Exclusive Half Day Sitka Sound Cruise and Paddle

This exclusive Sitka Sound adventure with a maximum of six guests is the perfect introduction to the wild side of Sitka Sound.

Start by getting yourself properly fitted with all the gear you will need, before your lead guide explains the variables to be considered in designing the day's unique float plan. Once afloat, your guide will assist you in setting up your kayak before presenting a short kayak and safety orientation. You will have some time to dabble about in the crystal-clear shallows, getting comfortable with your 2-person kayak, before you set off for the next group of islands.

While paddling through mazes of reef and kelp forest, areas accessible only by kayak, your interpreter guide will help identify the colorful marine life visible below, including crab, sea stars, anemones, sea urchins, jellyfish and more.

At the surface, it's an otter quest of a different kind. They pop up looking at YOU! In addition to the star of the show, the ever-amusing sea otter, we also frequently see harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds.

At about the half-way point in your trip, you will step ashore on a seldom-visited island to stretch your legs, do a little beachcombing, and enjoy a hearty snack while soaking in the majestic wildness and amazing views of the Sound. Your guide will explain some of the ecology of the area, and also tell you about the Tlingit people, who still harvest the ocean's bounty using knowledge passed down since the last Ice Age. This half-day wilderness exploration concludes with an exciting 30-minute boat cruise to Sitka.