EMBRACING THE JOURNEY OVER THE DESTINATION

Sailing Expeditions

Now offering ASA classes!

SAILING EXPEDITIONS

For both experienced and novice sailors, we offer immersive 10-16 day hands-on expeditions. These journeys not only teach you essential skills but also provide opportunities to contribute to the well-being of the ocean and the coastal communities that rely on it.

ASA SAILING INSTRUCTION

When not on Expedition, we provide private instruction, ASA certifications and corporate or family events for up to 12 guests. For the 2025 and 2026 off-seasons, Koru will be located in Washington State’s stunning Puget Sound and San Juan Islands as well as the Gulf Islands of Southern British Columbia.

SCUBA EXPEDITIONS

At Koru Expeditions, we offer personalized PADI SCUBA diving instruction and experiences, designed to fit your needs and skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, we often integrate diving into our sailing adventures, creating a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world while learning valuable skills on and off the water.

Next Steps

1. Let’s hop on a call

We would like to make sure this is the right choice for you, answer any questions, and describe how to reserve your space. We prefer to video call where possible!

2. Complete your application

This includes our full application and providing a refundable $500 deposit. Upon acceptance, your deposit is fully refundable until 90 days prior to departure.

3. Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime

We will be providing teaching materials, sea-bag lists, transportation details and will be in very regular communication until your arrival.

GIVING BACK AND PAYING FORWARD

At Koru Expeditions, we believe the journey is more meaningful than the destination. Founded by experienced sailors Ken Parker and Renée Evans, our mission is simple yet profound:

"To create unforgettable sailing expeditions that immerse you in hands-on experiences, while fostering a deep connection with coastal communities and the ocean."

Through every voyage, we strive to give back to the environment and the people who depend on it, ensuring that our adventures leave a lasting positive impact.

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

  • We had an amazing trip around Haida Gwaii with Captain Ken and Renée, on their catamaran, Koru. I have done a fair amount of sailing but I have never have I encountered such a rich abundance of wild life and nature. From countless whales, fish, marine birds, cultural sites, and hot springs, all which made the Haida Guaii area unforgettable.  Ken and Renée’s positive energy created a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere, while Ken’s calm and expert guidance ensured we always felt safe and secure.  I learned a lot during this trip and it was such an incredible sailing trip. I would definitely like to go on another adventure with Ken and Renee on Koru.

    Molly C., Victoria, B.C.

  • I highly recommend Captain Ken.  I am an experienced skipper and sailboat owner so my standards are high.  Captain Ken exceeded my standards on a phenomenal sailing trip around Haida Gwaii off the Northwest Coast of British Columbia.  He is knowledgeable, very safety conscious and an excellent instructor and guide.  He covered all the basics in terms of managing the fierce currents, winds and high tides around the islands and then he went out of his way to provide very memorable cultural experiences and explorations.  The ancient Haida village sites with totem poles and the visits to Gandl Kin Gway.ay (Hot Springs Island) were lifetime highlights but he also went out of his way to provide memorable fishing, swimming, kayaking, whale watching and exploring opportunities.  I highly recommend sailing with him on Koru.

    Murray B., Victoria, B.C.

  • I found Ken to be a very thoughtful, knowledgeable and skilled instructor for our seven day Learn-N-Cruise sailing experience covering ASA 101, 103, and 104 content. While each member of our crew came from different boating backgrounds, Ken quickly learned what each of us needed to successfully progress through the course content while providing timely individual coaching to match each person's learning style. Ken excelled at communicating the how and why of the different skills being learned, followed by constant hands on practice. His knowledge of boat systems, weather patterns, boat handling characteristics (both at sea and in close quarters) and safety procedures were outstanding. In addition, Ken is an excellent cook and made the seven day experience even more enjoyable as he often volunteered to create delicious evening meals. Overall, I found the experience organized by Ken to be highly engaging and a tremendous opportunity to learn how to sail more confidently. 

    Shaun N, Vancouver BC

  • I was fortunate to sail with Ken on Naria Grey for a day sail and was hooked on his teaching style.  I had some sailing experience, and Ken was at ease letting me experiment with sail trim.  If I asked, “what will happen”, Ken said, “let’s do it and find out”.  I also hired Ken for some private docking instruction on a new to me 42ft monohull.  His tips and tricks for successful single and double handed docking are proving to be invaluable. I spent 8 days on Koru and was delighted with the experience.  We were a small group that shared some big experiences that included navigating challenging rapids, selecting secluded anchorages, fishing for breakfast, transiting in dense fog, and some forest time with a beautiful lake swim.  Ken has a very calm demeanor and was always willing to answer any question, concisely explain the situation, and share his vast knowledge – in many instances with hands-on opportunities to apply.  I appreciated the daily briefing where we discussed weather, tides/currents, destination, activities, and roles/responsibilities – it was truly teamwork.  I highly recommend joining Koru for an expedition, I had an amazing experience.

    Sara H, Tacoma, WA

  • We had the privilege of sailing on Koru with Captain Ken and Renee in Haida Gwaii this past August.  What an amazing experience!  Ken and Renee are not only warm and welcoming, but also have the sense of humor necessary for successfully spending a lot of time in close quarters.  They are extremely competent and knowledgeable sailors.  Ken's patience and communication skills make him a very effective teacher.  They are both easy going yet have very high standards for themselves and others.  They are extremely safety conscious and we always felt at ease though we were often in very secluded areas.   Haida Gwaii is an absolute treasure. We were wowed by the scenery, wildlife and great fishing.  Sailing with Ken and Renee in Haida Gwaii is a rare opportunity to experience an area that few others get to.  We are greatly looking forward to our next adventure with them!

    Adria E, Albany, NY

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