Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

Setting out on a sea kayaking adventure in Ketchikan offers a chance to see the rugged beauty of Alaska’s coastline up close, all while enjoying a peaceful paddle in protected waters. This tour, rated a perfect 5.0 based on hundreds of reviews, is popular for good reason. It combines accessible kayaking, stunning scenery, and frequent wildlife sightings—elements that make it a standout experience for many travelers.

What we love most about this trip is how it’s designed to be approachable for novices and families, yet still rewarding for those with more paddling experience. The knowledgeable guides, who are not only friendly but deeply familiar with the area, help ensure safety and enhance the adventure with interesting insights. Plus, the calm waters of Clover Pass provide a tranquil setting that’s ideal for observing eagles, seals, and salmon without feeling overwhelmed.

A possible consideration is the weather, as Alaska’s climate can be unpredictable. Rain and chilly conditions are part of the package, but many reviews highlight how guides do their best to make everyone comfortable regardless. This tour tends to be best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a sense of adventure, eager to spot wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the Tongass National Forest.

This excursion is a superb choice for those looking to combine wildlife viewing with gentle outdoor exercise, all with the convenience of port pickup and drop-off. Whether you’re a first-time kayaker or just eager to experience Alaska’s wilderness from the water, it offers a good value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• 3.5 hours of guided kayaking around Eagle Island in Ketchikan
• Suitable for beginners and families with easy, calm waters
• Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, seals, salmon, and possibly whales
• All necessary equipment, safety briefing, and port transportation included
• Consistently highly rated for guides and scenery
• Free cancellation available if weather or plans change

An In-Depth Look at the Eagle Island Sea Kayaking Experience

Our detailed review of this tour aims to help you understand what makes it a popular choice and whether it fits your travel style. Starting from the moment you’re picked up at the cruise port, the experience is designed to be smooth and straightforward. The transportation to the outdoor adventure center in Ketchikan’s northern reaches sets the stage for a scenic journey into the wilderness.

Once at the waterfront, you’ll meet your guide—who, based on reviews, tends to be friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to point out the wildlife and natural features of the area. The safety briefing is thorough but straightforward, focusing on easy-to-follow instructions that help both beginners and more experienced paddlers feel confident. The use of tandem kayaks with rudders, as mentioned by some reviewers, makes maneuvering easier, especially for those new to paddling.

The central part of the tour is paddling around Eagle Island, part of the expansive Tongass National Forest. The waters here are protected, meaning you’re less likely to encounter strong currents or rough conditions. Instead, you get the chance to glide through calm, reflective waters that mirror Alaska’s lush forests and rugged coastlines. As you paddle, you might be lucky enough to spot eagles soaring overhead, seals lounging on rocks, and salmon swimming below.

What’s particularly appealing is the frequent wildlife sightings reported by travelers. Several reviews mention close encounters with humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and a variety of birdlife. One enthusiast described seeing multiple eagle nests and starfish, emphasizing how close-up and varied the wildlife can be.

Many reviews highlight the expert guidance and friendly attitude of the guides. For example, one reviewer raved about how “Katie was fantastic and took her time explaining the beautiful sights and animals we encountered,” making the trip both educational and fun. Guides are also helpful with non-swimmers, reassuring those who might be a bit nervous about the water.

The equipment provided is generally top-notch, with clean paddles, life jackets, and kayak skirts. Some travelers appreciated the high-grade gear, noting it contributed to a comfortable experience despite the sometimes chilly weather. The included port pickup and drop-off save time and hassle, allowing you to focus on the fun.

As the tour wraps up, most folks agree that the combination of scenery, wildlife, and ease of paddling makes this a highlight of their Alaska visit. The three-and-a-half-hour length strikes a good balance—long enough to enjoy the surroundings but not so tiring that it overshadows your other port activities.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Know

The tour covers all necessary equipment, a professional guide, and transportation to and from your ship’s dock. The price of $115 per person is reasonable considering the high-quality experience and the small group size—limited to 15 travelers—ensuring personalized attention.

While gratuities aren’t included, the guides’ reviews suggest they appreciate any additional recognition for their efforts. The physical activity level is moderate—suitable for most people with a decent level of fitness. Children as young as 8 are welcome, making it a family-friendly adventure, but note the maximum height and weight restrictions (6’6” and 230 pounds).

The main limitation to keep in mind is the weather. While tours are maintained with safety in mind, poor conditions can lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if the weather isn’t suitable. Travelers have shared mixed experiences with timing, particularly when cruise schedules cause delays, so punctuality and communication are important.

Why It’s a Great Value

At $115, you’re paying for a well-organized, small-group experience with expert guides, all equipment, and transportation. Compared with other excursions that might be more commercial or less personalized, this kayaking trip offers a genuine connection with Alaska’s nature—without the crowds or noise. Plus, the opportunity to see whales, eagles, and seals up-close makes it a memorable wildlife experience.

It’s particularly attractive for travelers who love outdoor activities, wildlife, or just want a peaceful way to explore Alaska’s coastal beauty. Families, first-timers, and anyone interested in a gentle paddle through pristine waters will find this tour satisfying and worth the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This sea kayaking adventure is ideal for those who appreciate nature and are comfortable with some physical activity. It’s perfect for beginners and families because the waters are calm and safety measures are well-explained. If you’re seeking a quiet, scenic experience that offers a chance to see local wildlife in their natural habitat, this is a perfect fit.

It’s also suitable for travelers wanting a straightforward, well-reviewed excursion that combines ease, education, and fun. If weather might be an issue, be prepared for the possibility of rescheduling or cancellation, but overall, the guides and setup make it a reliable option.

FAQs

• Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for easy paddling and includes safety briefings, making it accessible for novices.
• What is the maximum age to participate? Children as young as 8 years old can join, provided they meet the physical restrictions.
• Are the kayaks tandem or single? You’ll be using tandem kayaks with rudders, which help with maneuverability.
• Is port pickup included? Yes, transportation to and from the cruise port is part of the package.
• What wildlife might I see? Expect to see bald eagles, seals, salmon, and possibly humpback whales and orcas.
• Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations due to weather are free, and you can rebook or get a full refund.
• How long is the tour? The activity lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• What should I wear? Dress for the weather—layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Is gratuity included? No, gratuities are optional and not included in the price.
• How many people are in each group? Tours are limited to 15 travelers to ensure a personalized experience.

This kayaking tour in Ketchikan offers a delightful mix of scenery, wildlife, and gentle adventure. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Alaska’s natural beauty without needing advanced paddling skills, all while enjoying expert guidance and top-notch equipment. Whether you’re an avid outdoor lover or a curious beginner, you’ll find plenty to love in this quiet, wildlife-rich excursion.