TRIP OVERVIEW
Embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure through the pristine waters of Johnstone Strait. Glide through calm, crystal-clear waters and watch marine mammals breach and play nearby, all while surrounded by the stunning coastal landscapes of British Columbia. After an exhilarating day on the water, retreat to Orca Camp near Robson Bight, where you’ll enjoy the comforts of “glamping” under the stars. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, this eco-friendly camp offers full-height safari sleeping tents, a hot tub, sauna, gourmet meals (all included), and a rambling beach, providing the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. For the truly adventurous, the glacier-fed creek beside camp is great for a cold dip before or after the hot tub or sauna. And on occasion, after the sun goes down, spectacular phosphorescence lights up the creek.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Location, location, location! This is prime killer whale territory, whether you are out kayaking or relaxing at camp.
- Spend each day out on the water in search of orcas and other wildlife in the waters of Johnstone Strait, deemed a critical habitat for both resident (fish-eating) Orcas and transient (mammal-eating) Orca pods.
- Enjoy fresh meals prepared each day with local cuisine from a gourmet chef.
- Stay warm in the large wood-heated, covered common area and dining room.
- Get a good night's sleep in a spacious safari sleeping tent on wood platforms and comfy beds with warm, cozy bedding.
- Relax at camp in a saltwater hot tub and wood-fired sauna.
PLACES YOU'LL VISIT
DAILY ITINERARY
Upon arrival at Campbell River Airport (YBL), a shuttle will be waiting to take you to our hotel. Campbell River, located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This charming city offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Nestled between the ocean and mountains, it serves as a gateway to some of Vancouver Island’s most spectacular landscapes and wildlife experiences.
Should you arrive early enough, go on a hike or biking adventure. Campbell River is surrounded by numerous trails that cater to all levels of hikers and bikers. The Beaver Lodge Forest Lands, Ripple Rock Trail, and the Campbell River Greenways Loop are popular choices for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive from downtown, Elk Falls Provincial Park offers beautiful hiking trails, a suspension bridge with stunning views of Elk Falls, and picnic areas. The park is especially popular for its scenic waterfalls and lush forest setting.
This evening, we’ll find a spot to enjoy dinner. The city has a range of restaurants and cafes that feature local seafood, including salmon, halibut, and shellfish. The Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to sample fresh seafood and enjoy waterfront dining.
The Comfort Inn & Suites in Campbell River is a modern waterfront hotel offering scenic views of the Strait of Georgia and Quadra Island. Conveniently located near downtown, it’s within walking distance to local shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Museum at Campbell River. Guests enjoy well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves. The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, complimentary hot breakfast, and pet-friendly accommodations—making it an ideal base for exploring Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.
This morning, we’ll be picked up by water taxi at the Discovery Harbour Marina, a short 10-minute walk from our hotel, for the start of our adventure. Your expert guide will brief you about the boat ride to camp and we’ll have a 2.5 hour journey that passes through the Discovery Passage and the infamous ‘Seymour Narrow’. Sightings of porpoises, dolphins, and whales are common even before reaching camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by camp staff and settle into your wilderness accommodations. An afternoon kayak orientation will prepare you for your first paddle on this tour.
Orca Camp offers a unique glamping and kayaking experience on Vancouver Island’s Johnstone Strait, adjacent to the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, a sanctuary for killer whales. Guests stay in comfortable safari tents nestled in the rainforest, complete with cozy beds and hot showers. Daily guided sea kayaking excursions provide opportunities to observe orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The camp also features amenities such as a wood-fired hot tub, sauna, and gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, ensuring a blend of adventure and relaxation in a pristine wilderness setting.
A full day of exploration along the coast in your kayak awaits. While you paddle in killer whale territory listening for orca blows, your guides will provide details about the resurgence of wildlife in this remote part of the coast as well as the ongoing threats to this critical habitat. Not only is being on the water spectacular, but you will also venture inland to a beautiful waterfall where the brave can go for a dip in the glacial waters.
Orca Camp offers a unique glamping and kayaking experience on Vancouver Island’s Johnstone Strait, adjacent to the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, a sanctuary for killer whales. Guests stay in comfortable safari tents nestled in the rainforest, complete with cozy beds and hot showers. Daily guided sea kayaking excursions provide opportunities to observe orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The camp also features amenities such as a wood-fired hot tub, sauna, and gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, ensuring a blend of adventure and relaxation in a pristine wilderness setting.
It’s time to venture across Johnstone Strait to the island opposite the camp. Kayaking along the shores, we will keep a lookout for bears and cubs that often forage on the beach. After the day’s paddling adventures, we’ll return to enjoy a native sauna and hot tub, a great end to a fantastic day.
Orca Camp offers a unique glamping and kayaking experience on Vancouver Island’s Johnstone Strait, adjacent to the Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve, a sanctuary for killer whales. Guests stay in comfortable safari tents nestled in the rainforest, complete with cozy beds and hot showers. Daily guided sea kayaking excursions provide opportunities to observe orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. The camp also features amenities such as a wood-fired hot tub, sauna, and gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients, ensuring a blend of adventure and relaxation in a pristine wilderness setting.
This morning, we’ll have one last chance for Orca sightings during our sunrise paddle. Soak up the final moments of your wilderness adventure while hanging on the beach awaiting the water taxi. You’ll arrive back at the Discover Harbor Marina between 3:30 – 5:30pm.
This evening, enjoy some free time, and if there’s time, visit the local museum that offers a fascinating look into the region’s history, including First Nations culture, early European settlers, and the fishing and logging industries that shaped the area.
The Comfort Inn & Suites in Campbell River is a modern waterfront hotel offering scenic views of the Strait of Georgia and Quadra Island. Conveniently located near downtown, it’s within walking distance to local shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Museum at Campbell River. Guests enjoy well-appointed rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and microwaves. The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, complimentary hot breakfast, and pet-friendly accommodations—making it an ideal base for exploring Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.
This morning, we’ll say goodbye to our new friends and, at the appropriate time, take the shuttle back to the airport for our return flight home or to your next destination.
FAQs
Mid-July to early September offers the highest chance of orca sightings during the salmon run.
Humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, seals, and sometimes black bears along the shoreline.
No experience is necessary! Guides provide instruction, and the kayaks are stable and easy to paddle—great for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The trip primarily uses double (tandem) kayaks for stability, though singles may be available upon request.
Yes, PFDs (personal flotation devices) are provided and required while kayaking.
Safari-style tents, hot showers, a sauna, wood-fired hot tub, and gourmet meals made with local ingredients.
The camp is off-grid with limited solar power for charging small devices—no Wi-Fi or full electrical outlets.
Yes, the camp has eco-friendly composting toilets and hot showers.
Guests stay in cozy safari tents furnished with real beds, linens, and warm duvets for a comfortable wilderness stay.
Expect mild coastal temperatures—typically 60–75°F (15–24°C) during the day, cooler at night.
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