ORCA CAMP - Johnstone Strait

Few camping experiences will match the fascination and beauty of this sea kayaking adventure with the Orcas in Johnstone Strait.

Paddling in the realm of the Orca

British Columbia’s coastal waters are home to a total of about 300 resident orcas, commonly known as killer whales. During the summer, the majority of the northern pods, approximately 200 animals, congregate in the Southern Queen Charlotte Sound and Johnstone Strait areas.

4 days/3 nights   or   7 days/6 nights  ~  from/to Port McNeill

Johnstone Strait, due to its concentration of whales, is considered one of the best places in the world to experience orcas in the wild. Possibly no other place on earth boasts such a large number of these beautiful animals and in such stunning scenery.

Highlights

The orca is the largest member of the dolphin family, growing up to 9m (30 ft) in length. Orcas are immensely powerful and graceful. You will be enchanted by their spectacular displays when breaching, tail lobbing, finning and spyhopping in the open waters. Orcas are highly developed socially and each pod has it's own distinctive language. Scientists, who we hope to meet if the conditions allow, are researching the orcas’ fascinating communication system. Like the researchers, we will observe whales at the surface and use a hydrophone (underwater microphone) to listen to their submarine communication while quietly floating in our kayaks. There is something mystical about that which cannot be described ...

What's involved?

The base camp concept allows for a maximum of time available for the daily activities and offers a suitable level of comfort in a remarkable wilderness setting. It makes this the ideal program for the experienced paddler as well as beginners and families alike - no previous experience is necessary. The base camp, set up amidst an old-growth forest with trees hundreds of years old has a crystal clear stream running right through it. Curled into a pristine half moon shaped bay it is not only beautiful but also provides some of the best whale watching opportunities anywhere, right from shore.

Brief sample itinerary
Trip Day	Meals	Activities
Day 0		Arrive in Port McNeill by car or via Port Hardy by air.  Overnight in Port McNeill (not included) We invite you to contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff to assist with any   pre/post-trip travel arrangements.
Day 1	L / D	Meet at 9:00 am in the lobby of the Haida Way Motor Inn in Port McNeill Shuttle & watertaxi transport to Ecosummer's base camp Get accustomed to camp. Receive guide's instructions for safety, sea kayaking techniques and whale watching. Head out for a first, exploratory paddle
Day 2 - 3 and / or Day 2 - 6	B / L / D	These days will be spent exploring the Orca's core territory. While sea     kayaking will be the main activity, we will also take short  hikes and interpretive walks.   Over all group ability, weather, tides and currents are taken into consideration while safety is top priority, followed by maximizing wildlife viewings!
Day 4  or  Day 7	B	Return by watertaxi back to Port McNeill, arrival around noon.