Inside Passage Sea Kayaking from Skagway

If you’re dreaming of exploring Alaska’s pristine coastlines, this Inside Passage Sea Kayaking tour from Skagway offers a chance to paddle through towering fjords and spot marine wildlife, all with the backdrop of some of the most dramatic scenery in the state. For around $276 per person and lasting about 6.5 hours, this trip blends active adventure with relaxing moments, like a beachside picnic and scenic ferry ride. You’ll paddle in a two-person kayak, with guides sharing their extensive knowledge about local wildlife and geography—making it perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and education.

What we find most appealing is the opportunity to see bald eagles, whales, and seals in their natural environment—an experience that’s often a highlight for nature lovers. Plus, the ferry ride between Skagway and Haines offers a scenic water journey through Lynn Fjord that’s well worth the price of the trip. On the downside, weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key, especially since ocean conditions could cause a switch to freshwater kayaking at Chilkoot Lake. This adventure suits active travelers who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates expert guides, and wants a memorable way to explore Alaska’s coastline away from crowds, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suitable for travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities, can handle the physical demands, and are eager to learn about the local environment from knowledgeable naturalists.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience: Paddle in a scenic fjord, often encountering eagles, marine mammals, and other wildlife.
• Scenic ferry ride: The high-speed catamaran trip between Skagway and Haines adds a scenic water journey to the day.
• Expert guides: Naturalists share their knowledge, enriching the experience with insights into local wildlife and geography.
• All equipment provided: Kayaks, PFDs, spray skirts, and rain gear are included, making it a worry-free adventure.
• Flexible locations: Weather considerations might switch the activity to Chilkoot Lake for a freshwater experience.
• Value for money: Combining kayaking, transportation, and a picnic lunch offers good overall value for this kind of guided outdoor activity.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with a short walk from the ferry pier in Skagway, where your two-person kayak will be waiting on the beach. From there, you’ll meet your guides, who are not just instructors but naturalists eager to share their knowledge. The equipment setup includes paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs), spray skirts, and even rubber boots if needed—important for keeping you dry and comfortable.

The initial safety briefing covers basic paddling techniques, safety procedures, and an overview of wildlife to watch for. This is a crucial step, especially for those new to kayaking, as it sets the tone for a safe and enjoyable experience. The guides’ professionalism and patience are frequently praised, making novices feel confident despite the seaworthiness of the activity.

The Kayaking Experience

Once on the water, you’ll paddle in pairs, navigating the calm waters of the fjord, with the possibility of encountering bald eagles soaring overhead, seals sunbathing on rocks, or even whales breaching in the distance. The guides’ extensive knowledge means they’re excellent at pointing out wildlife, explaining their habits, and answering questions along the way.

The typical paddle duration is about two hours, during which the natural beauty of Southeast Alaska is on full display. The guides often take a midway break at a remote beach, allowing you to stretch, take photos, or just soak in the surroundings. This pause also provides a perfect opportunity for a picnic lunch—a highlight of the trip—offering a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery without the rush.

Wildlife Watching and Naturalist Insights

Many travelers, including those who reviewed this tour, mention the abundance of wildlife sightings. Commonly seen are bald eagles, which are almost always perched nearby, and sea lions or seals lounging on rocks or swimming close to the kayaks. Some lucky guests have reported dall porpoise and humpback whales during their paddle, though sightings are not guaranteed. As one reviewer put it, “Your guide is an expert naturalist and will share their extensive knowledge about the fjord, marine wildlife and local geography,” which adds significant value to the experience.

The naturalist guides enhance the trip by sharing stories about the ecology and history of the area, making the excursion both educational and inspiring. Their insights turn a simple paddle into a meaningful exploration of Alaska’s coastal ecosystem.

The Scenic Ferry Ride

After kayaking, your journey continues aboard a high-speed catamaran for the round-trip between Skagway and Haines. The 17-mile Lynn Fjord crossing offers stunning views of rugged mountains, waterfalls, and glacier-carved landscapes. This part of the trip is often described as a highlight, with many guests noting the breathtaking scenery from the water.

The ferry ride is a great way to see more of the coast without additional effort, and it complements the active kayaking portion by giving you a chance to relax and take in the views. Guests have commented on how the ferry ride adds “scenic water travel to the day,” making this tour feel well-rounded and immersive.

Weather Considerations and Backup Plans

Alaska’s weather can be capricious, and ocean conditions might sometimes prevent kayaking on the open sea. The tour operators are transparent about this possibility, and in such cases, they switch the activity to Chilkoot Lake, a scenic freshwater lake surrounded by waterfalls and salmon spawning grounds. This alternative still offers beautiful mountain views and wildlife opportunities, but it’s worth noting that the ocean experience is what many travelers are hoping for.

The Lunch and Overall Value

The picnic lunch on the beach is often described as simple but satisfying—fresh sandwiches, snacks, or local treats, all enjoyed with an unbeatable view. Since lunch is included, you don’t need to worry about packing food, making this a convenient option for a full-day adventure.

Considering the price of $276, this experience offers a blend of active outdoor fun, scenic cruising, and wildlife viewing that many find to be excellent value. It’s a package that combines transportation, guided interpretation, equipment, and a meal—a good deal for those wanting more than just a boat ride or a casual kayak.

This trip appeals most to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with physical exertion. The guides’ expertise and the chance to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife make it a great choice for nature enthusiasts who want to learn while they explore. It’s suitable for families with children aged 8 and up who are physically fit, though travelers over 275 pounds or taller than 68 inches may find the kayaks uncomfortable.

This tour is less ideal if your primary goal is luxury or comfort—there’s some physical effort involved, and the weather can be unpredictable. But if you’re eager for an authentic outdoor adventure that gets you close to Alaska’s wild coast, this will certainly deliver.

The Inside Passage Sea Kayaking tour from Skagway offers a compelling mix of active exploration, scenic water travel, and wildlife encounters. Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, you’ll paddle past some of Alaska’s most stunning landscapes, with chances to see eagles, seals, and whales along the way. The inclusion of the ferry ride enhances the day’s scenic appeal, making it a well-rounded experience that’s both invigorating and relaxing.

While weather is always a consideration, the flexibility to switch to a freshwater location ensures that your adventure isn’t entirely lost if conditions aren’t perfect. The value for money lies in the combination of guided instruction, transportation, wildlife viewing, and a picnic lunch—all in a single day.

This tour is best suited for active travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience, especially those comfortable with physical activity and eager to learn about the local environment. If you cherish the idea of paddling in pristine waters surrounded by mountains and wildlife, and don’t mind some unpredictability, this is likely to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Skagway.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
All activities, including kayaking, transportation via ferry, and a picnic lunch, are included. Equipment like paddles, PFDs, spray skirts, and rain gear are provided.

How long is the actual kayaking?
The kayaking portion lasts around 2 hours, with time built in for safety briefings and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years old. Kids should be comfortable with outdoor physical activities.

What happens if ocean conditions are unsafe?
If weather or sea conditions aren’t suitable, the guides will move the activity to Chilkoot Lake, which offers a scenic freshwater alternative.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires a good level of physical fitness, as paddling and moving on uneven terrain demand some stamina. Guests over 275 pounds or taller than 68 inches may find kayaks uncomfortable.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, wildlife sightings depend on nature. However, guides are skilled at spotting and explaining wildlife and natural features.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, provided weather conditions allow the tour to operate.

Overall, the Inside Passage Sea Kayaking tour from Skagway blends adventure, education, and scenery into a memorable day out. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a hands-on experience of Alaska’s breathtaking coastline.