Mothership Adventures Sea Kayak Tour Planning

Planning for your Discovery Islands/Desolation Sound Kayaking Skills Workshop

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Visiting Vancouver Island

Many of our guests like to explore Vancouver Island before or after their adventure on the Columbia III. Please contact Tourism Vancouver Island (250)754- 3500 or www.vancouverisland.travel for ideas and information. Accommodation through out B.C. can be arranged through 1-800-435-5622 or HelloBC.com.

Campbell River

For those guests who wish to arrive prior to our departure, or stay later after our trip, many hotels and bed & breakfasts are available in Campbell River. Further information is also available from: Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce: (250) 287-4636 or www.campbellriverchamber.ca.

Parking

There is a variety of parking available. Please ask for directions at the boat when you arrive.

Meeting Columbia III

The Columbia III will be moored at the Discovery Harbour Marina, between the Superstore and the Zellers behind the Rip Tide Pub. You are expected to have eaten dinner prior to boarding, although hot drinks and a variety of snacks will be served once we are underway. On the last day of your trip, we return to Campbell River between 1:00 and 3:00 weather permitting.

Contacting Columbia III

The Columbia III can be contacted at these cellular numbers:1-888-833-8887 and 250-202-3229. In the case of an extreme emergency, the boat can be contacted directly by calling the Canadian Coast Guard in Comox (250) 339-3613 or in Prince Rupert 250-627-3081. Ask them to send a message to MV Columbia III (quote this number: MMSI# 316-003-614). We are often off the boat so expect a response to take 12 hours. The ship’s phone is not for guest use.

Meals

We are happy to accommodate any personal dietary needs including vegetarian and vegan. Wine will be served with the evening meal. If you would like an alternative to alcohol please let us know. Please notify us of any food allergies or needs on the medical form well in advance of your departure date.

Medical, Allergies, and Other Concerns

Mail us your completed Medical Form ASAP. Your tetanus vaccination must be up to date (less than 10 years old) before you leave. Be sure to bring enough of your required medications as you will be far from any drug stores. We may encounter minor ocean swells so if seasickness is a concern, please bring anti nausea medication. But rest assured, we travel in very sheltered areas and overnight in calm, protected bays. We do our best to avoid swells and waves!

Weather , Clothing, and Packing

Our certified guides will not take you in any weather conditions that are dangerous to you or the group. We will likely encounter some wind and waves (the ocean is not always flat!), but nothing that would compromise the safety of a beginner kayaker.

For maximum comfort, a layering system of lighter “quick-dry” and warmer fleece clothing works best. Merino wool is excellent as well. Avoid cotton which stays wet for a very long time. Waterproof raingear is essential. When getting in and out of your kayak onshore your feet WILL get wet. We suggest a pair of sturdy water sandals/ shoes. Sports gloves for paddling may add to your comfort and help prevent blisters. Proper protection from the sun is essential so bring sun glasses, a sun hat, sun block and lip screen. Bring a water bottle. Staying hydrated in the outdoors is very important. When aboard the mothership, comfortable casual clothing is nice to change into after paddling.

Consider bringing the items listed on the packing list we provide.

Waterproof bags (drybags) for cameras and spare clothes work well in the kayaks. These are available at outdoor sporting goods stores. Large Ziploc bags work as well! Hard suitcases are difficult to fit into the small storage compartments on the Columbia III so if possible, bring your gear in soft duffel type bags.

Packing List

Sun Hat / Warm Hat
Fleece Jacket
Windbreaker or Shell
Waterproof Rain Gear (jacket and pants)
T-shirts, Shorts, Swimsuit
Warm Layered clothing
Shore Shoes (for walking or hiking)
sturdy water sandals/ shoes (for kayaking)
Toiletries
Medications, prescription and non prescription
Beach towel
Day Pack
Sunglasses, Spare pair of Eyeglasses
Sun block, Lip Screen
Insect Repellent
Water Bottle
Sports Gloves (for use while paddling)
Binoculars, Journal, Sketchbook (optional)
Waterproof Bag
A Good Book

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