Multi day Kayak Expedition Sitka, Alaska

Planning a multi-day kayaking trip in Alaska might seem ambitious, but it’s an adventure that promises unparalleled views, fascinating wildlife, and a genuine connection to nature. The Sitka Wild Coast Kayaks expedition offers just that — six days navigating the protected waters and rugged shoreline of Southeast Alaska’s wilderness. While we haven’t personally paddled these waters, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest this experience is a prime choice for those craving an authentic Alaskan adventure.

Two standout aspects of this tour are the expertise of the guides and the breathtaking scenery. The guides’ interpretive skills and deep local knowledge turn every stop into a story-filled moment, whether you’re watching sea lions bask or listening to tales about Tlingit and Haida sites. Plus, the scenery is jaw-dropping — towering Sitka spruce, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife make every day memorable.

One potential consideration is the physical requirement. While a basic fitness level suffices, paddling multiple days and some longer stretches (up to 16 miles) could be challenging for those with limited mobility or stamina. The cost, at $2,800 per person, reflects a comprehensive package including gear, guides, and most meals, but food shopping and planning are separate.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager for an immersive experience in Alaska’s wild side. If you’re looking for a trip that offers both adventure and education, with expert guidance and stunning vistas, this expedition is likely to deliver.

Key Points

Expert guides elevate the experience with interpretive knowledge about wildlife and local history.
Stunning scenery and wildlife sightings, including whales, sea lions, and bears, make every day special.
Multi-day paddling means a true immersion into the Alaskan wilderness, but requires moderate fitness.
All gear like kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment are included, simplifying preparations.
Flexible camp options and shore exploration add variety and adventure.
Price reflects a well-rounded experience with meals, gear, and guiding, but food shopping is extra.

Exploring Sitka’s Wilderness by Kayak

This six-day adventure in Southeast Alaska is designed for those who truly want to explore the region’s natural beauty from the water. The tour is carefully crafted to combine physical activity with educational insights, all while immersing you in environments that few travelers get to see up close.

Day 1: Getting Ready at Sitka National Historic Park

The journey begins with a meet-up at Sitka National Historic Park, a fitting starting point – this park, filled with totem poles and forest trails, provides a gentle introduction to the area’s cultural and natural heritage. The team quickly moves your gear onto kayaks, conducts a packing briefing, and prepares for departure. Expect to spend about 8 hours on this first day, which sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Sitka’s Marine Life

On the second day, you’ll enjoy a leisurely start with hot drinks and breakfast before launching into the waters. This is your first real chance to see what’s beneath the surface — abundant marine life, perhaps seals or sea otters, visible close to shore. The day typically involves about six hours of paddling, with opportunities to land and explore beaches, tide pools, or forested shores. This slow, deliberate exploration is ideal for wildlife watchers and those who want to truly absorb the environment.

Day 3: Long Trek Through Islands and Reefs

The third day is the big travel day, with paddling covering as much as 16 miles. You’ll navigate through a chain of small islands and reefs, a highlight for those who love open-water adventure. The route includes multiple landing points where you can stretch your legs and explore. According to reviews, this stretch offers a satisfying mix of challenge and scenic reward, with some campsites available along the way.

Day 4: Sea Lion and Whale Encounters

Conditions permitting, Day 4 is dedicated to observing sea lions at their haul-out sites. Just a mile from camp, these impressive mammals lounge on rocks, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Keep your eyes peeled for whales breaching or otters frolicking nearby, as the area is teeming with wildlife. Returning along the shoreline, you’ll gain a sense of the coast’s natural rhythm.

Day 5: Inner Passages and Historical Reflection

Backtracking slightly, the fifth day involves paddling along calm inner channels and passes. This route offers a window into how the region might have looked hundreds of years ago, when water travel was the only option for the area’s original inhabitants. The scenery is serene, and the calm waters allow for relaxed paddling and wildlife viewing — a quieter yet equally rewarding experience.

Day 6: Farewell and Breakdown

The last day starts early with breaking camp, a process dependent on tide schedules. After packing up, you’ll be picked up by a powerboat or beach shuttle, returning to Sitka. Expect a full day on the water and onshore travel, culminating in the end of your wilderness escape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s cost includes kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices, spray skirts, bear deterrent tarps, and a kitchen setup. It’s designed to cover all your paddling needs, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife. Tents and sleeping kits are available separately, which means you can opt for the level of comfort that suits you.

Food is arranged separately, with the guides helping develop menus and shop for ingredients ahead of time. This setup offers flexibility but requires some planning on your part. The meals themselves are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly if you prefer to have all your meals covered.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness — paddling multiple days and covering significant distances requires stamina and some strength. Fortunately, past participants—including paraplegic and amputee paddlers—have successfully completed the trip, so inclusivity is a priority.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour begins at 1490 Seward Ave, Sitka, and ends back at the same location after six days. The schedule is flexible, operating from April through late November, with daily departures between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM. The location is accessible by public transportation, making it relatively easy to get to and from the start point.

The Experience of a Lifetime?

Based on the detailed itinerary and the glowing reviews, this trip promises an up-close encounter with Alaska’s wild side. Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, enhancing the experience with stories about local wildlife and Native history. Travelers have lauded the views—“The best paddling destination I have seen on three continents!” — and the chance to see animals like whales, sea lions, and bears in their natural habitat.

The length of the trip allows for a genuine immersion, but it does require a reasonable level of fitness and comfort on the water. The price reflects a comprehensive package—gear, instruction, guiding, and most meals—making it a convenient choice for those who want all the logistics handled.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This expedition is perfect for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore Alaska’s coast from a unique perspective. Wildlife lovers will cherish the encounters and guided insights, while those interested in natural history will appreciate the stories woven into each stop. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and crave a multi-day escape into wild landscapes, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or have mobility challenges, this may not be the best fit. The physically demanding nature of paddling and camping means it’s best suited for those prepared for some exertion and outdoor living.

Final Thoughts

This six-day kayak trip in Sitka, Alaska, offers an authentic and active way to see the region’s remarkable landscapes and wildlife. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and opportunities for wildlife sightings makes it a standout adventure. While the price may seem steep, it includes nearly everything you need for an immersive experience, and the memories will last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for an adventure that balances physical activity with education and scenery, this tour is worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor challenges, wildlife, and learning about the area’s cultural roots. For those ready to paddle through some of Alaska’s most dramatic waters, this trip promises an unforgettable journey.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers kayaks, paddles, PFDs, spray skirts, bear deterrent tarps, and a kitchen setup. Guides, six lunches, five breakfasts, and five dinners are also included.

Are tents and sleeping kits provided?
No, tents and sleeping kits are available at an extra cost, so you can choose your level of camping comfort.

What food options are available?
Food is arranged separately, with guides helping develop menus and shop for ingredients. You’ll need to pay extra for meals if you want everything included.

What is the recommended fitness level?
A moderate physical fitness level is necessary. Participants should be able to paddle multiple days and climb stairs comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Past experience indicates some flexibility, and support for paraplegic and amputee paddlers has been provided. It’s best to discuss your needs directly with the provider.

How long is each paddling day?
It varies from about 6 to 8 hours, with one day covering up to 16 miles. The days include opportunities for landings and exploring.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 1490 Seward Ave, Sitka, AK.

What are the operating months?
The tour runs from mid-April through late November, daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Is this experience suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands suggest it’s best for teenagers and adults with a moderate fitness level. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

To sum it up, if you’re ready to challenge yourself with a physically engaging and educational journey through Alaska’s waters, this kayak expedition offers a blend of adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty that’s hard to beat. It’s a rare chance to see Southeast Alaska from a truly intimate perspective, guided by passionate experts who know the land and sea inside out.