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  • The Compass blog
    The Compass blog
The Uchuck – A Novel Way to Reach the Remote West Coast

The Uchuck – A Novel Way to Reach the Remote West Coast

Kayaking from Kyuquot to Nootka Sound One of my favourite Vancouver Island kayaking trips is from the tiny fishing village of Kyuquot, nestled in a protected harbour in Kyuquot Sound, down the coast to Friendly Cove (Yuquot) in Nootka Sound. What makes a destination like this so special is its remoteness.  What makes this trip particularly unique and special is using the Uchuck III to…
Dragon Boating in Victoria

Dragon Boating in Victoria

The tradition of team paddling a Dragon Boat across the finish line makes its way to the Victoria Harbour The scene of downtown Victoria was transformed last weekend into one of long boats propelling forward into the Victoria Harbour like Viking ships charging into battle. If you were lucky enough to make it out to the Victoria Dragon Boating Festival this past weekend you are…
How to Choose the Right PFD

How to Choose the Right PFD

Lifejackets vs Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) First off, let’s eliminate the confusion between Lifejackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs). A true lifejacket is designed to turn an unconscious victim face up in the water. They have more buoyancy than a PFD, come in two sizes only and must be red, yellow or orange. They are bulkier and lack the comfort for long term recreational use.…
McNeill Bay to The Trial Islands Paddle Route

McNeill Bay to The Trial Islands Paddle Route

Kayaking Routes around Victoria: McNeill Bay to the Trial Islands The Trial Islands are located in the Strait of Juan de Fuca just off the shores of Oak Bay.  There is easy access to the water and parking at McNeill Bay.  It is an excellent short day trip, which can easily be accomplished within 1 or 2 hours. Caution should to be exercised when planning…
Paddling to Discovery Island Marine Park

Paddling to Discovery Island Marine Park

Paddling Route and Exploration of Discovery Island This spectacular paddling route takes you from the shores and stately homes of Oak Bay, crossing through the Chain Islets, to the Chatham Islands and Discovery Islands. This popular destination offers a true west coast paddling experience.  You will feel as though you are hundreds of miles away in the wilderness paddling around Discovery Island. Paddlers should be…

About Ocean River

Located in Victoria, British Columbia on beautiful Vancouver Island, Ocean River is one of the premier speciality kayak and adventure companies in North America. Brian Henry, the founder & current owner, has been running Ocean River since 1981, and Ocean River continues to be recognised as one of the most significant outdoor/paddlesports instructional & tours provider in North America.

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SUP Adventures on the West Coast

Wesley takes on SUP adventures on the west coast of British Columbia!

Moving back to the West Coast from the Rockies ...