Sitka, Alaska, offers some of the most captivating water-based experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Its sheltered bays, abundant marine wildlife, and rugged shoreline make kayaking and canoeing particularly rewarding here. Whether you want to paddle past sea otters and eagles or combine your trip with whale watching, Sitka’s options deliver authentic, close-up nature encounters. We’re especially fond of the Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure — a flexible, friendly tour that consistently earns rave reviews for its knowledgeable guides and wildlife sightings, like sea lions and bald eagles. For those wanting a combination of scenery and wildlife, the Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure is a standout, offering a scenic cruise plus paddle time around pristine islands. If you prefer a more comprehensive tour, the Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure combines a boat cruise with a kayaking excursion, perfect for families or first-timers. And for travelers with a full day to spare, the Sitka Boat Tours offers whale watching, hot springs, and full-day adventures on a fishing yacht.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each experience, helping you choose the perfect way to explore Sitka from the water.
1. Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure
At number 1, the Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure impresses with its reputation for flexibility and personalized experiences. It’s a 2-hour tour that adapts to your group’s abilities and the weather conditions, starting from an ideal launch site that gives you the best chances to see wildlife. The guides are known for their friendly, professional approach and their knowledge of local marine life. Many travelers have seen sea lions, starfish, and bald eagles, with whales occasionally making an appearance — all without the crowds of larger tours. Equipment is provided to keep you dry, but a raincoat is recommended just in case.
This tour is a great choice for first-time paddlers and seasoned kayakers alike. The small group size, often just four people, enhances the feeling of immersion and personal attention. Reviewers highlight how helpful and approachable the guides are, with one mentioning, “Avery was a great tour guide, fun to talk to, and it was nice having only 4 in our group.” The flexible scheduling and local expertise make this a dependable choice for couples and families wanting a safe, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: The Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure offers excellent value with intimate group sizes, wildlife sightings, and tailored pacing — perfect for those wanting a true taste of Sitka’s waters without breaking the bank.
2. Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure
Next on our list is the Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure, which combines a scenic cruise with a guided kayak tour around remote, pristine islands. Priced at $249 per person, this 3-hour experience is ideal for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing and paddling. It begins with a specially built vessel that takes you to a private island in the wilderness, where you then launch into a fully guided 90-minute kayak tour exploring the clear waters and abundant marine life.
One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is the chance to see eagles, sea otters, and porpoises, with guides providing insights into the natural history and ecology of the area. After paddling, you’ll enjoy a light snack and share stories of your adventure before reboarding the boat for a sightseeing cruise back to the pier. The combination of being on the water, immersed in nature, and then relaxing with a scenic cruise makes this tour stand out.
Guests appreciate the professionalism of the guides and the chance to explore less-visited parts of Alaska. With only three reviews, the high ratings reflect strong satisfaction for its unique blend of adventure and scenery. The tour is well-suited for active travelers who want a bit of everything in one day.
Bottom Line: For around $249, the Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure offers a rich, multi-layered day of wildlife viewing, island paddling, and scenic cruising — ideal for those who want a comprehensive Sitka water experience.
3. Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure
Ranking third is the Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure, a 3-hour tour that pairs a boat cruise with a hands-on kayak outing. Priced at $219 per person, it’s a solid choice for travelers interested in seeing Sitka’s wildlife from different perspectives. The journey begins aboard a custom-built vessel that takes you out onto Sitka Sound, where you may spot eagles, whales, and possibly bears along the shoreline. The captain and guides are experienced naturalists, making the boat portion both educational and scenic.
Once at a floating base camp, you’ll receive instructions and equipment for your two-person kayaks, which are stable and easy to handle — perfect for beginners or families. The guides will lead the group through protected bays and inlets, pointing out fascinating intertidal creatures and spotting wildlife like harbor seals and black-tailed deer. The tour concludes with a hearty snack, including clam chowder and hot cider, providing a warm finish after your paddle.
Reviewers mention how friendly and professional the guides are, with some noting it was their favorite part of their trip. The combination of a boat cruise and kayaking makes it well-rounded for those who want both scenic views and hands-on wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: The Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure offers a great balance of boat and paddling, especially suited for families and those new to kayaking who want a full day of wildlife and scenery.
4. Sitka Boat Tours: whale watching, hot springs, kayaking
Finally, for those with a full day and a larger budget, the Sitka Boat Tours takes you aboard a 47-foot yacht, the Karmon Dee, with Captain Andrew. This multi-day experience costs $675 per person and is designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive adventure. It includes whale watching, visits to hot springs, and kayaking along extraordinary coastlines. The tour promises unforgettable mountain vistas, marine wildlife, and excellent seafood.
This experience isn’t just about paddling; it’s about enjoying SE Alaska’s coastal landscape. You’ll see whales surfacing, eagles soaring, and otters feasting — all narrated by a humorous and knowledgeable captain. It’s perfect for those who want to combine wildlife viewing, culture, and relaxation in one trip.
Since this is a full-day outing, it suits travelers with flexible schedules and adventurous spirits. The reviews praise the captain’s storytelling and the long, awe-inspiring moments of wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: The Sitka Boat Tours is best for serious wildlife lovers and those wanting a luxurious, multi-activity day on the water. It’s a high-value experience but requires a significant time and budget commitment.
$675 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Sitka Water Adventure
When selecting from these options, consider your budget, time availability, and what kind of experience you desire. If you’re new to kayaking or short on time, the Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure is a wonderful, affordable introduction. For a mix of scenery and wildlife in a half-day, the Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure offers a superb combination. Want a comprehensive, family-friendly experience? The Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure balances boat and paddle with wildlife sightings and warm snacks. If you have the whole day and want to splurge, the Sitka Boat Tours provides a multi-activity, immersive wildlife tour that’s hard to beat.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, as these tours are popular with visitors eager to explore Alaska’s stunning coast and wildlife.
Final Thoughts
Sitka’s canoe and kayak experiences showcase Alaska’s rugged beauty and abundant wildlife in ways that larger boats can’t match. Whether you prefer a quick paddle, a scenic island trip, or a full-day wildlife odyssey, there’s an option suited for you. For a relaxed, small-group adventure, the Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure is hard to beat. For those seeking a full immersion into the wilderness, the Sitka Boat Tours deliver a memorable day on the water. Whatever you choose, booking early will help ensure you get your preferred date and tour.
Enjoy your time exploring Sitka’s extraordinary waters — these experiences are some of the best ways to connect with Alaska’s natural world.