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.
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Sea
Kayak
Queen
Charlottes 