Victoria: Sunrise or Sunset SUP Tour

Victoria: Sunrise or Sunset SUP Tour offers a unique way to enjoy British Columbia’s beautiful shoreline. For just $53 per person, you get 1.5 hours of guided paddling, with the option to start your day watching a glorious sunrise or close it out with a serene sunset. Led by knowledgeable guides like Brian, Oscar, or Melissa, these tours focus on safety, natural beauty, and fun, regardless of your paddling experience or age.

What really draws us in are the small group size—limited to six participants—ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience. Plus, the opportunity to see starfish, jellyfish, and even the moon rising adds a layer of magic. But, a quick heads-up: this tour requires you to bring appropriate outdoor clothing and be prepared for water activities, which might be a consideration if you’re very nervous around water or prefer more comfortable, dry land adventures.

This tour suits anyone who enjoys being outdoors, appreciates learning about local nature, or simply wants a peaceful way to see Victoria from a different perspective. Families, beginners, or seasoned paddlers will all find value here, especially given the reassurance from past reviews about friendly, supportive guides and relaxed atmospheres.

Key Points

• Affordable and Accessible: At $53, this tour offers great value for a scenic, guided paddleboard experience.
• Flexible Timing: Available in the morning and evening, catering to different schedules and preferences.
• Expert Guides and Small Groups: Personal attention and local insights make the experience special.
• All Skill Levels Welcome: Suitable for children and adults from age 6 and up, with support for non-swimmers.
• Beautiful Settings: Paddle along sheltered waters with opportunities to spot marine life and enjoy striking views.
• Optional Meals: Sunset tours can include gourmet boxed dinners; sunrise options may feature breakfast and hot drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Victoria Sunrise or Sunset SUP Tour

Victoria’s coastline offers some of the most pleasant paddling conditions in the region, especially given the calm waters and scenic backdrop. Whether you’re in town for a quick getaway or a longer stay, this tour provides a memorable, active way to connect with nature without needing prior paddling experience.

The Experience – What You’re Getting

The tour begins at the N end of Esplanade, near a distinctive black Mercedes van loaded with paddleboards. Your guides carefully prepare everyone, ensuring safety gear like lifejackets are fitted before hitting the water. The guided nature of the tour means you’re never left to fend for yourself; the guides are well-versed, supportive, and eager to share local insights.

If choosing the sunrise tour, expect an early start—be ready to greet the day with the rising sun illuminating the water, creating a spectacle of colors. Past participants like Florentina described the experience as “super relaxed” and praised guides like Brian for sharing tips and spotting marine creatures such as starfish and jellyfish.

On the flip side, the sunset tour offers a more tranquil, contemplative experience. Watching the sun descend over the ocean, you’ll enjoy a peaceful paddling session. Richard appreciated the “pleasant morning” and noted how the guide’s friendly support made falling into the water a fun, if slightly cold, part of the adventure. The sunset view, often bathed in golden hues, makes for fantastic photo opportunities.

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

While this isn’t a complex itinerary with multiple stops, each paddle session is carefully curated to maximize the natural beauty and safety. The sheltered waters of Oak Bay and the headlands provide a safe environment for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike.

If you opt for the sunset, some tours include a gourmet boxed dinner—a nice touch to extend the experience into a full evening outing. The sunrise sessions may offer a light breakfast and hot drinks, allowing you to start your day with a gentle, scenic awakening.

The Environment and Wildlife

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to spot marine life close-up. Guides like Brian and Oscar are excellent at pointing out starfish, jellyfish, and other sea creatures, adding an educational touch. The protected, calm waters help keep the experience relaxing, even for first-timers.

Past reviewers consistently mention the stunning views—from the shoreline to the open ocean—making this a photographer’s dream. The fact that the tour is usually in small groups means you’re not lost in a crowd, so you get plenty of time to soak it all in.

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Practical Details and What to Prepare

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that doesn’t eat up your whole day. You should arrive prepared with clothing suitable for outdoor water activities—preferably non-cotton—plus a towel, change of clothes, and sunscreen. You might also want to bring a strap for your glasses or leave valuables in the van or a dry bag.

Participants of all ages, from 6 to 80+, have enjoyed this experience. Children under 6 usually paddle as a passenger, and the guides have lifejackets for even young kids. Since non-swimmers are welcome, the support from the guides adds extra peace of mind.

Value and Booking

At $53, this tour offers excellent value—you’re paying for an experienced guide, all necessary equipment, and a one-and-a-half-hour adventure that’s both relaxing and engaging. The flexible booking options—reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—make planning easy.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This paddleboard experience is ideal for beginners and families, thanks to its supportive guides and gentle waters. It’s perfect if you want to add a touch of adventure to your Victoria trip without the need for prior experience. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see marine life and enjoy the scenic shoreline.

If you’re someone who enjoys early mornings or peaceful evenings, the sunrise and sunset options are especially appealing. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the optional meals—dinner or breakfast—add a special touch to the overall experience.

The Sum Up

The Victoria: Sunrise or Sunset SUP Tour is a thoughtfully designed, accessible way to see some of the best views Victoria has to offer, all while enjoying a gentle paddle on calm waters. With knowledgeable guides, small groups, and flexible timings, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to combine outdoor activity with the chance to enjoy stunning scenery.

Whether you’re traveling with family, looking for a peaceful moment in nature, or want a different perspective on Victoria’s coastline, this tour provides a memorable, value-packed experience. It’s especially suited for water lovers of all ages and skill levels, who want a fun, relaxed way to connect with the local environment.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, children from age 6 and up can participate, usually as a passenger if under 6. Guides provide lifejackets for everyone, and support is available for beginners.

Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?
No, this tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels. Guides are supportive and knowledgeable, making it suitable even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and outdoor clothing. It’s also recommended to bring a strap for your glasses and a dry bag for valuables.

Can non-swimmers join?
Yes, non-swimmers can take part comfortably, as everyone is provided with a lifejacket and support from guides.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided tour, paddleboard, and lifejacket. Food and drinks are not included but can be added if you opt for a dinner or breakfast.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
The tour takes weather, wind, and safety considerations into account. If there are changes, you will be notified early to reschedule or get a refund.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect morning or evening activity.

Where do I meet?
Meet at the N end of Esplanade, near the black van loaded with gear. The location may vary based on weather, but the provider will inform you in advance.

Embark on this paddleboard adventure and see Victoria from a fresh, peaceful perspective—an experience you’ll remember long after the water calms.

You can check availability for your dates here: