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Haida Watchmen Site Journey – 6 Day Kayak Expedition

  • Immerse yourself into the Haida's rich and significant culture by experiencing village sites standing for millennia's
  • All meals and equipment provided
  • Friendly & certified Guides.

Sunset at Haida Gwaii Watchmen Tour DestinationExperience the breathtaking wonders of Northern Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve on an unforgettable 6-day kayaking adventure. Delve into the rich history of the ancient Haida civilization as we visit their historical village sites under the leadership of the Haida Watchman.

Experience the unparalleled adventure of sea kayaking in Haida Gwaii, a breathtaking and ecologically unique destination separated from mainland British Columbia by the renowned Hecate Strait. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is a world-renowned haven for kayaking enthusiasts, offering awe-inspiring landscapes, pristine wilderness, incredible wildlife, and access to significant Haida cultural sites who have been living here since time immemorial.

Our Haida Watchmen Site kayak tour takes you on an unforgettable journey between Xiina Gwaay.yaay (Ramsay Island) and T’aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island) in the northern area of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. This route offers various kayaking options, allowing you to explore sheltered channels, hidden bays, and rugged coastlines.

Burnaby Narrows Hotsprings Kayaking TourExperience the wonders of the Haida Watchmen Tour as you become captivated by an array of immersive watchmen sites spread across the majestic bays and islands of Gwaii Haanas National Park. Marvel at the stunning landscapes while indulging in a soothing soak at the natural hot springs of K'iid Xyangs K’iidaay (Hotsprings Island) in Juan Perez Sound as we conclude this incredible adventure.

Under a starlit sky, we will relocate to a new campsite every night, taking in the beauty of secret inlets, ancient forests, and seemingly endless shorelines. Migrating birds serenade us throughout our journey, enhancing the otherworldly experience. This once-in-a-lifetime expedition is crafted for kayakers eager to uncover both the natural and cultural marvels of Haida Gwaii within six days. Exploring Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site by kayak is the most respectful and non-intrusive mode of transportation in this extraordinary region.

  • Our kayaking tour package comes complete with everything you need for a memorable adventure, including premium kayaks, high-quality paddling jackets and pants, reliable PFDs, spacious group shelters, sturdy tents, comfortable sleeping bags, and convenient camp chairs for a relaxing experience.
  • In addition, all of our guides are highly experienced in the area and have received professional training outside of their guiding certification in risk management, hazard analysis, and interpretation, among other things.
  • Our six-day excursion is designed to take you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, immersing you in the region's natural beauty and Haida culture.
  • We take care of all your meals, so you won't have to worry about any additional expenses.

Additional Information

Kayakers lounging on a beach in Haida GwaiiWhat's Included

  • You'll be fully equipped with all the camping essentials including sleeping bags, sleeping pads, paddling jackets and pants, tents, tarps, paddles, spray skirts, PFDs, and group gear.
  • No need to worry about meals either - we've got you covered from lunch on day one to lunch on the last day.
  • Plus, the Gwaii Haanas National Park entrance fee is included, as well as two-way speedboat transport between Sandspit and Gwaii Haanas.
  • Our top-level guides, certified by the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of British Columbia, are recognized internationally as leaders in the sea kayak industry.
  • To make sure you have the best kayaking experience possible, you'll be paddling in a high-quality Seaward single or double kayak.

(Click to see all equipment provided)

What's not included

  • Transportation between your home and Sandspit, British Columbia
  • Accommodation and meals in Sandspit prior to and following the kayaking trip
  • Gratuities are entirely optional and always greatly appreciated
  • Each person loads and unloads their kayak, as well as sets up and takes down their tent
  • If a tour guest or expedition participant misses our chartered speedboat, alternate transportation costs are not included
  • In the unlikely event of delayed transportation due to weather or other factors on the first days of the trip, additional expenses such as accommodation and meals in Sandspit are not included.

(Click to see our full list of recommendations)

Specifications

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Participation requirements

If you are dreaming about unforgettable adventure, then you have to join us on this tour! While this trip might be remote and lengthy, it's worth every second of the journey. We highly recommend that participants be 16 years and older, but don't worry if you have minimal experience. Minors (under 19) will simply need a parent/guardian signature for our waiver, and everyone must fill out a medical form before booking. And hey, if you're feeling unsure or have any questions, just give us a call! We're more than happy to help.

Before you embark on this journey, we ask that you come with a respectful attitude towards the natural environment and your fellow kayakers. We can't control the weather or wildlife, but we can certainly control our attitudes!

Cancellation Policy

We will try to reschedule or refund. Please check our terms & conditions for more information.

Overview of our 6-day Haida Watchmen Site Journey:

Day One

Kayakers lounging on a beach in Haida GwaiiYour adventure commences early in the morning in Sandspit, British Columbia, as we collect you from the Seaport B&B at 7:30 am or any other Sandspit lodging of your preference. You'll be comfortably transported to Moresby Camp in a cozy van. Following this, prepare to board an exhilarating Zodiac-style speedboat and experience a magnificent 45-minute journey along the picturesque coastline of Moresby Island toward the northern tip of Gwaii Haanas. This is where our incredible kayaking expedition unfolds. We will set up first camp of our trip upon arriving at K'ang Guu Gwaay.yaay (Kunga Island), situated opposite the ancient village site of T'aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island). Subsequently, an afternoon kayak and safety orientation will ensure you are ready to discover the captivating waters surrounding K'ang Guu Gwaay.yaay (Kunga Island and T'aanuu Gwaay (Tanu Island).

Days Two to Five

Our journey begins at the northern tip of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, from where we'll head south. Early on, we'll have the opportunity to explore the village of T'aanuu Llnagaay (Tanu Island). Weather permitting, we'll navigate along the picturesque and exposed coastline of Lyell Island to Hik'yah GaawGa (Windy Bay), a significant Haida Watchmanm site that became renowned in the 1980s to protect "South Moresby" and ultimately led to the establishment of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

The Haida Heritage tour boasts an array of enchanting kayaking routes for you to select from. As our adventure draws to a close, we'll find ourselves in the serene Juan Perez Sound, an area teeming with inlets, channels, and diverse ecosystems inhabited by an abundance of wildlife and migratory birds. Picturesque camping spots abound within this region. To top it all off, we'll conclude the tour with a rejuvenating soak in the warm waters of Gandll K'in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island).

Day Six

On the final day of our kayak adventure, take the opportunity to reflect on your experiences during a relaxed breakfast. A swift and ocean worthy zodiac vessel will arrive at the shore near Xiina Gwaay.yaay (Ramsay Island), primed to transport you on an exciting trip back to Sandspit. As you glide towards your destination, immerse yourself in the stunning landscape and let the invigorating sea breeze caress your face. Enroute to Moresby Camp, we'll make a pit stop at the charming village of K’uuna Llnagaay, (Skedans) a historic Haida Watchman site in Skedans Bay.

This year, we're partnering with Raincoast Breads in Sandspit for our last evening meal together. As the first Canadian eatery allowed to use foraged wild ingredients, this delightful culinary experience is an exceptional way to culminate your time in Haida Gwaii and is included within the tour price.

Note:

This 6-day kayaking tour takes you to the most remote and untouched areas where no developed services exist. Don't worry if you don't have much experience, we're here to show you the ropes. This tour is designed for intermediate paddlers so expect a challenge! Each day, we'll paddle as much as 15 km or more. Anyone aged 16 and above is welcome to join us. And don't worry about the weather or any other factors, our routes and itineraries remain flexible.

Just get in touch with us directly and let's make this kayaking tour an experience you'll never forget!

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