Summer Paddle & Hiking Adventures!

At Dog Mermaid we aim to engage all your senses while on an excursion. From a leisurely 2hr paddle to an all-day island adventure, we look to fill it with sights, knowledge, laughter, and even the odd ocean delicacy and creature cuddle. Tours may be mixed with hikes, picnics, and yoga. It’s your vacation, so build it to your liking! We start with the basics to decide the individual/groups skill and comfort level. From there we can decide our route and activities involved in our time together. We believe in education while paddle allowing you to raise your comfort and skill level along the way.

The Mermaids and Mermen are always excited to get you out there, but when our season gets busy it’s busy!  Please check the calendar for prescheduled tour times.  Additional times may be requested dependent on availability.  We will always try our best to accommodate your schedule.

Seals & Smiles Tour (2-3 hour)

Daily at low tide

We typically set out from one of our two locations to take you on a leisurely paddle, introducing you to the Salish Sea and its marine family. Experience the coast with laughter, seals, and the occasional blackfish.  Tours leave twice daily, times dependent on tides.  Please check the schedule or call for tour times.

Cost: starts at $80 / person (children under ten $50)

Sea to Sky Eco Tour (4-5 hour)

Thursdays & Fridays at 9:00

(or can be designed as a private tour)

On our extended trip, we not only add to the beauty of the two-hour tour, we also include our signature picnic lunch (yummy and local). In this adventure, we also have time for a hike through one of our wilderness parks, seaside yoga, or simply continue paddling the day away. With this excursion option, we have many locations we can launch from for a diverse sightseeing vacation.

Cost: starts at $125 / person (min 3 guests need to be registered.  Contact to register you spot)

Whales, Trails & Island Delights (Day Long)

Saturdays at 10:00

(or can be designed as a private tour)

We have the whole day to play! From paddling to hiking and beyond. Our signature lunch is included, along with many other options. This day allows for wilderness skills, seaside yoga, or paddling to a neighbouring island. We also have the options of visiting our divine vineyard or taking in the farmers market or marina market; touring the art galleries or listening to some local music. Or we can simply enjoy our time skipping rocks across the sea. Our options are open and always filled with excitement!
(Options vary according to season and day of the week)

Cost: starts at $180 / person (min 3 guests need to be registered.  Contact to register you spot)

Sun & Moon (2-3 hour)

Experience our fabulous sunsets  from an ocean seat view or make it a full moon paddle while playing with fluorescent flows of the water, or enjoy the magic of the bio-luminescence! Paddling at night is an experience everyone should try, kids included. It’s even better with hot chocolate or a great beer (non-alcoholic)!!!

Cost: starts at $90 / person

Hiking The Penders and Beyond

On our hiking excursions, we set out to see some remarkable viewpoints, all the while learning about the surrounding wildlife and areas that house these beautiful creatures. We incorporate wilderness skills and geo-cashing games. All our hiking trips are offered on and off the island come with our signature picnic.

Cost: starts at $50 / person

 

Salt Spring Spectacular

Have you ever wanted to explore the north end of SSI, experience the mystique of Wallace Island, enjoy a signature picnic lunch, and learn about the history of our newest playground?  Then this is the tour for you!

Fridays-Sundays 10:00

(or can be designed as a private tour)

Cost: starts at $150 / person (min 3 guests need to be registered.  Contact to register you spot)

Tour information:

For your adventure please bring the following:

• a hat
• sunglasses
• biodegradable sunscreen
• water shoes (we have limited numbers)
• snacks
• water bottle
• camera
• laughter and smiles

Sunscreens that protect you and the ocean (an interesting read): https://blueocean.net/sunscreens-that-protect-you-and-the-ocean/

Please show up 30 mins before your scheduled time to allow for fittings and safety lesson.

Tours include paddles and PFDs (personal flotation devices) as well as all of the additional safety gear required by Transport Canada (throw rope, bilge pump or bailer, and whistle).

All of our paddle excursions can be taken in single or tandem (double) kayaks, on paddle boards, or a mixture of the two. We also have the option of canoes. Some of our double kayaks have a middle hatch to accommodate small children or small pets. Our tours come with all necessary and safety gear, safety lesson and skills lesson. Tours longer than 3hrs come with a signature lunch (please advise of food restrictions). Children must be two years of age to participate in paddle tours. Please note, prices may vary at the second location.

Cancelation and damage policy:

Dog Mermaid understands life changes due to illness, accident, weather, and people simply changing their minds.

We ask if you need to cancel please do so well in advance so as other guests may enjoy the equipment.

Cancelations are as follows:

Groups smaller than six people

• 48 hours notice for full refund
• 24 hours for 50% refund
• no refund after 24 hours

Groups larger than six people

• 7 days notice for full refund
• 72 hours for 50% refund
• no refund after 72 hours

No refund for early returns.

If weather patterns change a credit will be given for future rentals.

Tour guests are responsible for damage to gear and equipment and will be charged accordingly.