West Coast
1 Week Kayaking Journey

Area & activities

This expedition will take you through the traditional territories of the Hesquiaht, Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations who have inhabited the land since time immemorial. Your group will roam the islands and bays of the Pacific Ocean, camp on sandy beaches or on the edge of ancient rainforests, and enjoy epic west coast sunsets.

You’ll travel in either a solo or tandem fibreglass sea kayak through Class 2 waters (according to the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of B.C‘s definition). During the expedition, your instructors will teach you paddle strokes, self-rescue and rescue techniques, and basic nautical navigation, including knowledge of tides, currents and weather.

See a sample itinerary of the trip.

Learning outcomes

Forget traditional summer camp! We offer life-changing experiences that focus on building a strong sense of self and community. Through active, real-life activities that celebrate diversity and promote personal growth, you’ll discover who you are and connect with others.

Our expert instructors will guide you through unique challenges that require your group to work together to solve problems, reflect on your journey, and discuss how to apply your skills and what you’ve learned when you return home. The course is designed to have a lasting and measurable impact in three key areas:

Improved resilience – Improve your mental and physical health and learn how to overcome challenges to succeed.

Better leadership and teamwork skills – Learn the skills you need to succeed in school, work and life by becoming more confident, cooperative and a respectful team member.

Stronger connection to nature – Develop a lifelong relationship with nature.

Is this course right for me?

This course is designed for youth seeking a transformative experience that goes far beyond traditional summer camps. No previous experience is necessary to join this expedition – you just need to have a positive attitude, be open-minded and enjoy a challenge and learning new skills. Click here to learn how an Outward Bound summer program is different than camp.

This course is for students aged 14-16 and rated Level 1 in social-emotional challenge and Level 1 in physical challenge. Learn more about the levels of difficulty. If you’re age 13 and going into Grade 9 in September 2024 and are interested in this trip, let’s talk! Please reach out to us directly at Admissions@outwardbound.ca for more information.

No previous experience with kayaking is necessary to join this expedition. We provide all the equipment for the expedition, and participants can borrow personal OBC gear if needed.

Solo experience

Each Outward Bound Canada course includes a solo experience as an opportunity for self-reflection. In this course, the solo experience consists of a solo sit and meal at the end of the week where participants have the opportunity to be alone in a beautiful natural setting. Instructors are nearby to provide support as needed.

Financial assistance

We believe everyone should have access to exploring nature. We offer full scholarships to help cover the cost of course fees, and the Youth Access Fund offers financial support for those unable to finance their Outward Bound Canada experience personally. Please visit the Financial Assistance page for more information and to apply.