JOHNSTONE STRAIT - Orca Base Camp Johnstone Strait is recognized as one of the best places in the world to experience Orcas in the wild. They congregate here to feed on salmon, socialize, rest, and to rub on pebble beaches. Possibly no other place on earth boasts such a concentration of these beautiful animals in such stunning scenery. The Orca Base Camp adventure is highlighted by exceptional opportunities to view orcas both from shore, and in the comfort of a tandem sea kayak. Our Base Camp is located in the heart of this Orca territory. Nestled into a protected bay, there are beaches for walking and tide pooling, and great fishing holes right off the shore. Group activities will also include: walks, natural history interpretation and stories by the campfire. To complete this exquisite coastal setting, you will be immersed in the old growth forests, and able to witness the natural rhythms of Bald Eagles, Ravens, marine birds, Seals, Sea lions and other marine plants and animals. There are approximately 300 resident Orca whales in BC’s coastal waters. During the summer, the majority of the northern pods congregate in the southern Queen Charlotte Sound and Johnstone Strait area. The population is made up of 19 pods that move around Johnstone Strait on a fairly regular basis, certain pods being observed more commonly than others. The Orca is the largest member of the dolphin family, growing up to 30 feet (9 m) in length. They are immensely powerful and graceful. You will be enchanted by their spectacular displays when breaching, tail lobbing, finning and spyhopping in the open waters. Orcas are highly developed socially. Scientists are researching the Orca’s fascinating communication system. Like the researchers, we will observe whales at the surface and use a hydrophone (underwater microphone) to listen to their submarine communication. Orcas play a large part in the legends of the Northwest Coast aboriginal people. Experiencing family pods of these extraordinary animals in the wild will enlighten you on the mysteries of the Orca. We are confident this will be an experience of a lifetime! 4 Day Itinerary Day 0: Arrive in Port McNeill by vehicle or via Port Hardy by air. Overnight in Port McNeill. (not included) Day 1: 9:00 AM the group meets and is shuttled over to the Water Taxi Launch. The Water Taxi transports the group to our Base Camp in Johnstone Strait. We have lunch and settle in to camp, and then go for an exploratory paddle. There is opportunity for evening paddling as well. Lunch and dinner are provided. Day 2 - 3: These days will be spent exploring both on foot and by sea kayak throughout the core orca territory of Johnstone Strait and surrounding waters. After breakfast, your guide will take you exploring in Johnstone Strait, maximizing opportunities for wildlife sightings wherever possible. All meals are provided. Day 4: After breakfast the group will participate in an early morning paddle before returning to the base camp to meet the water taxi. We return to Port McNeill by mid-day (weather and sea conditions permitting). Breakfast is provided. What is included . . . The services of a fully qualified Guide and Assistant Guide All group equipment including kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, tents, hydrophone, kitchen / cooking gear/ thermarests All meals as outlined in the itinerary 10% off any trip accessories, books or clothing, purchased from Ecomarine before the trip What is not included . . . Return transportation between your home and Port McNeill Accommodation in Port McNeill on Day 0 Airport transfers between Port Hardy and Port McNeill Any meals and accommodation in Port McNeill Any optional excursions Personal clothing & equipment as listed on the detailed ‘Clothing & Equipment List’ Expenses incurred due to bad weather / fog / flight delays Gratuities for guides (never obligatory but always appreciated – we suggest 5% of trip cost based on client care and attention) Goods and Services Tax (GST) Tell Me More! Q: Do I need previous kayaking experience? A: No, many novices join this trip. Basic instruction is provided and our kayaks are very seaworthy and easy to handle. Q: How much paddling will we do each day? A: Long paddles are uncommon, but we may often extend our reach to increase the chances of good orca sightings. On full field days, time on the water is typically 6 - 8 hours per day with plenty of time to relax, watch the orcas or other marine life, take scenic pictures, stretch your legs and have lunch. On day 4, we generally paddle for approximately 2 hours in the morning. Q: What type of weather conditions will we likely encounter in the area? A: Weather conditions can be variable ranging from daytime temperatures of 21?C - 24?C (70?F - 75?F). Evenings are cool with temperatures near 10?C (55?F). Extended periods of rain are unusual, but possible, and mornings may be foggy. Q: What will the base camp be like? A: It is a well-appointed base camp with a comfortable meeting / dining area near the campfire. It has semi- permanent tent sites using the spacious North Face VE25 or equivalent tents. Q: What will the meals be like? A: Our food is wholesome, offering a variety of BBQ’s, often ‘catch of the day’, that is well-prepared by the guides themselves. There is a sheltered dining area that has one of the most incredible views of the surrounding waters, another great opportunity to see the Orcas! We are happy to accommodate vegetarians! Please note: While we cannot guarantee Orca sightings, guides will focus on maximizing your opportunities for experiencing Orcas within the scope of this itinerary. Orcas are wild animals and as such their travel routes and environment are unpredictable. For more information, please give us a call (1-888-425-2925) or send us an e-mail. To go back to the dates page, please click here.