Sea Kayak Tours in British Columbia since 1983 - Kayaking with whales, orcas in Johnstone Strait

First Time Kayaking

Sea kayaking is becoming more and more popular as a fun and exciting outdoor activity. Though a considerable amount of skill and experience is required for higher seas and unpredictable weather, first time kayakers can quickly get the hang of the sport under proper guidance, in the calmer, more sheltered waters of the Inside Passage.

Weather conditions, tides, currents and many other factors must be closely monitored to ensure safety, and that is your guide's job. It is important for less experienced kayakers to go with a reputable guide service, or kayaking outfitter. Here are some things to consider when planning your first kayaking adventure:

Choose a reputable, experienced outfitter
This is certainly the most important decision of all. The guides, equipment and policies of the outfitter will largely determine the success and enjoyment of the trip. Ask around. Check each company out. Ask for references and contact them. Ask the tough questions - it's important! See below for some examples of questions you might ask.

Know your limits, but don't underestimate yourself
Like all outdoor activities, learning how to paddle a sea kayak can seem daunting at first, but in truth, given the proper training and conditions, it is amazingly easy to get the hang of. The equipment nowadays is designed to be very stable and very easy to use. Most people are paddling comfortably within the first 10 minutes on the water, and smiling ear to ear. There's nothing that quite compares to propelling yourself silently across the surface of the water, marveling at the beauty all around you. If you have general good fitness and can get in and out of a boat in shallow water, you can do it.

Carefully choose your paddling destination
Different kayaking areas have widely varied kayaking conditions. Many areas are subject to high winds and vast expanses of water, making them inadvisable for less experienced kayakers. Each area has its own unique conditions, and just because it looks beautiful doesn't mean it's safe. Again, ask around. Ask the outfitters you talk to about the weather conditions in their area, and if it's safe for inexperienced paddlers. It's best to go to an area that has a collection of islands (archipelago) that can temper the effects of weather, or an area within the shelter of a nearby mountain range.

Ask a lot of questions, then ask some more
As someone once said, "the only dumb question is the one not asked." Don't be afraid to ask questions, and don't go with any outfitter that is hesitant to answer them. Knowledge is a big key to comfort, so ask any questions that come to mind, whether they be about equipment, weather conditions, guide training, etc. An informed traveler is a happier traveler. Some questions you could ask are:

What experience do they have in the area you'll be? Do they specialize in that area?
What is their support staff like? What kind of service can you expect?
What kind of equipment do they use? What is their procedure for keeping it in top condition?

Consider learning a bit more about kayaking before your adventure
Though not a necessity or requirement, some people enjoy learning a bit more about kayaking prior to their trip. There is a lot of great information to be found at the library, bookstore and on the Internet. Ask your outfitter if they have any reading material they can send you, or recommend. Also, feel free to check out our Pro Guide Tip on Sea Kayaking Terms.

Think of sea kayaking as a highly evolved form of backpacking
Unless you enjoy slogging up steep hills with a big load on your back (and many of us do, mind you), sea kayaking is the best way to connect intimately with your natural surroundings. No big backpacks to carry; everything fits comfortably into your kayaks. You can also bring more amenities with you, like propane stoves, cookware, big roomy tents and big comfortable sleeping pads, adding to your comfort level. If you're looking for even more comfort, there are lodge-based and yacht-based sea kayaking trips available, as well.

The rewards from sea kayaking are many. There's no better way to connect so intimately with marine environments in some of the most beautiful places on earth. Some prior planning, research and question-asking is crucial, but above all, approach sea kayaking with an adventuresome spirit and you'll come away with memories to last a lifetime.