Great Bear Rainforest Tour Kayak with killer whales dates

The Great Bear Rainforest Kayak Tour

Overview

kayakers by waterfall Set in the heart of British Columbia's wild central coast, the Great Bear Rainforest offers some of the most stunning sea kayaking in the world.

The Columbia III departs Sunday afternoons from the remote First Nations village of Bella Bella (map). We then begin our week of exploring the most pristine wilderness on the British Columbian coast. The diversity of landscapes, abundance of wildlife, and unlimited paddling routes makes the Great Bear Rainforest a truly superb sea kayaker's destination.

"Simply magical. Everything from the food, the sights, the people and the unparallel hospitability made this adventure unlike any other. Thank-you for opening our eyes and sharing this beautiful land with us. Your enthusiasm radiates throughout the ship bringing excitement and curiosity around each corner. We feel so fortunate to have embarked on such a remarkable adventure. Thank-you and we hope to see you soon!"
Zack and Abby, California

Steep-sided, glacial-carved fjords cut through the Coast Mountains on their way to the open ocean. Where the rain and snow fed rivers flow into these inlets, numerous species of wildlife congregate to feast upon the spawning Pacific salmon returning to their place of birth after their lives as ocean dwellers. As we paddle in the river estuaries beside lush, grassy meadows we often observe black bears fishing, eagles perched in the cedars, and if we are lucky, wolves or a grizzly bear loping along the beach. Towards the open Pacific, the mountains give way to a maze of rocky islets dotted with exquisite white sandy beaches. Brightly coloured intertidal life clings to the surf swept rocks, while sea otters, seals and river otters play in the kelp beds and sea birds swoop overhead. Taking advantage of our kayak's silent travel and shallow draft we explore tiny coves and narrow passageways, while knowing that the warmth and security of the Columbia III are close at hand.

kayakers on the beach With its vast distances, rugged terrain, and less predictable weather, the central coast is where the mothership concept truly shines. The options are varied depending on the weather and the desires of the guests. On a fine day, a picnic lunch on a sandy beach or a grassy estuary is a lovely choice after a morning's paddle. If the weather turns foul there is always the cosiness aboard the Columbia III.

"Having booked nearly a year in advance and coming for the second time my expectations were high and yet exceeded by all that was seen and experienced. Thanks."
Scott, Maryland 2006, 2007 and rebooked for 2008

Each day builds on the last, as an understanding and appreciation of the significance of this untouched wilderness evolves. The Great Bear Rainforest is a place you will never forget. Instead you will long for more! After a memorable week, the Columbia III returns to Bella Bella Saturday morning.

"We’re quiet and reserved - we’re almost back to 'reality'. As I look around at the books and the couch and windows I wonder about all the people that have come on this boat before me. They thumbed through the pages of Marine Life of the Pacific Northwest, and sipped teas with their feet curled up under them on the couch. We come for a week and this boat becomes our home. But we all leave eventually (we were lucky enough to get 9 days of adventure). I find myself amazed by your generosity of spirit that you can continue to open your home (your baby, Ross) and give us all experiences of a lifetime. I thank you for what you’ve given me, and because I’m neither the first nor the last, you have my respect and admiration. Thanks for putting up with 'us' all. Love and hugs,"
Katie, Ontario Canada 2006, 2007

Our 9 night Great Bear tours allow more time to view grizzly bears, visit the stunning Big House in the remote First Nations community of Klemtu, and soak in a secluded hot springs. But best of all we have time to search for the elusive Spirit Bear on Gribble Is. accompanied by our Gitga’at First Nations guides. As rare as the white bears are, we have had superb viewing opportunities with every tour.

We offer directions to Bella Bella, our point of departure.

2008 Great Bear Rainforest Kayaking Tour Dates and Cost
August 17 - 23	6 nights	$2,950.00 CDN	Approx. $2,995.00 U.S.
August 24 - 30	6 nights	$2,950.00 CDN	Approx. $2,995.00 U.S.
August 31 - September 6	6 nights	$2,950.00 CDN	Approx. $2,995.00 U.S.
September 7 - 16	9 nights	$4,275.00 CDN	Approx. $4,335.00 U.S.
September 18 - 27	9 nights	$4,275.00 CDN	Approx. $4,335.00 U.S.

*In addition to kayaking, this tour has a photography focus. See the Great Bear Rainforest Photography Tour for details!

Trip size limited to 8 - 10 participants. Our trips are all inclusive from the point of departure. Trip prices are in Canadian dollars. U.S. prices are approximate and will be based on current exchange rate at the time of booking. Rates do not include the Canadian 5% G.S.T.

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