Blue Otter Outfitters is recommending all business to

Anacortes Kayak Tours
the premier sea kayaking outfitter in the San Juan Islands

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Question: I have never kayaked, how easy is it?

Answer: We have a competent kayak guide who will help each person get comfortable paddling. Most customers fall in love with kayaking and get comfortable in the boats after the first half-hour.

2. Question: Do I have to kayak every day?

Answer: Each guest can choose the activities that they desire to participate in... some choose to go for a walk at the new destination, some decide to explore via kayak, while others choose to remain onboard relax and read a book... its up to you. There is usually time to partake in all activities.

3. Question: Do you see whales?
Answer: We see whales throughout the season on our standard routes and on our 5-day tour we specifacally set course to view them. On our other tours we do not have the time to search for them but with luck we cross thier path.

4. Question: What is the best time to see the whales?

Answer: Generally the resident Orca whales congregate in the area from early May to September. However, the whales can be unpredictable and are hard to forecast. For instance, in the summer of 2000, the whales left the area for a month and a half in July and August.

5. Question: How do most people get to the San Juan Islands from Seattle?

Answer: Most people chose to drive from Seattle to the Anacortes ferry terminal which is about 1 1/2 hours North of Seattle on I-5. From there it is a relaxing ferry ride to the islands. See our Travel Info page.

6. Question: Should I bring a car?

Answer: You can easily ride the ferry with your car however we recommend that our guests walk on the ferry. This is less expensive but more importantly it saves one from the long car lines that can develop in the summer. If you do want to take your car, expect to wait at least 1 1/2 each way to take the ferry and sometimes a lot more.

7. Question: Where should I stay the night before the tour?

Answer: There is an early ferry and it is possible to make it from Seattle to the San Juans before our tour departure time of 10:00 am. However, most people chose to stay in a Bed and Breakfast the night before the tour. We have put together some information to help you at our Travel Info page.

8. Question: How many people can come onboard for a tour?

Answer: We are limited to 6 guests on any tour. This ensures a comfortable environment aboard our vessel.

9. Question: How easy is it to travel to Canada after the tour?

Answer: Canada is accessible by ferry from Friday Harbor (our base of operation). If you need to take your car you will need to call in advance for a reservation.

10. Question: Will it rain on us?

Answer: I hope not. July, August and the beginning of September are the driest months in the NW. During these months it is not uncommon for hardly a drop to be seen. BUT, it does rain occasionally and it is best to pack a rain jacket just in case. If it does rain, the tours are usually unaffected. The sailing vessel has a large heated salon with 360-degree viewing and thus guests can stay warm and dry while drinking hot cocoa.

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