Pacific Rim Paradise

Getting there: The Broken Group Islands are located on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Take the ferry to Vancouver Island and then drive toward Ucluelet along Highway 4. If you’re taking a guided trip, you can park your car in Ucluelet, saving yourself a jarring drive to Toquart Bay. If not, there is a rough logging road just outside Ucluelet that leads to Toquart. Alternatively, kayakers can take the MV Lady Rose cruise ship from Port Alberni, which will drop them at the Sechart Whaling Station, just outside the national park.

Logistics: The Broken Group Islands can be paddled almost year-round, although weather in the winter months can be cold and very rainy. The region is known for its ferocious winter storms, so the most common months for paddling are late April through early October. On the outer rim of the islands, large swells and occasional rogue waves can be dangerous, and when the sea fog rolls in, navigation can be a problem. Sea fog is particularly prevalent during August and September. And remember to  keep your distance from sea lions, as they are unpredictable.

camping/Lodging: The Tauca Lea Resort & Spa (800-979-9303 or www.taucalearesortandspa.com) is a local favorite, and the front desk will book sea-kayaking trips for guests. There are eight campgrounds in the park; a warden will arrive daily to collect campground fees. There are also several campgrounds in the vicinity. Be forewarned, though: they are quite expensive and they get booked up rather quickly. Call (250) 726-4355 for the Ucluelet Campground.

Outfitters/ Resources: We booked a trip through Majestic Ocean Kayaking (800-889-7644 or www.oceankayaking.com) and found the food fantastic and their guides first-rate. The Sechart Whaling Station (800-663-7192) outfits do-it-yourselfers. Kayakers must be proficient with a map and compass and will need chart #3671 (Barkley Sound), available at any local marine shop. Useful books are Kayaking Vancouver Island, by Gary Backlund and Paul Grey, and Island Paddling: A Paddler’s Guide to the Gulf Islands and Barkley Sound, by Mary Ann Snowden. For a complete list of guides and outfitters, see our Adventure Paddling Directory on page 89 or log on to www.CanoeKayak.com.

Matt Jackson is a freelance writer, photographer, and very infrequent public urinator who lives in Canmore, Alberta.   

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