Mendenhall Glacier Sea Kayaking in Alaska: Two-Person Kayaks

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.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for 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.

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Top questions

What wildlife might I see on the Mendenhall Glacier kayaking trip?

Porpoise, seals, sea lions, bald eagles, herons and humpback whales move through the area, though sightings depend on the day and the season. The Mendenhall Wetlands, where you paddle, is a protected habitat that draws birds and marine mammals year-round.

How far away is Mendenhall Glacier when you paddle out to view it?

The glacier sits six miles from where you paddle, far enough that you see how the river of ice winds through the mountain peaks for miles. This distance is what makes the view possible—closer approaches would not show the scale.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this trip?

No experience is required. Your guide teaches paddling techniques before you depart and stays with you throughout. You do need a moderate level of physical fitness, as you'll paddle for approximately two hours.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my kayaking tour?

The activity operates in all weather, so rain or wind won't cancel it. However, low-hanging clouds or thick fog can obscure the glacier view. Dress appropriately for conditions; all rain gear is provided.

Are there weight or height limits for the kayaks?

Minimum weight is 40 pounds to fit the required lifejacket. Maximum weight is approximately 250 pounds, depending on waist size. Guests over 6 feet 3 inches will not be able to use the rudders to steer and may find the kayak uncomfortable.

What's included in the price of this sea kayaking activity?

All equipment (kayak, paddle, life jacket, rain gear, boots and spray skirt), professional guide instruction, snacks and beverages, and transportation are included. Souvenir photos and merchandise are available for purchase.