Last Updated on November 30, 2020
There’s one thing that keeps me coming back to kayaking and why I want to try to do more of it. It’s the indescribable feeling when you ‘step into’ the kayak, push away from land, and dip the kayak paddle into the water and take that first stroke. Kayaking is so therapeutic. Kayaking in the picturesque Sechelt Inlet was a great way to relieve stress and get closer to nature. And, each time you really recognize how powerful nature really is.
We timed our visit to the Backeddy Resort perfectly. Since school is back in session it was extra quiet on the water. There were only handful of boats docked and we passed only a couple boats during our kayaking in the Sechelt Inlet. That made exploring the waters and nature extra peaceful and a perfect time to reflect on your thoughts and connect deeply with your surroundings.
Starting off the tour, since it had been a while since my last kayak adventure, we went over all the strokes and kayaking tips to make sure we were on the same page. It was a great refresher. When you get in the water you’ll also take a moment to try the strokes to make sure you’re comfortable before you get going.
Since it had been a while since my last kayaking adventure, I also didn’t feel comfortable bringing my nice camera, so I just brought my small point and shoot water camera. If you’re comfortable enough, make sure you have a dry bag and you won’t regret bringing a good quality camera out for a paddle.
The tour guide, Greg, is a very spiritual guy and a naturalist. He started the tour with having me pick a Medicine Card and I chose the Badger. I found that quite fitting when he told me about how persistent a Badger is and how it isn’t afraid to use unconventional methods to heal or fight hard for what it wants. I’m big on naturopathic healing from what Mother Nature provides. Also, some people find that the drive I have to reach what I put my mind to, to be too intense. Well selected, for sure.
The sun was shining and the sky was blue, making the conditions perfect for a couple hours of kayaking. Greg was so knowledgeable about the world around him. I really felt like I benefitted from his extensive knowledge about the natural history, plant, ocean and wildlife. He had an answer for anything I asked and it really challenged me to look at and think of nature in a different way. For example, I had never thought much about the fact that seals have babies in rotation so there are always the ‘aunts and uncles’ available to keep an eye on the young to help out the Mother and to help protect the young. We went to a seal haul-out and it was fascinating to see their behaviour as a handful of seals dive into the water and take their spots around you, keeping a close eye on what you’re doing. I had never paid much attention to that before and seeing it happen right before my eyes was indescribable. Plus, they sure were cute popping their heads out of the water as they moved around a bit, while watching our every move.
The two hour Harbour Seal Tour I took isn’t the only available option, either. The longer tours can also include tea and snacks and shore time. Another option that intrigued me was the nighttime Full Moon Tour and Bioluminescence Tour. I was wishing we had more time to do a Bioluminescence Tour during our stay. I would love to see the ocean waters glow.
With a three-month-old baby we could not all go kayaking so Darcy volunteered to stay with the kids while I had a Mommy break. I was unsure if I should bring Madison (4) and Sadie (2) along and ended up leaving them to play with Darcy. Greg was telling me about all the young kids that come along in the multiple people kayaks and about starting his kids kayaking young. That really has given me the confidence to start to get the girls out on the water. So, if you’re hesitating like I did, give it a try. Now just to figure out where and when!
Take a look at the gorgeous day and picturesque surroundings:
It was a great experience kayaking the Sechelt Inlet, one I would highly recommend if you’re on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast.
Greg was a fabulous guide. After the tour he also showed me some of his wife’s art. Leanne sure is an incredible artist, featuring visual narratives inspired by BC of wildlife, indigenous cultures and our ecological footprint. I encourage you to also check out some of Leanne’s paintings at WestCoastWild.ca.
Where have you found a slice of heaven while kayaking?
Disclaimer: My kayak experience was sponsored by Metta Eco Experiences (Facebook), as part of our stay at The Backeddy Resort. However, as always, my opinions are my own.