Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions that are not answered below, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you and helping plan your sea kayaking trip in Nova Scotia.
Why book with Sea Sun instead of someone else?
We have 10 Good Reasons to book with Sea Sun. This checklist covers things like our exceptional level of customer service and our accident free safety record:
- People come first. You, our clients, come first and we have designed the Sea Sun experience with your safety and enjoyment as a priority.
- Paradise with a dash of adrenalin. We are a specialist sea kayaking company and have used our wealth of knowledge to make sure that your experience is a unique adventure along the coastline of Nova Scotia.
- Sea Sun guides are outstanding. Our guides are outstanding not only because of their knowledge as very experienced outdoor professionals but also because of their ability to ensure each of their groups has an unforgettable time.
- Modern, well maintained equipment. All our equipment is modern, regularly replaced, easy to use, and well maintained.
- Transport to and from our paddling routes. Upon request we can arrange a carpool or van pick-up from Halifax to bring you to our base.
- Comfort and convenience provided by Sea Sun. Our sea kayaking base provides spacious areas for trip preparation and relaxation. After you return there are many extra facilities for your comfort and convenience such as, hot showers, laundry facilities, beach side picnic area, hammocks, and even an onsite restaurant & bar facilities.
- Delicious catering. We have developed great menus for our catered trips. Sometimes we complement our menus with fare such as scallops and clams straight from the sea.
- Sea Sun's comprehensive safety procedures and briefings provide ease of mind. Sea Sun has an impeccable safety record. We operate to a strict Canadian Coast Guard and Paddle Canada codes of instruction and have developed safe paddling routes with weather changes in mind.
- Protection of the environment. We have an active policy of avoiding adverse effects upon the environment to ensure future sustainability of this fantastic natural resource. Our company is the first of its kind in Canada to mandate Leave No Trace ethics as part of all training programs and Sea Kayaking & Hiking Tours.
- Community Support. Sea Sun Kayak actively supports community groups and non-profit agencies. We take pride in giving youth without financial resources the opportunity to participate in training and weekly drop-in paddles throughout the year.
I am an inexperienced or first-time kayaker. Is this a problem?
Not at all! At Sea Sun Kayak, we specialize in getting novice paddlers out on the water. Before every trip, we spend some time familiarizing you with the equipment, outfitting your accessories and kayak along with a discussion about the requisite safety issues.
Our launch site is located in a sheltered bay, which allows you to take some time becoming comfortable in the kayak. At your leisure, we head out on the open water to see the coastline and islands in the St. Margaret's Bay and Peggy’s Cove region.
How can you reassure me that the trip is safe?
We operate with a maximum guide/guest ratio of 1:6 to ensure that there is adequate coverage. You are equipped with a Canadian Coastguard approved personal flotation device (life jackets) and the guides carry a cellular phone and/or VHF radio to maintain contact with our office. At the beginning of each trip, there is a safety briefing given along with instructions for group control on the water.
Our guides are trained by Paddle Canada instructors and our company's safety policy is based on the guidelines of the Paddle Canada (formerly the Canadian Recreational Canoe/Kayak Association) and the Canadian Coast Guard.
What is the weather and sea temperature like?
In Nova Scotia, July and August are certainly the warmest months. However, our on water season runs from April – October. The months of May, Jun, September and October provide more secluded kayaking, beaches, and camping opportunities.
Water temperature during the summer is great. We have Jellyfish free water for you to enjoy from Mid June – September and water tempetures can exceed 20°C / 70°F! Swimming and snorkelling on all our tours is encouraged in the summer.
Air temperature varies a few degrees but averages 27°C / 80°F in the summer months.
Where is Sea Sun located?
Sea Sun is located in St. Margaret's Bay, Nova Scotia. We are about a twenty minute drive from Metro Halifax along the divided Highway #103. Visit our Location page for directions and a map.
Does Sea Sun provide transportation?
Sea Sun will work with our preferred transportation providers to co-ordinate the transportation you need. Transportation can be arranged on request and will need to be paid directly to the provider.
What is your payment policy?
For online bookings, all tours, rentals and courses that are under $125.00 per person must be paid in full to book online. All tours, rentals and courses that are over $125.00, require a $100 deposit per person to book online. Online bookings will require a credit card. For bookings made by phone or email, all tours, rentals and courses will require a credit card number to book. See our full Terms & Conditions for further details.
I am hesitant about booking online with my credit card.
Our website will allow for secure transactions in real time as processed by Adventure Central, a fully secure provider that takes great steps to ensure security is met. Feel free to contact us by email or phone and ask for our list of references.
What happens if you have to cancel a trip?
Sea Sun will refund 100% of any monies that have been pre-paid, and/or will not charge the credit card on file, if the following required notice of cancellation are given:
- At least 48 hours notice of cancellation for rentals and tours that take place within a single day
- At least 1 week's notice of cancellation for ALL courses (including single day and multi-day courses) and kayak rentals and tours that span more than one day (i.e. overnight tours and rentals)
:If the above cancellation notices are not adhered to, but notice of cancellation is still given, Sea Sun will refund 75% of the total costs or charge the credit card/s on file 25% of the total cost. See our full Terms & Conditions for further details.
What type of kayaks do you have?
We have a large fleet of both double and single kayaks. Please let us know if you have a preference for yourself or your group. Novices are often more comfortable in doubles while those with more experience typically choose singles. However, this is only a guideline - your personal comfort level will be an important determining factor.
Most of our kayaks are equipped with rudders; however, we do also carry English-style kayaks with drop down skegs. Our choice of models reflects characteristics such as stability, comfort, and tracking.
What should we bring on our tour?
For a day paddle, there are a few items that you should always bring along: a change of clothes, wind breaker or rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Although we do provide snacks and water, you are welcome to bring along your favourite treats. Find a list of items that we reccomend you bring along at the bottom of the Half-Day Tour page, the Full-Day Tour page and the Overnight Trips page.
Can I bring my own fishing rod, snorkelling equipment or climbing gear? How about my camera?
Yes. There is plenty of opportunity to fish on all our trips either from your kayak or from the rocky headlands. You may even be able to contribute to the menu!
Sea Sun does not provide any climbing or bouldering gear. There is ample space in the kayaks for all of your equipment. We advise most paddlers to use a disposable camera for on-water shots.
Can I bring my own sea kayak?
Certainly, as long as it is a sea kayak with air tight bulkheads /storage compartments. Sea Sun provides a 20% discount to participants who bring their own kayaks.
What is Halifax like?
The capital city of Nova Scotia, Halifax is a vibrant and charming seaside locale. The city is ideally located for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Aside from the spectacular sea kayaking, you can spend time scuba diving, mountain biking, hiking, bouldering, climbing and deep sea fishing.
The waterfront of downtown Halifax is the focal point of the city, particularly during the summer months. In addition to excellent seafood restaurants, festivities along the boardwalk are commonplace. Enjoy the buskers, board the sailing ships or check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Halifax is also renowned for its host of lively bars and clubs for all ages and tastes. Don't forget to drink a Moosehead or Keith’s beer - a Halifax tradition! New traditions are growing with local brewer Propeller.
Where do you recommend staying?
Please check the resources page to view places we have approved.
Do you have specific trips for families?
We endeavour to put families together - please mention to us if you would like to arrange a tour with your family only. We do recommend double kayaks for kayaking with children under 12.
How much should I tip the guides?
The industry average seems to be 10
– 15 % of the trip fee, but please allow your own judgment of our service to dictate your generosity. Sea Sun supports a team work environment. Please leave your tip at the office.
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