• An experienced kayaker waiting for guests in Desolation Sound

Are You Experienced?

Important questions to ask before you book a self-guided package

Self-guided guests need to show that they have adequate knowledge & experience of sea kayaking techniques before paddling without a guide at Cabana Desolation

Questions to Ask

For our Chill and Immerse Cabana package, kayaking experience is essential. This includes having formal sea kayaking lessons in the past 5 years as well as extensive touring experience and knowledge of kayaking in tidal waters.

If you meet the following requirements, we may consider accepting a Chill & Immerse (self-guided) reservation. Please contact us if you have any questions before booking.

  • PRSK will not allow guests to be self-guided unless 1/2 people in the group have had a formal lesson in the past 5 years, with a specific focus on capsize/re-entry.
    • 1/2 members in the group are also required to have at least two multi-day kayaking trips experience equal to or greater than the number of days of the package in the past 10 years.
    • All other members of the group must have some prior knowledge of rescues, and watched the videos of capsize/re-entry/launch and land on our website.
  • PRSK will not allow guests to be self-guided with kids under 16 unless both parents have had a formal lesson in the past 5 years. In addition:
    • At least one parent is required to have experience of at least 2 multi-day trips without kids equal to or greater than the number of days of the package in the past 10 years.
    • All kids less than 16 must be in a double kayak.
    • Kids 16 or older can be in a single kayak as long as they have had a formal lesson with a focus on capsize/re-entry.

Kayaks stored for the night on a camping tour in Desolation Sound
A group of less experienced kayakers on a guided kayak tour in Desolation Sound

We’re Here to Help

Our goal is not to turn you off sea kayaking. Our goal is to ensure a safe trip that allows you to thoroughly enjoy the delights of sea kayaking.

If you do not meet the above requirements, we recommend booking a guided package. If you do not meet the above requirements but you have extenuating circumstances (for example, no lesson within five years but you used to be a sea kayak guide, etc) please contact us to discuss your specific situation.

We are glad to work with all our guests (experienced or inexperienced) to ensure a safe, enjoyable resort experience.

Please note that while unguided guests may well share Cabana Desolation with guests that are on a guided tour, they will not have a guide around during times of actual paddling.

As such, you need to be aware of all the potential dangers of sea kayaking and the effect of wind, tides and currents, sudden capsize, and other dangers that are inherently associated with the sport while you are alone on the water.