Paddle the sheltered waters of Sitka Sound in a private sea kayak expedition, drifting through kelp forests alongside sea otters and beneath bald eagles — guided by a Tlingit naturalist.
What to expect
You launch from a sheltered beach and immediately enter a world of kelp canopies and glassy bays framed by snow-capped peaks. Your Tlingit guide paddles alongside, pointing out sea otters cracking shellfish on their chests and identifying the calls of Steller's jays and pigeon guillemots overhead. The nearby Alaska Raptor Center is woven into the experience — you observe bald eagles in open-flight rehabilitation, some wingspans stretching over seven feet. The pace is entirely yours; this is the antithesis of rush.
Good to know
Sitka is a tender port — factor in 20–30 minutes each way for the tender. Allow 3–4 hours total for the full experience. No kayaking experience required; tandem kayaks available. Dress in layers; drysuits provided. Book private group departures at least 2 weeks ahead.