A UNIQUE GEOGRAPHIC PHENOMENA.
The best way to see Skookumchuck Narrows and Sechelt Rapids is on our 1 hour outing. Every scheduled tour sees at least 10 knots of current. When there are large tidal ranges currents here can reach 16 knots, the fastest in North America.
What are the Skookumchuck Narrows and Sechelt Rapids?
Skookumchuck Narrows is a 4 mile long passageway, the only link between the inner Inlets, Sechelt, Narrows and Salmon with the open ocean. Glaciology created a unique situation here. Bottom shallowing and an island plug serve to restrict water moving between the Inlets and the ocean. Water speeds up to compensate for the restriction (think what happens when you pinch the end of the garden hose). The result is North America’s fastest tidal currents.These are the Sechelt Rapids.
Currents in Sechelt Rapids are a phenomenon; remarkable and extraordinary! Join us on the boat to not only see it but to also hear it and feel it. The security and shelter of the tour boat is a special vantage point to experience the waves and whirlpools.
Our tour is not a high adventure outing. We try not to splash. Our intent is to be in safe areas in close proximity to the power of the flow. The operator’s commenatary will highlight the features and explain how they are created.
When are tours scheduled?
On days when current forecasts suggest we will experience currents of 10 knots or more we schedule tours. We consider this to be prime viewing opportunity. Days that do not meet this threshold do not have tours scheduled. Viewing any current running at this level is impressive. Faster levels are not significantly more impressive.
TOUR INFO
TOUR SCHEDULE:
Scheduled frequently in high season when we can see currents of 10 knots or more at our tour time
> BOOK NOW online and check Availability
On June 7 & 8 2024 we created a special tour to coincide with the fastest current of the season. Tour time for these sailings only is 6:00 PM. BOOK NOW for the Skookumchuck Narrows Fastest Current.
DURATION:
1 Hour Tour (4:00PM – 5:00PM)
DEPARTURE:
Tours depart from the Backeddy Marina: 16660 Backeddy Rd, Egmont, BC
GROUPS:
Group departures can be arranged to suit any schedule. Call toll free to 1-800-870-9055 to ask about making special arrangements.
TICKET PRICES:
Adults: $59.00 + $2.95 GST
Book Skookumchuck Narrows tour tickets now
Photos:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Everything you need to know about going on a Skookumchuck Narrows Tour.
RESERVATIONS:
Payment in full is required to confirm your reservation. No refunds are available. Once any reservations are confirmed we will not cancel the trip for lack of numbers. Until confirmations are issued the schedule is subject to change. Make sure you reserve ahead to avoid disappointment.
What to Expect
The Skookumchuck Narrows tour is more for the curious than the adventurer. We see all the features of this central, stategic waterway. When in Sechelt Rapids we move about carefully, putting the boat in prime positions to get the full sensory experience. Being in the flow is thrilling. From the tour boat we’re able to feel the power. We the roar. all our senses are consumed. Added to that is the understanding the operator’s commentary gives.
The rapids are famous for their spectacular waves and whirlpools. The gaps between the islands are beautiful. On our tour we move around and see all this from a variety of vantage points. The tour boat is a unique platform that stimulates all the sensory inputs.
What to Bring
- It is generally a good idea to carry a light sweater and/or rainwear.
- Camera and protective case or bag.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses and/or sunhat.
- Snack and/or drink, if you like.
- Comfortable footwear is recommended. Soft-soled shoes are best.
- Lifejackets provided. Individuals are welcome to bring specialty equipment such as personal or children’s PFD’s.
“My girlfriend & I booked a tour to Princess Louisa Inlet hosted by Bryce of Sunshine Coast Tours and, although it rained heavily throughout the trip, Bryce was upbeat & informative about the peoples and surroundings along this wonderful waterway. The previous day he had taken us on a thrilling ride through Sechelt Rapids on Skookumchuk Narrows where he spoke knowledgeably of the history and natural wonders of the area.”
Click to view our full gallery of amazing photos of the Skookumchuck Narrows Tours, local wildlife and scenery on the BC Sunshine Coast or Find us on Facebook for the latest updates and the Captain’s perspective our tours.
CHECK TOUR SCHEDULES, AVAILABILITY OF SEATING & BOOK ONLINE OR CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-870-9055