The rugged west coast of Canada presents a unique challenge and reward for surfers seeking solitude and untouched landscapes. British Columbia, adorned with over 40,000 islands, boasts nearly 16,000 miles (25,749 km) of coastline, characterized by tree-lined coves and secluded beaches.

For those looking to explore this vast wilderness, a boat offers the ideal means of access, short of chartering a seaplane. This is precisely how Canadian surfers Mathea Olin and Satch Robertson embarked on their own version of The Search. While the pair didn’t encounter world-class waves, the stunning scenery more than compensated.

The concept of using sailboats to discover new surf spots is not new. Surfers like Joey Cabel, Liz Clark, John John Florence, and Torren Martryn have all utilized sailing to venture beyond crowded breaks and deepen their connection with the ocean.

Exploring the Coastline

“Being a surfer, you’re always so enamoured by the coastline and what it has to offer,” Mathea said.

“Being a surfer, you’re always so enamoured by the coastline and what it has to offer,” Mathea said. “Every corner we rounded, there was something new to look at … little moments like that want me to keep going that little bit further, not knowing what you’re going to find.”

Sailing demands constant attention and a clear mind, as equipment failures are common and assistance is often far away. Fortunately, mathea and Satch encountered favorable conditions, discovering a variety of waves during their voyage, including a gentle longboard-friendly right-hander, some punchy rip bowls, and a barreling wedge to cap off their adventure.The duo also found a campsite on a beach where grizzly bears likely outnumber humans.

“For me, a huge part of it is just being out there in the ocean,” Mathea said. “Out in nature. It’s definitely a cherry on top when you actually get swell on a sailing trip.”

Another compelling reason to choose a sailboat is the opportunity to enjoy fresh-caught salmon.