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Sea Kayaking with Becca

An excellent way to slow down and see more of Berry Island is to take a sea kayak trip in one of our comfortable double kayaks. Being able to experience the area from a different perspective is a wonderful way to learn more about this delicate ecosystem. The slower pace brings peace and quiet as well as a chance to explore the intertidal zone in more detail. One of our kayak guides, Becca, tells us why this is her favourite way to get even closer to nature and experience the Broughton Archipelago at its best.

“Hailing from London in the UK, the words 'sea kayaking' and even 'the ocean' weren’t really part of my daily vocabulary. However, last year, my innate love of the sea encouraged me to leave the city behind for an adventure in the Canadian wilderness. When I arrived in the Broughton Archipelago I immediately wanted to see it all; from popping my head just behind the tree line to scaling the highest point of each island just in case the view was slightly different. While the crew boats are comfortable, fast and have allowed me to see so much of the area there is something extra special about slowing down that makes you appreciate where you are. 

Each trip around Berry Island has brought with it new experiences, whether that has been a close encounter with a sea lion or an exceptionally talented guest playing bull kelp like an instrument (seriously)! 

   

One particular trip that has stayed with me was a morning in the summer in which myself and Marlie took a group of guests for a paddle around the island. As we left the lodge the fog was so thick we couldn't even see the other side of the harbour! Yet as we headed toward the back of the island the sun started to burn through, revealing the most beautiful of mornings. The thin fog seemed to be floating on the surface of the water and everything was still and silent. We saw bright sea anemones, starfish, jellyfish and bald eagles all within the first 10 minutes.

The tide was high which allowed us to cut through a small channel at the back of Berry. Sandwiched between two islands we took a moment to sit in silence and listen to the world around us. It isn’t until you stop and listen that you realise just how alive everything is around you. Our silence meant that two black tailed deer were comfortable enough to come out of the forest and graze right next to the water. These shy animals usually run as soon as you see them but they allowed us to float alongside them for about 10 minutes, completely relaxed. 

There is something incredibly humbling about being present in nature and realising that you are experiencing something that not many people have. Looking back there have been so many of those moments with Farewell Harbour. Slowing down, whether it be taking a kayak trip or a walk with bears is a great way to really be in the moment.”

-- By Rebecca Crilly




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