Sea Kayaking & Zodiac Tours with Ketchikan Kayak Company

Ketchikan, Alaska stands as one of the most dynamic gateways to the Inside Passage's rugged coastline and rich marine life. With its fjords, islands, and dense Tongass National Forest stretching inland, it’s ideal for those eager to connect to the wild coastal waters and untamed trails. The Ketchikan Kayak Company offers an array of multi-modal adventures centered on water and forest immersion — from kayak eco-tours to high-speed Zodiac boat rides — providing visitors a hands-on, intimate way to experience southeastern Alaska’s raw beauty.

Their kayak tours often begin under the ever-present Alaskan drizzle, with guides equipping guests in durable rain gear to stay comfortable. Paddle through serene bays and narrow channels flanked by old-growth forests, where bald eagles soar overhead, salmon leap upstream, and sea lions bark from rocky outcrops. The company’s Zodiac Fast Boat excursions ramp up the pace, allowing thrill seekers to captain nimble crafts through archipelagos, catching glimpses of whales spouting, cascading waterfalls, and starfish clinging to tide pools.

In addition to paddling, the company offers a unique combination of e-bike and hiking tours through sections of the Tongass National Forest, including the scenic Lunch Creek Trail. These journeys balance physical activity with moments to absorb local ecology, accompanied by satisfying snacks like smoked salmon and hummus.

What sets Ketchikan Kayak Company apart isn’t just the variety of tours but the quality of experience: small groups, expert guides, abundant wildlife sightings, and a hospitable lodge offering thoughtful refreshments post-journey. It’s an authentic alternative to crowded cruise ship stops, encouraging visitors to savor Alaska’s coastal wilderness on their own terms. Whether renting kayaks for a day or booking multi-day sea adventures, this outfitter anchors Ketchikan’s outdoor scene with personalized service and deep regional knowledge.