These kayaking experiences are designed for participants who are reasonably able-bodied, yet there is certainly no need for our guests to be athletes.

Butterfly Tours guests experience a variety of sea conditions during our Queen Charlotte Islands kayak tours.  When it becomes too windy, we remain on shore; there are many scenic campsites that provide great shelter during stormy days.

On calmer days, we venture out in the kayaks to experience some gentle ocean swell and light to moderate winds.  For some, it is surprising how stable and predictable a properly loaded touring kayak can be in moderate sea conditions.

Many of our tours are suitable for novices.
Some previous kayaking experience is recommended, yet not required.  Attending a one-day beginner's sea kayaking course prior to a trip will provide valuable experience to a novice paddler.

We also offer intermediate tours for those with kayaking experience.

The wilderness kayaking tours are self-supported camping expeditions.  These journeys are well suited to those who seek a degree of personal challenge; the North Pacific can be an exciting place to explore by kayak.

Our accommodation tours provide a “softer" adventure; with heated, indoor lodging after each kayak day-trip.  These tours are suitable for a wide range of skill levels and preferences; experienced paddlers are welcome, as are children, or adults who may rather not kayak.

We supply single kayaks, however; not everyone prefers to be responsible for the propulsion of their own vessel.

If you are interested in our tours and want to invite a friend, please be sure that your friend also seeks the additional rewards and challenges provided by a single kayak.

As an alternative, a double kayak is available, however; we do not provide paddling partners for the double.  (We provide each guest with the opportunity to paddle a single kayak.)  If you would prefer paddling the double, please arrive with your own paddling partner.
Guests who plan on arriving alone and want to paddle a double kayak may be interested in joining a different tour company that provides a fleet of doubles; we would be happy to recommend another reputable outfitter.

A detailed equipment list will be provided upon registration.  Arriving with appropriate outdoor clothing is essential to each participant’s comfort and safety during the tour.

For requirements specific to each tour, please click on a link below.  You are welcome to contact us if you have any questions.

Our kayaking journeys are divided into two main categories:
• The first category is suitable for both novice and experienced paddlers.
• The second category offers more challenging expeditions specifically suited for those with kayaking experience.

Two additional sub-categories exist:
• Wilderness kayak tours involve camping in tents during a variety of weather conditions.
• Accommodation tours include heated, indoor lodging each night.

Kayak Guesthouse Vacation
This 8-day kayak retreat is suitable for novice and experienced paddlers.  Kayak day-trips are tailored to the desires and abilities of the group.  The guest house facilities provide warm, comfortable shelter.  Children are welcome on this trip, as are adults who may prefer not to kayak.

View the Kayak Guest House Vacation itinerary.

Mothership Cruise
This 8-day kayak mothership tour is suitable for novice and experienced paddlers.  Kayak day-trips are tailored to the desires and abilities of the group.  Our 71' mothership vessel provides five separate, heated guest cabins.  Children are welcome onboard, as are adults who may prefer not to kayak.

View the Mothership Kayak Cruise itinerary.

Waters of SGang Gwaay
This 8-day self-supported wilderness sea kayaking and camping tour is suitable for novice and experienced paddlers.  This is our most popular tour; several novice kayakers enjoy this trip each year.  Some previous kayaking experience is recommended, yet not required; each tour includes introductory paddling lessons.  Groups generally progress through a variety of relatively easy sea conditions before we are comfortable enough to experience slightly more challenging paddling situations.  Participants are provided with instruction on efficient kayaking techniques, which enables each person to self-propel their kayak through moderate sea conditions.

View the Waters of SGang Gwaay itinerary.

Cape Freeman Expedition
This 8-day intermediate self-supported wilderness sea kayaking and camping journey can involve some paddling challenges.  Participants must be willing and able to self-propel a loaded single kayak in a variety of sea conditions, including; currents, wind, swell and chop.  The Cape Freeman Expedition includes training on intermediate paddling and manoeuvring techniques.  This tour is suitable for people with previous sea kayaking experience and a strong spirit of adventure.

View the Cape Freeman Expedition itinerary.