)
• Marine charts or sea kayak recreation maps(available for purchase)
• VHF radios
• Towlines
• Food, water, and camp fuel
• Water filtration
• Bear-resistant food storage
• Personal clothing
• Camping permits and park fees
• Satellite communication devices (InReach/Spot)

Why Our Rates Reflect Real Value

You’re not just renting a kayak, you’re setting off from a launch site cared for by a team that knows this coastline inside out. From high-quality boats to personalized route considerations, our rates reflect:

• Reliable, well-maintained equipment
• Local expertise shared before every launch
• A safe, private, hassle-free staging and launch area
• Experienced staff on hand to support your trip

When you paddle with solid gear and good guidance, your trip becomes more enjoyable — and far safer.

Kayak Transport Service

At this time we do not permit vehicle rack/trailer transport or car/boat topping of our kayaks by guests. We are happy however to transport your rented kayak and gear for a fee. 

This is subject to availability of staff and our trailer and must be booked and paid fully ahead of time. Unfortunately we are not licensed to carry passengers (unless part of a tour) but will provide some suggestions of how to get around at the time of booking.

A popular choice is the Malaspina Penninsula loop. Starting/Ending in Lund/Okeover Inlet. Powell River Locations: Additional Fees apply.

Rates between Lund and Okeover Inlet (one way trip):

• 4 or more kayaks: $50 + GST per kayak
• 3 or less kayaks: $135 + GST Flat Rate

Note: We are not transporting to any locations not accessible by paved road due to damage than can occur to the kayaks on rough roads.

Marine Transportation of Kayaks is Unavailable. Please note we do not allow for car/boat topping, trailering, or towing of our kayaks.

We’re here to help you prepare for your adventure. If you have any questions about our policies or kayak rentals, please contact us at office@terrracentricadventures.com

At Terracentric we have the gear to complete your outfitting needs! Maybe you just may not have enough gear or you are not sure if you want to invest in buying gear specific to paddle sports quite yet.

We can help you with a variety of items, available to book along with your rental! Or we can always add to your reservation once you know you need some extras.

Popular items include dry bags - in 10 and 20 litre sizes, dromedary (think camels!) bags for carrying water in sturdy bags that won't get torn up by sharp barnacles and oysters. For night time we have tents & thermarest and for sustaining you we carry cooksets and stoves as campfire cooking is not possible in the Desolation Sound marine parks due to year round fire restrictions.

• Where do I unload my gear, launch and park my car?

  Terracentric has it's own private kayak base and launch site on the southwest side of the Lund Harbour.

  Multiday Rentals: You will be given instructions on how to get to our Kayak Base and you can unload all your gear there. You will be welcomed by our staff, receive your rental equipment and can then bring your boat down to the water for packing and launching.

  If you have prebooked a parking spot with us, we will then be directed to a parking spot. If you aren't parking with us you may use one of the two paid lots in Lund - that operated by the Lund Resort or Lund Parking, which can be prebooked at Lundparking.com. Both of these lots are a 5 minute walk through the harbour back to our base.

  Day Renters will park in those lots and be given instructions to walk over to our kayak base with their gear for their day on the water.

• Why do I have to take a lesson if I've been kayaking for years?

  No one ever expects to capsize. If you have never capsized your are either lucky or you have made good decisions about the conditions that you go out in. Speaking from experience (and our team has over 100 years combined experience) you should be practicing rescues every few years in a variety of conditions to retain your muscle memory and to ensure that you are still physically capable of doing a capsize recovery in the same way we could a few years earlier. We are not trying to deter you, we want everyone to be educated, empowered with skills and knowledge and ultimately safe. We can be heard saying "people don't know what they don't know" and not knowing ones limitations can be a very risky thing. We encourage our guests to not only get training in the "hard skills" of sea kayaking but also what we call the "soft skills" - understand and interpreting the weather, reading charts, navigation and decision making especially when traveling with others.

  We offer lessons and trip planning consulations so that you can gain that knowledge and practice before you go out. Many happy guests have found our training to very valuable and convenient either the day before or even the day of a rental.

• What is included with my sea kayak rental?

  Every kayak comes ready for coastal travel with:

  • Fibreglass Sea Kayak
  • PFD
  • Paddle + spare paddle (1-2 per group)
  • Spray deck/Skirt
  • Pump
  • Paddle float (1-2 per group)
  • 55-ft throw rope
  • Waterproof overview map of area

  We can also rent dry bags, water dromedaries, charts/maps and additional camping gear.

• How do I book my kayaks?
  1. Ensure you meet the rental criterea on our "Criteriea and Policies" page. If you're not sure, send us a email at office@terracentricadventures.com
  2. Click the 'Book Now' Tab at the top of the page.
  3. After completing the booking form and paying your 10% deposit our team will review your sea kayaking experience. We may email you with follow-up questions if we have any.
  4. If approved, you will be sent a link to complete your booking and payment. Your kayaks are reserved once full payment is made. You’ll also receive additional information like our gear and trip planning checklist.
• What do you mean by "experience"?

  When we say experience, we mean more than simply having paddled a kayak before. For safety reasons, one renter per group of 5 renters* must have completed a formal sea kayaking lesson or course within the last five years. This ensures you are familiar with essential skills such as basic paddling technique, assisted rescues, self-rescue awareness, wet exits, and safe decision-making on the water. Conditions in our area can change quickly, and recent instruction helps ensure you are comfortable handling wind, waves, and navigation in a coastal environment. If you’re unsure whether your background qualifies, we’re always happy to chat and help you decide if a refresher lesson would be the best option.

  We offer lessons from our waterfront kayak base that are convenient and very informative! Even if you have taken a lesson previously, we guarentee you'll benefit from it!

  *Our lesson requirement applies to those renting from us, not to those who may bring their own kayaks.

• How long do you think it will take to paddle to......?

  When planning their routes, many guests ask us how long it might take them to paddle to specific camping sites with the Desolation Marine Parks complex.

  The answer? We don't know exactly as it depends on many things including sea state, winds, other boat traffic, how big your group is, tides, how efficient your stroke is, your kayak, your route and more!

  On average, a paddler can travel at a speed of 2 - 3 knots, or 2-3 nautical miles in an hour of time. We will share with you some of the distances below and leave the math to you!!

  FROM TO DISTANCE (NM)

  Lund to South Copeland 1.6

  Lund to Middle Copeland Campsite 2.6

  Lund to North Copeland Campsite 4.1

  Lund to Sarah Point 6

  Lund to Feather Cove 6.8

  Lund to Hare Point 8.42

  Lund to Curme Islands 12

  Lund to Bold Head 11.5 / Tenedos Bay 12.6

  Lund to Prideaux Haven 14.5

  Lund to Roscoe Bay 10.5

  Lund to Refuge Cove 10

  Lund to Toba 28

  Lund to Cortes Bay 8.6

• Can I have a fire?

  Fires

  • Fires are not permitted in marine parks unless in a designated fire ring

  • Currently, fire rings exist only in Tenedos Bay and Roscoe Bay

  • Firewood is not provided

  • Cutting or collecting wood is prohibited

  On Crown Land, small fires are allowed only when there is no fire ban.

• What are the wind patterns in Desolation Sound?

  Weather on the BC coast can be dynamic, and Desolation Sound is no exception. Understanding local wind patterns and knowing how to access marine weather forecasts are essential parts of planning a safe paddling trip.

  Wind Patterns & Pressure Systems

  Unlike many coastal areas where mornings are calm and afternoons become windy, Desolation Sound behaves a little differently. Here, winds are primarily driven by pressure gradients—changes in air pressure that signal shifts in the weather.

  Low Pressure Systems

  • Winds generally come from the southeast (SE)

  • Rain is often occurring or on the way

  • SE winds can funnel directly up Thulin Pass and into Desolation Sound
    

  High Pressure Systems

  • Winds come from the northwest (NW)

  • Typically associated with clear skies and warm temperatures

  • NW winds tend to travel down through Desolation Sound and into Thulin Passage. The Eastern portion of Desolation Sound is generally less affected by NW winds.

  Summer on the coast is usually clear and dry, but rain is always a possibility. Some of the best trips happen in the worst weather—good gear and a positive attitude make all the difference!

• What weather/wind forecast should I use?

  Like much of the BC coast, weather in Desolation Sound can shift rapidly and with little warning. Marine forecasts are updated four times daily and broadcast continuously.

  Desolation Sound falls under the regional forecast area:
  “Strait of Georgia – North of Nanaimo.”

  It’s essential that you check updated weather information every day during your trip.

  How to Access Marine Forecasts

  You can stay updated by:

  • VHF Radio — listen to Channel 8 for continuous marine weather broadcasts

  Smartphone — most of Desolation Sound has reliable cell service
  We recommend bookmarking the marine forecast for quick access

• How should I land/launch the kayaks to avoid damage?

  Transitioning kayaks from water to land requires careful forethought and is where most damage to kayaks (and people!) can occur.

  Our sea kayaks are made from fibreglass and paddle great! But they are fragile. Please follow our tips which will help prevent damage.

  Basic Tips

  • Only move sea kayaks unloaded.

  • Use 2 people to lift a single kayak. 4 for a double.

  • Do not drag kayaks whatsoever across any surfaces, including sand.

  • Move kayaks off the beach as soon as possible. Unexpected boat wakes can cause damage.

  • Do not sit in sea kayaks on the beach. Only when floating.

  Launching

  • Know whether the tide is rising, or falling, and approximately how quickly.

  • Choose a logical spot to launch. Many campsites have ‘boat-runs’ where the rocks are moved to create a path.

  • Move your gear to the edge of the water, then move the kayak fully into the water once you are ready and organized.

  • Put on your paddling gear.

  • The bow of the kayak can be gently rested on shore while you load to keep it close, or the kayak can be fully floating.

    • Be careful if the tide is falling. A loaded kayak is very heavy and cannot be dragged if the tide falls and it becomes beached.

  • Load your gear into the kayak. Remember to utilize the shape of the kayak, putting long narrow items toward the bow or stern and larger items closer to the middle.

  • Once your kayak is fully loaded, LIFT the bow off the shore and move to deeper water.

  • Once you are sure the water is deep enough that the kayak won't become beached when you hop in, get into the cockpit.

  • Paddle away from shore, put down your rudder, put the spray skirt on the combing of the kayak.

  Landing

  • Choose a logical spot to land. Many campsites have an area cleared of rocks that make it easier to land. Many campsites also have a sheltered area protected from wind and waves.

  • Know if the tide is rising or falling and approximately how quickly.

  • Come close to shore but stop before hitting the shore!

  • Hop out of the kayak and lift the bow onto the shore. Do not drag the kayak.

  • With haste, empty your gear onto the shore, a safe distance from the water.

  • With 2 people, lift the kayak further up the beach. Bring your stuff up the beach too.

  • Remove paddling gear and store items in cockpit

    • Guide tip: Storing all your gear in the cockpit prevents it from getting lost.

  • Store kayaks above high-water. Often placing them across logs works best.

    • Be careful moving kayaks on logs. If you lever them on the logs it can create pressure points which break the fibreglass.

  • Double check you have moved all kayaks and gear off the beach.

• What container should I use to store water and where is it available in Desolation Sound?

  • Drinking water should be stored in durable, flexible containers. Water dromedaries are commonly used. They are available to rent from us! Potable water is also available at our base but be aware it can have a bit of taste to it. Plan on 3L per person per day!

  • Access to water is extremely limited in Desolation Sound. Reliable sources include:

    • Refuge Cove

    • Squirrel Cove

    • Roscoe Bay (Black Lake)

    • Tenedos Bay (Unwin Lake)