Guided Tour Frequently

Asked Questions

Killer Whales

Q.	I have never kayaked before, how safe is it?
A.	Ocean touring kayaks are surprisingly stable and comfortable. Your pre-trip session will give you some of the basic skills and your guides are well versed in safety. They are right there with you the whole time to ensure your safety and enjoyment.
Q.	What about children?
A.	We welcome children on the tours. We can accommodate them in a number of ways; triple kayaks or paired up with a strong paddler. It is a safe and wonderful experience for kids – and as family! We offer discounted rates for children. For overnight adventures we have found it is typically best to schedule small family groups, please contact us for further information.
Q.	How many people are usually on the trips?
A.	Our average group size is 4 people however tours will typically run with between 2 & 6.

Q.	What kind of physical condition do you need to be in?
A.	People of all ages enjoy ocean kayaking. You need only be in average physical condition. It is a very low impact activity and the boats are designed to glide easily through the water with minimal effort and maximum room for movement while sitting in the kayak.
Q.	Can I bring my camera?
A.	A word of caution: Salt water is bad news for cameras. We provide waterproof bags (Dry Bags) to our tour guests.
Q.	Does anyone ever tip over?
A.	It can happen – but it is not likely on a guided trip. Part of your pre-launch session is instruction and demonstration of what to do in the event of capsize. Qualified guides have had extensive training in safety and have the skills to deal with any situation that may arise. Their focus is on prevention rather than cure.
Q.	What are the qualifications and experience of the guide?
A.	We look at a number of things when we hire our leadership staff: skills, experience, and personality. Certified Kayak Guides have had extensive specialized training for the marine environment, kayaking and Wilderness First Aid. They are a variety of ages and genders and each brings with them their own unique experiences and backgrounds. You are in good hands.
Q.	What is the success rate for seeing the Killer Whales?
A.	We realize that it's hard not to have high expectations of seeing the Orcas up close: however, it is important to keep in mind that we can only provide the opportunity. Up to 270 individually identifiable Killer Whales congregate in the Johnstone Strait June through October – but they are wild and during the course of the day can move around quite a bit. We have had days where we have seen them just outside of Telegraph Cove in the first 20 minutes and we have also had days where we have not seen them. We are limited to the distance we can cover in a day but we do our best to maximize the opportunity to encounter them! Overnight trips are available and have excellent statistics because you are right there in the early morning and evening and have at least 2 full days, rather than the 7 hours of a single day trip.
Q.	Will the whales bother the kayaks?
A.	There have been no incidents involving whales and humans or kayaks. We follow the whale watching regulations and there has never been anything more than a gigantic thrill!
Q.	When will we return?
A.	Return times can vary and we try to be as flexible as possible. You will be returning to Telegraph Cove typically between 3 and 4 pm. After your trip, relax on the deck of the Old Saltery and watch the comings & goings of Historic Telegraph Cove.
Q.	How do we find North Island Kayak?
A.	Approx. 10 minutes south of Port McNeill on Hwy 19, turn on Beaver Cove Road and we are 16 Kilometers off Hwy 19 on Beaver Cove Road, you will see many signs for whale watching and Telegraph Cove. Our shop is easy to spot as you drive into Telegraph Cove. It is the last building on the far side of the cove next to the launch ramp. Allow yourself 30 minutes from Port McNeill and about 60 minutes from Port Hardy