About
Nanaimo Paddlers is a group of over 200 friendly folks who enjoy recreational sea kayaking activities. Nanaimo Paddlers includes people from all age groups (19 years and over) and of various skill levels, from novice to advanced. We paddle year-round, several times a week, weather permitting, in the ocean waters (and occasionally some lakes) in the Central Vancouver Island area.
Nanaimo Paddlers is incorporated under the Societies Act of British Columbia. View our constitution and bylaws.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What equipment do I need to have to join?
Nanaimo Paddlers does not provide equipment, so you will need your own kayak, paddle and other equipment described in Guidelines. If you do not have equipment and are not sure what to purchase, there are several stores in Nanaimo that sell kayaking equipment. In order to paddle in ocean waters you will require a seaworthy, ocean going kayak with watertight bulkheads or flotation, with a spray skirt to keep the cockpit from swamping, and proper deck lines for rescue purposes.
We recommend that you purchase a kayak no shorter than 14 feet for stability and the ability to keep up with the group. Sit on top kayaks, some inflatable kayaks and some foldable kayaks are not suitable for ocean travel around Vancouver Island. If you attend one of our monthly meetings, you will find any of our members willing to give you information or assist you.
Does Nanaimo Paddlers participate in any clean ups or other community events?
Yes. we are involved in shoreline clean ups each year. We have done Newcastle many years and also Ladysmith Harbour.
How much does a membership cost?
$35 per person per year. Membership is from January 1 to December 31 each year.
Where do you paddle?
During the winter we complete day trips, usually in the mid-Vancouver Island area. During the warmer months, we enjoy longer trips to many interesting places on the British Columbia West Coast and even freshwater destinations.
Does Nanaimo Paddlers have guides or leaders?
We have hosts or event organizers who suggest a trip and post it on Meetup. (It can be just a couple of hours, or up to several days). Since every participant is responsible for his or her own safety, hosts are not certified guides. Members check the listing to see if the trip is a match for their ability and endurance level and can sign up and join the paddle.
I'm new to paddling. Can I join?
If you are nineteen years of age or older you are most welcome to join but first you should learn the basic paddling skills for your safety and the safety of other Nanaimo Paddlers' members, and you must know how to do an assisted rescue before you undertake any trips with us. There are plenty of courses and instructors in the mid-Island area where you can learn to paddle. We encourage you to take advantage of them - check out the Kayak Instruction Regional Resource List on our Resources page. Our members are always happy to help you find local training resources.
How do I join?
Click on Join at the top of the page.
A package of information will be sent to you upon receipt of your signed membership application, waiver and membership fee. This will be done by e-mail. Membership cards can be picked up at monthly meetings, or mailed upon request.
Membership is valid from January 1 to December 31. If you join during the fall months (Sept to December) your membership is good for the following year. If you have any questions, please contact membership@nanaimopaddlers.org
