Broken Island Lodge Sea Kayaking - 2026 - Broken Group, BC

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Broken Group BC Sea Kayaking Event from 24/25-30 September 2026 is now open. The application deadline is 19 August 2026 @ 1200 PST.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:
Soldier On is excited to present the Broken Island Lodge Sea Kayaking Event! If you enjoy being on the water and are looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience, this event is for you. Join us on the west coast of Vancouver Island before summer comes to an end as we work toward Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Certification while exploring the breathtaking Broken Group Islands by sea kayak. This adventure combines skill development, confidence building, and the opportunity to experience one of British Columbia's most spectacular coastal environments. Participants will stay in cozy cabins at the Broken Island Lodge, a remote wilderness lodge located in the heart of the Broken Group. The journey begins with a scenic 40-minute private water taxi ride from Secret Beach Campground on Vancouver Island to the lodge, where our sea kayaking adventure awaits.

Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Certification:  Let's take this opportunity to learn the fundamentals of safe sea kayaking from the Canadian authority on it! Soldier On is thrilled to be partnering once again with 19 Wing Paddlesport Club and local kayak legends to take on this four day Paddle Canada course where we will develop paddler’s comfort with a strong focus on re-entry techniques (wet and dry), stroke skills/techniques, towing, assisting with re-entry (from water) and how to plan a safe trip!    

*Please note that these activities are based on weather cooperation and event may have to adapt to accommodate weather.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from WESTERN CANADA (BC, AB, Northern Canada, SK, MB, Western ONT)  who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS: 
Please note that 24/25 and 30 September are travel days.

24 September:
Participants that are flying ONLY 

25 September
Travel day from Victoria to Broken Group 

26 - 29 September
Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Certification + Exploring Broken Group on Sea Kayaks

30 September
Travel day from Broken Group to Victoria 

*Please note that there will be some e-learning to be completed PRIOR to participating in the event. Failure to complete the e-learning by designated date may result in the forfeiting of your position on this event.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 8 hours of moderate/high paced activities for 4 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. 

Applicants must not be in violation of MELs.

Applicants must be able to tolerate no less than 8 hours of outdoor activity; this event will predominately be held in outdoor elements and applicant must be able to tolerate changing weather conditions. 

Applicants must retain general strength and mobility to maneuver across uneven terrain and get in and out of small personal watercrafts - wet and dry entry and off and on docks. 

Applicants must be comfortable around water (all participants will be required to wear personal floatation devices while participating in any and all water related activities). 

Applicant must be able to tolerate 16hrs of on-water physical activity-sessions will be broken down over a four-day period. 

Applicant must be able to self-save swim (all participants will be required to wear life-jackets at all times while around water). 

Applicants must be able to tolerate falls into water and must be able to pull themselves into their water-craft from in-water and with limited assistance.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. 

Applicants are advised that some of the activities and meals for this event are located at Canadian Armed Forces bases/facilities, and thus they will be exposed to a day-to-day military environment.

Applicants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed in the accommodations, and will be required to share accommodations.