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Wild Encounters Await: Paddling Through Johnstone Strait

Johnstone Strait, located between the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, is a world-renowned destination for paddlers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its rich marine life, this stunning waterway is one of the best places on the planet to view orcas in the wild. Paddlers in the strait can experience the awe of orcas hunting, spy-hopping near kayaks, or rubbing against smooth rocks at the orca preserve. The area is also home to humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, and massive salmon runs that attract an array of marine predators.

Beyond the vibrant marine life, the region is celebrated for its pristine wilderness. Dense forests of towering spruce, cedar, and fir blanket the surrounding landscape, providing paddlers with opportunities to explore on foot with hikes through lush, moss-covered trails. The occasional sighting of black bears on the shore adds to the sense of untamed adventure.

Johnstone Strait’s secluded beaches and remote camping sites, often set in the shadow of ancient trees, offer paddlers a truly immersive experience in nature. Whether embarking on a guided tour or a solo journey, this breathtaking coastal environment is perfect for those seeking both the serenity and thrill of a true wilderness escape.

Quick Facts

Length: Eight planned trips averaging about 2K

Season: Summer and Fall when salmon are running and orca groups are coming through

Style: Ocean

Difficulty: Beginner, Intermediate

Access: Many access points along the strait. Start at Port McNeill

Experiences: Sea kayak paddling, mostly tandems

Features: Ocean Tides between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia

More info: The Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations are the traditional gatekeepers, having lived here for thousands of years and still call the area home

Gear Safety

The Strait is known for strong tidal currents, and paddlers may encounter cold water, wind, and heavy marine traffic. Proper gear, including a well-fitted PFD (personal flotation device), navigation equipment, and cold-water protection like a wetsuit or drysuit, is essential. Wildlife, including orcas, can be abundant, so maintaining a respectful distance is important. Additionally, paddlers should be aware of local regulations and carry safety essentials, including communication devices, and be prepared for self-rescue in remote areas.

Johnstone Strait

  • 1

    Port McNeill

    Located on the northern tip of Vancouver Island, Port McNeill provides easy access to Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago, making it a strategic starting point for both day trips and multi-day paddling adventures.

  • 2

    Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve

    Famous for its resident orca population, this protected area is a must-see for paddlers interested in wildlife. Paddlers can often see orcas rubbing on the pebbly beaches or swimming through the waters of the reserve (Note: landing within the reserve is prohibited).

  • 3

    Telegraph Cove

    A picturesque launching point for paddling trips into Johnstone Strait, Telegraph Cove is a historic site with colorful buildings and an excellent base for kayak tours, whale watching, and exploring the rich marine life.

  • 4

    Kaikash Creek

    A popular camping spot for kayakers along the Johnstone Strait, offering a scenic place to rest and launch day trips. The site has views of passing orcas and other wildlife.

  • 5

    Hanson Island

    Located at the entrance to Blackfish Sound, Hanson Island is surrounded by channels rich with marine life. The island itself is known for its rugged beauty, old-growth forests, and camping spots.

  • 6

    Broughton Archipelago Marine Provincial Park

    A network of small islands and islets located just north of Johnstone Strait. It’s a fantastic area for multi-day paddling trips, with opportunities for wildlife sightings, secluded beaches, and quiet campsites.

Paddle pros

Here are the experts who will help perfect your paddling trip.

Tours
Alder Bay Kayak

Alder Bay Resort offers sea kayaking excursions with North Island Kayaks in Johnstone Strait. Explore local islands, remote beaches, and marine wildlife.

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Tours
ALERT BAY 360 ECO PADDLE

Join the Alert Bay 360 event for a chance to win prizes and cash rewards. Limited spots available!

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Lessons, Rentals & Tours
AT THE WATER’S EDGE ADVENTURES

Explore breathtaking kayak tours in Vancouver Island’s marine wildlife habitats with At the Water’s Edge Adventures.

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Tours
BROUGHTON ARCHIPELAGO PADDLER’S INN

Paddle paradise awaits! Explore Broughton’s islands & inlets at Paddler’s Inn.

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Tours
CANADA SEA KAYAK

Sea Kayak Adventures offers world-renowned orca and humpback watching in British Columbia. Enjoy exceptional sea kayaking, hiking, and cultural exploration on basecamp, lodge-based, and expeditionary trips from June to September.

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Tours
ECOSUMMER EXPEDITIONS

Experience eco-friendly sea kayaking adventures in Telegraph Cove, BC. Encounter orcas and wildlife up close.

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Tours
Farewell Harbour Lodge

Escape to a west-coast lodge in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Experience wildlife, nature, and indigenous culture.

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Tours
KARIBU ADVENTURES

Karibu Adventures offers curated trips for active adventurers seeking raw and real experiences.

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Tours
King Fisher

King Fisher offers guided sea kayaking tours along the Great Bear Rainforest, Haida Gwaii, and Northern Vancouver Island.

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Tours
Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures – Sea Kayaking Tours

Experience fully guided kayak tours in British Columbia’s stunning wilderness since 1999. Small group sizes, eco-conscious practices, and passionate guides.

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Tours
North Island Kayak

North Island Kayak offers unforgettable sea kayaking tours in Telegraph Cove, BC since 1991.

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Tours and Lessons
Quatsino Lodge

Quatsino Lodge in Vancouver Island offers top-notch fishing, kayaking, and hospitality in a remote setting.

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Tours
Sea Kayak Haida Gwaii Butterfly Tours

Butterfly Tours offers immersive multi-day sea kayaking expeditions in the pristine wilderness of Haida Gwaii, led by experienced guides passionate about nature and culture.

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Tours
Spirit of the West Adventures

Bring a sense of adventure and be ready to have an experience of a lifetime! No kayaking experience is required for nearly all of our tours. Our trips are thoughtfully designed to ensure a great vacation for all levels of experience and abilities.

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Tours
Wildcoast Adventures

Wildcoast Adventures offers unforgettable sea kayak tours with gourmet meals and top-notch service.

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Explore more in this community.

Every corner of BC has something unique to offer. From freshwater lakes on Vancouver Island to rafting on the whitewater of Squamish, you will never find a shortage of amazing paddling.

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