Kayaking on Gabriola Island
We went to Gabriola Island for a family reunion and we were able to sneek away for a quick paddle on the ocean. We rented some kayaks from one of the local kayak outfitters and 11 of us took off for some fun in the sun and some peace and tranquility on the ocean. We all started out from the small local marina and headed out into the wild blue yonder looking for seals and adventure.
It was beautiful out on the ocean with the small waves slapping against the boats. We made quick time out to the first rocky out corp that was supposed to have seals on it. Bob, Roberta and JJ got there first and got some great views of the seals on the rocks. By the time the rest of us arrived the seals had moved from the rocks into the waters around us.
We decided to move on to the next set of rocks that the seals were supposed to frequent. This set of rocks was quite a bit further out and you could tell by the seals. As we began to get close these seals instantly left their sunny warm rocks. We played around in the water here with the seals for awhile and then decided it was time to start heading back in towards the marina.
We all decided to take a new route back so that we could do some more exploring. As we came around the south end of the island we saw about 10 seals all basking on the rocks. These seals were much more accustomed to people and kayaks so they did not even leave the rocks, they just looked over at me and seemed to smile for the camera. I got nice and close to get some good shots but still remained conscious of their personal space.
After visiting with the seals the rest of our group headed back to the marina. Grace and I decided to do a little bit more exploring before calling it a day. We found some nice coves and bays to explore. I saw a sea otter scratching on the rocks. He quickly ran off into the ocean as soon as he saw me.
Tags: Gabriola Island, Gulf Islands, Harbour Seals, Kayaking, Sea Kayaking, Seals, Vancouver Island
Great story and pictures. Thanks for posting that. Maybe one day we will kayak around Gabriola, that would be fun.
I loved kayaking. Seeing the sea lions was cool!
Nice pictures!! thanks for the great day of kayaking, Jacob and I had a ton of fun. Surprised you didn’t include our wonderful swimming adventure in the story though..