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Detailed Itinerary
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(pdf) (2008 Sample Itinerary)
Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these should the need arise.
DAY 1
Wickaninnish Center; Schooner Cove
Walk – easy to moderate, 2-3 hours.
Our exploration of the coast and the Broken Group Islands begins with a visit to the Wickaninnish Center, situated overlooking Long Beach. This interpretive center offers exhibits focusing on the natural and cultural heritage of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. After time to enjoy the center’s exhibits, we embark on our first walk, the Schooner Trail to Schooner Cove. We follow a pleasant boardwalk through the rainforest until we arrive at the beach. Turning north along the open coast we explore tide pools teeming with life and endless dunes. Walking in the company of waves, the afternoon lasts as long as we do.
This evening our guides provide a full orientation for our coming days of sea kayaking in the Broken Group Islands, followed by a welcome dinner on the beach (weather permitting – there are also a number of charming restaurants we may choose from).
Tauca Lea Resort, Ucluelet
DAY 2
Transfer to the Broken Group Islands
Sea kayak – easy to moderate, 4-6 hours.
Following breakfast, we board a motorized boat which will bring us to the kayaking paradise of the Broken Group Islands in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. There are many locations from which kayakers can enjoy Vancouver Island, however, none can rival the Broken Group for its rich intertidal life, prime sea bird habitat, fascinating sea caves, and well protected waters.
During the 45 minute boat ride, there will be the possibility of spotting some of the diverse sea life that makes these islands so special, including sea lions, seals, and pods of gray whales that summer in these waters. We arrive at a secluded beach, where our guides review paddling techniques and safety guidelines. From the beach we embark, in our top-of-the-line single and tandem sea kayaks, on our first exploratory paddle. Later this afternoon, we arrive at our campsite, where spacious and comfortable tents will be set up while we make ourselves at home.
Our first day in the Broken Group ends with a hearty meal of fresh salmon steaks, or perhaps a delicious seafood stir-fry. Our guides have earned a reputation for being profound camp chefs, and you will be amazed by the gourmet meals they create!
Camping, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
DAYS 3 & 4
Broken Group Islands
Sea kayak – easy to moderate, average of 4-6 hours per day. Island exploration – easy to moderate, average of 1 hour per day.
We spend these amazing days paddling into secluded coves, discovering sea caves, and quietly watching the native species going about their daily lives. Our routes are chosen by our guides, in response to the weather, tides, and the ability of the group. Opportunities are unlimited, as they know every corner of these islands. Together we explore intricate waterways, weaving our way through the 100 islands and tiny islets, and no matter the routes we choose, we are immersed in the beauty and tranquility that can only be experienced by spending a few hours silently paddling.
During our excursions, there is time to stop for beach-combing, hiking, and tide pool exploration. Hearty picnic lunches on deserted beaches fortify us to venture further during the day. Sea caves, ancient aboriginal fish traps, and sea sculpted rock formations are all ours to discover.
As we become more confident in our paddling skills (if you have never tried, you will pick it up quickly!), we may venture further out, to experience the gentle summer swell of the mighty Pacific from the safety of the outer islands.
Camping, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
DAY 5
Return to Vancouver Island; Long Beach
Optional Beach Walk – easy, 2-4 hours.
This morning we break camp and prepare to say farewell to the Broken Group, returning to the mainland by motorboat.
This afternoon, there is time to relax in the civilized comforts of our hotel and to explore Ucluelet. This evening we enjoy a celebratory dinner in the fine dining room overlooking the beach, and toast to a week well-spent, full of new experiences and new-found friends.
Tauca Lea Resort, Ucluelet
DAY 6
Explore Tofino
Optional beachcombing and easy town walking.
This morning we say good-bye to the wild west coast of Vancouver Island, with time to explore the shops and galleries of Tofino, before a transfer to the airport in time for your departing flight to Victoria, Vancouver, or Seattle.