Reviews of Spirit of the West Adventures (Travel Agency)

Alex Farnham

Went on our honeymoon with these guys, it was truly the most incredible experience of our lives. Not only were the SotW team fun and engaged, but knowledgable too. We’d love to go back again, or even go on another adventure with them. Well worth every penny.

Brett Cowen

Wife and I did the Johnstone Strait Ultimate your with Spirit of the West. It has been my wife's dream to see orcas in the wild for 10+ years so we decided to pull the trigger. Where to start? Our guides were Cass, Bob, and Estel who brought professional knowledge, genuine caring for the wildlife and guests, and high quality food to the experience. There was genuine enthusiasm when we saw something, and they kept the energy high (but not annoyingly fake high) you can tell they were 3 people sharing their dream. I can't thank them enough for their work. Logistically, I have to say I was impressed. Our tour brought a lot of supplies in via boat so we were well supplied for food, blankets, etc. We never went hungry and there was always a treat, warm beverage, or snack when needed. More so, they managed to optimize moving guests and staff in and out of camps swiftly. From a guests perspective, the operation was a well oiled machine, especially considering the challenges of the remote nature of our adventure. Weather and wildlife are beyond their control but we had exceptional weather and spotted so much wildlife from seals to sea lions, multiple types of dolphins, grizzlies and black bears,a humpback and 7 orcas, not to mention dancing salmon, bald eagles, hummingbirds, and more. The equipment provided was, to my amateur eye, all quality stuff and environmentally conscious so as to minimize the ecological impact of our activity preventing harm to the wildlife. The whale watching industry can, at times, be predatory but Spirit of The West and the guides treated wildlife with respect. Upon a whale sighting we would raft, so as to stay out of the whale's way, saving them energy and giving them distance. Our group was composed of people from 4 countries, with varying activity levels,ages and paddling proficiencies but the guides made sure everyone was taken care of and had an amazing experience. Though we were kayaking through similar enough areas, each paddle was uniquely different, from casual lazy glides, sightseeing intertidal wildlife, surfing wavy waters, disappearing into thick fog and just being in the moment. Words will not do the experience justice. No matter how many I type. Go, live it, experience the adventure and you'll understand.

Elizabeth Charbonneau

My husband and I cannot recommend Spirit of the West strongly enough! We booked the Johnstone Strait Ultimate in July of 2019 and when our trip ended, we were already dreaming of how soon we would be able to travel and adventure with Spirit of the West again. The food at the base camp is incredible-- I think we ate better on this trip in the middle of the wilderness than any vacation before! I'm a vegetarian and our guides and the kitchen and planner bent over backwards making sure I had food for every snack and meal, even humoring me when I said in advance that I preferred to not eat mushrooms. The location of Base Camp is a dream come true! Can anything be better than sitting in a wood-fired hot tub on a cliff after a few hours paddling and watching whales go by? I don't think so! The water taxi ride out was also perfect-- we saw all kinds of wildlife, including orcas, and had delicious snacks and hot tea and coffee ready to go. Even with some inclement weather, this was truly the perfect vacation. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, supportive, patient, just all-around amazing people. When there was rain all one day, we were still able to paddle across the bay and do a short hike. Every dollar is well spent, and even then, it's still a steal! The company's communication ahead of time is so helpful, and the B&Bs they recommend on Quadra Island are also fantastic. Do yourself a favor and take a trip, any trip, with this incredible company. The peacefulness and happiness we still feel, months later, are indescribable. Book the trip, savor not being able to use your cell phone, and have an amazing time!

Mat Strong

One of the best things Ive done in life. I hope to be going again.

Joanne Taylor

What an amazing experience! We did the 5-night JSE and saw an incredible variety of marine wildlife. Our guides Bev and Kate were wonderful and so was the food! I highly recommend Spirit of the West.

Chantelle Duckworth

We had previously booked two double kayaks through a different business, but the boats that they had were too small for the 5 day trip that we had planned. Spirit of the West really saved the day! Our two touring style, fiberglass boats fit all of our gear and then some. They also handled amazing in the wind and waves. Gasbar delivered our boats right to Rebecca spit. They had great customer care and we were met punctually after our trip too! We saw humpback whales and seals daily, sea otters, dolphins and orcas. Definitely a trip that our family will cherish the memories from, for a lifetime ♥️

Asif Mithani

amazing experience and great company! Highly recommended!!!

Ryan Engley

Had a phenomenal tour to Desolation Sound with this group. Our guides were super friendly and knowledgeable, they were able to accommodate a variety of activities depending what folks wanted to do, and they went above and beyond to cook some delicious food for a variety of food intolerances — all while making sure we had a great time. Would 100% book with them again.

Daniel Murphy

What an experience! From the ease of booking online to the professional way the whole day we had the tour was run, this place really is flawless. We booked on the 6 hour whale tour and requested a vegan meal for one of the group. We arrived on time and were welcomed in with a smile before being told about the covid procedures to follow and how the day works. Our captain Steve came out early to explain to the group the route he planned on taking and what we can hope to see. Once on the boat we were all made to feel comfortable immediately and before long we were seeing a humpback whale breach! Lunch was so nice on the boat. The food was great just like the rest of the tour was. Cannot wait to come back again :)

Tara Salmon

My adventure from July 2019 met and exceeded all expectations. Besides the amazing kayaking experiences, I can not say enough about the staff, food, accommodations, etc!!!!

Liam Bailey

I cannot recommend Spirit of the West highly enough. I did the Orca Lite tour with my girlfriend. This is a tour best suited for those with some outdoor experience/skills (eg setting up a tent). Group size was not too big (10 people plus guides). Our guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The food was excellent, they offer a range of dietary options. We ordered vegan food and received really excellent food the whole trip (often better than what I could get in most cafes!). We spent a good amount of time on the water and saw a great variety of wildlife. It was worth every dollar we spent on it and more.

Alex Kingcott

I've spent every day since my first Spirit of the West trip wishing I could go back, and planning my 2nd trip. The trip was restorative, exhilarating, and challenging in the best way. I felt 100% safe and taken care of when I was with the Spirit of the West guides. Not only were they great guides, but great hosts - super knowledgable about the area and wildlife and great teachers. These trips will make you see this country and the ocean like never before and will change your life. When I go back again, I'll take more care to bring a comfier sleeping pad/mattress, because the only thing i struggled with was sleeping flat. The food was excellent, but plan to bring your own booze and snacks and Quadra doesn't have the BEST selection. Finally, the trip is what you make of it - we were lucky to have an extraordinary group of adventurers of all abilities, and getting to know them was half the fun. There can be lots of downtime at camp if weather is iffy, so bring stuff to do there (books, cards, etc.) if you get bored easily. - Johnson Straight Ultimate, 2019

Mandy Chan

This is (hands down) the most incredible holiday I have been on so far! The staff was so knowledgable, friendly and professional; the whole experience was very well throughout. We saw eagles, porpoise, sea lions, seals and three different types of whales. It was amazing! I have not been kayaking before this trip, but Ashley and Bob were very patient with me and made me feel very comfortable. My partner and I are looking to do another trip with Spirit of the West soon, hopefully in The Bahamas or Patagonia! Thank you very much, Spirit of the West!

DeAnn Hoff

Just returned home from the 4 day Johnstone Strait Ultimate Adventure. Fantastic base camp with a hot tub, terrific food each day, congenial guides, and the beauty of the inside passage. What more can you ask for?

Erica Priatel

The entire trip was beyond our expectations. From exceptional Covid safety procedures, carefully and tasty prepared meals, beautiful surroundings to the very professional guides to direct our family’s kayaking experience. Look forward to returning again.

Christine-Rob Diett

We came out in June 2019 to spend time with our son and his girlfriend on Vancouver Island. We managed to squeeze in a multi day adventure with Spirit of the West Adventures ...and we were not disappointed at all! Excellent staff, sleeping accommodations, best freshly prepared food, wood burning hot tub, sight seeing tours in the kayaks and special side trips to see water life. We could go on and on ….so instead we sold our home in Ontario, left our jobs and moved to Vancouver Island ….whereas we could enjoy more of this all the time ….and also return back to Spirit of the West

Chris Gaine

My family and I recently did the Johnstone straight ultimate adventure. The trip was amazing and we'd definitely go again. We saw an enormous amount of wildlife, Humpback wales, Orka, Dall's porpoise, Pacific White-Sided dolphins, Eagles, Black bears, Grizzly bears Harlequin ducks, Seals, Sea lions and lots of inter-tidal species. Our guides Brad, Kevin and Savana prepared amazing food for every meal and they were extremely knowledgeable about kayaking, the area and the wildlife. The kayaking was a lot of fun, and they kept the trips manageable for everyone.

Nikki Y. Yano

Our guides Ryan and Lee are human Wikipedia, I would recommend to see orcas and wildlife with this company!

Nicola Grice RMT

I have taken 3 tours with Spirit of the West and will be back in the Summer for my 4th with friends I met on my first SOTW trip! Words don't begin to describe how amazing they make your experience. The guides, the food, the camps (be it glamping or otherwise). All fantastic. They build on your appreciation for the magnificent wildlife and help you to remember just how important it is that we protect our oceans & seas. I can't recommend this company enough. Hope to take one of their further afield trips soon!

Chris Botting

Amazing company - amazing crew - amazing adventures. I had an opportunity to embark on the Orca Lite tour in late August and everything from the scenery to the food exceeded my expectations. I was thoroughly impressed with the professionalism and quality of Spirit of the West and the crew.

Abbey McMillan

Unforgettable experience. 10/10 would recommend!

Tyler Cave Productions

You will not be disappointed booking any of their tours. From the start to finish everything was perfect. The guides were so helpful and supportive. They went above and beyond to make your trip the best it can be. Even if you are not experienced in kayaking, this is the perfect trip for you. This was the best idea to book a trip with Spirit of the West Adventures.

Samantha Reimer

The Johnstone Straight Ultimate tour was the perfect vacation. It was an amazing adventure and opportunity to see so much wildlife including orcas, eagles, bears, and beautiful sea creatures. I am already planning my next trip with Spirit of the West!

mark tincombe

Ok, I have to be honest, I haven’t been a client of Spirit of the West, but enjoyed a couple of days camped beside a wonderful group of kayakers led by kayak guides Cali and Jenna. Cali and Jenna are absolutely amazing, and were so good to my family. They have some birthday brownies to us, have us a little white gas as we were running out, and left a parting gift of chocolate. They were both super courteous, hard working for their guests, and I would highly recommend this kayak tour company as quite obviously their staff are amazing! Thanks Jenna and Cali, we so appreciate you!

Melissa Vaughan-Wickihalder

Spirit of the West Adventures is an outstanding tour operator. Their slogan 'Kayak the Realm of the Whales' truly represents what you'd expect to experience while being a part of the adventures. It's an extremely professionally guided sea kayaking company in an unique and remote region. You are not only a guest of a group, you are involved in planning the route, finding the most beautiful campsites and where to paddle next. Endless exploring, relaxing and wildlife watching. To kayak in the natural habitat of British Columbia's marine and land wildlife is an once in a lifetime experience. Local, creative and delicious food, so much fun and happenings every single day. Falling asleep on all these little islands and waking up with the sounds of the whales made my trip with Spirit of the West Adventures an unforgettable trip. Thanks so much!

Kevan King

My wife and I did the 4 days/3 nights Whales & Wilderness Glamping tour in early July, 2019. We thoroughly enjoyed everything about this adventure. We are in our mid-60’s and had only kayaked a couple of times previously, yet found ourselves well able to kayak with the rest of the group. We did find that using a double kayak made things much easier as one paddler can take a break periodically while the other keeps you moving. We greatly enjoyed the company of our fellow glampers. We heard (from our bed in the morning!) and saw humpback whales every day and saw orcas the one day when on the boat tour that was part of the package. The scenery is outstanding, and we are BC residents who you might think are used to it. Neil the chef did a great job of keeping us more than we’ll fed with delicious food and a glass of wine. Our tour guides were extremely helpful and worked very hard the entire day to take care of us. The beds were very comfortable, my wife particularly enjoyed the hot water bottle made up each night that kept our bed toasty warm. It was nice to enjoy a hot shower in the outdoors. We took our showers in late afternoon to avoid the morning rush. A highlight each day was a soak in the hot tub right at water’s edge. We highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants a true adventure in the Canadian wilderness.

Rob Sander

Wow

Gail Connell

My husband and I experienced a "Spirit of the West Adventure" in British Columbia last summer. Neither of us had kayaked before and we are in our 60's. My husband has a bad back, and I have a reconstructed ankle, yet the team made us feel safe and comfortable during the entire time. With a few modifications, we both enjoyed kayaking with whales, picnicking on the beaches, and camping under the stars. The staff are very knowledgeable about nature, kayaking skills, and how to run a camp with a group of ametures. They were always positive, patient, and available to help with any problem. The hot tub and hot showers were a special treat after a day of adventure, followed by a lovely meal in the camp "dinning room". They even handled several dietary restrictions with ease, allowing everyone to feel included. We have many fond memories from our trip, and would go again without hesitation should the opportunity arise.

Celia Featherby

I've enjoyed guided three guided tours with Spirit of the West, and have no hesitation about endorsing them enthusiastically. On all three tours, the agenda was just challenging enough, the food superb and the scenery 'once in a lifetime' gorgeous. The guides are skilled and personable, the boats are well kept, and regardless of the hemisphere, Spirit of the West will ensure you have a good time and a thrilling adventure.

Michaelene O'Malley

My siblings and I, 5 in total, had an amazing time on the BC glamping kayak and whale watch trip. They thought of everything. The staff were amazing, both the guides and the chef. Your safety was always their first concern. The food and service was the best.Limiting the group to 10 people made it easy to get to know the other travels in the group and a controllable size for the guides and chef.

Ms021860

Can’t say enough about this trip. Professional, personable and educated guides and staff. Meals were so unexpectedly wonderful. Accommodations were comfy. The wildlife and scenery off the charts. This was our second trip and we will continue to vacation with Spirit of the West.

Dianna Talbot

I was incredibly fortunate to be on the July 2019 Great Bear Rainforest trip. I can't speak highly enough about this experience. A stunningly beautiful place, wonderful skilled guides Dan and Kevin, well organized. Paddling along a starfish covered cliff with the summer sun shining down, I experience perfection that I hope I never forget. Thank you Spirit of the West.

jonathan stacey

Excellent from start to finish. Helpful office staff, great guides, good food, good gear, and stunning kayaking. Cannot recommend enough.

Karen Lai

I have been a return guest of SOW for the past 4 years, and time after time, they never disappoint. Through their trips, it is quite evident that they always treat their guests with high quality service coupled with stories, smiles, laughter, and endless knowledge about marine life, environment, and kayaking, Each of the staff have pure joy for their jobs! I have specific needs due to living with a disability and unfortunately, there are a very few companies that will "take the risk" and include me on their trips. SOW had no hesitation and just was willing to be curious to work with me to determine the appropriate options to make it work for both of us. It took open and honest communication to ensure that trips safe for both of us, while not compromising the service for their other guests on the trips. It takes understanding from both ends. Thank you for your acceptance, honesty, and problem-solving to makes things work. And the weeks of being in the outdoors with the wildlife are simply magical and bliss! These are the weeks that I look forward too over the years because it reminds me the simplicities of life - enjoying being in the outdoors, the company of others, and witnessing the beauty of wildlife. Thank you so much for your excellent care and for the heartfelt trips.

Alexander Putz

Amazing guides, great food. Highly recommended!!

Veronika Bikova

Without any exaggeration this is the best guided tour I have ever experienced. I traveled a lot in Canada and internationally, so I have with what to compare. I didn’t have any prior knowledge of kayaking. This is why I was very nervous in the beginning. Both guides, Bev and Carly, were very patient and I was able to learn the basic skills from them during the expedition. Both guides were very knowledgeable in terms of the weather conditions and the influence of the wind on the waves which is essential for this type of activity. They were able to take the right decision about our route every single day. In this connection I have to emphasize that in contrast to many other companies, the people from the Spirit of the West take their job very seriously. We all noticed that the equipment that was provided to us (tents and the rain gear) was from a top quality. The kayaks themselves were amazing. I strongly recommend this company to everybody! Needless to say, the nature in BC is also amazing and there is a lot to see.

Andrew Kobialka

I went on the orca lite trip and it was fantastic! The guides were knowledgeable, personable, skilled, patient and hardworking. The views were amazing as well! We saw orcas several times, humpbacks everyday and a variety of other wildlife. I'd recommend to anyone regardless of your outdoorsy-ness. They have you covered!

Kaca Ben

I spent 4 incredible days on Orca Light kayaking tour. Amazing spots for camping, excellent food (big compliments to the base crew), very good equipment/gear and competent and friendly guides. Add friendly group of people, nice weather and breathtaking once-in-a-livetime experience with Orcas swimming under our kayaks and you get unforgettable memories. I highly recommend to everyone who is up to some kayaking adventure!