Kayaking in Desolation sound
Hey guys,
Looking for feedback for our Desolation Sound kayaking itinerary. We are beginners (some previous experience) so we are looking for a slower pace trip. Does it seem doable? Any suggestions?
Thank you!
Desolation Sound Itinerary
Every day:
*** Leave camp 6:45- 7:30 latest
Paddle 45 mins, rest 15 mins
* Day 1: Okeover Arm to Feather Cove / Hare Point
* Distance: ~12 km
* Slow Beginner Time: 3 to 4 hours (including a 20-minute rest stop to stretch legs).
* The Pace: Relaxed warm-up. Fully sheltered inside Malaspina Inlet, should mean no big ocean waves to fight.
* Day 2: Feather Cove to Curme Islands
* Distance: ~8 km
* Slow Beginner Time: 3.5 to 4 hours (slower due to navigating tidal currents around the islands).
* The Pace: Steady and focused. Crossing a short, open-water section. At a slower pace, important to launch by 7:30 AM to arrive before the midday chop picks up at noon.
* Day 3: Curme Islands to Walsh Cove via Waddington Channel
* Distance: ~12 km
* Slow Beginner Time: 4 to 4.5 hours (accounting for a slower tracking speed against minor channel currents).
* The Pace: Keep close to the eastern shoreline. Deep-water whale highway, keep eyes open. Taking 4 hours to arrive by 11:30 AM if we start early, giving the whole afternoon to see the grizzly beaches and Indigenous pictographs.
* Day 4: Walsh Cove to Hare Point
* Distance: ~11 km
* Slow Beginner Time: 4 to 4.5 hours (including floating breaks to scan for marine life).
* The Pace: Leisurely heading south down Waddington Channel. Will be a bit tired by Day 4, this longer time estimate ensures we can take it easy.
* Day 5: Hare Point to Okeover Arm
* Distance: ~11 km
* Slow Beginner Time: 3 to 4 hours (fully protected from the open ocean).
* The Pace: Cruising. Back in the calm waters of Okeover Inlet. Even at a very slow paddle, should comfortably reach the boat ramp by late morning.