Graduating as a Paddler

Think back to high school or university grad. It's a time for celebrating people’s growth and development from a familiar, structured and supported environment into a lesser known stage bursting with options and opportunities ahead of them. When did you last get to graduate from something?

As paddlers who have enjoyed the familiar environment of sheltered Brentwood Bay for years, I invite you to graduate to a more dynamic place, with unlimited opportunities. Paddle through our Gateway to the Gulf Islands, launching from Pacifica Swartz Bay at Canoe Cove Marina. 

Why is this a graduation? 

At Pacifica in Brentwood Bay, we specialize in pampering our guests, and making the experience easy for everyone to enjoy. From the staff who get everything ready for you, to the huge stable launch ramp, to the map of the inlet with a big red route arrow, to the super sheltered inlet, this is the definition of beginner friendly. We provide a safe, structured learning environment for new paddlers, or those who just want to relax and float past jellyfish and seals.

But do you crave more? Do you yearn to get out of the classroom into the real world? Have you taken Paddle Canada courses, and are ready to apply your skills in more than an inlet? Great! (We strongly recommend having Paddle Canada level 1 or above skills if you want to graduate to using single kayaks to paddle the Gulf Islands.)

Welcome to Pacifica Swartz Bay - the place to grow and explore. You’re ready to actively participate in your experience, from start to finish. Our team at Swartz Bay supports you in your development - learn how to partner carry a kayak to the launch ramp, and have the option to learn a side launch. (We still have a ramp, but a smaller version than BB). Here we give real charts, with unlimited exploration options through the islands. Graduate from a map with a red arrow, and put your navigation skills to the test. (We’ll share our favorite spots, and some areas to explore based on your rental time frame, but the exact route is up to you!) There are numerous marinas nearby, meaning navigating boat traffic on a weekend is a real skill, sharpening your awareness of your surroundings. The joy of this location is that after a few channel crossings, you can follow the shores of so many islands that look a little different at high tide and flood current than they do at low tide or ebb current. 

Paddle Canada L1 course exploring the islands near Canoe Cove

If you’re not ready to tackle this on your own, join us for a guided tour. Our  guides know all the best spots for marine life, and will make navigating the conditions seem easy. Tours are recommended for anyone who doesn’t have their Paddle Canada Level 1 skills or above. 

Have you already graduated to day trips through the Gulf Islands? Explored Goudge, Fernie and Coal Islands for 2-3 hours? Well done! Here’s another step for you… 

Try a multi day adventure…. It’s like backpacking, but much better! You can pack twice as much and carry it with half the effort cause it’s floating, and you never have to hike above sea level! Portland Island is an excellent choice for your first overnight trip, renting from Pacifica Swartz Bay. It’s an easy distance and manageable sea state (always confirm with windy.com). When you’re on the island, you have 3 lovely camping areas to choose from, with enough trails from sunny orchards to rocky bluffs to keep you entertained for a day. Paddling to an island within the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve gives you an escape from the stressors of everyday life, and a chance to reconnect with nature. 

Take the next step in your paddling journey… we’ll help you get there!