Frequently Asked Questions

Will I see wildlife?

Although, as with any natural setting, nothing is guaranteed... the chances of seeing wildlife on our tours are very good. Bald eagles, marbled murrelets, pigeon guillemonts, and other sea birds are seen every day, with very few exceptions. On day trips that stay in Resurrection Bay, there are chances of seeing sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins, salmon, harbor porpoises, and other various marine creatures. Our trips that take you further out into the fjords offer the opportunity of spotting orcas or humpbacks along the way. Once in the fjords, you are away from the boat traffic and constant human presence... so the likeliness of seeing wildlife increases dramatically. Black bears are frequently spotted in both Aialik Bay and Northwestern.

What do I wear?

When joining one of our paddling tours - whether it's right in the bay or further out - you'll want to come prepared. Many days are warm and sunny, and you'll want to be in a tank top and take a dip! But, we are in coastal rainforest, so the possibility of rain is always looming. No matter what, you'll want to avoid cotton and jeans. Once these get wet... whether on a hot day, or a cold and stormy one, they will stay wet and make you cold. Sythetics are ideal - polypro, capelene, fleece, etc. Clothing that wicks away sweat, insulates, and dries quickly... this is what you're looking for. And rain gear is always an essential. It's better to have it and not need it, than be without! Rain pants and a good rain jacket are a must. As for your feet - that's up to you. Our guides will do their best to keep your feet dry while getting in and out of the kayaks. BUT, nothing is a guarantee. This IS a water sport, so wear something that you are willing to get wet. Socks and water sandals are a good combination (or just water sandals on hot days!), but anything will do. Hats and sunscreen are good on hot days... and gloves might be nice on cold days.

Do I need experience?

NO. It's that simple. We take out clients who have never been in a kayak before... and clients who paddle all the time. You will be in double kayaks, which are incredibly stable. The water here is cold - so we DO NOT intend for you to fall in at any time. The boats all have rudders, which are controlled by the rear person, using foot pegs. We'll show you everything you have to know before leaving the beach. Kayaking is easy, safe, and fun for everyone. We've taken out clients ranging in age from 5 years old to 80 years old. Anyone can do it!

Do I need to be fit?

Paddling IS a sport, and it DOES involve exercise. Nothing will make the boat move except for you. This is important to understand... but it's also necessary to know that it's EASY. It is very rare that the wind is blowing too hard to take a trip out, but if we don't think you can handle it... we won't go. Most days are quite calm, with flat water, and easy paddling. We will take our time and explore the coastline... discussing the natural history of the area and the wildlife we encounter. These trips are not a race or a fitness contest - they are an exploration of the Alaskan wilderness that anyone can take part in.

Will I tip or go in the water? Do I need to be a good swimmer?

It is VERY rare that a boat will capsize - and usually when it does, it's because people are joking around and acting inappropriately. The boats we use are very stable, and you will receive basic kayak instruction before getting on the water. There is no reason that your boat should tip. And you do not need to be a swimmer. Everyone wears PFDs (personal floatation devices... or, life jackets). If your boat should tip, your PFD will keep you afloat, and your guide is fully trained to get you back into your boat quickly. Both of these concerns really should be non-issues.

Can I bring a camera?

OF COURSE! There are so many photo opportunities in Ressurection Bay and Kenai Fjords... it would be a shame to miss them! Clearly, it is a concern to keep your camera dry and protected, though. We will provide a dry bag for your camera - and you can strap that to the deck of the boat. This way, you can access your camera as you paddle - but when you're not using it, it will be safe and dry. It is also a very good idea to bring disposable waterproof cameras. Then you have no concerns at all during the trip.

What's the weather like?

The weather in Seward can be wonderful - with blue skies and warm days. There are times when we're hot in tank tops, and nothing feels better than a dip in the fjord! But... we are in the heart of coastal rainforest, so colder days and steady drizzle come our way as well. It is rare for the rain to really come down hard... and usually the drizzly days provide calmer waters and better wildlife viewing. We will take trips out in all weather, as long as the conditions are still safe. Although the weather can be ideal, be prepared for rain as well.

Is gratuity included in the price?

No, gratuity is not included in the trip cost. It is an industry standard that IF you feel that your guide did a good job providing a safe, fun, and informative trip - you should "tip" them. Our guides are incredibly well trained and enthusiastic... a combination that's hard to beat. Their pay is based on the assumption that they will run excellent trips for clients, and that they will receive tips. Please do not feel obligated to tip... but if you enjoyed the tour, it's the perfect way to let your guide know.