Salt Spring Island is the relaxing destination you are looking for. We are only a ferry ride away from it all, but are still far enough away from the bustle of everyday life to relax, explore and soak in the Island pace and vibe. Salt Spring is a wonderful setting for corporate retreats and group activities, as there is always something to do for everyone, which can be a challenge with a diverse group.
Salt Spring Adventure Co Ltd. is located in Ganges Harbour, close to downtown Ganges, easily accessible by car, ferry, boat, seaplane, or bus. Whether you are here on a vacation, celebrating an event with family and friends, or you’re enjoying a Work Retreat, we have all the adventures for you!
We are happy to create a custom tour itinerary to match your group’s needs and desires. We offer free itinerary creation for your custom tour and are flexible to create an amazing adventure within your budget. And we can make it as rugged-outdoorsy or as comfy as you want!
Whale Watching & Marine Wildlife Tours (1/2 Day, 12 people max)
We operate between March and October. Our Safaris are based on weather and on whale/marine wildlife and bird sighting information. Sightings of whales vary day to day and generally sightings are greater between April and October. We do not guarantee seeing whales, but they are always out there and we find them about 80% of the time! We belong to a whale spotter network and will provide passengers with the most up to date information prior to departure.
The Gulf Islands are a wild place, full of amazing wildlife, and inspiring landscapes. It is also a region that’s facing growing conservation concerns. Salt Spring Adventure Co. Ltd. is committed to observing federal guidelines with respect to marine mammal and whale viewing. Learn first-hand about endangered species and ecosystems. Wildlife sightings can include orca whales, humpback whales, minke whales, grey whales, fin whales, harbour seals, porpoise, sealions and bald eagles!
Departures are from the Salt Spring Marina with pick-ups (on request) available on Galiano Island, Mayne Island (Miners Bay) and North Pender Island (Port Washington), at no extra cost.
Kayak Day Tours (2-3 Hours, 14 people max)
Our two and three-hour tours are a great intro to kayaking and the Gulf Islands environment. The safe and calm waters of Ganges Harbour ensure an easy paddle, enabling you to explore the intertidal zone and get up close and personal with a Sunflower Star, discover the wonder of First Nations middens, experience the meditative, yet energizing experience that is Sea Kayaking, and have a whole lot of family fun on the water!
Gourmet Lunch Kayak Tour (5-6 Hours, 14 people max)
Our Gourmet Lunch Tour is a 5 or 6 hour marine park tour with lunch provided by us. Taste the best locally sourced produce delicacies Salt Spring has to offer. The lunch menu may include:
- Salt Spring smoked salmon, cream cheese and fresh local bagels
- Local in-season fruits and veggies
- Salt Spring Goat Cheese, Tapenade and Roasted Garlic
- Salt Spring Organic Coffee, tea and juice
- Chocolate for dessert
Vancouver Island Outdoor Adventure (4-5 Days, 10-25 people)
Experience a selection of exciting activities offered in one great program, allowing participants to try a range of challenging and rewarding outdoor pursuits in Tofino, BC. Aside from surfing, participate in a variety of activities including hiking, orienteering, outdoor skill exercises, intertidal zone exploration and more.
Team Building Exercises and Camp Setup
Introductory games, tarp shelter building, camping etiquette and safety concerns, fire construction, and more.
Wilderness Awareness / Survival Skills with Wes Gietz of Wind Walker Adventures
Participate in a number of fun activities throughout the day, such as a blind rope walk, gathering edible plants / berries, emergency shelter building / survival techniques, making stone boiled tea, a talking circle around a campfire, and more. For more info visit Windwalker Adventures.
Kayaking to the Big Tree Trail
After a safety talk, paddle from Tofino into the Clayoqout Biosphere Reserve. Your guides will lead you to Meares Island Tribal Park and take your group on an interpretive walk through one of Canada’s most pristine and threatened Old Growth Forests. Learn about the extensive native history of the region and discover the ecological significance of Old Growth Forests.
Surf Lessons
Enjoy a great time learning the fundamentals of surfing, including safety concerns when in the water (such as what to do when caught in a rip tide.) Receive one-on-one instruction and guidance from certified surfing instructors.
Ucluelet Aquarium
The ‘Ukee’ Aquarium is the educational gem of the pacific rim – a place to get up close and personal with the myriad of intertidal marine life found on our shores. The Aquarium’s staff are trained biologists who make learning fun!
Raincoast Education Society
The RES’ skilled naturalists can take your group on a rainforest walk, a beach exploration, a mudflat expedition and more! These programs are tons of fun, and a great way to learn more about the natural and cultural history of Clayoquot Sound and the critical ecological role of mudflats and wetlands on the west coast.
Accommodation
We can make it as rugged-outdoorsy or as comfy as you want! Camping is possible at Bella Pacifica Campground, which offers hot showers and a pool and hot tub close by. Hostel or hotel accommodation may be reserved by request.
Sailing Charters (12 people max)
Join Captain Don Mellor aboard the sailboat the L’Orenda for a casual cruise through the natural beauty and tranquility of the Gulf Islands, one of the world finest cruising grounds. Don is a Canadian Sailing Association Certified sailing instructor with 35 years sailing experience. The L’Orenda is steady, stable, safe and comfortable 15 ton gaff-rigged yawl with top sails. There is lots of deck space for lying about in the summer sun… bring a picnic!
Van Tours of Beautiful Salt Spring Island
If a more relaxed pace is what you have in mind, we are also closely tied to our local van tour company of the island. Cruise around the island in style, stopping at local markets and farm stands, as well as our brewery and vineyard tours.