Explore the scenic waters of Puget Sound with a guided kayak tour in Elliott Bay. Enjoy stunning city views, wildlife sightings, and the tranquil beauty of Seattle's waterfront from a unique perspective. Perfect for adventurers of all skill levels!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; basic paddling strength and balance needed
Wildlife
History
Puget Sound has a rich maritime history, with Seattle historically serving as a major port and fishing hub since the 19th century.
Conservation
Alki Kayak Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on local wildlife and water quality during all tours.
Alki Kayak Tours
Explore the scenic waters of Puget Sound with a guided kayak tour in Elliott Bay. Enjoy stunning city views, wildlife sightings, and the tranquil beauty of Seattle's waterfront from a unique perspective. Perfect for adventurers of all skill levels!
Alki Kayak Tours is a Seattle-based paddle sports provider offering guided sea kayak tours, hourly and full-day sit-on-top kayak rentals, stand up paddleboard (SUP) introductions, and specialized safety training. Operating on Elliott Bay and launching popular outings such as the Alki Lighthouse Sea Kayak Tour and Seattle Sunset Sea Kayak Tour, the company focuses on accessible experiences for a wide range of paddlers.
Guided options include the Seattle Elliott Bay Sea Kayak Tour—ideal for skyline and Olympic Mountain views—and daily Alki Lighthouse departures from Seacrest Boathouse. Rental offerings feature single and double sit-on-top kayaks with transparent pricing: $26 per hour, $90 for a full day, and $65 for each additional rental day. Introductory classes cover core paddling technique and safety for those new to sea kayaking and stand up paddle boarding; the Intro to SUP class aligns with ACA-style instruction and emphasizes gear, dressing, and paddle mechanics.
Safety and preparedness are prioritized through limited-size courses like Sea Kayaking Rescue and Recovery, which focus on bracing and re-entry techniques in cold-water conditions. The business also supports local advocacy, hosting and promoting events such as Rally for the River—an advocacy paddle to protect salmon and Southern Resident orcas.
Alki Kayak Tours attracts both visitors and locals seeking reliable rental rates, knowledgeable guides, and focused instruction. The combination of guided Elliott Bay tours, flexible rental options, and essential safety training makes it a practical choice for paddlers exploring Seattle’s waterfront.
Tours Offered
10
Guided tours and rentals available
Hourly Rate
$26 / hr
Transparent rental pricing
Day Rate
$90 / day
Full-day rental or tour rate
Advocacy Event
Aug 7
Rally for the River paddle
Reserve guided tours, secure hourly rentals, or sign up for rescue and SUP classes — limited spots available for personalized instruction.
Dress in Layers
Weather can change unexpectedly on the water, so wear moisture-wicking layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
Bring Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses to protect against UV rays, especially during summer trips.
Stay Hydrated
Carry enough water for the duration of your paddle, particularly on warm days.
Listen to the Guide
Pay attention to safety instructions and paddling tips provided by the experienced guides for a safe experience.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A properly fitting PFD is required for safety during the tour.
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather.
spring|fall|winter
Sunscreen
Protects against UV rays during sunny days on the water.
summer
Hat and Sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare for better visibility.
summer