Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

Exploring Ketchikan’s Wilderness by Sea Kayak: Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and looking for an adventure that gets you close to Alaska’s iconic wildlife and stunning scenery, this 3.5-hour guided sea kayaking tour around Eagle Island might just be the highlight of your trip. Priced at $115 per person, it offers a relaxed yet immersive way to experience the Tongass National Forest’s natural beauty without the need for prior kayaking experience. Guides provide all necessary equipment, safety briefings, and transport, making it an accessible option for families, beginners, and seasoned paddlers alike.

What we really love about this tour is how gentle and protected the waters of Clover Pass are, creating a perfect environment for wildlife sightings and calm paddling. The chance to see bald eagles soaring, seals swimming nearby, and salmon leaping makes it a nature lover’s dream. Plus, the small group setting often means more personalized attention from guides who know where to find the best wildlife spots.

A potential consideration is the location’s proximity to busy marine traffic, which some reviews mention might limit sightings of larger marine mammals like whales. Also, because the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could mean rescheduling or a refund, so checking the forecast on your travel day is wise.

This tour suits travelers who want a hands-on experience with Alaska’s wilderness, enjoy wildlife spotting, and appreciate a relaxed pace. Families with children over 8, or anyone comfortable with moderate physical activity, will find it especially rewarding. If you’re craving a close-up encounter with nature that balances adventure with comfort, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see eagles, seals, salmon, and maybe even whales or orcas.
• Suitable for Beginners: Easy paddling in calm waters makes it accessible for novices and families.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, safety instruction, and transport are provided.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and attentive guide.
• Flexible & Safe: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations and a backup plan.
• Authentic Nature: A peaceful paddle around Eagle Island offers a genuine glimpse of Alaska’s wilderness.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

When we think about a shore excursion in Ketchikan, this kayaking tour stands out because it combines accessible adventure with the chance to see Alaska’s famous wildlife in its natural habitat. Starting with a van transfer from the cruise port, you’ll head to the Clover Pass area, a protected inlet that offers calm waters perfect for a relaxing paddle. Guides like Katie or Gaby, who get glowing reviews, are known for their friendliness and wealth of natural knowledge, often making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Southeast Exposure Outdoor Adventure Center

Your journey begins here, where you’ll be greeted and introduced to your tandem kayak. The safety briefing is thorough, covering paddling techniques, emergency procedures, and gear use. This initial step is especially important if you’re new to kayaking, and guides aim to build your confidence early on. The waterfront setting is scenic, with the forested hills of Tongass in the backdrop, setting the tone for a peaceful outing.

Stop 2: Paddle to Eagle Island

Once on the water, the gentle currents of Clover Pass make for easy paddling, even for beginners. As you follow your guide around Eagle Island, you’ll enjoy close-up views of sea lions lounging on rocks, salmon jumping out of the water, and bald eagles nesting high above. Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing humpback whales or orcas, though these sightings are less predictable. The protected waters offer a safe environment, but the nearby boat traffic mentioned by some reviews can sometimes be a factor.

Wildlife Watching and Scenery

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the abundance of wildlife sightings. Reviewers describe seeing a variety of eagles—some with juveniles that are younger and less wary—seal lions, and seals swimming close to the kayaks. Several mention the sightings of starfish and sea cucumbers on the shoreline, adding an extra layer of fascination for families and nature enthusiasts.

Guides are lauded for their expert knowledge and friendly demeanor. They’re quick to point out birds’ nests, share interesting facts about local flora and fauna, and ensure everyone feels comfortable on the water, including non-swimmers or those a bit nervous about paddling. For example, one reviewer said, “Katie was so sweet and helpful. We had the best time even though it was raining and cold.”

What to Expect

The average physical demand is moderate, suitable for most travelers with a basic level of fitness. The tour is designed to provide a relaxing experience rather than a strenuous workout. The kayaks are tandem and equipped with features like rudders, which make maneuvering easier, as some reviewers noted.

Post-paddle, you’ll return to the launch site where transport will take you back to the cruise port. The entire experience is designed to be worry-free, with timely pickups and a clear cancellation policy that offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Value of This Tour

At $115, this kayaking adventure might seem like a premium experience, but it offers excellent value. You get all necessary equipment, professional guiding, a scenic paddle in protected waters, and the chance to see impressive wildlife. What sets it apart is the combination of ease and authenticity—it’s designed to give you a genuine taste of Alaska’s wilderness without requiring advanced paddling skills or strenuous effort.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing guides to personalize the tour and respond to wildlife sightings more effectively. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides made the tour not only fun but also informative, turning a boat trip into a mini wildlife lecture.

Considerations & Tips

• Book early—most reviewers booked 70 days in advance, indicating popularity.
• Dress appropriately for the weather—layers are advisable, as it can feel chilly on the water, especially in rain.
• Bring your camera—wildlife sightings are unpredictable but spectacular.
• Don’t worry about experience; guides focus on safety and fun for everyone.
• Check the weather forecast to ensure the best chance for wildlife sightings and pleasant paddling conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families with children over 8, couples seeking a peaceful outdoor activity, or solo travelers wanting to connect with nature. If you’re someone who enjoys wildlife watching and light physical activities in beautiful settings, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate small-group intimacy and personalized guiding.

However, if you’re looking for large marine mammal sightings like whales, be aware that sightings are not guaranteed. The focus here is on birdlife, seals, and the scenic experience, making it ideal for those who value quiet, scenic paddles and close encounters with nature rather than a high-adrenaline adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners or non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners, with safety briefings, tandem kayaks, and calm waters. Non-swimmers can participate comfortably, especially with the guide’s assistance.

What should I wear during the tour?
Dress in layers suitable for outdoor water activities. Waterproof jackets, hats, and quick-drying clothes are recommended, as Alaska weather can change unexpectedly.

How long do we paddle during the tour?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, and paddling time. Most of the time is spent on the water, paddling around Eagle Island.

Will I see whales during this trip?
While some reviews mention whale sightings, they are not guaranteed. The focus is on eagles, seals, and salmon, but larger whales like humpbacks or orcas are possible in the area.

What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the Eagle Island Sea Kayaking tour in Ketchikan means opting for an adventure that combines natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and relaxed paddling in protected waters. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who cherish up-close wildlife viewing and outdoor experiences that don’t require advanced skills. Guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, making it a delightful way to connect with Alaska’s wilderness.

With its warm reviews and high satisfaction ratings, this tour offers genuine value for anyone eager to see bald eagles soaring, seals splashing, and salmon leaping—all from the peaceful vantage point of a kayak. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo explorer, it’s a memorable way to experience Ketchikan’s wild side — in a safe, comfortable, and authentic setting.

Note: When booking, consider the timing, weather, and your comfort level. Reserve early to secure a spot, and come prepared for a day of wildlife, scenic views, and gentle paddling that will likely become one of your favorite Alaska memories.