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The best local kayaking is up Indian Arm, reached from Deep Cove. This 18-km fjord reaches deep into the Coast Mountains, passing old-growth forest and waterfalls, with ample chance to view wildlife. All the same, it still doesn't compare with some of the paddling available from Tofino. The second best local starting point is Bowen Island, from where the eight Paisley Islands can be visited as a day trip. English Bay and False Creek offer mellow paddling in the heart of the city. For rapids, head for the Capilano and Seymour Rivers. Bowen Island Sea Kayaking, T 9479266, http://www.bowenisland kayaking.com Rentals and guided trips. Full-day lesson $99. Three-hour tour $49. Rentals $50 per day. Seven-hour tours of the Paisley Islands or Keats and Gambier Islands, $99. Sunset and full moon paddles. Lessons for all levels. Deep Cove Canoe and Kayak, T 9292268, http://www.deepcove kayak.com Tours of Indian Arm. $60 for three hour Natural History tour. $295 for two days, $50 for 2½-hour full-moon tour. Lessons $65 for three hours. Rentals. Ecomarine Ocean Kayak Centre, Granville Island, T 6897575, http://www.ecomarine.com Rent kayaks and a wide range of equipment. Lessons in the Aquatic Centre. Takaya Tours, 3093 Ghum-Lye Dr, North Vancouver, T 9047410, http://www.takayatours.com Tours of Indian Arm from Deep Cove with First Nations guides. Five hours per $75, full moon tours, three hours per $40. Squamish Windsurfing Society, T 9269463. Responsible for maintaining Squamish Spit, the most popular spot for windsurfing and whitewater kayaking, about 3 km north of Squamish along Government Road. They charge a small fee. On a good day, this makes for a great spectator sport. Sea to Sky Ocean Sports, 37819 2nd Av, T 8923366. For kayak rentals, $30 per four hours. There are plenty of guides in Tofino keen to take you out. Rainforest Kayak, http://www.rainforestkayak.com Offer eco-friendly lessons and tours.
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