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Join us in our 14th year! Kayaking Vancouver Island
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Below is a list of commonly asked questions If you have any further questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to call us.

Q - How much kayaking experience is required to join one of the trips?
No experience is required for our kayak tours! Our adventures are for everyone. Our trips are designed to cater to all levels of experience and abilities. The majority of people who join our tours are first time kayakers. All that we ask is that you welcome adventure with an open mind and are able to laugh and have fun when encountering the unexpected.

Q - Do I need to be in great shape to join one of the trips?
No. Our adventures are not considered to be strenuous or physically demanding, and we do not require a high level of fitness. We just ask that you are capable of a few hours of moderate exercise each day. Keep in mind that good general health will go a long way if we happen to encounter some strong winds or time restrictions. Most important is an adventurous spirit.

Q - Are there any age requirements?
Spirit of the West caters to all ages of adventurers. Although we do not have any age restrictions on our day tours we do prefer minimum of 12 years for our multi day tours. Those concerned with being in ‘their older years’ contact us to discuss their physical abilities.

Q - How much paddling is generally done in a day?
Paddling time will vary depending on our destination, the groups abilities, and desires. Generally between 3-5 hours a day. In our days activities we also like to incorporate some hiking, swimming, beach combing and of course leisure/lounging time.

Q - How stable are the kayaks? What is the likelihood of flipping over?
The kayaks we use on our tours are stable and designed for comfort. For those a little concerned, the double kayaks are slightly more stable than the singles. The likelihood of a capsize is minimal, and generally only occurs in an uncommon situation.

Q - What happens if my kayak flips over?
If for some reason your kayak flips over, all of our guides have ample practice time on the water with rescue procedures, in order to quickly and efficiently get you back in your boat. At this point we will take you to the nearest shore to change into some warm cozy clothing and carry on with our journey. While we are out on the water, it is of the utmost importance that the group sticks together in the event of a capsize or change of route plan.

Q - What if the weather turns bad? Will I be comfortable and warm?
Our weather in the Pacific Northwest is generally pleasant from May through until the end of September. The temperature will vary slightly depending on which area you visit. For example if you visit Desolation Sound or the Discovery Islands it is not uncommon in mid summer to savor a swim in the refreshing waters in order to cool off. Johnstone Strait or Nootka Sound/Nuchatlitz being a little further north and more exposed to weather will have cooler temperatures. Although it is uncommon, it can rain in the summer. Rule of thumb is to be prepared for any type of weather and you will stay comfortable. Layering is the key, for at any time if you need to put on or take off while on the water, this is all possible.

Q - What sort of wildlife might we see on the tour?
The diversity and abundance of wildlife in the Pacific Northwest is one of our privileges. With river run off from the mountains, ocean currents, tide rips, eddies and upwellings these waters are among the most productive on earth. From the rich marine life of colorful plants and invertebrae, seabirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, mink, otter, seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales, to the land animals of deer, raccoons, cougars, wolves and bears, we are bound to see something. For those with an eye for eagles take note that they are most prominent in the earlier months before the salmon migration in the late summer/early fall. Depending on which tour you take, some areas offer more wildlife opportunities than others. Inquire if you would like to know what sort of wildlife you might see on your tour.

Q-What do I need to bring on a mothership tour?
Our tours are all inclusive. We supply the kayaks and related gear (paddles, spray skirts, lifejackets etc.), gourmet food, bedding and shower towels, plus wine with the evening meal. See our packing list.

Q-Can I charge my camera batteries Aboard the Columbia III?
We have both 117 VAC and 12 VDC cigarette-lighter style systems aboard with ample power for charging camera batteries and related equipment.

Q-Is Mothership Adventures able to accommodate special dietary needs while on tour?
We will happily do our best to accommodate your dietary needs such as wheat free, dairy free, Atkins diet etc. You must provide us with enough information ahead of time so we can shop accordingly.

Q-Is alcohol provided or do we bring our own?
Wine is served with dinner and we keep a limited supply of beer on hand for non-wine drinkers. If you would like other types of alcohol, then you should bring your own, providing your consumption is moderate.

Q-What are the sleeping arrangements aboard the Columbia III?
There are five private cabins which accommodate two guests each. Three of the staterooms have double beds for couples and two of them have single bunks for single passengers. There are three toilets and two showers shared between the five staterooms.

Q-Do I have to worry about getting sea sick?
In general it is never a problem. On the Great Bear/Goose Islands tour we make one forty-five minute crossing (aboard the Columbia III) out to the Goose Islands where it can be a bit rolly, although we have never had anyone find it a problem.

Q-Is there the option to try a single kayak if I want?
We carry one spare single kayak for just that purpose. Usually we start everyone out in the doubles, but as the week goes on, we can swap around so everyone gets to try what they want.

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