If you’re interested in buying a kayak, now is the time of year to take a closer look, especially, if you’re OK with a used one.

Kayaking season comes to an end around the end of September on the west coast. The majority of tour operators put their entire fleet on sale. Why? Because sea kayaks start at $1,200 and can cost as much as $5,000. Businesses do not want to tie up that much capital on equipment over the winter. It is cheaper for them to sell off the old fleet and buy new every year. Every touring company is also a kayak dealer, enabling them to purchase their new fleet at dealer’s prices.

You can save approximately 25% to 40% depending on the age of the kayak. But Richard Anton, owner of Alberni Outposts, cautions buyers, “ Make sure you chose the right kind of kayak. It’s like buying shoes, if they don’t fit, then it’s not a bargain at any price.”

So how do you know which kayak to buy?

First, determine where you are going to be kayaking. Kayaks are designed for different types of water. A lake kayak is much different and more stable than a white-water kayak. If you are planning on tripping or camping, you will need a kayak with more cargo space.

Second , set a budget. Kayaks are not cheap. Establishing a budget will dictate the type of kayak i.e. roto mode or fiberglass you can afford. Also, budget about $500 for the extras, see Tips on Buying a Kayak to learn what additional equipment is required.

Kayak Construction

There are four major materials that kayaks are made from. Below is description and comparison:

Rotationally Molded Plastic (Rotomold) - made from plastic, these kayaks are the cheapest and are practically indestructible. This material is most widely used among kayak manufacturers. It weighs 10% more than fiberglass. They are the best selling kayak.

Thermal Form Kayaks – this is a new technology and it is getting some pretty good press. They are 30- 40% cheaper than fiberglass, yet very quick. More to come on these kayaks.

Fiberglass – It is lighter than rotomold, but you are going to pay more for it, typically double in price. Fiberglass requires more maintenance, especially if you are in salt water. Fiberglass will rip, so be prepared to patch. They are durable, but avoid rocks and gravel.

Kevlar – This is the lightest material, 21 pounds less than fiberglass, and as strong as a rotomold kayak. But better bring your gold card, they are also the most expensive.

If you are just looking for a recreation kayak for the lake, a smaller used boat will start at $350.

Necky, Current Design, Wilderness Systems and Seaward Kayaks are all good places to start to get acquainted with the manufactures. Once you have decided on the make and style of kayak, the following are just a few of the sites currently featuring used boats:

Alberni Outpost, outforadventure.com, bcseakayak.com and kayakbc.ca.

Happy Paddling.

Cheers,

Julie

When it comes to making decisions I tend to follow the masses. For example, I will seldom buy a book that’s not a New York Times Best Seller. It’s the same with restaurants. I like to know what I am getting into, or at least have a pretty good idea.

So when it comes to holidaying, I consult those who have gone before me. Friends are my first and favourite source for information. One friend in particular, who travels extensively with her children, ages five and eight, has proven to be a great source for travel advice. Her, and her husband, have been coming to Tofino for close to 20 years, and have owned a home on Chesterman Beach for the past 9 years. So when it comes to Tofino, she is a resident expert.

During our recent visit to their seaside home, I asked her to list her favourite Tofino activities, starting with a beach walk. After all, Tofino is all about the surf and the sand.

Florencia Bay is one of their favourite beaches to walk.  Gold River runs into the beach, where her kids and their dad love to build damns.

Hiking in the old growth rainforest is another popular activity. Their favourite hikes are ones that lead to the ocean. South Beach Trail is one of these, and the great big rocks found here are great for climbing. They like to spend the day here and will often have a late lunch at the Wickaninnish Restaurant, located in the Wickaninnish Interpretive Centre, adjacent to the beach.

Eating is a big part of any trip and finding good restaurants that are kid friendly is pretty easy in Tofino. Here are some of their favourite haunts.

SoBo’s – this trailer serves the best polenta French fries I have ever tasted.  It is located in the Tofino Botanical Gardens, which is also a great place to visit. They serve good food in a picnic style atmosphere. (250-725-2341)

Rain Coast Café (250-725-2215)

Long Beach Lodge – the Great Room (250-725-2442)

Blue Heron – If you go between 6 and 6:30 pm, you might see sea lions feeding on the fish scraps (250-725-3277)

Shelters is also a favourite restaurant, but this one is better suited for adults (250-725-3353)

The Wickaninnish Restaurant has a kid’s menu, beautiful views, and pretty decent food (try their salads, but avoid the fish and chips). (250-726-7706)

Of course there is always surfing and Chesterman Beach is a mecca for surfers. There is a parking lot directly across the street from the beach and it is a popular spot for lessons. Surf Sisters with their pink shirts can be spotted on the beach beginning at 8 a.m.

Another activity they enjoy is kayaking. Several companies come highly recommended, they are: Tofino Kayaking and Remote Passages Kayaking.

I hope these help you with your trip planning and if there are any activities your family enjoys in Tofino, please leave me a comment.

Cheers,

Julie