VICTORIA WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Paddle with Purpose: Victoria’s Costume-Ready Fundraising SUP Circuit
South Island SUP and Mer Tales Ocean Journeys run a year-round series of fundraising stand‑up paddle events in Victoria, pairing short, social paddles with charity drives—this guide explains where, when and what to bring.
Paddle with Purpose: Victoria’s Costume-Ready Fundraising SUP Circuit.
Join South Island SUP and Mer Tales Ocean Journeys for a string of fundraising stand‑up paddle (SUP) events in Victoria that range from the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Paddle through spring environmental and women’s events to festive Hallowe’en and Santa‑themed paddles—each outing pairs easy on‑water routes with community fundraising for local charities.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Paddles that give back
Events raise funds through event sales and community paddling donations for local charities including the Victoria Mustard Seed Foodbank, Bridges for Women Society and Pacific Wild.
A calendar of themed paddles
The program runs throughout the year: New Year’s Day Polar Bear, spring events for International Women’s Day, Earth Day and Oceans Day, and autumn/winter dress‑up paddles for Hallowe’en and Santa & Friends.
Accessible for all skill levels
Fundraising SUP events are designed to welcome new and beginner paddlers as well as seasoned participants—expect short, social on‑water sessions with a festive atmosphere.
What the day feels like
Short, social paddles with a charitable edge
These are compact, community‑focused SUP events: participants gather on shore, paddle a short loop for roughly an hour to 90 minutes, and return having helped raise money for local causes while enjoying themed costumes and seasonal camaraderie.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who these paddles suit—and who should consider other options.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Most fundraising SUP events run about 1 hour to 1.5 hours.
Typical launch points are Willows Beach or, depending on weather, Gonzales Bay in Victoria, BC.
Costume elements for themed events (Santa hat, witch hat, broom paddle, pumpkin), clothing layers (avoid cotton), towel and change of clothes, water/snack. Drysuits, boots and gloves are available to add to bookings; dry bags and straps for eyewear are available to rent or buy.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is each fundraising paddle?
Events typically last between 1 hour and 1.5 hours.
Where do you launch for these events?
Launches usually happen from Willows Beach or sometimes Gonzales Bay, depending on weather conditions.
Are the events suitable for beginners?
Yes — events are suitable for new, beginner and seasoned paddlers.
Do I need special gear or clothing?
Bring layers appropriate for water activity (avoid cotton), a towel and change of clothes; drysuits, boots and gloves can be added to your booking for an additional fee, and dry bags and straps for eyewear are available to rent or purchase.
What charities do the events support?
Fundraising benefits local charities such as the Victoria Mustard Seed Foodbank, Bridges for Women Society and Pacific Wild through event sales and paddling community donations.
Are costumes encouraged?
Yes—many events are themed (Hallowe’en, Santa & Friends) and costume elements like hats, broom paddles or festive items are commonly used.