Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

Planning a day in Ketchikan and looking for an adventure that combines wildlife spotting, stunning scenery, and a bit of outdoor activity? The Eagle Island Sea Kayaking tour offers just that. With a perfect blend of gentle paddling and exciting wildlife sightings, this experience has earned a top rating of 5.0 from over 230 reviews, and it’s praised for its guides, scenery, and overall value.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s accessible for beginners, thanks to calm waters and safety briefings that make it suitable for families and those new to kayaking. Second, the wildlife sightings—from eagles and seals to salmon and possibly whales—are frequent and vivid. Third, the professional guides, especially Katie and Gaby, are often highlighted for their knowledge and friendliness. Yet, a potential consideration is the dependence on weather conditions, which can affect the experience and visibility of wildlife.

This tour is perfect if you enjoy light outdoor adventures, want a relaxed way to explore Alaska’s natural beauty, and are eager to see iconic wildlife close up. Since it’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness and is suitable for kids 8 and up, it’s a fantastic choice for families, wildlife lovers, and first-time kayakers alike.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Gentle waters and safety guidance make it suitable for beginners and families.
• Wildlife encounters: Expect eagles, seals, salmon, and possibly whales, with many reviewers noting close-up sightings.
• Expert guides: Guides like Katie and Gaby are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Great value: At $115, the tour provides a substantial experience, including equipment, transport, and wildlife viewing.
• Ideal timing: The approximately 3.5-hour duration fits well into port schedules, with a focus on safety and fun.
• Weather reliance: The experience’s quality can be affected by weather, so best on clear days.

The Experience Itself: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The adventure begins with a pick-up from Ketchikan, usually a short van ride to the Clover Pass area, about 25 minutes from the cruise port. The transfer is straightforward, and the small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention. Once at the waterfront, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing and get fitted with high-quality kayaking gear—including life jackets and, if necessary, kayak skirts to keep warm and dry.

The calm waters of Clover Pass make this an excellent setting for those new to kayaking. As you paddle out, your guide will lead the way toward Eagle Island, part of the Tongass National Forest. What’s special about this area? The protected nature of the inlet means you’re less likely to encounter rough waters, and it allows for extended wildlife viewing opportunities.

Many reviews mention how accessible and enjoyable this part of the trip is. One guest noted, “We quickly gained confidence paddling to Eagle Island,” emphasizing how the gentle currents and expert guidance make it easy for newcomers to feel comfortable. The scenery is quintessentially Alaskan: lush forests, rugged shoreline, and the peaceful sound of water.

Wildlife Sightings and Natural Highlights

This is the core of the trip. As you paddle around Eagle Island, expect to see bald eagles nesting high above, swooping down to hunt or perch on nearby trees. Several reviewers have called out the eagle sightings as a highlight, with one mentioning “a baby eagle in the tree” and others observing eagle nests and soaring adults. Seals are often seen swimming close to the kayaks, basking on rocks or popping up unexpectedly.

The tour is also a great chance to watch salmon jumping and leaping into the air—a spectacle that delights many first-time visitors. Some lucky paddlers have reported humpback whales and orcas in the area, although these sightings depend heavily on the day’s conditions and are not guaranteed.

A reviewer described their experience as “scary and exhilarating” when a humpback surfaced nearby, illustrating how close wildlife can sometimes come during these trips. Guides are attentive to wildlife behavior, ensuring safety while maximizing viewing opportunities.

Post-Paddle Comfort and Return

After about 1.5 to 2 hours on the water, you’ll head back to the launch site. The return paddle is just as leisurely as the outbound trip, often accompanied by more wildlife sightings or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The guides often take the time to explain the local flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of Alaska’s ecosystems.

Once back on land, you’ll hop into your van for the ride back to Ketchikan’s cruise terminal. The entire experience lasts roughly 3.5 hours, fitting nicely into a port day without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

Compared to other shore excursions, this kayaking tour packs a lot of value for $115. The price includes all necessary equipment, professional guides, and transportation, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs. Reviewers consistently mention the high quality of gear and friendly guides who are eager to share their knowledge.

The small group size—capped at 15—means you’ll get more personalized attention, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Several guests shared stories about guides like Katie and Gaby, who went above and beyond to ensure everyone was comfortable and engaged.

The timing is also a big plus. At around 3.5 hours, it’s long enough to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery without it taking up your entire day, leaving room for other adventures or relaxation.

Practical Considerations: Who Should Book This?

This tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness who want a relaxed outdoor activity. The minimum age is 8, making it family-friendly. You should be comfortable sitting in a kayak and paddling for about 1-2 hours, with some reviewers noting that the water currents are gentle but that paddling can be a workout—so a basic level of fitness helps.

It’s especially popular among wildlife enthusiasts, families, and first-time kayakers who want a safe, guided experience. However, it’s not ideal for travelers seeking high-adrenaline adventure or those who prefer more distant wildlife sightings, as the area is quite trafficked by boats and near populated areas.

Weather can influence the experience—clear days tend to produce the best wildlife sightings and calmer waters. If the weather is poor, the tour might be canceled for safety reasons, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Choice?

If you’re craving a serene, wildlife-filled escape that’s suitable for beginners and makes the most of Ketchikan’s natural beauty, this sea kayaking tour is a solid pick. The expert guides and peaceful setting ensure you’ll leave with a better appreciation of Alaska’s wilderness. Plus, the chance to see eagles, seals, and salmon up close makes it a memorable experience, especially for animal lovers.

The experience’s value lies in the combination of professional guidance, quality equipment, and authentic wildlife encounters. The relatively short duration makes it perfect for port days, and the small group size guarantees a personal, relaxed atmosphere.

This trip is ideal if you want a genuine outdoor experience without the adrenaline rush of more intense adventures. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate wildlife, stunning scenery, and guided tours where safety and comfort are prioritized.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all levels, with calm waters and safety briefings ensuring even those new to kayaking feel comfortable.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bald eagles, seals, salmon, and possibly whales like humpbacks and orcas, depending on the day.

How long does the kayaking last?
The paddling portion lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, within a total tour time of approximately 3.5 hours including pickup and return.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children aged 8 and above are welcome, provided they meet the physical fitness requirements.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a sense of adventure. The guides provide all necessary safety gear and equipment.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Eagle Island Sea Kayaking tour in Ketchikan offers a beautifully balanced outdoor experience, combining wildlife, scenery, and gentle paddling. It’s a superb choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed but memorable taste of Alaska’s natural wonders. The knowledgeable guides, excellent equipment, and stunning environment make it a worthwhile addition to your cruise or land-based adventure in Ketchikan.