A short boat hop from downtown Ketchikan leads to sheltered coves, rainforest shorelines and close-up paddling among islands. This small-group sea kayak tour blends wildlife searching with local smoked salmon and expert guides — perfect for a focused Alaskan day on the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bow of the 57' catamaran slices out of Ketchikan harbor and within twenty minutes the town's roofs are a memory; wind and water rearrange the world. You step from the mothership into a sea kayak and the island shoreline leans in — rainforest dripping to rocky beaches, spruce roots clinging to the intertidal band. Currents nudge your blade, gulls eye you like small boats passing through a living map.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to paddle for 90–110 minutes, sit for extended periods, and climb small ladders and stairs.
Wildlife
History
This coastline lies within the traditional territory of Tlingit communities and later became central to commercial fishing and salmon processing that shaped modern Ketchikan.
Conservation
The intertidal zones and nearshore habitats are sensitive; maintain distance from wildlife, avoid landing on vegetated shorelines, and pack out all waste to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Orca Cove Sea Kayaking today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers and waterproof outerwear
Weather can change quickly; bring a waterproof shell and synthetic base layers — guides provide waterproof bibs and pogies but a warm mid-layer is essential.
Bring motion-sickness medication if prone
The initial fast-boat transfer and open sections can be choppy; take anti-nausea meds before boarding if you get seasick.
Protect electronics in a drybag
Phones and cameras should be in waterproof cases or drybags—guides supply communal drybags but personal protection is recommended for valuables.
Coordinate cruise-ship timing carefully
If arriving by cruise, provide ship name and docking times at booking and allow buffer time for re-boarding after the tour.
Waterproof shell (jacket)
Blocks spray and rain during the boat transfer and paddling.
Synthetic mid-layer (fleece)
Retains warmth when wet and is breathable for active paddling.
Motion-sickness medication
Useful for guests susceptible to rolling or choppy conditions on the transfer boat.
Non-slip water shoes
Protect feet when launching from docks and landing on rocky shorelines.