Join us for the TideLine Kayak Retreat, scheduled for August 29th – September 1st 2025, in beautiful Gros Morne National Park. This Labour Day weekend retreat is designed for paddlers of all levels who want to improve their skills and connect with other water enthusiasts. The Gros Morne Kayak Retreat offers guided paddling sessions, practical workshops, scenic tours, and community events set against Bonne Bays scenic coastline.
Detailed Itinerary & Activities
Friday – Arrival & Welcome
Paddlers arrive at their convenience on Friday. Early arrivals can explore the area or paddle independently. In the evening, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, join us at the Wild Gros Morne boathouse for a meet-and-greet BBQ and fire. This informal gathering provides an opportunity to meet other paddlers, review the weekend’s schedule, and ask any questions about the Tideline Gros Morne Kayak Retreat.
Saturday – Skill Sessions, Paddling, and Dinner
Saturday begins with breakfast from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. At 9:00 AM, the day starts with a skill development session in the marina and along the shore of the Campground, lasting until 12:00 PM. After a lunch break from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, we will embark on a 12-km paddle tour along the south arm of the Bonne Bay fjord. The route includes a stop at a remote beach and a 5-km hike to a hilltop for views of the fjord. If weather changes, the route may be adjusted towards Norris Point. In the evening, a special paddlers dinner will be served at the Bonne Bay Inn’s Blue Ocean dining room, featuring a menu that combines international influences with Newfoundland cuisine.
Sunday – Extended Paddle & Closing Celebration
On Sunday, after breakfast from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, the full day paddle begins at 9:00 AM. This full-day paddle covers 20-30 km along Bonne Bay, following the south side of the fjord, passing near the Lookout Cliffs and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, with a lunch break at a remote beach. On the return, participants will paddle along the north shore before arriving back at Water’s Edge. The day concludes with a closing celebration at the Merchant Warehouse in Woody Point from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring drinks, pub grub, and live music.
Monday – Kayakers Breakfast
On Monday morning, the retreat ends with the kayakers breakfast, a hearty meal that includes eggs, bacon, ham, sausage, toast, beans, fruit, and Newfoundland toutons. This will be the final event and get together to share our thoughts and comments about the retreat, and say our goodbyes before we head home.
Location
The TideLine Gros Morne Kayak Retreat takes place at the home base for Wild Gros Morne, at their Water’s Edge Campground on Bonne Bay in Gros Morne National Park. The exceptional waterfront facility includes a marina, kayak launch and boathouse that will serve as our basecamp for our retreat activities, offering amazing amenities, and is the best location for kayaking in Gros Morne
What’s Included:
- All paddling sessions, clinics, and guided tours
- Access to all event activities and scheduled social gatherings
- BBQ during the Friday opening ceremonies
- Dinner at the Bonne Bay Inn on Saturday night
- The final Hungry Paddlers Breakfast on Monday morning
What’s Not Included:
- Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings
- Pub food and beverages at the Merchant on Sunday night
- Accommodations
- Rental gear (if needed)
Preparation & Equipment Checklist
For a successful and enjoyable kayaking retreat, please ensure you bring the following items along with any other kayaking items you normally carry;
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Hydration:
- A durable water bottle or hydration pack to stay refreshed throughout the day.
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Food & Snacks:
- Any food and snacks to refuel between paddling sessions. The Lightkeepers Cafe located right at the Water’s Edge campground has light breakfast, baked goods, snacks and lunch items available for purchase.
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Clothing:
- Comfortable, quick-drying clothing (avoid heavy fabrics that retain water).
- Layered attire to adapt to variable weather conditions, including a lightweight waterproof jacket.
- Extra socks and a change of clothes for after your paddle.
- Wetsuit or drysuit if you want, however water temperatures are usually warm (for Newfoundland) at that time of year
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Sun Protection:
- A wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, and ample sunscreen.
- Long-sleeve shirts or protective gear as needed.
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Additional Gear:
- A dry bag for storing valuables and keeping essentials dry.
- A small towel and a waterproof pouch for electronics or personal items.
- A waterproof notebook or device for jotting down notes or capturing adventure details.
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Kayak-Specific Equipment:
- A proper sea kayak that’s in good condition and appropriate for the day’s routes and ocean boating. 14.5 feet and above.
- A sturdy paddle (or paddle set) that suits your kayaking style.
- A properly fitted PFD (personal flotation device) and a spray skirt as we will encounter waves at some point during our paddles.
- Any additional safety gear you normally use.
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Personal Items:
- Identification, cash or cards, and any necessary medications.
Rental Equipment
If you do not have your own gear, or are travelling and prefer to rent, Wild Gros Morne has a variety of kayaks in different sizes, along with paddles, spray skirts, PFD and all essential safety equipment to rent for only $50.00 for the entire weekend.
Registration
The TideLine Kayak Retreat is your opportunity to develop your paddling skills, enjoy guided adventures, and connect with a community of kayak enthusiasts in the beauty of Gros Morne National Park To register for the retreat or if you have any questions, Please visit our registration page located here TideLine Kayak Retreat Registration or contact us directly at info@tidelinewatersports.com or 709-638-2232. Early registration is recommended as spaces are limited.
Click link to register —–> TideLine Kayak Retreat Registration
Join the TideLine Kayak Club
Ready to explore, learn, and connect on the water? Join our next TideLine Watersports Kayak Club Group Paddle and experience Newfoundland’s stunning coast from a whole new perspective. Sign up today and become part of a vibrant community of water enthusiasts eager to embrace adventure!
Sponsors
This paddling event is proudly sponsored by Wild Gros Morne, Water’s Edge Gros Morne, the Gros Morne Tourism Association, and TideLine Watersports—organizations dedicated to building community, delivering quality experiences, and inspiring adventure for everyone.
