Discovery Islands Expedition
Wild Coast, Island by Island.
A 6-day guided sea kayaking and camping expedition from Quadra Island, BC: a true paddling journey through remote islands, hidden bays and wilderness campsites in one of the West Coast’s best kept secrets.
Departures May 30 – September 5 | 6 Days | From $1,978.21 CAD + GST
About the Adventure
A true expedition into one of the West Coast’s best kept secrets.
Launch from the stunning shores of Rebecca Spit on Quadra Island and paddle through the intricate network of channels, bays and inlets that make up the Discovery Islands, named one of National Geographic Canada’s 50 Places of a Lifetime. Over six days you’ll explore sparsely inhabited, remote islands, including Quadra, Read, Rendezvous, Penn and Breton, each with its own coastline to discover.
Each day brings new waters to explore and a new island to call home. Paddle into secret bays, wander through ancient forests, and gather around the campfire each evening as you take in the view towards the coast mountains and Vancouver Island, with hearty meals designed by a local gourmet chef and cooked by your guides.
This trip is designed for curious, capable paddlers eager to experience wild beauty off the beaten path, in a small group with a high guide-to-guest ratio.
Highlights
- Expedition-style journey through remote coastal terrain
- Towering trees, mountains and remote beaches
- Home to humpbacks, dolphins, seals and sea lions
- Custom coastal cuisine prepared daily by your guides
- Quality kayaks, expedition tents and warm sleeping bags provided
- A night at a beautiful Quadra Island resort before you launch
- Personalized routes based on group skill level
- Small groups of up to 10 guests, with at least 1 guide per 6 guests, and a great trip for solo travellers
- No kayaking experience required, though experience and good fitness are recommended; ages 12 and up
2027 Departure Dates
Green = spaces available. Grey = sold out.
Duration
6 days (5 nights)
Guide Ratio
1 Guide / per 6 Guests or better, with a maximum of 10 guests
Start Point
The Wildcoast Shop, 685 Heriot Bay Road, Quadra Island – a short distance by foot or by car from the BC Ferry Terminal in Quathiaski Cove.
Impact
Protecting this ecosystem is central to everything we do. We follow a strict code of conduct and all marine wildlife regulations, ensuring wildlife is viewed from respectful distances and given the space it needs to thrive. Your price includes a $25 sustainability fee, which is donated directly to local conservation initiatives. Wildcoast Adventures is proudly owned by the Wei Wai Kum First Nation.
2027 Trip Price
$1,978.21 CAD per person
Prices include a $25 sustainability fee and are subject to 5% GST.
Skill Prerequisites
Experience recommended, not required · Ages 12+ · Max 10 guests · 1 guide per 6 guests
Paddling Intensity: 3/4
No experience is required, but we recommend that you enjoy a challenge, have a positive mindset and are in good physical shape. As this is an expedition-style trip, you’ll paddle between campsites and spend up to five hours a day on the water, with a lunch stop and chances to learn about the wildlife along the way. Your guides choose each day’s route based on the weather, sea conditions and your group’s skill and experience.
Camp Comfort: 1/4
No previous camping experience is required. We provide quality expedition tents, warm sleeping bags and dry bags, including your own tent if you’re a solo traveller. Campsites are in remote wilderness settings with limited facilities, and your guides help you set up camp and make it as comfortable as possible.
Wilderness Immersion: 4/4
This is a true off-the-grid expedition. You’ll move to a new remote campsite as you travel through the islands, with no cell service for most of the trip.
Guests should be comfortable with the quiet of the wilderness and the unpredictability of nature, from the weather to the wildlife sightings.
Feeling unsure? Please contact us, we are happy to answer your questions!
About Quadra Island and the Discovery Islands
Located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia, the Discovery Islands are a sea kayaking paradise of forested islands, tidal channels and sheltered bays. Quadra Island is the gateway, a short ferry ride from Campbell River, and the starting point for exploring a chain of remote islands that includes Read, Rendezvous, Penn and Breton.
The region is known for its sea lions, seals, otters, colourful birds and some of the largest starfish and clams in the world. In recent years humpback whales have made a strong resurgence in the Discovery Islands and are often seen from our trips. Wildlife is unpredictable and sightings are never guaranteed, and we always view wildlife from respectful distances.
On the traditional territory of the Liǧʷiłdaxʷ peoples.
Your Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival on Quadra Island
Your first night is at one of Quadra’s beautiful resorts, with breakfast included. Enjoy a relaxing start and some time on Quadra Island as you prepare for the days ahead. An afternoon briefing at the Wildcoast Shop provides you with a dry bag for your belongings and everything you need to know before launching early the next morning.
Day 2
Launch from Rebecca Spit
Your adventure begins! Transfer to the launch site at the breathtaking Rebecca Spit Provincial Park in Quadra Island’s Heriot Bay. After a kayak orientation, set off on your first paddle and make your first camp. Each kayak trip is customized to suit the group’s paddling ability and interests, so with so many islands to explore, every trip is unique.
Day 3 – 5
Island Days
Days in the wilderness take you paddling between the islands, walking through ancient forests, swimming in fresh water lakes and honing your paddling skills, with a new island to call home as you travel on. Your guides prepare chef-designed meals each day, and evening campfires and stargazing round out each day. Your expert guides each add their own flair to the trip, creating an experience unlike any other.
Day 6
The Journey Back
On your last day you paddle back to your launch point and are transported to the Wildcoast Shop by mid-afternoon. It’s a relaxing end point where you can hang out, grab a coffee and repack your belongings before heading on to your next destination.
What’s included
- Hotel Night on Quadra Island – One night at a Quadra Island resort the night before you launch, with breakfast included.
- Guide Services and Kayak Instruction – Expert, certified guides throughout your adventure.
- Kayaking Gear – Quality kayaks, paddles and dry bags for the whole trip.
- Camping Gear – Expedition tents, including a tent of your own if you’re a solo traveller, and warm sleeping bags.
- Wilderness Camping – Remote campsites throughout the Discovery Islands.
- Gourmet Meals – All meals at camp, with a menu designed by a local gourmet chef and prepared by your guides. Dietary needs are accommodated at no extra cost.
What’s not included
- Travel to and from Quadra Island (flights and ferry)
- Accommodation before or after the trip
- Meals outside of the trip
- Trip cancellation or other travel insurance
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal gear (see packing list)
- Tips for guides (optional but appreciated)
What Our Guests Say
“I recently had the pleasure of embarking on an expedition around Read Island, and I can confidently say it was an experience of a lifetime. The adventure was made even more special thanks to an incredible group of fellow adventurers and our outstanding guides, Vince and Allyson.
The food provided on the expedition was nothing short of amazing. Each meal was thoughtfully prepared and delicious, adding a gourmet touch to our outdoor adventure. … The camping spots chosen by our guides were picturesque and well-selected, offering breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility that perfectly complemented the rugged beauty of Read Island.
The combination of great company, exceptional guides, delicious food, and stunning scenery made for an unforgettable experience. Not to mention the humpback whales and orcas we got to see!”
Rocio, Discovery Islands Expedition guest
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Trip Experience
Do I need prior kayaking experience to join?
No experience is required, but we recommend that you enjoy a challenge, have a positive mindset and are in good physical shape. Our kayaks are stable and safe to paddle. Our guides provide kayak instruction and safety procedures before your first launch, and help with tweaking your technique along the way.
How much paddling and distance is covered?
Our guides determine the length of each day’s paddle based on the weather, sea conditions and your group’s paddling skill and dynamic. As this is an expedition-style trip you’ll be kayaking between campsites and spending up to five hours a day on the water. Each day’s paddle is broken up by a lunch stop and opportunities to see and learn about the wildlife along the way.
What are the campsites like?
The campsites are located in remote wilderness settings. Some have sparse amenities, tent locations may be uneven and the beaches are usually rocky. There are limited washroom facilities. Your guides will help make this wilderness camping experience as comfortable as possible.
What wildlife might I see?
The Discovery Islands are known for sea lions, seals, otters, colourful birds and some of the largest starfish and clams in the world, and humpback whales and dolphins are often seen in these waters. Wildlife is unpredictable and sightings are never guaranteed. We view all wildlife from respectful distances and follow all marine wildlife regulations.
Gear & Food
Do you provide all camping equipment at no extra cost?
Yes. We equip you with high-quality tents and sleeping bags that are ideal for the climate and expedition kayak camping, at no extra cost, so you don’t have to travel to Quadra Island with cumbersome camping gear. We also provide a durable dry bag for your personal items. If you are travelling with a friend or partner you will share a tent.
What should I pack?
Follow our helpful packing list to be sure you come best prepared.
Can you provide vegetarian or special dietary options?
Yes. We provide excellent alternatives for guests with dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets as well as food allergies, at no additional cost. These modifications never compromise on the quality, freshness or portion size of each meal.
Group Size & Solo Travel
I’m a solo traveller, do I pay extra?
No! Our trips are an excellent way for solo travellers to experience a fantastic adventure with others. There is no single supplement, and we don’t bunk you with a stranger – you will have your own tent.
What is the maximum group size?
The maximum group size on this trip is 10 guests, with a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:6 or better.
What is the minimum age?
The minimum age for all of our expedition style kayaking tours is 12 years old. We require an adult for each guest between 12 and 15 years old.
Travel & Logistics
Where do we meet, and how do I get there?
Your first night is at a Quadra Island resort, and an afternoon briefing is held at the Wildcoast Shop at 685 Heriot Bay Road, a short distance by foot or by car from the BC Ferry Terminal in Quathiaski Cove. See our Getting Here page for details.
When does the trip return?
On Day 6 you paddle back to your launch point and are transported to the Wildcoast Shop by mid-afternoon, so please plan onward travel accordingly.
Should I choose the Discovery Islands or the Desolation Sound Expedition?
Both are 6-day guided expeditions from Quadra Island with the same price, gear and meals. The Discovery Islands Expedition explores a maze of forested islands and tidal channels, runs from late May to September and takes a maximum of 10 guests. The Desolation Sound Expedition is known for calm, warm water and dramatic mountain scenery, runs in June and September and takes a maximum of 9 guests.
Where does the kayaking start?
On Day 2 your guides take you to Rebecca Spit Provincial Park in Heriot Bay on Quadra Island, where you get a kayak orientation before your first paddle.
Policies & Requirements
What are the payment terms and booking requirements?
Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your spot. Each guest is also required to complete a waiver and medical questionnaire no later than 2 weeks before departure.
What happens if a trip is cancelled due to weather?
We operate in most weather conditions, and our guides are expertly trained to adapt daily itineraries for guest safety. In the rare event that safety concerns prevent a launch, our team will work with you based on our standard operating procedures and safety protocols.