No matter your age or water skills, if you love coastal scenery, nature, and history and if you enjoy "doing" as much as "observing", then we're sure you'll find our style of exploring Sitka's beautiful surroundings and fascinating past to be just the thing!
Check-in at the Big Blue Bus to meet your guides and get fitted with paddle gear. You'll then participate in an informative kayak & safety orientation before setting out on a leisurely guided paddle through Sitka's picturesque harbor, home to one of the most productive commercial fishing fleets in North America. We'll pause near Sitka's decommissioned Naval Base where your guides will begin telling the story of how Sitka played a very important role in defending Pacific sea lanes and the West Coast during World War II.
After you have settled into your own paddling rhythm, we'll head out past the breakwater to explore the wild side of Sitka Sound. You'll be amazed by the abundance of colorful marine life that inhabits the intertidal zone and kelp forests that fringe the coast. With bald eagles watching over us from the trees, it is almost certain that we'll see some of our other wild neighbors: curious harbor seals, massive Steller sea lions, and perhaps a few playful sea otters. Occasionally, we even sight humpback, mink, or orca whales.
At the Causeway Islands, we'll step ashore to explore the remains of a WWII-era fort. which had been hastily abandoned as quickly as it had been built. While exploring moss-covered bunkers and fern-rimmed gun emplacements you can almost feel the healing power of the rainforest.
Please note: You need a minimum of 2 passengers to book this excursion. Although it's not a strenuous activity, we recommend the full-day paddle only for those who are in the good physical condition and at least 12 years of age. Minimum weight is 40 pounds and maximum weight is 275 pounds with a maximum height of 6 feet 6 inches. Duration: 3.5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)
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 walking over uneven terrain and able to get in and out of the kayak
Duration: 3.5 hours. Tour times below are approximate:
- 20~30 minutes - safety orientation, equipment orientation, and instruction
- 2 hours - kayaking tour
- 1 hour - walk at Lost Fort location for exploration
Meeting Instructions:
- This tour meets in the Crescent Harbor parking lot. 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 hours. Guests will also be required to walk about 1 mile on uneven terrain during the Lost Trek portion of the tour as well. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers at the check-in location. 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 on 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 cancelled 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?
Light snacks and bottled water are 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 wieghing over 275lbs cannot be accomodated.
Are there any physical requirements for this tour?
Guests must be comfortable walking over uneven terrain 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 are also recommended.
Not seeing answers to your questions?
Check out other frequently asked questions here!
Customer Reviews
Aug 2018 - David L.
Awesome first time paddle trip and views really special. Loved the history discussions on the island about WW2. and touring the sites. Guide was knowledgeable and friendly.
