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Ketchikan Orcas Cove Kayaking Adventure Tour

4.7
21 reviews

Excursion Overview

A truly authentic Southeast Alaskan Experience

Sea kayaking is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the immense Tongass National Forest. Small groups of up to 6 guests depart by boat from the heart of historic Ketchikan and travel to Orcas Cove location where guides and kayaks await.

From there, friendly guides will lead guests out in stable double kayaks to explore a salmon stream, rainforest island shorelines, sheltered coves, and a unique and colorful inter-tidal area featuring sea stars and other marine life. While it is difficult to predict what we will see on any particular tour, the opportunity to see wildlife is abundant. The surrounding waters and islands are home to seals and sea lions, bald eagles, deer, and black bears, with even the occasional humpback whale or orca sighting.

A snack of Alaskan smoked salmon and hot cocoa awaits guests upon their return to the mothership on Orcas Cove before returning to town by boat. The tour concludes right back on the dock in downtown Ketchikan just a few minutes from your cruise ship.

Please note: All participants will paddle in double-sea kayaks. Triple kayaks may be available for families with younger children; please let us know if you would like to request a triple kayak. If there is an odd number in the group guests will be paired with a guide.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Waterproof jackets and rain bibs when needed, life jackets, dry bags for cameras and personal items, pogies, a safe place to store extra belongings, and light snacks.

Requirements:

  • Minimum age: 5 years old
  • To safely participate, guests must have a seated waistline, hips, or thighs measuring not more than 52” around and be able to sit in a kayak seat that is 18 inches wide. Specially adapted kayaks are available for guests over 6'3" please let us know if one is required for your group
  • The active kayaking time on this tour is about 1.5-1.75 hours. Sea kayaking requires a moderate level of physical activity and is not recommended for guests with back problems or limited upper body strength. In addition to paddling, guests need to be able to climb short sets of stairs; walk to the departure point; climb on and off the transport boats. No kayaking experience is necessary for this trip
  • Please dress in several warm layers able to fit under a waterproof paddle jacket. Quick dry material is always better than blue jeans.
  • Sneakers or waterproof boots are the best footwear as you get into kayaks from a raft so your feet will not get wet
  • Baseball cap or beanie, sunglasses & sunscreen are recommended

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from downtown Ketchikan. )

  • 20 minutes - fast boat ride to Orca Cove
  • 20 minutes - gear up and load into kayaks
  • 1.5-1.75 hours - paddling with your guide
  • 10-15 minutes -enjoy snacks and beverages
  • 20 minutes - boat ride back to town

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour meets at the covered shelter next to the “Ketchikan Visitor Information/Restrooms” building and Sockeye Sam’s Store at Cruise Berth 3. This is central to all 4 downtown cruise ship docks. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dress for the weather. Layered clothing is always recommended for Alaskan weather. Quick dry pants, shorts or rain pants. Closed toed shoes, hat, cap, and sunglasses.

There is a minimum age of 5 years old to participate.

Light snacks and beverages are provided.

Backpacks, small bags, and purses are allowed on this tour. Dry bags are provided for any items you would like to bring along.

Tandem kayaks are used for this tour. If there is an odd number in the group guests will be paired with a guide.

 

Guest Reviews

4.7

21 total

76%
19%
5%
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Larry W

On Jul 2024

WONDERFUL PEOPLE TO WORK WITH. THEY PROVIDED EVERYTHING NEEDED AND WENT OUT OF THERE WAY TO ACCOMMODATE US. WOULD HIGHLY RECOMMEND FOR CRUISERS.

Bruce S

On Aug 2018

A great interactive experience to get first-hand contact with various fish, sea lions and eagles. We were not fortunate to see whales during trip but it was well worth the opportunity view the wildlife in their natural setting.

Lisa G

On Aug 2018

Had an incredible time kayaking and seeing all the wildlife of Orca Cove. Would highly recommend this trip to everyone.

Earl U

On Jul 2018

I enjoyed my first time kayaking. My daughter & her family are experienced kayakers and were disappointed in the age of the kayaks and lack of comfort with back support. Took such a long time to get to the cove, little time to kayak.

Stacy W

On Jul 2018

The entire crew was very friendly and knowledgeable. The kayaking was awesome. Bethany was a great guide. She pointed out lots of sea life and we even held some. The delicious salmon snack at the end was the perfect ending to the adventure.

$169.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$169.00

Duration: 3 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3 hours



Minimum of 2 Required to Book

Passengers (5+): $169.00

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