Paddle Among Orcas from Telegraph Cove
Johnstone Strait is widely considered one of the best sea kayaking destinations in the world. This narrow channel stretches between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, creating a dynamic environment rich in nutrients and life. Each summer, it becomes the seasonal home of the northern resident orca population, offering a respectful and natural way to observe whales in their habitat.
Setting out from Telegraph Cove, kayakers can expect to see far more than orcas. Humpback whales often feed nearby, slapping their fins or breaching dramatically in the distance. Steller sea lions gather on rocky islands, and Pacific white-sided dolphins leap alongside boats. On shore, black bears and river otters can sometimes be seen foraging at low tide. The waters of Johnstone Strait can reach depths of more than 500 metres, and the currents can flow at speeds exceeding 10 kilometres per hour during strong tidal exchanges. These powerful movements stir up nutrients that sustain the entire food web, from plankton to whales. The combination of marine and terrestrial wildlife makes kayaking Johnstone Strait a uniquely rich experience.
For those seeking more than a single day on the water, North Island Kayak’s multi-day basecamp expeditions are designed to showcase the best of this ecosystem. Guests paddle to a remote coastal site that serves as a comfortable and sustainable home base. Tents are spacious, meals are freshly prepared, and guides share their knowledge about local ecology and Indigenous history. Evenings are often marked by the sounds of whales travelling through the darkness, a humbling reminder that nature never truly sleeps here.
Kayaking Johnstone Strait is not just a trip; it is a profound connection with the wild heart of coastal British Columbia. Each day on the water reveals the rhythm of life in one of Canada’s most extraordinary marine corridors.
