4 Kayak Whale Watching Trips Worth Paddling

1.Orca Cove Sea Kayaking

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 322 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $175Our pick

Leave downtown Ketchikan by fast boat, then paddle 1.5 to 1.75 hours among rainforest islands and quiet coves from a 57-foot catamaran. Guides such as Lucas, David, Matt, and AJ offer instruction and wildlife insight. Expect tandem kayaks, full rain gear, a small group, and smoked salmon with hummus afterward.

“This was my first time ever kayaking. Dave was very patient and educational. There was a pod of Orca whales going through and he made sure we were able to stop and see them. Highly recommend this excursion!!”

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2.Kayak & Turtle Town Snorkel(Turtles Guaranteed) + Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 196 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $119

Paddle tandem kayaks from Olowalu with a guide such as Payson, Alec, Billy, Gene, Jon, or Robbie. After views of West Maui and nearby islands, snorkel at a turtle cleaning station. Whales may appear in season. Small groups, gear, life jackets, and optional photos and videos are included.

“The excursion was prematurely canceled due to rough seas. But they calmed down by the time we would have launched. Several other excursions went forward with thier trip.”

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3.South Maui: Whale Watch Kayaking and Snorkel Tour in Kihei

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 93 reviews · 3 hours · from $118Best value

Paddle sit-on-top kayaks from Makena Landing with an English-speaking guide, searching for humpback whales before snorkeling along Maui’s reef. Guides such as Jake, Kyle, Madison, and Jon help beginners feel at ease, share island stories, and point out turtles, fish, eels, octopus, and coral. The three-hour tour includes gear, snacks, water, and juice.

“Jake was an amazing guide. He shared a lot of knowledge about the islands and marine life. Also the snorkelling was spot on. Saw a lot of turtles. Only negative point is that we didn’t see any whales. But nothing much they can do about that.”

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4.Kayak and Whale Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 63 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $130

Start at 7:00 am at Makena Landing Park for a three-hour kayak trip with Tropical Guides & Outfitters. Guide Chris is praised for spotting whales, explaining their behavior, and keeping the group safe. From mid-December through March, you may see breaches, flukes, spouts, and even hear whale songs underwater.

“Kayaking with whales is amazing. Kris was an incredible guide - professional, skilled, and very kind. We were safe and enjoyed seeing many whales "up close".”

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