Our half-day paddle & cruise adventure is the perfect introduction to the wild side of Sitka Sound, beginning with a fun and informative kayak skills & safety orientation. The guide will explain the variables to be considered in designing the day's unique float plan, and, once afloat, you'll have some time to dabble about in the crystal clear shallows, getting comfortable with your craft, before we set out to explore our first group of islands.
While paddling through mazes of reef and kelp forest - areas accessible only by kayak - your interpreter/guide will help identify the colorful marine life visible below, including crabs, sea stars, anemones, sea urchins, jellyfish, and more. At the surface, in addition to the star of the show - the ever-amusing sea otter - we also frequently sight harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds.
We'll step ashore on a seldom-visited island to stretch our legs, do a little beach-combing, and soak in the majestic wildness and amazing views of the Sound. Our guide will explain some of the ecologies of the area, and also tell you about the Tlingit people, who still harvest the ocean's bounty using knowledge passed down since the last ice age. This half-day wilderness exploration concludes with an exciting 30-minute boat cruise to Sitka.
Please note: You need a minimum of 2 adults to book this excursion. This adventure is also conducted in reverse order, with the cruise outbound, followed by a paddle return to Sitka. The minimum age to participate in this tour is 6 years old, the minimum weight is 40 pounds and the maximum weight is 275 pounds with a maximum height of 6 feet 6 inches. Maximum of 6 passengers.
This adventure is also conducted in reverse order, with the cruise outbound,
followed by a paddle return to Sitka. Duration: 4.5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal. Paddle Time: 2.5-3 hours.)
Inclusions:
- Waterproof outerwear, paddle gear, and dry bags for cameras
- Light snacks and bottled water
Recommended:
- Layered clothing, comfortable shoes, and a warm hat
- Sunglasses, camera, binoculars, gloves and rain gear
Requirements:
- Minimum of 2 passengers required to book
- Minimum weight: 40lbs
- Maximum weight: 275lbs
- Minimum age: 6 years old
- Maximum height: 6 feet 6 inches
- Guests must be comfortable climbing steps and able to get in and out of the kayak
Duration: 4.5 hours. Tour times below are approximate:
- 20~30 minutes - safety orientation, equipment orientation, and instruction
- 2.5~3 hours - kayaking tour
- 45 minutes - on a remote island beach with lunch prepared by guide
- 30 minutes - boat ride to Sitka
*This adventure could also be conducted in reverse order, with the boat ride outbound, followed by a paddle return to Sitka.
Meeting Instructions:
- This tour meets at the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.
ADA Accessibility of Tour:
- This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests need to be able to get in and out of double kayak cockpits independently (good balance required) and paddle for approximately 2-3 hours. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.
Do we need prior kayaking experience?
No experience is necessary to participate in this tour. Every tour begins with an equipment orientation and paddle lesson to make sure you are comfortable and safe during the tour.
Will I see any wildlife or bears on this tour?
Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour, however, this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.
Will my tour be canceled if it's raining?
Fortunately, rain doesn't diminish the fun or safety of sea kayaking. We will outfit you with fully-rainproof gear if it looks certain to be a wet day.
Is it possible that I will tip over and do I have to know how to swim?
It is possible to tip over, however it's a very rare occurrence. Our professional guides will provide good instruction on the basic paddling and bracing techniques, and you'll find out for yourself that the double kayaks are far more stable than you might imagine. You don't need to know how to swim. You'll be wearing a PFD (life vest) at all times while in the kayak.
Can I bring a backpack?
All bags must be stored prior to kayaking and are not allowed while on tour.
Can I bring my own food or drink?
Food and drink are not allowed during this tour.
Are food and drink included?
Bottled water is included.
Are there any age restrictions?
There is a minimum age of 6 years old to participate. Additionally, guests taller than 6 feet 6 inches or weighing over 275 lbs cannot be accommodated.
Are there any physical requirements for this tour?
Guests must be comfortable climbing steps and able to get in and out of the kayak. Please inform the guides about any other physical limitations.
What type of clothing should I wear?
Layered clothing that will fit underneath a waterproof paddle jacket and sneakers or waterproof boots. Sunglasses and gloves are also recommended.
Not seeing answers to your questions?
Check out other frequently asked questions here!
Customer Reviews
Sep 2022 - James D.
Unbelievable!!! Great tour with great, knowledgeable guides. Good value for the money - would definitely take this tour again.
Sep 2022 - Jennifer D.
Our guide, Katie, took us on a fun and energetic kayak trip. The surroundings were incredibly beautiful, and we were well taken care of as we paddled for more than 2 hours. Would love to do it again!
Jul 2022 - Samantha P.
This was a highlight of our time in Alaska. Definitely recommend the half day over the 2 hour. You get more remote and the scenery is beautiful.
Jul 2022 - Angela A.
Enjoyed every minute of the trip, Gail was an amazing tour guide and was very sensitive to the schedule for our ship and to our needs as older folks.
Jul 2019 - Kelly L.
Kaylee was a fantastic guide. Had a wonderful day. The lunch was healthy and thoughtful. And the homemade chocolate ginger cookie was delicious.
Jul 2019 - Laurel M.
Our guide, Garrett, was so cool and amazing with our kids. I am not in great shape and thought this was going to way more difficult than it was (4 hours which was 2.5-3 hours of actual paddling). I guess I was distracted by all the wildlife and the gorgeous scenery. Would do this again in a heartbeat. Thank you for such a great excursion.
Jun 2019 - Christine A.
This was a phenomenal tour! My mother and I were fortunate to be solo with our guide for a half day on the Sitka Sound. We had amazing wildlife encounters, got to experience areas where there were no other individuals other than ourselves, covered a lot of ground kayaking as we did not have to wait for others that might not have been at our same fitness level, and a guide was both educated/provided information, humorous, and made the experience truly wonderful! The cookies were awesome!
Aug 2018 - Deepa G.
This was absolutely one of the best excursions ever! I'm so glad we scheduled it for first thing in the morning before all the fishing boats were sound. It was serene, scenic and nature at it's best. Our guide was very knowledgeable and fun to be with. I highly recommend this excursion!
Jul 2018 - Joseph B.
Great guide
Aug 2017 - Carol M.
Our half day kayak paddling tour was so much fun. The scenery was gorgeous and our tour guide went at a very relaxing pace, The lunch was yummy too. The length of the trip was perfect for us.
