This relaxed paddle will follow the shoreline around the end of Willis Point to Mackenzie Bight with several stops to appreciate the unique features of Saanich Inlet.

We'll launch at the small beach accessed through the little park at the bottom of Verdier Avenue, just before the Ferry Wharf. It's very civilized - there are even heated toilet facilities there! The tide will be high when we set out with little or no beach so be prepared to pack your boat in shallow water. We won't feel the ebb current much on our route, but the tide level will drop throughout the paddling day. We'll maintain a steady but relaxed pace on this 5.5 nm paddle, heading south around Brentwood Bay, then out to Willis Point and along the Saanich Inlet shoreline to MacKenzie Bight for lunch and to stretch our legs. There is a pit toilet just up the nearby hiking trail, and some nice rocky ledges to explore by the water. After our stop we'll paddle back along the shore to Brentwood Bay once more. The hike back up the short paved pathway is just another opportunity to tone up after any holiday excesses!

If the winds are too strong in Saanich Inlet we'll stick to the Brentwood Bay shoreline and explore Tod Inlet.

Always dress for the possibility of immersion and please bring a drybag containing a spare change of clothes. The drybag goes in your kayak with you, not in your car at the launch site. Please bring a lunch or snacks and sufficient beverage to keep you hydrated, as well as a thermos of something warm. Your paddle leader will introduce the plan and make sure everyone is comfortable with the requirements. Please stay off the water until the group is ready. If you have a VHF radio please bring it with you.