SUMMER PADDLING WITH ORCAS

Why this trip:  First and only orca preserve in the world; best single time and place in the world to paddle with salmon-eating orcas; sheltered waters make this a great destination for novices new to sea kayaking!

            TELEGRAPH COVE, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA -- Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. invites outdoor-minded folks to join its six-day fully guided paddling trips through the wilds of British Columbia’s Johnstone Strait off northern Vancouver Island.  This orca freeway is world renowned for its summer congregations of hundreds of salmon-eating “killer whales” following the salmon runs funneled from the sea into this specific area.  In fact, Canada is the first and only country in the world to recognize the significance of this area by setting up Robson Bight Orca preserve for the northern resident orcas.

            Participants will paddle two-person sea kayaks through the glacier-carved waterways between Vancouver Island and the rugged mountains of mainland British Columbia.  Along the way, they’ll get close to wild orcas, as the strait is a traditional gathering place for these whales. Guides point out whale behavior and carry a hydrophone to hear the orcas’ underwater vocalizations.  Bald eagles dot the towering trees along the shore, feasting on salmon runs.

            The group will also explore the area’s rainforest on foot, visit the ancient First Nations village of Memquimlis to view its totem poles and remains of a traditional longhouse, and hopefully glimpse a black bear from their kayaks.  Each night, they’ll camp on secluded island beaches where they can watch orcas from their tents.

            Trips depart from Port McNeill on Vancouver Island BC Canada – weekly July & Aug, 2008 (6 days paddling; $1145/person).  The price includes camping and kayaking equipment, meals, kayaking instruction and guide services.  Youth get 10% of the above prices.  5% GST tax and airfare not included.  For further information contact Sea Kayak Adventures,

tel. (800) 616-1943, or access their web site at www.seakayakadventures.com     # # #