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 (gallery).

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.

"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, 2008 and rebooked for 2010

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. kayakers on the beach 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.

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.

"Spectacular,
Rugged,
Uncrowded,
Untouched,
Untapped,
Unforget table.
Words used to describe the magnificent Great Bear Rainforest. Some could also be applied to the beautiful mothership and her caring, competent, professional stewards and crew. You four made this a truly unforgettable experience for us all. It truly was a trip pf a lifetime. From the grizzlies to the humpbacks, the Spirit Bear to the hot springs, paddling in the rain to that spectacular star show last night. Your music, your enthusiasm, your knowledge, your skill, your wit - all enhanced our enjoyment of these ten days and allowed us to step out of that "real" world into this almost dream world. It’s been a trip! Thank-you. Our warmest wishes for continued success on the Columbia III."
Barb 2008, 2009, Lou-Anne, Niamh 2008,2009, rebooked for 2010, Pat 2007, 2008, 2009, Jane, Kevin 2005, 2007, 2009, & Pat, British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Ireland, Washington

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

North to Prince Rupert!

This year our 9 night Great Bear Rainforest kayaking tour will leave from Bella Bella and end in Prince Rupert, a distance of 150 miles. This gives us many new miles of coastline to paddle and explore as we won’t be backtracking to Bella Bella. On our way north, we’ll view grizzly bears, visit the stunning big house in the remote First Nations community of Klemtu, soak in a steaming hot spring and look for the elusive spirit bear accompanied by our Gitga’at guide, Marven Robinson. As rare as the white bears are, we have had superb viewing opportunities with every tour. Remember to follow the separate directions for the 9 night tour ending in Prince Rupert.

We offer directions to Bella Bella (our point of departure) and planning information. If you are on the 9 night tour ending in Prince Rupert, use these separate directions.

2011 Great Bear Rainforest Kayaking Tour Dates and Cost
August 28 - Sept. 3	6 nights	$3,095.00 CDN
September 4 - 10	6 nights	$3,095.00 CDN
September 11 - 17	6 nights	$3,095.00 CDN
September 20 - 29	9 nights	$4,595.00 CDN

Trip size limited to 8 - 10 participants. Our trips are all inclusive from the point of departure. Trip prices are per person in Canadian dollars plus 12% H.S.T. Exchange rates are updated every 15 minutes.

Get More Information