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Helpful
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| Mothership Adventure:
4 & 6 day kayak tour |
Below is a list of commonly asked questions If you have any further questions
or concerns please dont hesitate to call us.
Q - How much kayaking experience is required to join one of the trips?
No experience is required for our kayak tours! Our adventures are for everyone.
Our trips are designed to cater to all levels of experience and abilities. The
majority of people who join our tours are first time kayakers. All that we ask
is that you welcome adventure with an open mind and are able to laugh and have
fun when encountering the unexpected. Q -
Do I need to be in great shape to join one of the trips? No. Our adventures
are not considered to be strenuous or physically demanding, and we do not require
a high level of fitness. We just ask that you are capable of a few hours of moderate
exercise each day. Keep in mind that good general health will go a long way if
we happen to encounter some strong winds or time restrictions. Most important
is an adventurous spirit. Q - Are there any
age requirements? Spirit of the West caters to all ages of adventurers.
Although we do not have any age restrictions on our day tours we do prefer minimum
of 12 years for our multi day tours. Those concerned with being in their
older years contact us to discuss their physical abilities.
Q - How much paddling is generally done in a day? Paddling time
will vary depending on our destination, the groups abilities, and desires. Generally
between 3-5 hours a day. In our days activities we also like to incorporate some
hiking, swimming, beach combing and of course leisure/lounging time.
Q - How stable are the kayaks? What is the likelihood of flipping over?
The kayaks we use on our tours are stable and designed for comfort. For those
a little concerned, the double kayaks are slightly more stable than the singles.
The likelihood of a capsize is minimal, and generally only occurs in an uncommon
situation. Q - What happens if my kayak flips
over? If for some reason your kayak flips over, all of our guides have
ample practice time on the water with rescue procedures, in order to quickly and
efficiently get you back in your boat. At this point we will take you to the nearest
shore to change into some warm cozy clothing and carry on with our journey. While
we are out on the water, it is of the utmost importance that the group sticks
together in the event of a capsize or change of route plan.
Q - What if the weather turns bad? Will I be comfortable and warm?
Our weather in the Pacific Northwest is generally pleasant from May through until
the end of September. The temperature will vary slightly depending on which area
you visit. For example if you visit Desolation Sound or the Discovery Islands
it is not uncommon in mid summer to savor a swim in the refreshing waters in order
to cool off. Johnstone Strait or Nootka Sound/Nuchatlitz being a little further
north and more exposed to weather will have cooler temperatures. Although it is
uncommon, it can rain in the summer. Rule of thumb is to be prepared for any type
of weather and you will stay comfortable. Layering is the key, for at any time
if you need to put on or take off while on the water, this is all possible.
Q - What sort of wildlife might we see on the tour? The diversity
and abundance of wildlife in the Pacific Northwest is one of our privileges. With
river run off from the mountains, ocean currents, tide rips, eddies and upwellings
these waters are among the most productive on earth. From the rich marine life
of colorful plants and invertebrae, seabirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, mink, otter,
seals, sea lions, dolphins, and whales, to the land animals of deer, raccoons,
cougars, wolves and bears, we are bound to see something. For those with an eye
for eagles take note that they are most prominent in the earlier months before
the salmon migration in the late summer/early fall. Depending on which tour you
take, some areas offer more wildlife opportunities than others. Inquire if you
would like to know what sort of wildlife you might see on your tour.
Q - What are the chances of seeing Killer Whales? How close do we paddle
to the Orca Whales? On our tours to Johnstone Strait and Mothership tour
we stand a high chance of seeing the whales. Understandably we cannot guarantee
what nature will dictate, but we can tell you that this area has one of the highest
concentrations of Killer Whales on earth and this is where they spend their summer
holiday. It is very likely that you will see them, whether it be within reach
from your kayak, while traveling on the Songhee or from the shore. Hearing the
blow of a whale even from a mile across the Strait will create a sensation of
excitement. Note that regulations say that we must not paddle within 100 meters
of the whalesthis is out of respect for their space. However, if they decide
to approach us, we may find ourselves within arms reach. |
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