Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the more common questions and answers for our company and trips. Be sure to contact us if you have other questions or requirements.

What qualifications do your guides have?
Because we operate our own trips, this important aspect of quality can be far better controlled than if we purely sold other people's trips. In addition to being experienced outdoor leaders specializing in various modes of travel, our guides have taken numerous courses including at least our leadership course, and advanced wilderness first aid, including C.P.R. Many of our sea kayak guides for example, also value certification from the A.C.S.K.G. and are recognized as guides and assistant guides for the purposes of National Parks.

Can you arrange private & custom trips?
Yes. Nothing can be better than a group of old friends or family getting together for a wilderness trip, far away from the distractions of the fast track world. IT'S QUALITY TIME! We are booking an increasing number of these departures but you have to contact our office well in advance of your planned departure date to ensure trip availability. PLAN AHEAD, IT'S WORTH IT. A 10% discount is available for your group of 10. Custom itineraries are also available to our various destinations, but must be planned 6 to 8 months in advance.

What size are the groups?
Maximum group size for sea kayaking, trekking and canoeing trips is 10 participants accompanied by 2 guides. Maximum group size for other trips ranges from 8 to 12 participants accompanied by 2 or 3 guides.

Do most people come with a partner or friend?
The average group consists of two couples, a couple of friends and four singles with an even ratio of male to female. We do not charge a single supplement on any trip unless you specifically request single accommodation (limited availability).

Can we bring our children?
Although most of our trips are developed for adults, many of our itineraries are acceptable for strong and active teenagers and a few of our programs are suitable for children as young as six. If you would like your children to join you on a trip, we ask that you call our office at  1-888-9-TRAILS to obtain information about 'Family Departures'.

What kind of food do you serve?
Healthy, wholesome cuisine with a vegetarian influence is custom packaged and skillfully prepared by your guides in the field. With the years of experience (since 1976) in preparing expedition food, we have created trip menus that are second to none. With adequate notice we can accommodate a wide range of dietary requests including those from vegetarians and individuals with allergies.

Does one need previous kayaking experience to participate in our sea kayak trips?
No. Your guides will teach you the basic paddling skills and give you an orientation to safe sea kayaking practices at the beginning of your first day. This will be sufficient to get you started, and you will quickly realize how easy and safe paddling can be. You can also expect that your technique will refine over the course of the trip and you will begin to feel like a seasoned paddler. Also, we use double boats that are very stable, therefore, eliminating the Eskimo roll from your required repertoire.

How much paddling do we do in a day?
On the average, about 4 to 6 hours a day but it really depends on the weather and the activities en route. Most of our trips have a strong focus on land based exploration and interpretation so long days on the water are the exception.

Do you ever sail your kayaks?
Yes, we have always been proponents of kayak sailing. We have designed our sail systems to be easy and safe to use. When the winds are favorable it gives you a break from paddling and you can maybe concentrate on your fishing. It can be exciting and the colorful headsails make for great photographs.

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