The 9 Best Kayak Trips for Cruise Passengers

1.Eagle Island Sea Kayaking

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 359 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $115Our pick

Leave Ketchikan by van for Clover Pass and a guided tandem kayak trip toward Eagle Island. Guides such as Eli, Sarah, Katie, and Mallory help beginners manage the boats while you watch for eagles, seals, sea lions, starfish, salmon, and possibly humpback whales or orcas.

“My wife and I booked our excursion through Viator and were the only group that went out that morning. Eli was a great guide. The water was for the most part very calm. The kayak had a rudder which made maneuvering very easy. We had close encounters with sea lions, harbor seals and bald eagles. We had an awesome time and would recommend this tour to everyone.”

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2.St Thomas Shore Excursion: Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 195 reviews · from $119

Paddle among the small islands of St Thomas’ Mangrove Lagoon with guides such as Kyrell, Pat, Kas, or Sabrina. You’ll snorkel near mangrove roots, look for rays and fish, and may add a short hike on Cas Cay. Round-trip port transport, gear, lockers, water, and a snack are included.

“Fantastic trip! Our guide Aslem was so knowledgeable and friendly. We learned about island history, flora , and fauna with lots of great views and snorkeling. Highly recommend!!!”

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3.Small Group River Kayaking Tour from Port Vila

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 163 reviews · from $68Best value

Paddle the gentle Rentapao River from Port Vila with guides such as Jackie, Moroni, Berry, or Roy. Expect rainforest, villages, mangroves, clear swimming water, a Tarzan rope swing, local stories, and fresh tropical fruit. Double kayaks make the trip easier for children.

“Been a while since I did this tour but we had a great time’ kayaking on the river. Great refreshments and explanations from our attentive guide. We had fun!”

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4.Shore Excursion Guided Sea Kayaking through Akaroa Marine Reserve

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 160 reviews · from $83

Paddle a two-person sea kayak through Akaroa’s sheltered volcanic basin with guides such as Jake, Joey, John, or Allie. Expect a small-group outing, safety help, volcanic rock formations, seabirds, and possible Hector’s dolphins. The route and wildlife sightings vary with weather, tides, and season.

“This was a great tour. Allie was very kind and worked with us even when the ship’s tenders were late. John was our tour guide and was very patient and informative. Good for beginners and experienced kayakers. Had a wonderful time!!”

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5.Mendenhall Glacier Canoe, Paddle and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 75 reviews · 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $402

You paddle 5 to 6 miles across Mendenhall Lake toward Mendenhall Glacier, then walk about 2 miles on rocky ground near its edge. Above and Beyond Alaska supplies boots, rain gear, paddling equipment, snacks, water, and guides. The outing lasts about 5.5 hours.

“Paddling was hard work so that I got arm muscle pain for next three days. But the guides are very kind and skillful, making sure our safety on glacier. This tour is definitely the highlight of my Alaska trip!”

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6.Shore Excursion: La Bufadora Blowhole, Kayak Adventure & Markets

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $139

Paddle toward La Bufadora with a private guide, passing small islets and coastal views before reaching Ensenada’s famous blowhole. You get a kayak, safety gear, dry bag, transportation, and help from guides such as Esau. Families with younger children use the calmer estuary route.

“Disorganized. Found them easy enough but drove to La Bufadora in their rented taxis and they made us wait for two hours while another group went. Told us to go shop. The time we wasted cost us the ability to do anything else back in Ensenada.”

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7.Cedar canoe tour in Klaipeda – ideal for Cruise Ship travelers.

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 21 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.) · from $82

You’ll paddle a handmade cedar strip canoe through Klaipeda with an English-speaking guide, then see Jono Kalnelis fortifications and the restored Meridian ship. Pickup is available beside your cruise vessel, making this a practical 2 to 3-hour shore excursion for confident participants aged 16 and up.

“Excellent excursion! We were picked up at the port as promised. Given safety equipment and a lesson in canoeing. Enjoyed every minute on the handmade canoe and our guide. Perfect way to learn about Klaipeda, its history and Lithuanian life. Most highly recommend.”

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8.Paddle with Whales Kayak Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 20 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $494

Ride a small boat from Juneau to Channel Islands State Marine Park, then paddle double kayaks near Southeast Alaska’s humpback feeding grounds. Above and Beyond Alaska supplies rain gear, snacks, water, permits, and instruction. Whale sightings are possible but never guaranteed.

“Amazing employees and excursions. I’ve never kayaked before but was given excellent instructions. My kayak mate and I were given the ultimate experience of having a humpback whale surface right in front of our kayak. A once in a life time experience!!!!”

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9.Half-day cruise. St.Antonio Shore Excursion: Paddle, Swim and Beach Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2 reviews · from $500

Join Rafa and Jose for a four-hour private catamaran trip from the dock by Mar Amantis Hotel. You’ll cruise Ibiza’s coast, use snorkeling gear and a paddleboard, swim near Cala Bassa, and may choose an evening departure for sunset views.

“¡Dia Fabuloso! Rafa y el capitán fueron geniales. Barco muy cómodo con mucho espacio y todas las comodidades que necesitábamos.”

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