Frequently asked

Wildlife cruises

Where do we board?

We board at the Port Townsend City Dock located downtown Port Townsend at the Cotton Building and Pope Marine Park. See our map and address here.

Where can i park?

Downtown Parking: There is paid all-day parking available at the First Security Bank parking lot and Port Townsend Plaza parking lot.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

What should we wear?

Dress in layers! It’s cooler on the water, so bring a sweatshirt or jacket. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important, even on cloudy days.

Is there a bathroom on board?

Yes.

Is the cabin heated?

Yes.

What is your cancellation policy?

Customers can receive a full refund up to 72 hours before the tour and a 50% refund if canceled up to 24 hours prior. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If the tour is canceled by us due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, you'll receive a full refund or credit. To cancel or inquire, contact us via email or at (360) 453-7135. Thank you for keeping us informed!

What time should we arrive?

Check-in starts 30 minutes before departure. Please review your departure location and travel time the day before, as traffic can be unpredictable.

How long is the cruise?

Expect to spend 4-5 hours with us. Our cruise length is 4 hours and we request our passengers arrive 30 min prior to departure.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Layers for variable weather including wind and rain.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.

what type of wildlife is in the area?

Our area is home to seals, otters, porpoises, sea lions, and vast array of sea birds. Baleen whales and orcas also traverse the waters. See here for a species list!

is the tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, we welcome passengers of all ages. Everyone, regardless of age, requires their own ticket.

What is the maximum number of passengers allowed?

We can accommodate up to 49 guests.

kayak & SUP rentals

Where are the rentals located?

Our kayak and SUP rentals are located at the Cable House Canteen in Fort Worden Historic State Park in Port Townsend, Washington. See here for directions and parking info.

can i book in advance?

Our kayak and SUP rentals are available for walk-ups only, on a first come first serve basis.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

Can I take the kayak or sup to another location?

Our kayaks and stand up paddle boards can only be launched from Fort Worden, from the beach on Defense Harbor Way. We do not offer off-premise rentals.

what type of wildlife is in the area?

Our area is home to seals, otters, porpoises, sea lions, and vast array of sea birds. Baleen whales and orcas also traverse the waters. See here for a species list!

what's the difference between kayak rentals and kayak tours?

Our kayak tours are guided tours that launch from Marrowstone Island where paddlers learn about the rich ecology, geology, and history of Marrowstone Island from expert naturalist guides. All of our guides are trained and experienced naturalists, with a keen eye for spotting animals and interpreting their behavior.

Kayak rentals are located at Fort Worden in Port Townsend and ideal for paddlers who want to enjoy their own pace and route.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Water shoes or sandals.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.
We recommend not bringing anything in the kayak that you would prefer to keep dry, unless you have a trustworthy method of keeping your belongings dry.

kayak tours

where do the tours launch from?

Our tours launch from a convenient location in Fort Flagler Historical State Park. Specific details, including the launch site and directions, will be provided at the time of booking. See here for directions and parking info.

can i book in advance?

Yes, our Kayak Tours can be booked in advance online. See here.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

when is the best time to go on a bioluminescence tour?

Bioluminescence is most visible during the warmer summer months, typically from late May to early September. The best conditions occur on dark, moonless nights, which allows the glow to stand out more vividly.

Bioluminescence tours typically begin before sunset, generally around 8:00 PM or later, depending on the time of year. The timing varies slightly depending on the time of sunset and the phase of the moon to ensure the best conditions for viewing bioluminescence.

Is it safe to kayak at night?

Yes! Safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides are well-trained and will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the tour. All participants are provided with life jackets and other necessary safety gear, and the routes are carefully selected to avoid any hazards. We also keep our group sizes small for a more personal and safer experience.

is bioluminescence guaranteed?

We've developed our own unique method for predicting when the bioluminescent plankton will be strong. Our method has proven over 98% effective since 2017, and 100% effective since 2020.That being said, bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon, and visibility can vary based on factors like water temperature, weather, and plankton activity. Our guides are experts at selecting the best spots for bioluminescent activity, but we can’t control nature.

what is your cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can change. Customers can receive a full refund up to 72 hours before the tour and a 50% refund if canceled up to 24 hours prior. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If the tour is canceled by us due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, you'll receive a full refund or credit.

what's the difference between kayak rentals and kayak tours?

Our kayak tours are guided tours that launch from Marrowstone Island where paddlers learn about the rich ecology, geology, and history of Marrowstone Island from expert naturalist guides. All of our guides are trained and experienced naturalists, with a keen eye for spotting animals and interpreting their behavior.

Kayak rentals are located at Fort Worden in Port Townsend and ideal for paddlers who want to enjoy their own pace and route.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Water shoes or sandals.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.
We recommend not bringing anything in the kayak that you would prefer to keep dry, unless you have a trustworthy method of keeping your belongings dry.

is previous kayaking experience necessary?

No prior kayaking experience is required for our bioluminescence tours! Our guides will provide all the necessary instructions and equipment, and the tour is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable for participants of all skill levels. We provide tandem kayaks which are more stable and efficient.

are the tours suitable for families and children?

Yes, our tours are family-friendly! Children aged 8 and older are welcome to join with a responsible adult.

What ypes of kayaks are used?

Everyone will be in high-quality tandem sea kayaks. If you'd like to kayak only with members of your household, simply book as part of an even-numbered group. Otherwise, you'll have the opportunity to make a new friend and be paired with another customer or guide!

What if the weather is bad the night of my reservation?

If the weather is unsafe (e.g., high winds, thunderstorms, or other hazardous conditions), we will contact you ahead of time to reschedule or offer a full refund. Safety is our top priority, and we will not operate tours under unsafe conditions. We will take the same actions for conditions that are very likely to eliminate chances of seeing bioluminescence, such as heavy rainfall events, strong storm surges, or very overcast weather for long periods before the tour. In these situations we may offer the chance to participate in the tour anyway if it is your only chance to get out there, knowing the likelihood of seeing bioluminescence is not very high.

Wildlife cruises

Where do we board?

We board at the Port Townsend City Dock located downtown Port Townsend at the Cotton Building and Pope Marine Park. See our map and address here.

Where can i park?

Downtown Parking: There is paid all-day parking available at the First Security Bank parking lot and Port Townsend Plaza parking lot.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

What should we wear?

Dress in layers! It’s cooler on the water, so bring a sweatshirt or jacket. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important, even on cloudy days.

Is there a bathroom on board?

Yes.

Is the cabin heated?

Yes.

What is your cancellation policy?

Customers can receive a full refund up to 72 hours before the tour and a 50% refund if canceled up to 24 hours prior. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If the tour is canceled by us due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, you'll receive a full refund or credit. To cancel or inquire, contact us via email or at (360) 453-7135. Thank you for keeping us informed!

What time should we arrive?

Check-in starts 30 minutes before departure. Please review your departure location and travel time the day before, as traffic can be unpredictable.

How long is the cruise?

Expect to spend 4-5 hours with us. Our cruise length is 4 hours and we request our passengers arrive 30 min prior to departure.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Layers for variable weather including wind and rain.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.

what type of wildlife is in the area?

Our area is home to seals, otters, porpoises, sea lions, and vast array of sea birds. Baleen whales and orcas also traverse the waters. See here for a species list!

is the tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, we welcome passengers of all ages. Everyone, regardless of age, requires their own ticket.

What is the maximum number of passengers allowed?

We can accommodate up to 49 guests.

kayak & SUP rentals

Where are the rentals located?

Our kayak and SUP rentals are located at the Cable House Canteen in Fort Worden Historic State Park in Port Townsend, Washington. See here for directions and parking info.

can i book in advance?

Our kayak and SUP rentals are available for walk-ups only, on a first come first serve basis.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

Can I take the kayak or sup to another location?

Our kayaks and stand up paddle boards can only be launched from Fort Worden, from the beach on Defense Harbor Way. We do not offer off-premise rentals.

what type of wildlife is in the area?

Our area is home to seals, otters, porpoises, sea lions, and vast array of sea birds. Baleen whales and orcas also traverse the waters. See here for a species list!

what's the difference between kayak rentals and kayak tours?

Our kayak tours are guided tours that launch from Marrowstone Island where paddlers learn about the rich ecology, geology, and history of Marrowstone Island from expert naturalist guides. All of our guides are trained and experienced naturalists, with a keen eye for spotting animals and interpreting their behavior.

Kayak rentals are located at Fort Worden in Port Townsend and ideal for paddlers who want to enjoy their own pace and route.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Water shoes or sandals.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.
We recommend not bringing anything in the kayak that you would prefer to keep dry, unless you have a trustworthy method of keeping your belongings dry.

kayak tours

where do the tours launch from?

Our tours launch from a convenient location in Fort Flagler Historical State Park. Specific details, including the launch site and directions, will be provided at the time of booking. See here for directions and parking info.

can i book in advance?

Yes, our Kayak Tours can be booked in advance online. See here.

is a life jacket or personal floatation devise provided?

Yes.

when is the best time to go on a bioluminescence tour?

Bioluminescence is most visible during the warmer summer months, typically from late May to early September. The best conditions occur on dark, moonless nights, which allows the glow to stand out more vividly.

Bioluminescence tours typically begin before sunset, generally around 8:00 PM or later, depending on the time of year. The timing varies slightly depending on the time of sunset and the phase of the moon to ensure the best conditions for viewing bioluminescence.

Is it safe to kayak at night?

Yes! Safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides are well-trained and will ensure you feel comfortable throughout the tour. All participants are provided with life jackets and other necessary safety gear, and the routes are carefully selected to avoid any hazards. We also keep our group sizes small for a more personal and safer experience.

is bioluminescence guaranteed?

We've developed our own unique method for predicting when the bioluminescent plankton will be strong. Our method has proven over 98% effective since 2017, and 100% effective since 2020.That being said, bioluminescence is a natural phenomenon, and visibility can vary based on factors like water temperature, weather, and plankton activity. Our guides are experts at selecting the best spots for bioluminescent activity, but we can’t control nature.

what is your cancellation policy?

We understand that plans can change. Customers can receive a full refund up to 72 hours before the tour and a 50% refund if canceled up to 24 hours prior. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. If the tour is canceled by us due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, you'll receive a full refund or credit.

what's the difference between kayak rentals and kayak tours?

Our kayak tours are guided tours that launch from Marrowstone Island where paddlers learn about the rich ecology, geology, and history of Marrowstone Island from expert naturalist guides. All of our guides are trained and experienced naturalists, with a keen eye for spotting animals and interpreting their behavior.

Kayak rentals are located at Fort Worden in Port Townsend and ideal for paddlers who want to enjoy their own pace and route.

what should WE bring?

A water bottle
Snacks if desired
Any personal medical supplies you may need, (ie an inhaler if you're asthmatic, etc.)
Water shoes or sandals.
Sunglasses, sunblock, and hat recommended.
We recommend not bringing anything in the kayak that you would prefer to keep dry, unless you have a trustworthy method of keeping your belongings dry.

is previous kayaking experience necessary?

No prior kayaking experience is required for our bioluminescence tours! Our guides will provide all the necessary instructions and equipment, and the tour is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable for participants of all skill levels. We provide tandem kayaks which are more stable and efficient.

are the tours suitable for families and children?

Yes, our tours are family-friendly! Children aged 8 and older are welcome to join with a responsible adult.

What ypes of kayaks are used?

Everyone will be in high-quality tandem sea kayaks. If you'd like to kayak only with members of your household, simply book as part of an even-numbered group. Otherwise, you'll have the opportunity to make a new friend and be paired with another customer or guide!

What if the weather is bad the night of my reservation?

If the weather is unsafe (e.g., high winds, thunderstorms, or other hazardous conditions), we will contact you ahead of time to reschedule or offer a full refund. Safety is our top priority, and we will not operate tours under unsafe conditions. We will take the same actions for conditions that are very likely to eliminate chances of seeing bioluminescence, such as heavy rainfall events, strong storm surges, or very overcast weather for long periods before the tour. In these situations we may offer the chance to participate in the tour anyway if it is your only chance to get out there, knowing the likelihood of seeing bioluminescence is not very high.