Book your Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour in Ketchikan, Alaska
Take a 4-hour guided kayak tour to Clover Pass-with 2–2.5 hours in the kayaks and scheduling that fits virtually every cruise ship-so you can paddle quieter waters about 15 miles north of Ketchikan. Your guides will steer you away from the crowds into the Tongass National Forest shoreline where dense rainforest meets the sea, circling three scenic islands in a microclimate that often delivers drier weather and calmer waters than downtown Ketchikan. Along the route you’ll likely encounter resident Steller sea lions, seals, bald eagles and other birds, a rich intertidal world and, on occasion, humpback whales, orcas, porpoises and jumping salmon, while Sitka deer or black bears are sometimes seen on the beach; although wildlife viewing can’t be guaranteed, Clover Pass is unparalleled for nature and wildlife experiences near Ketchikan. This Water-Based, Outdoor & Nature tour is ideal for families, couples and adventure-seekers who want an intimate, interpretive experience in Southeast Alaska’s coastal rainforest and excellent fit for your Varoom-planned visit.
About this activity in Ketchikan
Highlights
- Four-hour guided kayak adventure to Clover Pass through the Tongass National Forest-expect 2–2.5 hours paddling around three rainforest islands north of Ketchikan.
- Small-group tours with experienced local guides (6:1 ratio) who steer you to quieter waters and a drier microclimate for better wildlife viewing.
- Excellent opportunities to see Steller sea lions, seals, bald eagles, intertidal life and, occasionally, whales, porpoises or beaching Sitka deer and black bears.
- Local smoked salmon, vegan options and hot/cold beverages included; rain gear provided so you can focus on paddling and exploring the islands.
Important Information
- Tour duration is 4 hours and schedules are arranged to fit most cruise-ship itineraries; at booking you must provide ship name and date if arriving by cruise.
- Suitable for most fitness levels with no prior kayaking experience required; children must be at least 6 years old and accompanied by an adult, and infants must sit on an adult’s lap.
- Safety and fit notes: guides are experienced educators, cockpit openings limit seated hip/waist size to 52 inches (137 cm), and the activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.
- Practical gear and logistics: rain pants and jackets are supplied, wear outdoor-hike-appropriate clothing and low-profile footwear that fits inside a kayak, and tours run with a two-person minimum.
Meeting Point
Includes
- Enjoy local smoked salmon with dip plus local vegan options, and a selection of hot and cold beverages during your experience.
- Private transportation is provided from the downtown cruise docks and the new dock at Ward Cove for convenient pickup and drop-off.
- Guides are local experts or professional educators and return guides - you won’t have first-year guides leading your outing.
- Small-group tours with a focused 6:1 guide-to-guest ratio to help you get more personalized attention.
Other
- Public transportation options are available nearby if you prefer to travel independently in the area.
- Infants must sit on an adult’s lap for safety throughout the activity.
- This activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.
- This activity is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
- The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels, and no prior experience is necessary.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Children must be at least 6 years old; there are some exceptions, so call if you feel you qualify.
- Rain pants and jackets are provided to keep you comfortable in typical Alaska weather here.
- Due to the size of the kayak cockpit openings, your hip/waist size should not exceed 52 inches (137 cm) as measured while seated.
- Wear clothing appropriate for an outdoor hike through the forest and footwear that will fit inside a kayak cockpit; avoid large bulky boots or high heels.
- There is a minimum of two people required to run a tour.
- At time of booking, cruise ship passengers must provide ship name and date to confirm pickup from the cruise docks.
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Ketchikan, Alaska: See Wildlife and Take Water Tours You
Discover Ketchikan, Alaska - a coastal destination where wildlife-focused sightseeing, Water-Based adventures like kayaking and fishing charters, and art‑culture experiences centered on Native totem heritage bring the outdoors and history together. You can book multi-day and full-day tours, family-friendly excursions, and adrenaline-filled Adventure & Thrill activities through Varoom to tailor your stay around the area's rainforest hikes and shoreline wildlife viewing. Whether you seek Nature & Wildlife encounters, guided cultural workshops, or scenic transportation rides, the region delivers unforgettable experiences that make planning and booking simple.
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