August 24 – 28, 2026
Join Stephanie, and delve into an amazing West Coast Yoga and Kayaking adventure in Canada!
Explore the stunning and remote location of Blackfish Sound and glamping on Swanson Island. Enjoy the comforts of an outdoor basecamp in the evening and all the wonders of wildlife; land and ocean, during epic kayaking adventures in the day. Experience the wide open spaces and fresh ocean breezes.
The intention of this retreat is to deepen your connection with yourself, community, and the natural world. Through daily yoga practices and kayaking excursions, you will engage with nature in a way that promotes mindfulness, presence, and a sense of flow, allowing you to reconnect with yourself while exploring the beauty of Blackfish Sound and northern Vancouver Island.
Trip HIGHLIGHTS
- Daily meditation and yoga practices to foster inner calm, deepen self-awareness, and nurture a grounded connection with nature.
- Opportunities for solitude and personal reflection.
- The remote camp location provides a great chance of viewing orcas, humpbacks, bears, and all sorts of wildlife in their natural habitat
- Explore the coastal environment responsibly and safely by kayak with wonderful, highly trained guides
- Flexible paddling distances and speeds; paddle as much or as little as you wish or stay and enjoy the camp – you choose.
- Wood burning hot tub overlooking the ocean
- Private toilets and hand-washing sinks right at your tent
- Outdoor hot showers with ocean views
- Delicious and locally-inspired meals
- Attention is given to the smallest details to make for the perfect trip
- Small intimate group…12 max.
- Large bright spacious tents, comfortable beds, warm duvets
- Responsible ecotourism, sustainably run operation that gives back to research and conservation in the area
- So much open space to relax and recharge. The supernatural beauty of BC is all yours to enjoy!
Wake up each morning ready to delve into your body and breathe in preparation for exploration of this amazing area! Each morning will open with a guided meditation and an intention-based gentle yoga practice. We will go deep in our yoga practices soaking in the natural wisdom of the land and ocean.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION – GLAMPING
All the details are covered. The only thing you have to do is to arrive, relax, and enjoy every moment.
Imagine beautiful, big white cozy tents set against the backdrop of towering fir trees and the blues and greens of the ocean lapping at your doorstep. The sounds of silence interrupted only by the occasional blow of passing whales or the songs of the birds as they wake with the sun.
Tents are large 10×12′ (3×3.6m), bright and spacious cotton canvas tents complete with real beds, private outdoor toilets and sinks, and sweeping views of the forest and/or ocean. The tents are perched off the ground on cedar platforms spaced out throughout the forest for privacy. The beds (twin or king-size bed settings available) each have a 6-inch thick soya foam mattress, 2 pillows (one thick and one thin), crisp white linens, a warm duvet, and fleece blankets for those cooler nights. There are 8 tents available (if you are traveling solo and would like your own private tent, please indicate this at the time of booking). The camp also has multiple hand washing sinks, 2 hot water showers, a comfortable lounge and hot tub both overlooking the ocean.
Location
The stunning private wilderness campsite is located on remote Swanson Island. The site overlooks a little piece of heaven called Blackfish Sound which is renowned for its biodiversity including being home to many humpback and orca whales. The site offers extraordinary land-based whale watching, sunrises and sunsets, and diverse kayaking at the edge of the Broughton Archipelago.
Sandwiched between the mainland mountains and Vancouver Island, tidal currents stir up the water column and create an environment rich with nutrients and oxygen. Abundant marine life of all shapes and sizes make their home here, from the smallest crustacean to the largest whales. From camp, you have the opportunity to look out into the open waters of the Sound and paddle among the small islands and narrow passages, an ideal combination for the wildlife enthusiast.
What’s cooking?
One of the highlights of the retreat is savouring all the incredible food created by the talented on-site chef. Each morning, breakfast is served hot and fresh, giving you the energy to kick start your day of exploration on the water. A picnic lunch is prepared daily and enjoyed during a relaxing break on one of the stunning beaches along the coast while you’re out on your paddle. After a day of adventure, return to camp and unwind with a complimentary glass of wine (if you’d like), while freshly prepared appetizers are served in the Freshwater Lounge. To end the day, enjoy a nourishing plated dinner, followed by a sweet treat—after all, you’re on vacation!
Endless PADDLING Options
Kayaks are a great way to get outside together and explore. Our guides will share their love and passion for the coast and kayaking with you.
The days on the water are flexible based on the abilities and desires of the group. Longer explorations or shorter excursions are both an option as long as we maintain our guest-to-guide safety ratio. Our guides will always make sure to keep an eye on the weather conditions and help design each day’s activities appropriately.
We’ll head off in our kayaks to explore the many nooks and crannies of the shoreline. Keep your senses alert for the tell-tale blow of some of the area’s more famous residents like orcas and humpback whales.
In addition to orcas and humpback whales, bears (it is not uncommon to see black bears foraging along the shores for seafood during low tide), deer, cougars, shore and seabirds, minks, river otters, dolphins, and porpoise – to say nothing of the abundant, vibrant and colourful intertidal life one can see below the surface. Witnessing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is truly breathtaking.
Booking
Tents are large 10×12′ (3×3.6m), bright and spacious cotton canvas tents complete with real beds, private outdoor toilets and sinks, and sweeping views of the forest and/or ocean. The tents are perched off the ground on cedar platforms spaced out throughout the forest for privacy. The beds (twin or king-size bed settings available) each have a 6-inch thick soya foam mattress, 2 pillows (one thick and one thin), crisp white linens, a warm duvet, and fleece blankets for those cooler nights
Double and Single Occupancy:
King size bed configuration COST:$3220CAD includes GST
Twin bed configuration COST: $3220CAD includes GST
Please specify bed configuration at time of booking.
A non-refundable deposit of $800CAD is required for your booking to be confirmed.
Payment Options:
- Pay in full.
- Payments – First payment due ( 1/2 of retreat cost less deposit: $1210) due Jan. 30, 2026 and final payment ( remaining balance: $1210) due June 1, 2026.
*PLEASE NOTe: We will be a small intimate group of 12 max. including myself.
Booking and Final Payment Deadline June 1, 2026.
To Book, please contact Stephanie at yoga.blissfulenergy@gmail.com or 403.507.5241
ITINERARY
MEETING LOCATION
WHERE & WHEN: ALDER BAY RESORT & MARINA AT 2 pM (DAY 1)
On day 1 of your trip you will meet the water taxi driver in Alder Bay on Vancouver Island (approximately a 5.5-hour drive by car north of Victoria or 4 hours north of Nanaimo). At the meeting time, we will meet our guides at the cedar structure on the pier.
RETURN TIME
WHERE & WHEN: ALDER BAY RESORT & MARINA, by 11 AM – 12 pm (Day 5)
Return time can depend on weather and travel conditions. Our guides will try their best to get us back on time for onward travels or to explore more of what Vancouver Island has to offer, but please give yourself extra time when planning.
Below you will find the tentative itinerary. Please remember that paddling times and distances may vary based on group desire and abilities. Yogi flexibility is always appreciated. Our guides have extensive training and will let us know what is possible in terms of safety, weather, and sea conditions. The first and last days of the retreat will allow for a short morning or evening paddle and days 2-4 will be full paddle days (weather permitting).
DAY 1
At 2 pm (unless otherwise informed) meet the water taxi that will take us across Johnstone Strait into Blackfish Sound. En route, sightings of marine life such as porpoises, dolphins, sea lions, and whales are common. The water taxi journey will be approximately 40 minutes.
After arriving we will be provided with a thorough safety briefing and orientation. We will then settle into the camp and have a kayak orientation and paddle before dinner. After dinner, enjoy the sunset from the lounge or hot tub overlooking the ocean before retiring to rest for more exploration in the morning.
DAYs 2-4
Each morning we will gather for a guided meditation and gentle yoga practice followed by a heart camp breakfast. After breakfast we will meet to discuss plans for the day. Our route and schedule will depend on weather conditions, wildlife viewing opportunities, and group preferences. Generally, we will set out in our kayaks after breakfast and paddle to one of the area’s many pocket beaches for a picnic lunch before paddling ‘home’ again in time for some relaxation before dinner. There is always something to see and learn around the camp. On our way, we’ll take breaks for stretching and snacks, and we always take lots of time to explore the intricate shoreline, rich intertidal world, and marine and land-based wildlife.
DAY 5
This is our last day of exploration. We will have an early breakfast and for those who are keen we will have a morning paddle shortly after. After a final debrief, a packed lunch will be prepared and the water taxi will arrive at approximately 10:30 am to transport you back to the starting point. You should be back in Alder Bay by approximately 11 am-12:30 pm for your onward travels.
Please know we are in wild areas and timing can be variable due to factors such as weather conditions. Please account for extra time when planning onward travel.
About the teacher
Stephanie Cullen, ERYT-500, YACEP
Through Stephanie’s many years of practice; the one thing she has learned is that every moment, every day and every posture is new again…each breath creates a new experience. It is never complete, it is always evolving. Through her teachings she hopes to touch the hearts of her students and connect them to a sense of inner peace through breath, movement, gratitude and love. A place where they can grow and be their true authentic self. In her classes you will experience a fun-loving kaleidoscope of yoga with artful alignment and creative flows.
Stephanie is inspired by many strands of yoga such as Ashtanga, Iyengar, Vinyasa Flow, Forrest, Yin, Restorative, Yoga Nidra, Mantra and Meditation. She is a certified Yoga Teacher and has received over 1600hours of professional training with various schools of Yoga. She is also a certified Forrest Yoga Teacher; under the guidance of Ana Forrest. Owner of Blissful Energy Yoga in Alberta, Canada. For over the past 20 years Stephanie has led classes, workshops and retreats within Canada and internationally.
Stephanie pursues yoga and outdoor adventure to strengthen her mind, body and spirit connections. She’s always excited to share these experiences with you!!!
You can follow her on Instagram @yogistephanie or through Facebook: StephanieCullen or BlissfulEnergyYoga
What’s included
- All meditation and yoga practices
- Professional guides
- Kayaking as much or as little as you wish
- All kayaking equipment (including kayaks, PFDs, paddles, pumps, ropes, dry bags, and sponges)
- All meals and snacks (dinner day 1 to lunch day 5) and wine to accompany dinners
- Everything you need for a wonderful glamping experience: spacious tents, comfortable beds, all linens, and towels, private toilets and sinks, hot showers, flashlight/headlamp, a library of natural history books, camp binoculars, and more
- Private return water taxi service from Alder Bay
- Park and land use permits
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Flights, airport transfers, ferries, or any transport required to get to the meeting point
- Accommodation before and after
- Travel/medical insurance
- Carbonated beverages and alcohol (a glass of wine is provided at dinner, guests are welcome to bring other drinks as well)
- Additional fee to accommodate dietary needs/restrictions such as gluten free, dairy free
- Rain gear (may be rented if you prefer; laundered between every guest) Please indicate when booking.
- Personal items (toiletries, clothing, etc.)
- Gratuities (if you feel you had exemplary service)
Trip Preparation
Once booked and your deposit is received I’ll send you a link to a detailed document that includes everything that you will need to prepare for the retreat including medical and liability release forms from the kayak tour company , as well as itinerary, packing list, and meeting times.
Dietary Restrictions and Accommodations
Changes to the standard menu to accommodate dietary needs, restrictions, and/or allergies can be accommodated but will be charged an additional fee. Exceptions at no additional cost are vegetarian, no red meat, no fish, and no seafood. Special dietary restrictions ( Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Nut Free, Vegan) will incur an additional cost of $75/person. Please inform Stephanie in advance.
Wilderness & Group Travel
Wilderness travel requires a degree of flexibility, patience and understanding. We cannot control the weather or the wildlife. Please ensure your travel plans allow time for the unexpected, such as delays due to weather or mechanical issues. You must also acknowledge that the trip’s route, itinerary, accommodation and modes of transport are subject to change without prior notice due to local circumstances, unsafe conditions, the needs of the group, etc.
Gratuities for guides and crew
Gratuities are not included in the costs. If you feel the guides and crew have done an exceptional job, tipping is a great way to show your appreciation. 10% of your retreat cost is a suggested amount- which is then shared between the guide team and any crew behind the scenes.
BOOKING CONDITIONS
Payment
A non-refundable deposit of $800CAD of the total amount is required for your booking to be confirmed. There are two payment options.
- Pay in full at time of booking.
- Make two payments – First payment ( 1/2 of retreat cost less deposit: $1210) due Jan. 30, 2026 and final payment ( remaining balance: $1210) due June 1, 2026. If the balance is not paid on or before the due date, Stephanie Cullen/Blissful Energy Yoga reserves the right to treat your booking as canceled.
Cancellation
All monies beyond the non-refundable deposit received from the participant will be refunded if the cancellation is made before June 1, 2026. No credit or refund is available if the client cancels after June 1, 2026 or if the client does not show up, or leaves early for any reason. If a client cancels after June 1, 2026 and we can find a replacement then all monies will be refunded. Retreats are non-transferable! You are strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking.
If you leave a trip for any reason after it has commenced Stephanie Cullen/Blissful Energy Yoga is not obliged to make any refunds for unused services.
Accepted payment methods:
Cash, Cheque, E-transfer, Credit Card
PLEASE ETRANSFER TO YOGA.BLISSFULENERGY@GMAIL.COM
Please make Cheque payable to Cullen Contracting Ltd.
Mail to:
Blissful Energy Yoga/ Stephanie Cullen
2109 – HWY 27
Mountain View County, Alberta
T4H 4B7 Canada
(recommended: send via expresspost with a tracking number)
*Please contact Stephanie with preferred method of payment.*
Travel insurance information
Travel insurance is recommended for all travelers and should be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance should provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with all recommended minimum coverage. It should also cover cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience. Stephanie Cullen/ Blissful Energy Yoga shall have no liability for loss, theft of or damage to baggage or personal effects.
Personal belongings lost or stolen while unattended by the client in public lounges or other public areas, whether on board a vessel, train, bus, or other mode of transportation, publicly owned or operated by affiliated tour operators or elsewhere, are not reimbursable. Losses due to ordinary wear and tear, and other acts of God are not reimbursable. We cannot accept responsibility for and in no event shall be liable for loss or damage of valuables or other articles left in or on facilities used by us such as hotels, home stays, vessels, expedition vehicles, or any other mode of transportation.
Looking Forward to Sharing the Wildness
of the West Coast with you!
All photo credits to Spirit of the West Adventures
