5-Day SUP Expedition Training — Vargas Island, Clayoquot Sound
Immerse yourself in one of Canada’s most rugged and inspiring coastal landscapes on this 5-day SUP touring training course based around the wild shores of Vargas Island, just north of Tofino. Designed for paddlers looking to advance their overnight touring and expedition skills, this west coast training experience combines hands-on learning with the raw beauty of Clayoquot Sound’s outer coast.
Whether you're a dedicated adventurer ready to elevate your SUP touring confidence, or a Paddle Canada Flatwater Instructor working toward your Touring Instructor certification, this course builds the essential foundation for safe, effective, and rewarding multi-day leadership. Throughout the week, we focus on coastal decision-making, weather and swell interpretation, route planning, technical paddling efficiency, safety and rescue, and group management—while travelling through a spectacular and dynamic environment.
A Rugged Island Classroom
After loading our boards on the morning of Day 1, we paddle into the traditional waters of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation for a full circumnavigation of Vargas Island—weather and conditions permitting. Vargas is the ideal SUP touring classroom: a place where long stretches of gleaming white-sand beaches meet exposed outer-coast swell, rocky headlands, and calm, protected inlets. It’s a landscape that demands awareness and good decision-making while rewarding paddlers with dramatic coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable sunsets over the open Pacific.
Build Skills. Gain Confidence. Explore Deeply.
Each day blends experiential learning with real expedition travel. You’ll refine your stroke efficiency on open crossings, practice navigation and hazard assessment along rugged shorelines, and develop the judgment required for dynamic coastal touring. Evenings on the beach bring campcraft, route planning sessions, and time to unwind as the sun drops into the ocean—one of the west coast’s true gifts.
This is a challenging and inspiring week designed to accelerate your development as a touring paddler and leader. We look forward to sharing the beauty of Vargas Island with you and supporting your growth on the water.
From wind swept and swell exposed outer islands on the edge of Queen Charlotte Strait to the calm, relaxed and sheltered inner waters, the Broughton’s offer an amazing exploration based on weather, tides, currents and wildlife. With the majestic snowcapped Coast Mountains to the east, these are the traditional lands of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations who have thrived here for thousands of years. They developed clam terraces and villages throughout the islands with ample evidence of their extensive use highlighted by white midden beaches, culturally modified trees, pictographs and petroglyphs.
This place is a mecca for marine wildlife as resident Killer Whales begin showing up towards the end of June and feeding Humpbacks make their way into the area in April and May. Harbour Seals, Sea Lions, River Otters, Bald Eagles and wandering Black and Grizzly Bears are all part of this incredible rainforest ecosystem.
Spectacular sunrises, sublime sunsets and days spent looking for wildlife and paddling new coastal areas all await you. This is your opportunity to take a deep breath and inhale the beautiful connection to land and water as you share our passion for wild places, wildlife and ancient First Nations territories.
5 Days | 4 Nights | Quadra Island, BC
Explore Surge Narrows Marine Park — Named One of National Geographic’s Top 50 Places in Canada
Settle into the quiet beauty of Quadra Island and experience one of British Columbia’s most inspiring standup paddleboarding destinations. This lodge-based trip blends coastal adventure, wildlife viewing, expert instruction, and the restorative pace of island life. Each day, you’ll explore the tidal channels, sheltered bays, and vibrant ecosystems of Surge Narrows Marine Park—an area celebrated by National Geographic as one of Canada’s 50 must-see places.
From the comfort of Discovery Island Lodge, you’ll enjoy cozy accommodations, ocean-view decks, crackling fires, and fresh morning coffees overlooking the water. Our in-house chef prepares nourishing, locally inspired meals, grounding you in the simple pleasure of great food shared with good people.
On the water, our experienced guides and instructors offer top-level coaching designed to elevate your paddling technique, confidence, and ocean awareness. While exploring, keep your eyes open for the local wildlife that defines this coastal ecosystem— bald eagles soaring overhead, harbour seals curiously watching from the kelp beds, and, on special days, the incredible chance to witness humpback or killer whales passing through the channels.
Through quiet moments and conversation, you’ll also connect to the lands and waters of the We Wai Kai / Coast Salish First Nation, whose presence and stewardship shape this region.
Whether you’re a couple seeking a rejuvenating coastal escape, an adventurous solo traveler, or someone craving the freedom and quiet of remote ocean waterways, this trip blends comfort, culture, wildlife, and coastal exploration in a way only Quadra Island can offer.
Trip Highlights
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Explore Surge Narrows Marine Park, one of National Geographic’s Top 50 Places in Canada
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Regular wildlife viewing: bald eagles, harbour seals, marine birds, and the occasional humpback or killer whales
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Lodge-based comfort at Discovery Island Lodge—warm, welcoming, and surrounded by ocean
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Daily SUP adventures through tidal channels, kelp forests, and secluded bays
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Professional, personalized instruction to improve technique, safety, and confidence
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In-house chef-prepared meals featuring fresh, nourishing, regionally inspired dishes
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Connect deeply to place by learning about the lands and waters of the We Wai Kai / Coast Salish First Nation
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Morning coffees overlooking the ocean, quiet reading nooks, cozy evenings, and stress-free relaxation
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A perfect blend of exploration and downtime —ideal for couples, friends, or anyone looking to reset and reconnect with nature
Learn to paddle surf on Vancouver Islands West Coast
Join us in Tofino, Canada’s surf capital for an immersive paddle surf retreat designed to elevate your surfing, recharge your spirit, and connect with like-minded water people.
Based out of the stunning Rancho Tofino Surf Lodge, you’ll experience the perfect blend of comfort, community, and adventure. Each day, you’ll head to the ocean with top-level paddle surf instruction, building skills in a supportive, small-group environment. With access to a variety of Tofino's world-class waves, you’ll progress at your own pace, guided by expert coaching tailored to your goals.
Back at camp, Chef Jenni Bunyan will fuel you with incredible meals, blending local ingredients and nourishing flavors. Evenings are spent relaxing fireside, sharing stories, and enjoying the welcoming family atmosphere that makes this retreat so special.
Whether you’re new to paddle surfing or looking to refine your technique, this retreat offers the perfect mix of skill progression, ocean adventure and community connection.
Highlights:
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5-day immersive paddle surf retreat at Rancho Tofino
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Sunova Surfboard Rental & Demo Package available
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Camp Photos & Videos
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Video Coaching Sessions
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World-class coaching & top-level instruction
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A variety of waves suited for skill progression
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Gourmet meals prepared by our camp chef
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Relaxed, family-style camp vibe with evenings fireside
Come ride waves, eat well, and reconnect with the ocean in Tofino’s spectacular coastal setting.
Tropical Paddling and Snorkelling Paradise on one of Belize's most remote Island Atolls
Far offshore in the turquoise Caribbean, Lighthouse Reef Atoll rises from deep ocean water—a remote ring of coral, cayes, and reefs that feels worlds away from the mainland. This expedition-style marine adventure takes us by paddleboard and boat to one of Belize’s most iconic and pristine destinations: Half Moon Caye and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Lighthouse Reef.
Our days are shaped by wind, tide, and light as we explore the atoll’s calm lagoons and reef-lined edges on stand-up paddleboards. Gliding silently across crystal-clear water, paddlers gain a rare vantage point—spotting rays cruising the shallows, turtles surfacing nearby, and schools of fish moving beneath the board. Paddleboarding here is both adventurous and meditative, offering intimate access to a thriving marine ecosystem.
Between paddle sessions, we snorkel directly from the boards or nearby cayes, dropping into vibrant coral gardens alive with reef fish, eagle rays, reef sharks, and brilliant hard and soft corals. The snorkeling at Lighthouse Reef is among the best in Belize, with exceptional visibility and healthy reef systems that reward slow exploration.
Half Moon Caye itself is a protected natural monument and an important seabird nesting site. Time on the island allows for beach exploration, short walks through coastal forest, and moments to take in the feeling of standing on a remote outpost in the Caribbean Sea. Evenings are spent sharing stories, fresh meals, and the satisfaction that comes from traveling under your own power in one of the world’s great marine environments.
This journey blends expedition-style paddling, world-class snorkeling, and deep connection to place—an unforgettable adventure for ocean lovers seeking wild beauty, wildlife encounters, and the magic of remote travel.
Rated By Outside Travel as one of the “World’s 30 Best Trips.”
Our Coral Islands paddling trip in Belize is an exclusively designed trip between Norm Hann Expeditions and Island Expeditions, a leading adventure travel company that has been in Belize for 35 years; together we have created a special paddleboard and tropical ocean adventure experience for paddlers with highlights including:
- One night stay upon arrival at Bocawina Rainforest Resort, a gem in the heart of the Maya Mountains and located in a 7000 acre national park where wild jaguars roam free.
- Three nights in wilderness tents at SouthEast Caye Basecamp on Glover’s Reef Atoll, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- World class snorkelling, free diving and seafood harvesting on Glover’s Reef and the Belize Barrier Reef.
- Spectacular Paddleboarding atop the barrier reef with a focus on skills development, downwind reef runs and calm mangrove island paddling.
- Two nights at Paradise Island Lodge on Tobacco Caye, part of the protected South Water Caye Marine Reserve.
- Cultural night of drumming and singing with our local Garifuna guides and musicians.
Indian Ocean perfection accessed from your very own surf yacht
Norm Hann Expeditions & Moon Tours invite you on this small group ten-night surf trip where you will be treated to a premier experience chasing the best waves with the least amount of crowds. Travel further and surf a variety of waves all while cruising on one of the fastest and most luxurious motor yachts in town, your local Moon Tours host and surf guide along with professional SUP surf coach and expedition leader Norm Hann will maximise your progression with on and off the water feedback and analysis sessions.
With Moon Tours highly qualified and experienced team including professional SUP coach Norm Hann, our range of SUNOVA surf SUPs and the world-class suitable waves the Maldives produces there is no doubt these are the best Stand Up Paddle surf trips in the world.
Stylishly designed this vessel provides maximum tranquillity at sea. Great detail has been given to achieve the highest standards for quietness and comfort. Our surf support boats are unrivalled with a modern speed boat and one of the largest, well-appointed 62′ Dhoni.
Sit back, relax, surf, dive, fish or drink cocktails from one of two bars onboard.
Moho River Expedition
Adventure Paddling & Living Maya Culture
Deep in the rainforests of southern Belize, the Moho River offers a rare expedition-style journey that is both adventurous and accessible for families seeking meaningful travel. Paddling the calm, clear waters of this emerald river is an opportunity to explore one of Belize’s most remote and culturally rich regions—at a pace that allows for curiosity, connection, and discovery.
The Wild South of Belize remains one of the country’s last largely untouched landscapes. Here, dense tropical rainforest covers the land and the living traditions of the Maya continue to shape everyday life. Our journey travels through small Ketchi and Mopan Maya villages, where traditional milpa farming is still practiced and children grow up deeply connected to the land. Traveling through this region offers families a rare chance to experience a culture that is both ancient and very much alive today.
As we move inland, jungle-covered limestone hills rise sharply from the coastal plain, marking our entry into the southern Maya Mountains and the upper Moho River valley. The upper Moho is a unique travertine river, formed by calcium carbonate deposits that create natural steps, pools, and gentle cascades—an engaging and beautiful environment for paddlers of varying ages and abilities. The river’s naturally alkaline water also limits insects, creating a comfortable, low-bug rainforest setting ideal for multi-day exploration.
Where the road ends, we continue by inflatable two-person river kayaks, allowing safe, stable access into areas rarely seen by visitors. These kayaks are easy to paddle, highly maneuverable, and well suited for both first-time and experienced paddlers, making them ideal for families and expedition travelers alike.
This journey blends adventure paddling with deep cultural immersion. Guiding with Norm are, Venancio and Pedro, local Ketchi and Mopan Mayan guides, who welcome guests into their homeland where you are invited to learn about contemporary village life, traditions, and relationships to the river. For families, this is an inspiring educational experience—one that fosters curiosity, respect, and a lasting connection to both place and people.
