About Wildcoast

Our Story

Wildcoast Adventures Orca Camp began operations in 1997. Recognizing what a special part of the world we inhabited and as passionate outdoor enthusiasts, there was a strong desire to share the magic of this place with visitors from around the world.

From its inception, we have strived to take the company to the next level. We were the first to amp up our facilities and offer a glamping experience. Our equipment is kept in top notch condition and we add new camping and kayaking gear each and every year. We also recognized that our team had talents beyond guiding trips and so we partnered with local resorts to add a gourmet menu to our tours.

We continue to keep our finger on the pulse of advancements in tourism and design new adventures to meet the demands and desires of each new generation of adventure travellers.

By going above and beyond for guests and sharing strong knowledge of the area and passion for the outdoors, Wildcoast provides kayak tours that provide high-quality equipment, fresh menus designed and packaged by a gourmet chef, as well as custom kayak trip offerings in order to cater to the unique dynamic of each group of guests.

Wildcoast’s owners would love to have you join us and discover the beauty and awe of the spectacular West Coast and its amazing wildlife.

Wildcoast Owners

Wildcoast has three partners who are all passionate about the outdoors and the coastal region in which we operate. Our combined experience in international adventure tours and day-to-day operations ensure that each year we are improving the experience for our local and international guests. We all look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!

Stephen Gabrysh headshot

Stephen Gabrysh has had a passion for the water since moving from Alberta in 1992. He is a avid fisherman and outdoorsman. Stephen lives in Campbell River and loves spending time with his family. His two daughters are 5 and 12. They have enjoyed spending more time on the water and share his passion for the outdoors. His business background as an entrepreneur has grown a company from 30 employees to 75. Stephen has a Bcom in Entrepreneurial Management from Royal Roads University. He is a trained naturalist, Commercial Bear Viewing Association Level 1 bear viewing guide and is Transport Canada Certified for small commercial vessel operations. Stephen also holds a Multi Engine IFR Pilots License, and a Class 1 Commercial Drivers License. He also currently serves as President of the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association, member of the City of Campbell River Tourism Advisory Committee, and member of the Discovery Islands Tourism and Forestry Working Group.

Tyler Bruce

Tyler Bruce has grown up on the water. His early years were spent down in the Gulf Islands, before moving north and exploring Nootka Sound, Discovery Passage, and the Johnstone Strait. He’s been involved in the commercial sportfishing and ski industry since 2001. He was the Assistant Slope Supervisor at Mount Washington Alpine Ski Resort, and was tasked with supervising a crew of 20 in day-to-day operations. He is also a commercial sports fisherman in Nootka Sounds Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. Tyler has a Leadership and Safety Excellence certificate from ACSA, MED 3A- Marine Emergency Duties, Marine First Aid CPR/AED Level C, VHF Radio Operators License, and Small Vessel Operators Proficiency from Transport Canada.

a man in an orange life jacket is paddling a kayak

Damon is a graduate of Algonquin College’s Outdoor Adventure Program and as Expedition Manager he ensures everything about your trip is ready to go once you arrive. Damon’s love of the great outdoors means that each trip is based on his detailed knowledge of the area and the favourite spots only a resident local expert knows to how to find.