Do I need
to know how to kayak or wilderness camp?
No. Your guides will teach you how. Our adventures are for
everyone, and designed to accommodate all levels of experience
and abilities. The majority of people who join our tours are
first time kayakers, or have limited experience. All that
we require is that you welcome adventure with an open mind
and are able to laugh and have fun when encountering the unexpected.
Do I need
to be in great shape to join one of the trips?
No. Our adventures are not considered to be strenuous or physically
demanding, and we do not require a high level of fitness.
You must be capable of a few hours of moderate exercise each
day. Keep in mind that good general health will go a long
way if we happen to encounter some strong winds, tides, or
time restrictions.
Are there
age requirements?
Spirit of the West invites the whole family to join our adventures.
We do not have any strict requirements on age but do suggest
for our multi day tours a minimum of 12yrs old. Those concerned
with being ‘too old’ contact us to discuss their physical
abilities. We have trippers in their 80’s.
How much paddling
is generally done in a day?
It averages between 3-5 hours a day. Paddling time will vary
depending on the tour type, plus the group’s general abilities
and desires. In our day’s activities we try to incorporate
hiking, swimming, beach combing and plenty of leisure/lounging
time.
How stable
are the kayaks? What is the likely hood of flipping over?
The kayaks we use on our tours are extremely stable. The chance
of a capsize is minimal. (In fact we have yet to experience
a capsize while on tour) If for some reason a kayak flips,
all our guides are skilled with rescue procedures, and recovery
training is an important part of your initial group orientation
and training.
What if the
weather turns bad? Will I be comfortable and warm?
Our weather in the Pacific Northwest is generally pleasant
from May to the end of September, but temperatures vary. On
a visit to Desolation Sound or the Discovery Islands it is
not uncommon in mid summer to need a swim every few hours
in order to cool off. Johnstone Strait or Nootka Sound/ Nuchatlitz,
being a little further north and more exposed to weather,
will have cooler temperatures. Although uncommon, it can rain
in the summer. A general rule is to be prepared for any type
of weather and you will stay comfortable.
What are the
chances of seeing Killer Whales?
How close do we paddle to the Orcas? On our Johnstone
Strait tour we stand a high chance of seeing the whales. Understandably
we cannot guarantee what nature will dictate, but we can tell
you that this area has one of the highest concentrations of
Killer Whales on earth, and this is where they spend their
summer holiday. You may see them from either your kayak, while
traveling on our water taxi, or from the shore. Note that
regulations say that we must not paddle within 100 meters
of the whales—this is out of respect for their space. If they
decide to approach us, you may find yourself within arms reach.
What is the
camp set up like?
All of our campsites are in wilderness settings. We seek out
sites with beautiful surroundings and solitude. There may
be occasions when we are camping next to another group of
kayakers. Where possible we set up near fresh water streams.
On our Johnstone Strait Ultimate tour we have a permanent
camp.
Where do we
wash? Are there toilets?
For washing, you have the option of using small streams, the
ocean, or one of the fresh water lakes that we may visit.
Please bring biodegradable environmentally friendly cleansing
agents. Toilet facilities are not common in most wilderness
settings, although some areas may have pit toilets. On our
Johnstone Strait Ultimate tours we have an established outhouse
that has the best view on the coast. On other tours your guide
will generally designate an area or system that works for
ensuring your privacy.
What if I
come alone?
Many of our guests travel solo. We try to arrange your own
tent if possible. If not, we will put you together with a
suitable partner. If you have any concerns, please feel free
to contact us.
Is it appropriate
to tip the guides?
Tipping of guides is not expected but very much appreciated.
If you feel the guides have done an exceptional job, tipping
is an appropriate way to show your appreciation.
If
you have a question we haven’t answered, please give us a
call at 1-800-307-3982 or e mail us at info@kayakingtours.com
