8 Unique Ways to Go for a Paddle in Vancouver

Kayakers paddle in False Creek at Sunset

Kayakers paddle in False Creek at Sunset. Photo: Destination Vancouver/Kindred & Scout

Vancouver is a beautiful place to paddle a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. But you can take your trip to the next level by paddling during the full moon, kayaking with seals, and more unique paddling options.

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8 Unique Ways to Go for a Paddle in Vancouver

6 Places to Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Vancouver

Paddleboarding on False Creek in Vancouver

Paddleboarding in False Creek. Image credit: Tourism Vancouver / Tanya Goehring

In the last few years, stand-up paddleboarding (also known as “SUP”) has become really popular. Since you stand up on the board, you get a full-body workout AND you get a much better view of your surroundings than if you were sitting in a kayak or canoe. There are lots of places near Vancouver to try it out, plus some unusual ways to experience this fun new sport.

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6 Places to Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Vancouver

Escape from Land Life – Paddle Vancouver

Photo: Ecomarine Paddlesports Centres

On clear, warm, bright sunny days Vancouver’s waterways come alive. Truth to be told, if it floats, Vancouverites will paddle it! I have said it before, and I will repeat it, exploring the city by water is a uniquely Vancouver experience and one that should not be missed. Imagine paddling under the Burrard Street Bridge or viewing Science World and Yaletown from the ocean. From the scenic fjord of Indian Arm to the calm, protected waters of the Nicomekl River there are countless local paddling routes available for those who dare to don a life jacket. Views of sandy beaches, rocky shores, towering skyscrapers, quirky float homes and ocean-going tankers are abundant, all part of a quick escape from life on land.

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Escape from Land Life – Paddle Vancouver

Vancouver’s Great Duo – Paddling & English Bay

Dragon Boat – English Bay Photo: Rob Weiss

What comes to mind when you think of great duos? Simon and Garfunkel, peanut butter and jelly, fish and chips or perhaps Beauty and the Beast? Personally, one of my favourite duos is the combination of English Bay and paddling. It doesn’t matter what you’re paddling; dragon boat, kayak, canoe, rowboat or stand up paddle board. The thrill of viewing Vancouver’s skyline, Stanley Park, and the spectacular North Shore Mountains from the ocean by a self-propelled watercraft is undeniable.

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Vancouver’s Great Duo – Paddling & English Bay

Vancouver’s Next Super Highway? Salish Sea Marine Trail

bc-marine-trail-discover-the-outdoors4

Photo: Rob Weiss

Tired of ferry line-ups and traffic jams?  The B.C. Marine Trails Network Association (BCMTNA) has the solution!  Imagine a magnificent, 257-kilometre saltwater route connecting Vancouver’s lower mainland to Victoria.  Granted, you will need to rethink the amount of luggage you are toting as you will require a canoe, kayak or small “beachable” boat to travel along the Salish Sea Marine Trail.  This spectacular route, designed specifically for paddlers, will add an impressive water leg to the Great Trail, previously known as the Trans Canada Trail.  If all goes according to plan the trail will be complete in time for Canada’s 150 birthday celebration in July 2017.  Now that’s a birthday gift!

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Vancouver’s Next Super Highway? Salish Sea Marine Trail

What’SUP – Paddleboarding in Vancouver

Discover Outdoors SUP3

Sunset Paddle English Bay Photo: Rob Weiss

I have been paddling for as long as I can remember.  From the rugged northern lakes of Algonquin Park in Ontario, to the white-water of Alberta’s magnificent rivers and the natural oasis of BC’s oceans, I have yet to meet a body of water that I haven’t wanted to paddle.  Honestly, when Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) first came on the scene, I thought they were a little silly.  Why would one choose to stand up on a board, when canoes and kayaks are viable options?  Eventually, I decided it was time to be mature, try Stand Up Paddleboarding and discover for myself the attraction of the sport.  After all, how could so many people be wrong?

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What’SUP – Paddleboarding in Vancouver