One of the best ways to explore Alaska’s pristine coastal waters and spot diverse marine life is through a day out on the water in your own craft. Sea kayaking allows visitors to serenely explore off the beaten path at their own pace.
With numerous tours available throughout the state, you don’t need to be an expert paddler to explore the Alaskan coastline by kayak. In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to paddle, as well as top tour providers to help you explore the water safely.
Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, we’ll help you find the perfect adventure on the water of Alaska.
So grab your camera and your swimsuit, as we dive into the top sea kayaking tours in the Last Frontier!
What is Sea Kayaking?
Sea kayaking is a water sport that involves paddling a small, narrow boat (called a kayak) through open waters, such as oceans, bays, and fjords. Similar to river kayaking, sea kayaking does not involve a motor, and you often will sit alone or in a tandem (two-person) boat.
With a kayak, you can explore coastal areas and marine environments that are often inaccessible by larger boats. Kayaks can navigate in shallow water and be easily pulled ashore to allow for paddlers to access remote hiking trails or beaches. Without the sound of a motor, kayaking also allows you to enjoy wildlife viewing in a serene and unobtrusive manner.
The water in Alaska stays cold throughout the year, so tours are available throughout the state to help you get out in the water safely. These tours supply wetsuits or drysuits, emergency flotation devices, and basic paddling instructions — allowing for individuals of every ability level to enjoy this amazing sport.
Sea Kayaking in Alaska: Tours and Prices
Sea kayaking is wildly popular in Alaskan coastal communities, and tours are available for every type of adventurer. Popular options include the following (categorized by ability level):
Guided Tours (Beginner to Advanced): Guided tours are perfect for those new to sea kayaking or who prefer the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. These tours offer instruction, safety equipment, and the benefit of local knowledge. They typically range from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures.
Self-Guided Tours (Intermediate to Advanced): For experienced kayakers, self-guided tours allow for independent exploration. These trips usually include kayak rentals, equipment, and sometimes transportation to and from the launch site. A good level of kayaking experience and navigation skills are necessary.
Custom Tours (All levels): Custom tours cater to groups with specific needs or preferences, such as families, corporate outings, or photography workshops. These tours are tailored to the group's interests and skill levels.
Tours can vary in price depending on the type of tour, duration, and location that you select. On average, half-day guided tours range from $90 to $150 per person, while full-day guided tours can cost between $150 and $250 per person.
Multi-day guided adventures generally start at around $800 per person for two-day trips and can go up to $4,000 or more for week-long expeditions, including meals, equipment, and camping or lodging accommodations.
While sea kayaking can be a year round sport, most tour operators only offer tours May-September, when the weather is calm and the water is the warmest. Some tour operators may have size, weight, and age restrictions, as well as a basic fitness level. Be sure to call ahead of time to chat with the guides to make sure your tour is appropriate for your group.
Sea Kayaking in Alaska: Top Destinations
While you can often find a tour operator in most coastal communities in Southcentral and Southeast Alaska, favorite destinations of local paddlers include:
- Glacier Bay National Park: Known for its tidewater glaciers and abundant wildlife, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prime location for sea kayaking adventures.
- Kenai Fjords National Park: Home to the Harding Icefield and stunning fjords, Kenai Fjords National Park is a popular destination for both guided and self-guided tours.
- Prince William Sound: With its tranquil bays, towering glaciers, and pristine coastline, Prince William Sound is a top destination for sea kayaking in Alaska.
- Kachemak Bay State Park: This remote state park, accessible only by boat or plane, offers a unique sea kayaking experience amidst its rugged beauty.
Top Sea Kayaking Tours in Alaska
If you’re eager to get out on the water, check out one of these top tour operators. If you don’t see one in your destination, be sure to check out the local visitor’s bureau for local operators in the area.
- Alaska Sea Kayakers - Whittier
Experience the serene beauty of Prince William Sound on a guided tour with Alaska Sea Kayakers. They offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day trips suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers. - Anadyr Adventures - Valdez
Explore the stunning waters of Prince William Sound with Anadyr Adventures. Options include guided day trips or multi-day expeditions, including glacier and wildlife viewing options. - Sunny Cove Sea Kayaking - Seward
Sunny Cove offers kayaking tours through Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. Their knowledgeable guides lead paddlers on unforgettable adventures in this pristine Alaskan wilderness and offer excellent wildlife viewing options. - Liquid Adventures - Seward
Another Seward-based operator, Liquid Adventures specialize in small group tours, offering personalized experiences and the chance to get up close to glaciers and wildlife. Also check out their paddle board tours if you’re looking for something a bit different, - Sound Ocean Adventures - Sitka
Sitka Sound Ocean Adventures offers tours through the rich marine environment of Sitka Sound. Their guided tours will introduce you to a diverse array of wildlife, including whales, sea otters, and puffins. - Alaska Kayak School - Homer
If you’re interested in learning how to kayak like a true professional, check out the Alaska Kayak School in Homer. They offer both instructional courses and guided tours, making it an ideal choice for beginners. - Skagway Shore Tours - Skagway
Paddle along the Inside Passage and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on your own remote stretch of coastline. - Alaska Travel Adventures - Juneau
Experience the beauty of the Inside Passage and the annual whale migration with Alaska Travel Adventures. Their guided sea kayaking tours in Juneau will take you up to Mendenhall Glacier or the serene waters of Auke Bay. Also check into their RV rentals if you’re looking for a fun accommodation option. - Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks - Glacier Bay
Venture into the heart of Glacier Bay National Park with a guided kayaking tour. Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks is an approved NPS concession provider, and offers day trips, overnight trips, and unguided rental options. - Southeast Sea Kayaks Alaska - Ketchikan
Experience the unspoiled beauty of Alaska's coastal rainforest with Southeast Sea Kayaks' Ketchikan Kayak Tour. This family-friendly, guided sea kayaking adventure takes you on a journey through the calm, protected waters surrounding Ketchikan.
Get Ready to Paddle and Explore
Sea kayaking in Alaska offers a unique and immersive way to explore the state's pristine coastal waters and observe its diverse marine life. With a variety of tour options available, catering to all skill levels and interests, there is a sea kayaking adventure waiting for everyone in the Last Frontier.
Don't miss the opportunity to create unforgettable memories paddling through Alaska's breathtaking landscapes and witnessing its abundant wildlife up close – and definitely don’t forget to bring your camera!
