What are the Best Locations for Sea Kayaking in Prince Edward Island?
Prince Edward Island offers a variety of scenic and protected areas for sea kayaking, each with unique characteristics and attractions.
North Rustico & Cavendish
- Launch Sites: Multiple launch points along North Rustico Beach and North Rustico Harbour.
- Water Conditions: Generally calm, but can be affected by prevailing winds. Intermediate paddlers should check conditions before heading out.
- Scenic Highlights: Red sandstone cliffs around Cape Turner and Orby Head, abundant bird life, and clear waters for spotting lobster and crabs.
Malpeque Bay
- Launch Sites: Various points around the bay, including near Ram Island.
- Water Conditions: Can be unpredictable with waves and whitecaps, making it essential to check conditions.
- Scenic Highlights: Circumnavigating Ram Island, diverse wildlife including eagles, gulls, cormorants, and herons.
North Cape
- Launch Sites: Phea Shore road down to the beach.
- Water Conditions: Clear waters with tiny reefs, schools of fish, and sandy sections perfect for swimming.
- Scenic Highlights: Captivating vistas, unique cliff-side wind farms, and scenic paddling along the cliffs.
Covehead Bay
- Launch Sites: Within Prince Edward Island National Park.
- Water Conditions: Protected waters suitable for all levels of paddlers.
- Scenic Highlights: Spectacular views of cliffs and dunes within the national park.
Lennox Island Area
- Launch Sites: Bideford River, Lennox Island Channel, and Conway Narrows.
- Water Conditions: Sweeping ocean views and chunking cliffs along the North Cape Coastal Drive.
- Scenic Highlights: Vast ocean views and diverse wildlife.
What are the Popular Sea Kayaking Tours in Prince Edward Island?
Several tour operators offer guided sea kayaking tours in Prince Edward Island, catering to different skill levels and interests.
Harbour Passage Tour by Outside Expeditions
- Duration: Half-day to full-day tours.
- Group Size: Varies, but typically small groups to ensure personalized experience.
- Skill Level: Suitable for all ages and skill levels, with options for intermediate paddlers.
- Unique Features: Paddles west along the beaches and cliffs of the PEI National Park in Cavendish, offering spectacular views and abundant bird life.
Malpeque Bay Kayak Tours
- Duration: Half-day to full-day tours.
- Group Size: Small groups to ensure safety and personalized experience.
- Skill Level: Suitable for experienced paddlers due to unpredictable water conditions.
- Unique Features: Circumnavigating Ram Island, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to see eagles up close.
North Rustico Guided Tours by Outside Expeditions
- Duration: Half-day to full-day tours.
- Group Size: Small groups.
- Skill Level: Intermediate paddlers.
- Unique Features: Excellent shelter from prevailing winds, clear waters for spotting marine life, and scenic cliffs.
Where Can I Rent Sea Kayaks in Prince Edward Island?
For those who prefer to rent equipment, several outfitters offer sea kayak rentals.
Outside Expeditions – North Rustico
- Rental Rates: Vary depending on the duration and type of kayak.
- Types of Kayaks: Single and tandem kayaks available.
- Rental Duration: Options for half-day, full-day, and multi-day rentals.
- Equipment Included: Necessary safety gear such as life jackets, paddles, and spray skirts.
The Paddle Shack – Summerside
- Rental Rates: Competitive rates for half-day and full-day rentals.
- Types of Kayaks: Single and tandem kayaks, as well as stand-up paddleboards.
- Rental Duration: Half-day to full-day rentals.
- Equipment Included: Safety gear, paddles, and instruction if needed.