A “Moonlight or Bioluminescence” paddle is something you shouldn’t miss. Launching from Maple Bay, you’ll watch the moon rise over Salt Spring Island as its light stretches across the water like a glowing path, transforming the bay into something truly magical.
Wilderness Kayaking has been offering guided tours since 1990. Set out on a relaxed, two-hour evening paddle designed for all experience levels, complete with thoughtful touches like local dessert treats and a warm beverage enjoyed together as you raft up in a peaceful cove.
Kayaking at night brings a unique kind of stillness. As you glide silently through the water, you may notice flashes of light beneath you — bioluminescence. This natural phenomenon, created by tiny marine plankton, produces a soft blue glow when disturbed. Each paddle stroke, passing fish, or even your hand in the water can trigger shimmering trails of light, like stars dancing beneath the surface. Bioluminescence is best seen in late spring and summer, when longer daylight hours allow plankton to store energy and release it as that signature glow after dark.
Two types of evening tours are available. Moonlight Tours are held during the nights surrounding the full moon (June 30, July 29, Aug 28), offering beautiful natural illumination. New Moon Bioluminescence Tours are scheduled during the darkest nights (July 12, August 12 & 7), when the glowing plankton is most visible.
No experience is needed — just bring a flashlight or headlamp and dress in layers. Everything else, including equipment and snacks, is provided. Spots fill quickly, so booking in advance is essential: call 250-746-0151 or visit Wilderness-Kayaking.com.
By Nancy Hamilton, Wilderness Kayaking Maple Bay