Five new kayaks were stolen from Seaward Kayaks' Chemainus store-factory yard during the weekend, police say.
"Entry was gained to their compound, by unknown persons cutting a hole in the fence," said Cpl. Jon Stuart of the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP.
The new boats have a combined value of about $7,000.
It could have been worse.
"One further kayak had been left near the main entrance gate by the culprits," Stuart noted of Seaward's site at 9360 Smiley Rd.
The stolen kayaks are described as two 10-foot Intrigues (one mango, one red in colour), a 13-foot Halo (yellow), and two 14-foot Compass models (both mango).
All kayaks were packaged in protective wrapping and cardboard, ready for shipping, and have Seaward Kayaks markings down the side.
Surveillance video footage of the area is being reviewed, and the crime was under investigation, he said.
Witnesses, or details on the whereabouts of the stolen kayaks, can be reported to the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP, or call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).