Deer Group Islands

Paddler Ability

For intermediate paddlers, stay generally north of Bamfield after you exit the bay. Conditions towards the ocean can change rapidly, with big swell and wind generating more difficult paddling conditions.

I've divided the map into three areas

1. In green - the more sheltered paddling area generally offers some protection from the wind or some buffer distance from the larger ocean swell.
2. In orange - the less sheltered areas have more exposure to wind, which may create more difficult paddling conditions with waves and chop.
3. In red - the most exposed area to wind and ocean swell. These areas present often challenging conditions with big rolling ocean swell and more difficult rescue conditions.

These descriptions are based on the fact that the prevailing wind tends to blow in from the southwest (from the ocean). Your wind forecast may be different, so be sure to check wind direction as part of your planning.

Tides & Currents
Located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Deer Group Islands are tidal but don't experience any significant currents. As is common on these paddling trips, the wind should be your main concern.

Wind & Waves
The wind tends to blow from the WestSouthWest, blowing up the two outer channels and across the islands. The eastern side of the islands will often be a little more sheltered than the west though this will depend on your specific wind forecast. Around the outer islands closest to the ocean, you'll venture into serious ocean territory. Do not paddle around Edward King Island or Diana Island unless you are prepared for bigger swell, wind and have the necessary experience to look after yourself and your group.