Sarah Holland
Northern News Services

NNSL (July 12/99) - Kayaking is an exciting and energetic way to spend some of your hard-earned vacation time.

Not only are you getting exercise, but you also have the opportunity to view the world a water bird's-eye view.

For anyone intent on taking a paddling adventure, Narwal, an outdoor adventure company specializing in canoeing and kayaking, is sure to help.

Narwal is licensed to guide tours in the North Slave area, on the north shore of Great Slave Lake from Waldren River in the East Arm west to Frank Channel.

"We also guide trips on the tributaries that run into Great Slave Lake, including the Yellowknife and Beaulieu Rivers and the Cameron River system. We also guide tours in the lake chains off Ingraham Trail," says Cathy Allooloo, an owner and instructor at Narwal. "We arrange everything, including the guide, location, equipment and a shore lunch -- right now we only do one-day trips, but we are open to tailoring packages to meet people's specific needs."

If you already have your own kayak, you can talk to the folks at Narwal to make the proper arrangements.

According to Allooloo, there are a number of positive aspects of touring with a Northern company.

"When people go out with us, they are supporting Northern business, which is important to us, of course, and also to many of the tourists.

"Also, when you go with people who know the area, you get the safety aspect because our guides know what they're doing and they know the area well. There is also a cultural/historical aspect to it, these guides understand the people around here."

Viewing nature and capturing it on film is an important part of any tour, and kayaking is no exception.

"Last weekend when we were out we saw a moose, and taking pictures while out in the kayaks is not a problem at all," says Allooloo.

Not every tourist is trained in kayaking, so Narwal gives people take some kayaking or canoe training before their trip.

"We offer roll classes, usually in the spring, and our classes all have a strong safety and rescue component," notes Allooloo.

Aside from the kayaking tours, Narwal is also licensed to guide fishing trips in the same area.

All in all, a paddling adventure is a fun and interactive way to enjoy both nature and your vacation.