Haida Gwaii sea kayak tours, ocean kayaking
British Columbia, Canada. (Queen Charlotte Islands)

Sea Kayaking is a popular mode of transportation when exploring the Queen Charlotte Islands, especially when discovering the Gwaii Haanas National Reserve Park. The kayak routes vary from easy casual to experienced open water paddling. Planning a trip with a guide is the best way to capitalize on the popular kayak routes navigating inlets, coves, down rivers and narrow straits.

The islands attract the experienced kayaker with gear, maps and GPS in tow ready to set out on a self guided tour. And the curious kayaker, visiting from afar, who sign up for a guided interpretive kayak tour with a Haida First Nation guide leading them around the mystical Gwaii Haanas National Reserve Park.

The Gwaii Haanas National Reserve Park is the ancestral home of the Haida First Nation people. To kayak the reserve requires authorization by the Haida people. So to really capitalize on the remote kayak routes available in the park then it is best to join a guided group. The guided tours include all the kayak equipment, lessons and a guide... plus many arrange accommodations and meals too.

The ancient Haida Indian village of Ninstints is a popular destination on many guided kayak tours because of the ancient remains and the Totem Poles. The entire south of the Queen Charlottes is home to many ancient villages like Hagi, Kankidas and Ikeda Cove. It is not permitted to land near an ancient Haida Village without authorization.

The sea kayaking routes around the Charlottes are mostly in protected waters when following close to the eastern coastline. Always be prepared for the unexpected as weather changes on a dime. There are some areas exposed to high winds and tricky currents. The outside coast of the Charlottes is whole different story... being many times rougher and unpredictable and should not be attempted alone.