Escape into one of Canada's most spectacular coastal landscapes on this guided stand-up paddleboard (SUP) adventure through Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.

Launching from the CRD Public Wharf at Swartz Bay — the very tip of the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island — you'll spend three hours exploring the sheltered waterways, rocky islets, and forested shores that make the Southern Gulf Islands one of the world's great paddling destinations.

Your Paddle Canada–certified guide will lead you through winding passages where harbour seals pop up alongside your board, eagles circle overhead, and the world quietly disappears. You'll glide over amber kelp forests, land on shell beaches rich in First Nations cultural heritage, and catch views across the Salish Sea that will stay with you long after you're back on shore.

Please note: Launch time and location may vary by up to 24 hours in advance based on tides and conditions. You'll be notified by email or phone if anything changes.

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WHAT'S INCLUDED

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✓ 3 hours of guided paddling in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

✓ Paddleboard, paddle, SUP leash & personal flotation device (PFD)

✓ Paddle Canada–certified guide

✓ Instruction and skill-building tips available on the water

✓ Snacks on the water

✓ Launch and parking at CRD Public Wharf, Swartz Bay

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WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

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✗ Meals (outside of snacks)

✗ Transportation to/from the launch site

✗ Travel insurance

✗ Guide gratuities (always appreciated!)

✗ 5% GST

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FITNESS & SKILL LEVEL

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This is a moderate paddle suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers. You don't need prior SUP experience, but you should feel comfortable being on the water and able to paddle at a relaxed pace for approximately 3 hours with breaks.

New to SUP? We offer lessons to help get you comfortable on your board.

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POSSIBLE WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

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Harbour seals · Bald eagles · Sea lions · River otters · Sea birds · Underwater marine life

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IMPORTANT NOTES

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• Launch times vary by day based on tidal conditions and weather. Your exact launch time will be confirmed when you book.

• In the event of conditions requiring a route or location change, you will be contacted by email or phone in advance. Please check messages and emails the night prior and morning of tour.

• Please arrive 15 minutes before your confirmed launch time to allow for gear fitting.

Questions? Book a free 30-minute call with Pam before you reserve your spot.

WHAT TO BRING — Gulf Islands SUP Explorer Tour

ON YOUR BODY

□ Comfortable, quick-dry active wear or a wetsuit (water temperature can be cool year-round)

□ Swimsuit or base layer underneath

□ Water shoes or old sneakers (we land on beaches)

□ Sunglasses with a strap 

□ Sun hat or cap

□ Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)

IN A DRY BAG / SMALL PACK

□ Water bottle (at least 750ml — stay hydrated!)

□ Light snack if you'd like more than what's provided

□ Camera or waterproof phone case

□ Small personal first-aid items (e.g. allergy medication)

LEAVE BEHIND

✗ Large bags or hard-shell cases (storage is limited on the water)

✗ Jewellery you'd hate to lose

✗ Anything that can't get wet

GOOD TO KNOW

• A dry bag will be available to store essentials on your board

• Dress for the weather AND the water — if you fall in, you should be comfortable in what you're wearing

• Layering is smart — mornings on the water can be cooler than the forecast suggests

• Launch time is tide-dependent and confirmed at booking

Please check messages and emails the night prior and morning of tour for possible changes.