Orcas Cove Kayak in Ketchikan

Overview

The first leg of your journey begins on a fast, aluminum-chambered boat (ACB). The 20-minute boat ride is a wildlife viewing opportunity all on its own, so make sure to keep a sharp lookout.

Upon arrival at Orcas Cove, you will switch to a roomy 57 catamaran, where your gear is waiting. Your experienced, friendly guides will provide some basic paddling instructions and, once comfortable, will get you settled in your double kayak. These stable kayaks have a center pod, making it unnecessary for the two travelers to paddle in sync. Even novice kayakers will paddle with ease.

The relaxed pace of this tour allows you to immerse yourself in the quiet, observing the wonders of your surroundings. Mountains loom in the background. Rainforest growth comes right up to the shoreline and Black Tail Deer, mink, birds, and even the occasional Black Bear are often observed, most likely from mid- to late- summer.

As you paddle, your local guide, who lives full time in Alaska, will provide insight into this remarkable ecosystem and point out sea cucumbers, sea anemones, sea stars (starfish), and various types of mollusks. Now's the time to bring that camera out of hiding to capture some exceptional images. Your guides will be happy to take photos of you for some lasting memories.

In deeper water, curious Stellar sea lions and seals may stop by to check you out. With a Silver salmon spawning stream and a King salmon hatchery nearby, resident orcas of the inside passage often follow and feed on schools of salmon throughout the summer. Humpback whales and porpoises often make appearances as well. While the focus of this tour is on kayaking, we cant deny the excitement of wildlife encounters!

Just before your return to Ketchikan, you will be treated to a delightful array of delicious snacks including smoked salmon, crackers, hummus, and veggies. Quench your thirst with hot chocolate, sparkling water, or Alaskan beer. Some people say its the best part of the tour.

Enjoy the serenity of this pristine wilderness.