The Vancouver Island paddling speed record page

The goal is simple: be the fastest kayaker to journey non-stop and unaided around Vancouver Island. There are no official rules, but Wavelength Magazine is setting them nonetheless. To claim the title kayakers must journey the entire outer shoreline of Vancouver Island by paddle. Once the kayaker first leaves shore the timer starts, and it doesn't stop until the kayaker returns to the same location. No breaking the circumnavigation into portions.

The record holders so far:

2011: Colin Angus sets new record in a rowboat in 15 days, 11 hours and 47 minutes (unofficial time).

2010: Joe O'Blenis set the new record at 16 days, 12 hours and 14 minutes. Remains current record holder for a kayak circumnavigation.

2008: Sean Morley completed the circumnavigation in 17 days, 4 hours and 49 minutes, setting a new record at the time.

2007: Joe O'Blenis completed the circumnavigation in 23 days, 10 hours, setting a record for a single. He also continues to hold the record for the fastest clockwise circumnavigation. The category qualifies as "assisted."

2006: Kieron Tastagh and Jeff Norville completed the circumnavigation in 19 1/2 days, setting a record for a double.

For the sticklers out there: all current record holders have had assistance of one form or another throughout the trip: fixed roof accommodation, meals, even a changed boat. So the record is still open for an unassisted circumnavigation of Vancouver Island. That is, leave one spot, return to that spot by paddling around the island, take everything you use and have no assistance along the way including help with the kayak up and down beaches, food, setting up camps or anything more than a wave and a pat on the back.