Accessible adventures
Nicole Hiutikka takes to the water in an adapted Kayak with Bud Bell of Sealegs Kayak Adventures.
A love of the water has helped Nicole Hiutikka of Ladysmith realize an entrepreneurial dream. Nicole is the owner of Adapt-A-Kayak, a business that rents out equipment to make kayaks stable and accessible for people who have mobility issues.
Nicole has a developmental disability and knows what it is like to want to break down barriers and go beyond one’s limitations. The equipment that Adapt-A-Kayak rents allows people of any skill level who have mobility barriers to kayak.
“She loves the water and the kayak and she knows how to use the paddles,” says Leigh Pedley, an employment specialist with Community Link Ladysmith, who helped Nicole set up her business.
Through Sealegs Kayak Adventures, a person will have a guided tour in a two person kayak with the adapted equipment attached to the kayak. The equipment consists of pontoons that sit on either side of the kayak for stability and a one arm rig for people with limited use of their arms or who tire easily.
“The deal is that Nicole would own the equipment and Bud Bell from Sealegs would rent it out. The equipment is built in a unique way to promote people’s independence and safety,” says Leigh. She also notes that people who simply have a fear of the kayak tipping over could also use the equipment to get out of the water.
Nicole believes that every person should be able to enjoy the amazing experience of kayaking in Ladysmith Harbour, where seals swim in the water below and eagles fly overhead. As well as being the owner of the company, Nicole is also involved in marketing Adapt-A-Kayak by going to meetings and promoting her business. “It really involves her so she’s not just in the background,” says Leigh.
Besides keeping her busy and active, the business has boosted Nicole’s confidence and helped her to become more independent.
“In Nicole’s case, she hasn’t been confident in speaking in the past but now she’s willing to try to talk more.”
If you’re in Ladysmith and interested in taking a tour in an adaptable kayak, visit Sealegs Kayaking Adventures in the Eco-Adventure Center on Transfer Beach.
