West Coast
Epic 3-Week Sea Kayaking & Surfing Adventure

Area & activities

This journey takes place in Clayoquot Sound, a pristine watershed on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, the traditional territory of three Nuu-chah-nulth Nations: the Ahousaht, the Hesquiaht, and the Tla-o-qui-aht. Islands in the region include Flores Island, Meares Island and Vargas Island, where the two surf days and the solo experience will take place.

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 na vigation, including knowledge of tides, currents and weather.

In the surf portion of the trip, led by renowned British Columbia surfer Catherine Bruhwiler of Tofino Paddle Surf, you’ll learn basic surfing techniques so you can stand on a board and ride a wave, including how to read a wave and basic surf safety and etiquette.

In the second part of the trip, responsibility is transferred from the instructors to the students and participants have the opportunity to put into practice what they’ve learned and their leadership skills.

Take a look at 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 16-19 and rated Level 3 in social-emotional challenge and Level 3 in physical challenge. Learn more about the levels of difficulty. 

No previous experience with kayaking and surfing 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.

We provide all the equipment for the expedition, and participants can borrow personal OBC gear if needed.

Solo experience

One of the highlights of Outward Bound expeditions is participating in a solo camping experience in nature. On this course, you may have the opportunity to sleep alone for up to 48 hours in a secluded location, where you’ll set up shelter and take time to reflect. You’ll have all the supplies you need to sleep safely and comfortably, and your instructors will be nearby to help you if needed and check on you regularly. 

The solo isn’t a wilderness survival challenge, but rather a supportive environment where you can take time for yourself away from the distractions of everyday life. While it may seem like a daunting challenge at first, it’s often the most impactful part of the course because you get an opportunity that few others will ever experience – to be in nature, in your own company.

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.