The maze of protected channels, fjordal inlets, islands and the intricate shorelines of Quadra Island and the neighbouring Discovery Islands are a paddlers dream come true. The surrounding scenery of towering mountain spires of the mainland Coast Range, verdant forests and secluded beaches and coves are ideal for both the novice paddler looking for a quick introduction to this popular west coast activity and the experienced adventurer seeking to explore this beautiful and rugged part of the British Columbia Coast.
Local sea kayak tour operators run day tours and overnight trips from Quadra Island as well as to destinations throughout the Discovery Islands, the west coast of Vancouver Island and kayaking with killer whales in Johnstone Strait (the summer home of the orcas). There are also lodge-based kayak tours available. Sea kayaks are also available to rent and several of the local outfitters also sell kayaks and a variety of equipment to get you on your way. For more information about guided tours and rentals click here.
If you are planning your own trip to paddle in the Discovery Islands you'll receive a warm welcome from the local tour guides who can help with that extra bit of local knowledge, charts, weather forecasts and tidal current charts. The map below shows some of the trips possible around Quadra Island highlighting Kayak put-ins, parking, camp sites and a few of the places to take extra care with currents and tidal rapids (that info is coming soon). Although the Discovery Islands are for the most part sheltered on the 'inside passage' the weather can blow up into serious storms and the narrow waterways create boiling tidal rapids and whirlpools which can create challenging paddling conditions for even the most experienced kayaker.
