Sea Kayak Tours FAQ

Do I need to be an experienced kayaker?

No, being in average physical condition will be fine for joining any of our kayak tours.  Though kayaking the San Juan Islands can be challenging, your guide will provide all the travel and rescue knowledge.  If you have no experience you will be more than safe with our guides.

Do you provide lunch on your Day Kayak Tour?

No. We give you the freedom chose your lunch. This ensures you will have a satisfying lunch. The worst is to the spend time exercising and not have the foods for the day you want.  We are aware that some companies do offer lunch on their day tours.  For some, sliced fruit and hummus is enough for lunch.  But for others it is less than satisfying and sometimes disappointing.  So we empower you to bring a lunch that makes you happy.  For this reason our rates are a bit less than others that provide lunch.

Will I be stuck in a large group?

No.  We feel that traveling in a small group is far less stressful on the environment.  Our maximum group size is 8 and we usually average 6.  We adhere to the rule and it is not just an advertisement. We often see others who advertise small groups and yet you are stuck with 15 other people.  Our guides work to avoid being near large groups while on the water. Plus there are many benefits to you to be in a small group.  Being in a small group you are able to enjoy your guides knowledge about the wildlife and the area.  You will never be stuck out of hearing distance.  Wildlife tends to be less disturb by small groups.  Therefore you have more frequent and quality encounters. Safety is another reason small groups are beneficial.  Unless you are booking a custom tour for your group, you will always be with 8 or less kayakers.

Can I paddle a single kayak?

No.  At this time Discovery Sea Kayaks operates all of its tours in tandem (2 person) kayaks.

Why do you only use tandem kayaks for guest?

Tandem kayaks provide a very stable and comfortable kayak experience for varying skill levels. On multi day kayak tours tandem kayaks allow us to carry all the gear necessary to operate self supported for the entire tour.

What is the minimum age for kayak tours?

Twelve (12) years old is the minimum age that we take on our west side half day, full day or sunset kayak tours.  The same is for our multi day kayak tours.  Given the exposure of the area we kayak and the cold water environment, we feel the west side of San Juan is not suitable for paddlers under twelve.  If you have younger paddlers please feel free to give us a call as we can help find the best outfitter in our area that can provide a safe and fun tour for your younger group.

What should I wear?

Generally we recommend that you stay away from cotton clothing.  Once cotton is wet it will not keep you warm and it does not dry out quickly.  Think as if you are going out for a day hike. Quick dry, poly pro and wool are the best choices for being on the water.

Do you provide any extra gear?

Yes.  Discovery Sea Kayaks in know for providing extra gear.  In fact if other companies are offering gear, they are reaching for the bar we set.

Half Day, Full Day and Sunset Tours: Beside the necessary paddle equipment.  We will also provide you with waterproof pants and top.  Each person will be provided a dry bag for the day as well.

Multi Day Explorer Tour:  This tour is set up with all provisions besides your personal clothing. Please check out the Explorer page for details http://www.discoveryseakayak.com/kayak-trips/multi-day-trips

Guide Rental Multi Day Kayak Tour:  This is set up for you to provide your own gear.  Please check out the Custom Kayak Tour page http://www.discoveryseakayak.com/kayak-trips/custom-trips

Will I get wet?

Sea Kayaking is a water sport and there is always the potential to get wet.  We recommend that you bring footwear that you don’t mind getting wet and sandy.  Entering and exiting the kayaks near the shore tends to be wet.  So your feet are often if not always going to get wet.

What about the weather?

We don’t go out if the weather is stormy or if the seas are rough. Light rain is usually no problem.