Orca Cove Sea Kayaking

Orca Cove Sea Kayaking provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the untamed beauty of southeastern Alaska. Gliding through the tranquil waters, guests will witness the lush, old-growth rainforests that line the shoreline, catching glimpses of the diverse wildlife that call this region home. The tour culminates with a delectable spread of local delicacies, inviting visitors to savor the flavors of the Alaskan wilderness. While the activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness, it operates in all weather conditions, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors, from cruise ship passengers to local explorers. There’s more to this adventure than meets the eye…

Key Points

• Orca Cove Sea Kayaking offers a guided kayaking adventure in the wilderness areas near Ketchikan, showcasing the region’s abundant wildlife and old-growth rainforests.
• The tour includes a boat ride to the Orcas Cove launch point, where guests embark on the kayaking experience along the shoreline.
• Participants will be provided with necessary equipment, such as waterproof jackets, spray skirts, and dry bags for cameras, as well as a snack of local delicacies.
• The tour is suitable for guests with a moderate level of physical fitness, but not recommended for those with back problems, limited upper body strength, or prone to seasickness.
• The meeting point is easily accessible near the Visitors Center and Sockeye Sams Store, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Overview of the Experience

The Orca Cove sea kayaking tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness areas near Ketchikan and witness the abundant wildlife and lush old-growth rainforests of southeastern Alaska.

After a short boat ride to the Orcas Cove launch point, guests embark on a guided kayaking adventure along the shoreline, keeping an eye out for bears, whales, and eagles.

The tour culminates with a delightful snack of local smoked salmon, dips, hummus, crackers, and vegetables, accompanied by hot and cold beverages.

With the provision of waterproof jackets, spray skirts, and drybags for cameras, guests can comfortably and safely enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this remote Alaskan region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a variety of local delicacies, such as smoked salmon, dips, hummus, crackers, and vegetables, as well as hot and cold beverages.

Plus, guests are provided with professional guides, waterproof jackets, spray skirts, pogies, and dry bags for their cameras.

The exclusions are:

1. Alcoholic beverages
2. Gratuities
3. Rain pants
4. Anything not explicitly mentioned as included.

Guests are expected to wear quick-dry shorts, pants, or their own rain pants.

Meeting Point and Directions

Guests meet at the shelter on the dock at Berth 3, located next to the Visitors Information – Restrooms building and Sockeye Sams Store. The walk takes approximately 2-6 minutes depending on the pier.

The meeting location is easily accessible, with the following directions:

Direction	Time
From Visitors Center	2 minutes
From Sockeye Sams Store	3 minutes
From Berth 2	6 minutes

This central location ensures a convenient starting point for the Orca Cove Sea Kayaking adventure. Guests will find the meeting spot well-marked and easy to identify prior to the tour’s departure.

Confirmation and Accessibility

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time when booking.

Sea kayaking requires a moderate level of physical activity and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, limited upper body strength, or a tendency for seasickness.

The tour has a maximum of 6 people per booking and operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately.

The tour is near public transportation.

It isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Alcoholic beverages and gratuities are excluded.

Cruise Ship Passengers Details

Cruise ship passengers booking the Orca Cove Sea Kayaking tour must provide specific details at the time of reservation, including the name of their cruise ship, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time.

This information is essential to ensure the tour operates seamlessly and that guests return to their ship on time. The tour company requires this information to coordinate with the cruise lines and avoid any scheduling conflicts or delays.

Physical Requirements

Sea kayaking in Orcas Cove requires a moderate level of physical activity and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.

Participants should have a good level of upper body strength and be able to tolerate spending extended periods in a kayak, as the tour involves paddling along the shoreline for several hours.

The activity isn’t suitable for:

1. Individuals with back problems or limited upper body strength.
2. Those prone to seasickness, as the kayaking can involve exposure to waves and choppy waters.
3. Pregnant travelers, due to the physical demands of the activity.
4. Guests with a low level of physical fitness, as the tour can be strenuous.

Weather and Transportation

The Orca Cove sea kayaking tour operates in all weather conditions, so guests should dress appropriately for the elements.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for both cruise ship passengers and local visitors.

Cruise ship passengers must provide their ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time at the time of booking. This ensures the tour can accommodate their schedule.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with limited mobility may want to consider other options.

Despite the weather or transportation needs, the Orca Cove sea kayaking experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning wilderness of southeastern Alaska.

Additional Information

Guests must have a moderate physical fitness level to participate in the sea kayaking tour, as it requires a moderate level of physical activity. Those with back problems, limited upper body strength, or a tendency for seasickness may want to reconsider the activity.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 people per booking, ensuring a personalized experience. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, so appropriate attire is recommended.

Cruise ship passengers must provide ship name, docking time, disembarkation time, and re-boarding time at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers.

The meeting point is located near public transportation, approximately 2-6 minutes from the dock.

Alcoholic beverages and gratuities aren’t included in the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Type of Kayak?

Yes, guests can request a specific type of kayak. The tour guides typically accommodate individual preferences and needs, subject to availability. Guests should communicate their kayak preferences when making the booking to ensure their desired experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is typically a minimum age requirement for participants in kayaking tours, often around 12-16 years old. This helps ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests by matching their skills and abilities to the activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While guests can generally bring their own food and drinks on tours, it’s best to check with the tour operator first. Some may prefer to provide the included snacks and beverages to ensure a consistent experience for all participants.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras and capture the stunning scenery and wildlife during the tour. The tour guides provide dry bags to protect guests’ cameras and other valuables while on the water.

How Much Time Is Typically Spent Kayaking Versus Exploring on Foot?

The tour typically involves 2-3 hours of kayaking along the shoreline, allowing ample time to spot wildlife and explore the old growth rainforest. Only a short time is spent exploring on foot near the launch point.

Recap

Orca Cove Sea Kayaking offers a unique opportunity to explore the wilderness of southeastern Alaska.

Guests embark on a guided adventure through lush old-growth rainforests, witnessing abundant wildlife.

The tour culminates with a snack of local delicacies.

While the activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness, it operates in all weather conditions, making it accessible to both cruise ship passengers and local visitors.