Tofino Kayak Rentals
Paddle West Kayaking does not offer direct online booking for rentals. The first step to booking your Tofino kayak rental is by starting one of the forms above by clicking “Request Form”.
If you’re an experienced kayaker looking to head out on your own sea kayaking adventure, our kayak rental office in Tofino has everything you need to outfit your trip! We offer quality equipment from brands such as Seaward, Current Designs, and Necky. Whether you’re looking to rent a kayak for the afternoon or planning a sea kayak expedition to explore the West Coast of Vancouver Island portion of the BC Marine Trail Network; we’ve got you covered.
Save yourself the hassle of having to load kayaks on your vehicle by launching from our floating dock in the Tofino harbour, straight into the magical waters of Clayoquot Sound!
Tofino Kayak Rentals
(taxes not included)
|
SINGLE KAYAKS
|
DOUBLE KAYAKS
|
TRIPLE HATCH KAYAKS
|
|
|
Half Day (4hrs)
|
$60
|
$80
|
$90
|
|
Full Day (4hr+)
|
$80
|
$120
|
$140
|
|
Multi Day ( per day, first 4 days)
|
$70
|
$110
|
$120
|
| Multi Day (additional days) |
$50
|
$90
|
$100
|
| Multi Day Kayak Cleaning per Kayak |
$20
|
$20
|
$20
|
Tofino Kayak Rentals Include:
- Paddles (Aquabound)
- PFD (Salus)
- Spray Decks
- Small Chart (Map)
- 1 Dry Bag / kayak
- Throw Rope
- Spare Paddle
- Paddle Float
- Pump
- Safety Bag (contact numbers, flares, flashlight)
Additional Items for Rent
If you already have your own sea kayak, but are missing (or forgot) a few pieces of gear, any of the items listed below can be rented individually. Paddle West Kayaking also has a variety of other camping items for rent. Below you will find a list of Paddle West Kayaking’s rental items and prices. Happy tripping!
Additional Gear for Rent
Don’t worry about packing your own tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Paddle West Kayaking offers quality “MEC” brand Tents and sleeping bags, as well as “Therma-Rest” brand sleeping pads for an additional fee. Of course you are welcome to bring your own tent and sleeping bags. Please ensure your gear packs down small enough so that no bags will be larger than a 20-30 L dry bag.”
| Half Day/Full Day | 2-4 Days | Add Day | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tent 2-person or 1-person |
$25 | $9/day | |
| Sleeping Bag | $15 | $5/day | |
| Therma-Rest | $15 | $5/day | |
| VHF Radio | $8 | $20 | $3/day |
| Chart & Case | $5 | $10 | $2/day |
| Water Bladder | $5 | $10 | $2/day |
| Dry Bag | Free | $8 | $2/day |
| Paddle | $8 | $20 | $3/day |
| PFD | $5 | $10 | $3/day |
Other Costs
Kayak Rental Deposit and Cleaning Deposit
A valid credit card is required for authorization and deposit on all kayak and equipment rentals in case of damage or loss.
There is a charge of $20 cleaning fee per kayak on multi-day kayak rentals returned unwashed. A hose and sponges are available on the dock to facilitate washing.
Parking
If you require parking, it is included for half- and full- day rentals. For multi-day rentals, it is $15.00/night/car to park in the Jamie’s Whaling Station parking lot. RV’s are $30 / night.
Extra costs
Ahousaht Stewardship Guardian Fee: $15 per person per 24hrs. This fee also applies to half-day and full day rentals.
Visiting the Big Tree Trail in the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Park: $3 per person (12 and under are free)
A permit is required to camp in Ahousaht territory
The fee is $15 per person per 24hrs. You can purchase your permit at Paddle West Kayaking before heading out.
Important Note on Paddling Experience for
Tofino Kayak Rentals
Overnight Rentals
For overnight rentals previous paddling experience is essential. At least one member of the group must have a solid background in sea kayak safety and rescue. Knowledge of of things like tides and currents, self-rescue techniques, and navigation are a must.
Those renting overnight must also carry mandatory navigation equipment (chart & compass) and two communication devices (one for backup) such as a cell phone or VHF radio (highly recommended!).
If you require parking for a vehicle while on your overnight trip, Jamie’s Whaling Station offers parking for $7.50/ night per vehicle.
Day and 1/2 Day Rentals
Want to rent a sea kayak for a half day or full day? Kayaking in Tofino can be more challenging than kayaking in a lake. There are tidal currents, many small islands to navigate and the water is cold. We require previous experience sea kayaking, as well as training and or practice in self-and assisted rescue techniques for sea kayaking. (wet-exits, and getting back in quickly) You must also know basic navigation using a nautical chart. You must be strong enough to paddle you sea kayak in current and steer the kayak effectively. If you are coming from a river or lake paddling background and are not used to tides and currents we may still be able to rent to you. depending on the strength of tides and currents on the day you wish to rent.
Trip Planning
Kayaking the West Coast of Vancouver Island has many rewards but it is important to be prepared as this can be a challenging environment to paddle if you’re not properly prepared. Knowing what the marine conditions are and choosing a route appropriate for the group’s abilities is critical for an enjoyable trip. For those looking to head out from Tofino into Clayoquot Sound on their own self-guided adventure we are here to offer information to help make your trip a success. This service is offered for free to anyone renting kayak equipment from Paddle West.
Check out BC Marine Trails interactive site map — providing up to date site information and condition reports.
Float Plan
All multi-Day Rental Groups will be required to complete and file a trip plan with Paddle West Kayaking. Our knowledgeable staff will help you complete a plan before heading out. It is important to include contingencies in your plan for adverse weather, and choose a route that suits your group’s experience level.
Tofino Kayak Rental Reservations
To make a kayak rental, equipment reservation, or make an inquiry send us an e-mail or contact us.
Full and Half Day Rentals: Reservations are recommended! 24 hour cancellation policy for the full amount of the booking total.
Multi-Day Rentals:50% deposit is required at booking, deposit non-refundable within 30 days of departure. Full payment is required 30 days before departure date. Final payment is non-refundable if we cannot re-rent the kayaks.
*Please be sure to let us know both the start date & time and return date & time you are looking to rent, as well as what kind of boat (single, double or triple hatch) and or equipment you are looking for, so we can let you know availability and give you an accurate quote.
**IMPORTANT** Our inquiries and bookings go through our reservation agent Jamie’s Whaling Station. Be aware that you will likely receive a reply from an e-mail such as [email protected] rather than [email protected]
***Additional Note: We do not allow our kayaks to be transported on personal vehicles. All rentals must launch from our waterfront location in Tofino. Alternatively, we are able to transport kayaks to your launch point for $150 each way. Kayak Water taxi can often be arranged through Jamie’s Whaling Station if required.