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Orcas Cove Sea Kayaking

3 Hour Duration

From pick up to drop off

Wildlife Opportunities

Eagles, seals, and whales are seen often!

A High-Demand Tour

With limited capacity, book early!

Off the Beaten Path

Escape the crowds of downtown!

Description

Experience the exclusive Orcas Cove Sea Kayak, a top seller among Ketchikan excursions. This amazing experience gets you away from the crowds to a remote island for almost two hours of serene paddling as you examine the area's coastal ecosystem. From your boat ride out of Ketchikan to the island, to your time in the kayaks, to your snack on the water afterward, you'll be surrounded by stunning landscapes & opportunities to spot the local wildlife. So, bring your camera and an appetite for adventure on this exclusive and small-group Ketchikan kayak excursion.

Your Orcas Cove Sea Kayaking experience begins right from downtown near the cruise ship dock for your 3-hour adventure on the water. Climb aboard your charter vessel for your journey away from the cruise ship crowds to Orcas Cove. Along the way, you'll be treated to stunning views of Ketchikan's waterfront as well as the surrounding landscapes. Upon arriving at the cove, you'll transfer to the 57' awaiting catamaran, where you will be geared up and briefed on kayaking safety by your experienced local and professional guides. From here with your guide on hand to help, you'll load up into tandem kayaks to begin your paddle through the gorgeous area. Coast closely along the shoreline looking for jellyfish, starfish, seals, and other wildlife, while staying close to your guide as they give you detailed information about these native animals and plants. There's even the potential to spot Sitka black-tail deer, Bald Eagles, humpbacks, and bears in this remote area!

As you continue along, your Orcas Cove Sea Kayaking experience will venture into hidden coves, circumnavigate islands, and allow you plenty of paddling time to really get to know the coastal ecosystem. When you've finished your paddle, you'll return to the catamaran for a real treat on this Ketchikan tour. Enjoy a spread of local smoked salmon, hummus & crackers, hot beverages, and local Alaskan brews for those over the age of 21. After you've had your fill, you'll load back into your charter boat and head back to Ketchikan. And at just 3 hours, you'll end the day with plenty of time to explore more of Ketchikan!

For a more budget-friendly way to paddle along Ketchikan's coastline, check out the Ketchikan Kayak Eco Tour.

What's Included

Round Trip Transportation

Knowledgeable Guides

Hearty Snacks

Bottled Water

Equipment & Gear - You will be outfitted with a paddle jacket, rain pants, and dry bags.

Guide Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous experience? Is kayaking safe?

This tour is a great entry-level kayaking tour and perfect for first-timers or those with experience. The kayaks used for this tour are large, 2-person kayaks that are very stable. Alaska's Inside Passage is scattered with nearby islands which provide calmer, bay-like conditions for the paddle (this isn't on the open ocean). First time jitters are common, but the small-group setting means you'll have lots of personal attention from the accompanying guide.

Is there a weight limit for the kayaks?

Over the years, we have seen all shapes and sizes! We do not have a set weight limit as the ability to participate depends on size rather than weight. To fit into our kayaks, you must be able to step into a 52" spray- skirt tube and pull it up to your chest: if your girth is greater than 52", you will not be able to participate safely. If you are not sure whether you will be able to participate, please call us for more information.

Can I bring a camera?

Absolutely! There are dry bags of several different sizes to accommodate cameras, binoculars and any other items you would like to bring on the kayaks with you. Waterproof cameras are great but don't be afraid to bring a good digital SLR camera and put it in one of our dry bags. There are plenty of opportunities for photography and you don't want to miss an amazing shot.

Can Grandma come along too?

You are never too old to paddle a kayak. Our oldest participant to date was age 90 and going strong. We use double kayaks to pair people up to make strong paddling teams. Just be aware that kayaking does require some physical exertion, and for the Orcas Cove trip, we have to "climb" aboard the mother ship. Please call or email us if you have any questions or concerns.

What if it rains? Do the trips get canceled?

Ketchikan is in the heart of a temperate rainforest, and we would never do anything if we stopped for the rain. Please do not let the possibility of rain deter you from booking. Southeast Alaska is at its most beautiful on misty rainy days.

What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?

We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.

What should I wear and how to prepare for this tour?

You should not need to bring any special clothing or shoes for kayaking. We provide rain jackets and pants for our guests and have poggies to keep your hands warm on cold days. Even in the summer, we wear 2 layers on most days. Please wear 1 or 2 layers under your coat (on chilly days) as it is best to have a layer or 2 under our paddle jacket. Fleece, wool and technical fabrics are ideal, but jeans or sweatpants and a sweatshirt will work just fine. On cold or rainy days, it is a good idea to pack a warm hat, gloves and an extra layer to put on after you kayak. A baseball cap is helpful on both sunny and rainy days. Despite Ketchikan’s reputation for rain, there are many days when sunglasses and sunscreen are needed on the water. Sneakers, sport sandals or rubber boots are the best shoes for kayaking: your feet will not get wet. Hiking boots can be too bulky to fit in the kayak and make it difficult to use the rudders.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 6 years old

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 and get into the kayaks, Sea kayaking requires a moderate level of physical activity and is not recommended for guests with back problems or limited upper body strength., The kayaks can accommodate a maximum torso (waist-chest) diameter of 52 inches (132cm).

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City

Ketchikan

Itinerary • 3h 00min • 5 activities

After meeting your guides at Berth 3, you'll head over to the nearby harbor to hop in your boat and take a scenic cruise out to Orcas Cove.

Duration

20 minutes

When you reach Orcas Cove, you'll climb aboard the newly renovated vessel to go over the basics of kayaking, safety, and gear up with paddle jackets, rain pants, kayak skirts, paddles, & dry bags.

Duration

15 minutes

Explore the area in your tandem kayaks, paddling close to shore to look for intertidal wildlife, and taking in the breathtaking views of the small Islands surrounding Ketchikan.

Duration

2 hours

When you climb back on board the ship, there will be a nice variety of hearty snacks, coffee, hot chocolate, & sparkling waters waiting for you.

Duration

15 minutes

Conclude your tour by boating back up to Ketchikan, where you can explore the historic downtown, or head back to your ship. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife as your cruise back.

Duration

20 minutes