Frequently Asked Questions
You are welcome to contact Gord if you have additional questions.
When is the best weather?
The weather on Haida Gwaii is changeable and usually not accurately predictable more than a day or two in advance. July and August provide the best chance for decent weather for kayaking and camping.
More things to consider while deciding when to come to Haida Gwaii: In this northern latitude, daylight hours are still very long in August, yet July has even more light each day. Salmon fishing is often more successful in August.
How much kayaking experience is required?
Many of our tours are suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers. A few of our expeditions are offered to kayakers with some experience. For details, please see: Tours & Expeditions
How long do we kayak each day?
Depending on conditions, the group may paddle three to five hours per day. After a couple of hours in the kayaks, we generally stop on shore to stretch our legs, have some lunch and perhaps enjoy an afternoon nap before returning to sea.
What level of fitness is necessary?
These kayaking experiences are designed for participants who are reasonably able-bodied, yet there is certainly no need for our guests to be athletes. For more information, please see: Personal Preparation
Can I have a private tent?
Yes, we provide enough tents so that everyone can sleep in their own private shelter if they wish. We also have several larger tents if two people prefer to share a shelter. For more information, please see: Equipment
Is there an age limit?
We have no specific age limit, however; our trips are not suitable for most pre-teen children. Families with pre-teens would likely have a better experience by arranging a custom tour designed specifically for their group. The Kayak Guesthouse Vacation can be tailored to suit family groups; please contact Gord for details.
Is a double kayak available?
A Necky Looksha T double kayak is available, however; we do not provide a paddling partner for the double. (We provide each person with the opportunity to paddle a single kayak.) If you would prefer paddling the double, please be sure to arrive with a paddling partner.
When should I arrive in Sandspit?
Participants are requested to arrive in Sandspit at least one day prior to trip departure. It is often preferable to schedule your arrival two days early, in order to have extra time to deal with the potential for delayed baggage, or missed flight connections. It is generally best to stay in Sandspit the night before your kayak trip, as you may depart early on the first day. For more information, please see: Travel to Sandspit
What can I do before and after the kayak trip?
Guests are encouraged to enjoy additional days on Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) before and after their kayak trip. There are many additional travel opportunities on Haida Gwaii, including visits to museums, beach hiking, fishing and exploring the Islands' communities. We highly recommend the Haida Heritage Centre - a focal point of Haida culture in Skidegate. For more information, please see the Queen Charlotte Visitor Centre.
When should I depart Sandspit?
Participants are requested to make return travel arrangements for the afternoon of the day following the trip, or later. It is generally best to stay in Sandspit the night after your kayak trip, as you may return late on the last day.
Is smoking permitted?
Smokers rarely join our tours. When someone wants to smoke tobacco on a trip, we ask they ensure no one else will detect the scent. Smokers are requested to move far downwind before lighting up. Smoking while in the kayaks is discouraged. Additionally, we ask that a portable ashtray is used. After smoking, accumulated cigarette ash and butts are deposited in our campfire. Thank you for your consideration.
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, no. Pets are not invited on any of our trips.
(This is not actually a frequently asked question, although it was asked at least once.)
You are welcome to contact Gord if you have additional questions.
