Your Juneau Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure begins with a van transport near the Mt. Roberts tramway building which is within a walking distance from most cruise docks. After gear outfitting, board our 6-passenger motorboat and travel to the Inside Passage where you can meet humpback whales and other marine life.
Explore Alaska's richest humpback whale feeding ground on your way to the Channel Islands State Marine Park. Your professional boat captain will facilitate wildlife viewing in this rich and diverse ecosystem. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, seals, and an array of bird species.
Once you land on a remote beach, your guide will teach you kayaking techniques and provide fundamental instructions. Board double kayaks and glide across the sea on a quest for a more intimate wildlife viewing opportunity. Enjoy the picturesque landscape around you and listen to your guide sharing their local knowledge of the area. This active eco-kayak whale adventure is suitable for all experience levels.
Please note: Minimum of 2 passengers required to book. Maximum of 6 passengers per departure. Children must be able to swim and confidently paddle a double kayak with an adult. Our kayaks can accommodate a maximum torso (waist-chest) diameter of 55 inches (140cm). Guests taller than 6'2" (188cm) find operating the rudder challenging, as the pedals only adjust to a certain maximum distance. The maximum weight limit is 600 lbs (272kg) for double kayaks. Duration: 6 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal. Boat time: 2.5 hours. Kayak time: 1-2 hours.)
Inclusions:
- Roundtrip transportation from the cruise ship terminal
- Lunch including salami, cheese, hummus, veggies (peppers, carrots, tomatoes), granola, and dried fruit
- Aluminum water bottle and water
- Gear/equipment: Double kayaks, paddling gear, rain jacket, rain pants, life vest, rain boots, and dry bag
- State Marine Park permits
Requirements:
- Minimum of 2 passengers required to book
- Minimum age: 8 years old
- Guests must know how to swim
- Kayak maximum waist-chest diameter of 55 inches (140cm)
- Not recommended for guests with limited mobility, heart, and respiratory issues
- Guests must be able to kayak for up to 2 hours
- Pregnant guests are not permitted
- Signed liability waiver
Duration: 6 hours. Tour times below are approximate:
- 45 minutes - transportation to harbor for gear outfitting and to board motorboat
- 1.5 hours - wildlife and whale watching cruise to Channel Islands State Marine Park
- 1.5 ~ 2 hours - paddle and safety instruction, kayaking, and wildlife viewing
Please note: Actual kayak time is dependent on marine conditions, wildlife location, and client ability.
- 1 hour - return cruise back to harbor
- 45 minutes - return to warehouse and transport back to cruise ship terminal
Meeting Instructions:
- This tour meets near the Mt. Robert's Tramway building. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.
ADA Accessibility of Tour:
- This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.
How many passengers does the boat hold?
Our boats can accommodate up to 6 guests.
How close will we get to the whales?
Humpback whales and other sea animals are protected species and a safe distance of at least 100 yards must be maintained at all times according to NOAA regulations.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No, this is wild Alaska! While we have a great chance to see marine life, it is never guaranteed.
How many passengers does the tour van hold?
We operate 12 passenger vans.
What if it is raining? Will the tour still run?
Barring unsafe conditions, we operate rain or shine. We provide rain jacket and pants.
What is the temperature on the water?
The temperature on the water can be 15-20°F cooler than on the ground due to the wind chill factor.
Are there any age restrictions for children?
The minimum age on this tour is 8 years old.
Are food and drink included?
Bottled water and lunch are included.
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