Vancouver Island Orca Whale Kayaking Tours

Exclusive Location adjacent to Robson Bight Ecological Reserve and the Killer Whale Rubbing Beach.

Very few tour companies have access to Johnstone Strait, directly across from Robson Bight (Michael Bigg) Ecological Reserve. In 2009 we were subject to the area being protected by the provincial government. It is now under protection of BC Provincial Parks and is known as the Qwiquallaaq/Boat Bay Conservancy. We are the only company allowed to maintain a stewardship of the Basin with the authorities and to offer a fixed remote island basecamp (Sophia Island) within the protected area.

The Magic of the Sophia Islands Whales of all species love to navigate the waterways around our base camp. Reefs and kelp beds are at hand for those brave enough for a swim. Listen to the whales using our hydrophones. The Sophia Island Base Camp is close to the Killer Whale Rubbing Beach at Robson Bight. The sunsets are quite incredible; as the light fades away and the moon rises, and you listen to the night sounds of the Orca, you are reminded that you are in a place of stunning beauty and remote wilderness.

Sophia Islands Amenities Enjoy using our private campsites offering prime ocean views and great beaches, all within a secluded area. Our base camp is located 17 kms southeast of Telegraph Cove and 3 kms from Robson Bight Ecological Reserve. It is now situated in the Boat Bay Conservatory and is surrounded by an intact sensitive marine and rainforest area, which we have operated in for the past twenty-four seasons. All our tents are large and roomy, situated on platforms offering you a level of comfort and a dry home. We use quality three person dome tents situated in various locations on this remote island to offer privacy. Guests have use of washrooms (composting toilets) and private shower stalls with solar powered hot water. We have a well-equipped camp kitchen offering freshly prepared fantastic meals. This is an excellent area to launch for daily kayak trips with many points of interest are within easy kayaking distance. There are times when the rain and wind does come up and our base camp provides a safe, sheltered area as required. Safety equipment such as weather radios and a generator are located at our base camp.

Seeing is Believing The views from the various tent locations are remarkable. From the warm foggy mornings the weather progresses into clear sunny afternoons with light breezes, great for paddling. This is an ideal observation Point to view the Whale Reserve and Johnstone Strait - about a 10-minute kayak trip and a short hike. Enjoy great views of Robson Bight, the Tsitka Valley and Mt. Derby. During low tides many wonders can be found just minutes away. Killer Whales will often cruise this area, as numerous kelp beds exist. It’s not uncommon to see whales just feet from our base camp. All of our trips are about sitting and listening to the sounds of nature. All campsites are within hearing distance of Orca Whale blows. Most mornings start with the awaking sounds of Bald Eagles, often in the trees above you tent site. Sport Fishing from your kayak around the base camp can be great fun. Bring your gear and see if you can land a salmon or rock cod.

Location, Location, Location!

(Distances are approximate)

  • A 20 minute boat ride to Sophia Island from Telegraph Cove
  • A 2 mile paddle to the Robson Bight Whale Reserve and Rubbing Beach.
  • 2.5 miles (paddle and hike) to visit the researchers Eagle Eye Lookout.
  • A 1.5 mile paddle to Blackney Passage which offers another kayaking adventure