Mendenhall Glacier Sea Kayaking in Alaska: Two-Person Kayaks

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1/8

Duration

3h 30m

Language

If something isn't rightSee 3 alternatives2 with pickup

Paddle within sight of a glacier six miles across open water

Sea kayaking activity in Alaska where you paddle a stable two-person kayak to view Mendenhall Glacier from the ocean, explore the Mendenhall Wetlands, and watch for wildlife including bald eagles, seals and whales. An experienced guide teaches paddling technique before departure and provides snacks and stories about the area on the return. The glacier view depends on weather. Low clouds or fog can obscure it.

The experience

You'll start onshore with your guide, who fits you with a life jacket, rain gear and boots, then teaches you paddling techniques before you board. The two-person kayaks are stable enough to approach wildlife silently (porpoise, seals, sea lions, eagles, herons), but nimble enough to maneuver through the Mendenhall Wetlands, a protected habitat where birds, mammals and marine life move through shallow water. The real draw is the glacier itself: from six miles out on the water, you see how the massive river of ice winds through the mountain peaks for miles, a view only possible from this ocean vantage point or from the air.

The paddle takes roughly two hours of active work, with your guide pointing out local flora and fauna and telling stories about Smugglers Cove and the surrounding area as you move. Weather matters: low-hanging clouds or thick fog can block the glacier view entirely, so conditions on the day decide what you see. Back ashore, you'll have an Alaska-style snack and beverages before heading back to the pier. The whole outing runs about three and a half hours.

What’s included

All kayaking equipment including rain gear, boots and spray skirt.
professional guide instruction in paddling techniques.
snacks and beverages onshore.
transportation to and from the pier.

Information

Lasts 3h 30m, from US$ 159 per person and with a live guide in English.

Days and timesNext departure: 27 Apr 2027

GroupUp to 48

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.2 with pickup ›

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (under 13)

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Alaska Travel Adventures Inc.

Is this one for you?Book this for paddlers who want to see a glacier from the water and don't mind two hours of active paddling. The ocean vantage point is the only way to see Mendenhall's full scale except from a plane.