Valdez is a standout destination for canoe and kayak experiences, thanks to its dramatic glaciers, protected waters, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle through calm bays or an exhilarating journey among floating icebergs, Valdez offers options that suit every interest. We’re particularly fond of the Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour for its jaw-dropping scenery and wildlife sightings, but all the tours listed deliver something special. If you’re ready to explore Alaska’s stunning coastal waters, read on for a detailed look at the top four kayak experiences in Valdez.
Quick Overview
Our list features guided kayak tours ranging from 3 hours to full-day adventures. Some tours, like the Duck Flats Sea Kayak Tour, focus on calm, protected waters and birdwatching, perfect for beginners. Others, such as the Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour, take you into the heart of icebergs and wildlife-rich areas. For those interested in combining scenic boat rides with paddling, the Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride offers a fantastic combination. Next, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour
Starting at the top of our list, the Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour is a standout for its spectacular scenery and wildlife encounters. Priced at $345 per person, this 9-hour adventure includes a boat ride to the glacier, followed by a guided paddle through floating icebergs in Columbia Bay. The tour is perfect for those wanting a deep, immersive experience, with plenty of opportunities to see seals, sea otters, and possibly whales along the way.
What makes this trip special is the combination of glacier views and wildlife spotting. The boat ride to Columbia Glacier is scenic and offers a good chance to watch marine mammals in their natural habitat. Once on the water, you’ll explore the beaches and icebergs that calve from the glacier, getting up close to the icy formations. The guide will share insights into the glacier’s formation and regional ecology, making it both a visual and educational thrill.
Guests consistently praise the attention to safety and the expert guidance. The tour’s 5/5 rating reflects its popularity among travelers seeking an authentic Arctic experience. Keep in mind, this is a full-day commitment, but it’s well worth the time for the jaw-dropping views and wildlife encounters.
Bottom line: If you want to see Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife in one tour, this is the premier choice. Expect an unforgettable day with plenty of photo ops.
2. Valdez: Gold Creek Coastal Journey Kayak Tour
For a more laid-back yet equally rich experience, the Gold Creek Coastal Journey Kayak Tour offers a 6-hour paddle along the coast to Gold Creek State Park. Priced at $129 per person, this guided trip is ideal for those interested in combining kayaking with the chance to hike in pristine rain forests. The tour includes a picnic lunch on a secluded beach, giving you time to soak in the quiet beauty of this remote area.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to spot black bears and jumping salmon during the paddle, as well as observe seals, sea lions, and sea otters in Port Valdez. Your guide will share stories about the area’s flora and fauna, giving context to your surroundings. The paddle is generally gentle, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed day on the water.
Guests love how the tour combines water, land, and wildlife in a single day. The hike after the paddle offers a chance to stretch your legs and see more of Valdez’s lush landscapes. The price is fair considering the included picnic lunch and personalized guide service.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to nature lovers who want a multi-faceted experience—paddling, wildlife viewing, and forest hiking—without a packed schedule.
$129 per person
3. Valdez: Duck Flats Sea Kayak Tour
If you’re looking for a shorter, more accessible trip, the Duck Flats Sea Kayak Tour offers a 3-hour paddle through calm, protected waters. At $89 per person, it’s an affordable way to get a taste of Valdez’s shoreline wildlife. The tour is particularly suitable for beginners or families, since the waters are gentle and easy to navigate.
During this tour, you’ll look for nesting bald eagles, harbor seals, and feeding sea otters. The guide shares insights into Valdez’s local history and points out interesting features along the way. Rain gear, rubber boots, and gloves are provided, ensuring you stay comfortable even in less-than-perfect weather.
What makes this trip notable is its focus on birding and marine mammals in a peaceful setting. While it doesn’t reach the glaciers or remote beaches of the longer tours, it provides a relaxing day with plenty of wildlife sightings. Reviewers mention that the guide’s knowledge about the area’s ecology enhances the experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those short on time or new to kayaking, Duck Flats provides a chance to observe local birds and seals in calm waters.
4. Valdez: Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride
Last on our list, the Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride combines a scenic boat ride with a kayaking adventure. At $265 per person, this 8-hour trip starts with a motor boat transfer across Shoup Bay, where you’ll begin your paddle among towering cliffs and glacier ice.
What stands out here is the balance between scenic boat travel and paddling. The boat ride offers incredible views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, setting the stage for your kayak exploration. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a short walk on the beach and have time to relax while taking in the marvelous glacier scenery.
The tour is best suited for those who want a combination experience—a bit of motorized comfort paired with active paddling. The guide points out features like icebergs calving into the bay and explains the area’s geology. Reviewers appreciate the stunning views and the variety of activities, making it a full-day adventure.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenic boat rides and kayaking, especially if they enjoy glacier landscapes but prefer a more relaxed pace.
$265 per person
How to Choose the Right Kayak Experience in Valdez
When picking between these tours, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For glaciers and wildlife, the Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Tour offers the most dramatic scenery and wildlife encounters. If you prefer a gentler, more relaxed trip with opportunities to hike and explore forests, the Gold Creek Coastal Journey is a good pick. For a quick, family-friendly outing, the Duck Flats Tour provides a taste of local birdlife and marine mammals. And if you want a full-day experience that combines scenery and activity, the Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour offers an excellent balance.
Booking early is advisable, especially in summer months when demand peaks. Each tour offers something unique—so choose based on what kind of adventure you’re craving.
Final Thoughts
Valdez’s mix of glacier views, abundant wildlife, and protected waters makes it a top destination for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. Whether you seek a full-day glacier expedition or a peaceful, wildlife-focused paddle, there’s a tour to match your style. For the ultimate experience, the Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour remains our top pick for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters.
To ensure you don’t miss out, consider booking your favorite tour well in advance. With so many options, your time in Valdez will be filled with memorable moments on the water, surrounded by some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery.