Ketchikan Orca Cove: Small-Group Sea Kayak & Boat Tour

Summary

Kayak remote rainforest coves with local guides and taste Alaskan flavors

You’ll leave Ketchikan behind for Orca Cove by boat, then paddle sheltered rain forest coves with a small group and a local guide who knows every corner. Warm up after kayaking with smoked salmon snacks and drinks on board before heading back—arms tired, heart full.

What’s the experience like?

“So, who’s ready to get a little wet?” That’s how our guide, Jamie, kicked things off as we zipped away from downtown Ketchikan on this fast little boat. I could still smell the docks — that mix of salt and diesel — but it faded as we left the crowds behind. Twenty minutes later, we slowed near these mossy islands at Orca Cove, and everything just went quiet except for the slap of water against the hull. I didn’t expect to feel so far away so quickly.

Getting into the sea kayaks was a bit clumsy (I’m not exactly graceful), but Jamie made us laugh about it. The rain forest here isn’t shy — ferns everywhere, trees dripping with lichen, and sometimes you catch this whiff of cedar when you paddle close to shore. We glided around tiny islands and into coves where even the birds seemed surprised to see us. Jamie pointed out a bald eagle perched above us, totally unbothered by our group of six drifting below. We talked about life in Alaska — she grew up fishing here — and I realized how much these guides know about every rock and ripple.

After paddling (arms slightly sore but in that good way), we climbed back aboard their mothership catamaran for snacks. The smoked salmon was from some local spot they love — honestly, I’d never tasted anything like it. There was hummus too, plus hot coffee or an Alaskan beer if you wanted one. My hands were still chilly from the paddle so that coffee felt especially good. On the ride back to town, everyone was quieter; maybe tired or just soaking it in. I kept watching the water for seals or something else popping up — never did see an orca but somehow didn’t mind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sea kayaking and boat tour in Orca Cove

• Boat ride from Ketchikan to Orca Cove
• Meet guide and gear up for kayaking
• Sea kayak around islands and coves
• Enjoy snacks and beverages on boat
• Boat ride back to Ketchikan

Top questions

How long is the Orca Cove sea kayaking tour?

The full experience lasts about 3 hours, including boat transfers and 1.5–1.75 hours of kayaking in Orca Cove.

Is pickup included for this Ketchikan kayak tour?

The tour includes roundtrip boat transportation from downtown Ketchikan to Orca Cove.

How many people are on each tour?

The maximum group size is 6 guests per tour for a more personal experience.

Are food and drinks provided during the trip?

Yes, after paddling you’ll enjoy smoked salmon, hummus, crackers, veggies, hot drinks or cold Alaskan beer on board.

Do I need prior kayaking experience?

No prior experience is needed but guests should have moderate fitness and be comfortable getting in/out of kayaks.

What should I wear for sea kayaking in Alaska?

Dress appropriately for all weather; waterproof jackets and bibs are provided along with life jackets.

Is wildlife viewing guaranteed on this day trip?

No wildlife sightings are guaranteed but you may spot eagles or marine life during your time in Orca Cove.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip boat transfer from downtown Ketchikan to Orca Cove, all kayaking equipment (life jackets, waterproof layers), drybags for cameras or phones, a friendly professional guide throughout, plus smoked salmon snacks with hummus and veggies along with hot beverages or an Alaskan beer before returning to town together.