What a season it has been! After everything Telegraph Cove has been through, the 2026 season felt particularly special for our North Island Kayak team. From welcoming travellers from around the world to paddling alongside some truly incredible wildlife, there has been a lot to celebrate this summer.
What was wildlife like this season?
Northern Vancouver Island reminded us once again why it is one of the most incredible places in the world to explore by kayak. Throughout the season, our guides and guests experienced amazing encounters with humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, dolphins, seals, sea lions, eagles, seabirds, and plenty of other coastal wildlife.
Some days brought distant blows on the horizon, while others brought those unforgettable moments when wildlife appeared while we were quietly travelling by kayak. That unpredictability is one of our favourite parts of exploring this coast. No two trips are ever quite the same. Johnstone Strait and the surrounding waters remain an incredibly diverse marine environment and an extraordinary place to experience from a kayak.
What changed in Telegraph Cove?
This season also marked an important new chapter for Telegraph Cove. Following the devastating fire on December 31, 2024, watching the Cove rebuild has been incredibly meaningful for our team.
In 2026, Telegraph Cove was rebuilt and, after operating through a very different season last year, North Island Kayak finally has an office in the Cove again! Having our home base back and seeing life return to this historic community has made this season feel like a fresh start. There is something very special about arriving in Telegraph Cove, walking the boardwalk, meeting your guides, and preparing to head out into the waters of Johnstone Strait. We are incredibly happy to have that experience back!
Who made this season special?
You did!
This summer, we welcomed so many amazing travellers from across Canada and around the world. Some joined us for their very first kayaking adventure, while others returned for another chance to experience northern Vancouver Island from the water.
Whether you joined us for a day trip or headed into the wilderness with us for a multi-day adventure, thank you for choosing to spend part of your summer with North Island Kayak. Our guides spend the season helping guests safely explore, learn about, and connect with this coastline, and sharing that experience with so many curious and adventurous people is what makes every season worthwhile.
Until next season
As another summer comes to an end, we are feeling incredibly grateful. Grateful for the wildlife, for our guides and crew, for the return of our Telegraph Cove office, and especially for every traveller who paddled with us this year.
After a season that represented so much rebuilding and renewal, we cannot wait to see what comes next. Thank you for an unforgettable 2026 season. See you on the water in 2027!
