Waterlogged and happy with Destiny River Adventures by Brenda Timbers
I
f you love the thrill of shooting a rapid or want to experience the wonder of floating down river watching thousands of spawning salmon heading upstream; it’s right here on our doorstep. After years of heading to the mainland to raft the Fraser and Thompson I was thrilled to have the opportunity to raft the Nimpkish and then float the Campbell River with Jamie Turko of Destiny River Adventures. This 15 year old Campbell River company, founded by Jim and Darlene DeHart, recently brought national attention to the Island. On September 10 the company was on NBC’s World of Adventure Sports and a float with the salmon was featured on the September 13 season premiere of the Rick Mercer Report. Turko, a partner and Destiny River Adventures’ river manager, is enthusiastic about the natural wonders of Vancouver Island. “This is my home and my playground; from the river valleys to the mountain peaks. We have it all here, this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.” Safety is a high priority for Destiny River Adventures. All the guides are swift water certified and have first aid training and Jamie volunteers with Campbell River Search and Rescue as a swift water specialist and instructor. When our group went on a raft tour of the lower Nimpkish we were well briefed on hazards and trained in how to stay safe in the current. Our gear was carefully checked by the guides, and no one got near the river without every buckle and strap being tested. Both the rafting and the river snorkelling are activities suitable for people who range broadly in age and fitness with participants in different activities ranging in age from 5 to 95. We ran adrenalin pumping rapids, and then in some of the quiet Nimpkish stretches, the water guns came into play. We paused for the brave-of-heart to leap off a ledge into the river, and explorers in the group squeezed through a gleaming white limestone cave that cuts into the river bend. Polar fleece and neoprene kept us comfortable even though we were in and out of the cold river water (by choice) several times through the day. Lunch was served on an upturned raft; a selection of luncheon meats, fillings, rolls, fruits, salads rounded off with beverages and baked goodies. When you snorkel with the salmon in the Campbell River there is a lot to see; five varieties of salmon, seals following the fish in from the ocean, and eagles swooping down to feed. Jamie comments, “You never get tired of the river, it’s different every time. Even when I’m in the raft guiding, I get pleasure out of the whole experience.” He keeps a close eye on his group – reminding them to breathe and cautioning ‘don’t stand up’. 12
October 2011 / www eyesonbc.com
Jamie Turko taking a leap into the Nimpkish, on a rafting trip that combines adventure, fun and serenity. Photo by Tracey Bennewies
The river has a firm hold on Jamie and a lot of people share his enthusiasm. “This year 64 percent of our business has been repeat customers. For me it is what I did as a kid, and I’ve come back to it. I’ve got a passion for the place that’s been my home. I want to be on this river for the rest of my life.” Destiny River Adventures operates on the Nimpkish, Oyster, and Campbell Rivers. As well they offer a variety of multi-day adventures. Check out their website at www.destinyriver.com for more information. ~