The Journey To Quadra Island

Vancouver Island is accessed from mainland British Columbia and Washington State in the U.S. by ferry service or flights. If you are driving from Seattle, allow the full day to get to our area.

Vancouver’s two ferry terminals are approximately 3 hours drive from Seattle.

From Vancouver, ferries go to Victoria or Nanaimo. If you are traveling from south of Vancouver take the Tsawwassen – Nanaimo route. If you are coming through Vancouver take the Horseshoe Bay – Nanaimo route. Travelers from the USA can also take ferries from Anacortes, Port Angeles and the Seattle area to Victoria on the south end of the island. Campbell River is 166 miles (265km) North of Victoria on Hwy 19 and approximately a 4 hour drive from Victoria or 2 hrs from Nanaimo.

Campbell River is centrally located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, 95 miles (153 km) north of Nanaimo on Highway 19 and 166 miles (265 km) north of Victoria on Highway 19. Campbell River Regional Airport (YBL) is approximately 40 minutes from Vancouver by air and 1.5 hours from Lake Union (Seattle). Quadra Island is a 10 minute ferry ride from Campbell River.

What To Bring

The following is a list of suggested items recommended for your safety and comfort while on your kayak tour.

Temperatures: Note that our summer temperatures from July until mid September are generally quite comfortable with temperatures ranging from 18 – 30 degrees Celsius / 70- 85 degrees Fahrenheit with warmest temperatures from mid July to mid August. June and September have the coolest temperatures, occasionally as low as 10 C / 50 F at night. Note at any time of year rain and wind can occur. It is best to come prepared for any type of weather.

The Flow Wilderness Retreat facilitie includes hot showers, towels and composting toilet. Accommodation is provided in private cabins with Queen size or single beds with robes, pillows, linens and duvets included.

Packing List

Download List
  • Wet shoes – A pair that can get wet such as sturdy full strapped sandals, neoprene booties, or rubber boots.
  • Camp footwear – A pair of runners or other comfortable walking shoes.
  • Hat – A sun hat such as a baseball hat is a must. A brimmed rain/sun hat and a wool or fleece hat for evenings or cooler days are also a good idea.
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen – A must for protection from sun and glare off of the water. Safety cords are smart.
  • Bathing suit- Be ready for a relaxing soak in the hot tub or a swim in one of the local lakes.
  • Medication – If you are bringing medication please ensure that…
    1. The name and expiry date of the drug is on the container;
    2. You have the detailed instructions of your dosage and frequency;
    3. You pack it in a water and sun-proof container;
    4. You bring a full extra dosage of your medication in a separate container and leave with head guide, in case you misplace or lose yours.
  • Personal items – Toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, hairbrush, etc. we provide biodegradable soap, shampoo & conditioner
  • Small flashlight or headlamp (with spare batteries)
  • Water bottle – 1 or 2 filled water bottles. Bike bottles or Nalgene bottles work best.
  • Camera & film or memory stick (in waterproof bag or case). You may also use our dry bags.
  • Gloves (optional) – Wool or fleece gloves with grip are adequate. Biking gloves work well to protect your hands from blisters. If you are really concerned about cold hands, and are paddling in the spring/fall seasons, you may want to invest in neoprene gloves, or pogies (a bit of a luxury but sometimes well worth it).
  • Beverages – We supply a wide range of teas and coffee as well as juices. You are welcome to bring along soda pops or alcoholic beverages if you choose to.
  • Fishing gear (optional) – Make sure you have a valid B.C. fishing license. Pick one up the day before your trip or obtain one online. www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca click on “fishing licenses”.
  • Book or journal
  • Binoculars (optional)
  • Clothing – Clothing should be suitable for the time of year you are visiting, (bear in mind that it could become cold and wet at anytime). Layering is the best way to regulate body temperature and maintain warmth. We suggest avoiding cotton (except for those hot days). Cotton has no insulation value when wet. An inner material that wicks moisture from the body and gives a comfortable dry feeling even while wet is the best first layer (Polypropylene, Marino wool, Lycra, Nylon, Polyester). A synthetic material such as fleece or pile makes the best second layer to provide warmth. Wool is also suitable.
  • Rain jacket & rain pants – For the unexpected nasty weather. To test your waterproofness jump in the shower and see if you stay dry!
  • Light windproof jacket (optional)
  • Long pants – 1 pair of fleece or warm comfortable pants. 2 lighter pairs made of a quick drying fabric.
  • Lightweight long underwear – Helps to keep you warm at night or as a base layer during the day. Sweater – 1 heavy and 1 light wool or fleece.
  • Long-sleeved non-cotton shirt – 2 T-shirts – 2-3 depending on long your tour is.
  • Shorts – 2 quick dry nylon.
  • Warm socks – 4 pairs.
  • Undergarments
  • Gratuities for your guide (at your discretion).

FAQ

We are always happy to answer any questions you may have via phone or email. For your convenince we have posted some of the most common questions bellow. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.