Here are a few fun facts
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- Much of our experience will occur when bioluminescent algae or bacteria are on the surface of the ocean.
- Great wildlife viewing - perhaps even more so during the waning light of sunset.
- The color of the light depends on habitat and the organism–in the ocean that is a beautiful blue-green.
- Bioluminescence 'super powers' can be used to find a mate, fend off predators, and to help in the hunt for prey.
Abundant Wildlife
The waterways and shorelines of Burrows Bay is a wildlife viewing hotspot in Washington State. The narrow passage between Burrows Island and Fidalgo Island is the home of robust porpoise and seal populations as the tidal currents here circulate nutrients which support a dense web of life. Bald eagles are plentiful and deer graze on grassy slopes while playful otters frolic at the water’s edge. Under the darkness of night the quiet coves sparkle with the subtle glow of bioluminescent organisms.
Beautiful Scenery
The thick forest of Burrows Island and grassy slopes of Washington Park frame wide open views of the San Juan Islands, silhouetted by the setting Sun. In the distance, the Olympic Mountains rise abruptly from the sea and the massive Strait of Juan de Fuca stretches out to the Pacific Ocean. Kelp forests and twisted shorelines create a feast for the eyes. The west side of Fidalgo Island is one of the most beautiful places in the Puget Sound Region of Washington State.
Gear You Will Need
Dress appropriately for the weather. We like to say “as if you were going for a walk in the forest that day.” Usually, this means layers, preferably non-cotton if you have the choice (no big deal if not). Summer time weather in the San Juan Islands is usually mild and so on most days you will likely be fine in shorts, t-shirt, and water-compatible shoes (or old sneakers), but come prepared. Bring an extra layer, a windbreaker, and a change of clothes to leave in your car in case you get anything wet.
- Water compatible shoes (even old tennis shoes are fine, just something that is ok to get wet. Flip flops are not ideal if you are walking on wet rocks, but people do use them without too much trouble.) Your feet will get wet getting in and out of the boats.
- Shorts or long pants (try to avoid cotton if possible, synthetic materials are more comfortable if they get wet.)
- Layered clothing (non-cotton base layers and a fleece or warm layer is advised, a waterproof top/jacket if you like)
- We recommend an extra set of clothes for after the trip in case you get damp clothes.
- Extra pair of Dry Shoes.
- A hat (baseball cap, or a wool/fleece cap)
- Water bottle (one quart is usually fine, feel free to bring more if you'd like)
- Enough snacks or food to keep you happy for the duration of the trip.
- A headlamp
- A camera (be careful with your electronic devices while out in the kayaks, seawater can be corrosive.)
- Cash for a tip for guides.
Anacortes Kayak Tours will provide
- All kayaking gear (boat, paddles, spray decks, life jackets)
- A professionally trained and fun guide, with a comprehensive safety kit
- Dry bags for your personal gear
Age Limits
If you have younger kids (under 12) then please call before making a reservation.
We’ve found that most kids younger than three years old have a difficult time sitting in a kayak for the duration of the trip. Some older children may also need to move around more. As parents you know your children’s capabilities better than anyone, but feel free to call us if you have concerns. Also, you’ll be paddling with your child, either by yourself in a tandem kayak or with another member of your family in a triple kayak, with your child in the center seat.
Anacortes Kayak Tours prides itself on being the most family-friendly kayaking company in the San Juan Islands. We consider your kids to be an investment in the future and we want to get them out on the water and developing an active lifestyle and an appreciation of the natural world!
Weight Limits
For your safety and comfort, we have a weight limit of 265 pounds (per person) in tandems and 225 pounds (per person) in singles. Call if you have any questions.
Health / Physical Limits
Our #1 priority is to bring you home safely. In the unlikely event of a capsize we need to know that you are physically capable of keeping your face above the water, that you are able in some fashion to assist with the rescue, and that your heart can take the stress of the immersion and exertion of an unplanned accident. If you think that you may be at risk, or that your health conditions are of concern then please talk to your physician and then give us a call. We’d love to try and help you find a solution, and if possible to get you out on the water.
Deafness and blindness will not prevent you from enjoying our tours, but please let us know at the time of booking.
If you have health issues on the day of your trip, please pull your guide aside and let him or her know. This includes even small issues (like diarrhea) that can turn a great trip into a problem for you. Our guides can then plan the trip accordingly.
Cancellations
We have a 48-hour cancellation policy for 4 or less people and a 2 week cancellation policy for 5 or more people for these trips. Please refer to our Cancellation Policy page for details.
Weather
We enjoy about 250 days of sunshine per year, mostly in the summer. Even when it does sprinkle on us it rarely lasts more than a few minutes. We won’t cancel for rain.
The only weather that will cancel a trip is windy weather that causes hazardous sea conditions. Your comfort and safety are our biggest concern.
A Few Rules–Please Read!
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- No Smoking in the kayaks on these trips. This is a safety concern for us, many people get seasick after being exposed to cigarette/cigar smoke.
- Please do not litter. Pack out everything that you pack in.
- Sorry, no dogs. We like them, but they tend to tear the heck out of the boats, can disrupt the enjoyment of other guests, and can also create safety concerns.
- Your guide needs you to follow their instructions. Please respect this.
- Respect the wildlife who make the San Juan Islands their home. We give the whales plenty of space when they are around, we try not to frighten seals that are hauled out on the rocks, that sort of thing. Your guide will explain this more out on the water.
And at last, The Fine Print
We strive to make sure that we are being entirely open and honest with our marketing language and also when we speak to people about what our trips are like. We’ve been burned before on our travels and we never want to be remembered as a disingenuous company when you’re reminiscing with your friends later.
To assist us in placing you on the most appropriate trip please let us know if you have any special requests, concerns, or expectations when you call. That will allow us to either recommend the best trip for your needs or at least to give you a proper explanation about what we can realistically accomplish for you.
