Washington San Juan Islands Multi-Adventure |MT Sobek

Kayak, Hike & Whale Watch from Orcas to San Juan

Escape the everyday with this nature-lover's trip to the Pacific Northwest, known for its diverse ecosystems, dramatic coastlines, and lush forest landscapes. Kayak the San Juan Islands, a serene archipelago between Washington and Canada that feels like it's a world away. Here, you'll have the chance to watch for orcas and humpbacks, while paddling along the coastline and enjoying beautiful sunsets. After spending full days reveling in natural splendor, you'll leave feeling refreshed and inspired.

Experience the magnificent natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest

Kayak along the rugged coastline of the San Juans, keeping a lookout for bald eagles and a resident orca pod, with MT Sobek expert guides!

Dine on fresh sea-to-table cuisine of locally sourced salmon, oysters and many more Northwest delicacies

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

MT Sobek has been crafting unique itineraries for adventure seekers since 1969, working with top local guides to pave new trails.

Reason #02

This is expertly crafted 5-day adventure blends kayaking and island exploration with ample opportunities for rest and relaxation. It's perfect for the short-on-time traveler.

Reason #03

Our guides and crew work hard maximizing the amount of wildlife encounters both on land and sea, and guides will always be kayaking with you.

Meet your guides

Jordan Vogt

After graduating from the College of Charleston, Jordan decided to make the move out to the west coast to become a guide. She was first introduced to the outdoors in the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota and has hung out outside every summer since, working as a wilderness canoe guide and on a trail crew in Northern Colorado. When not guiding, Jordan can be found cooking up some pad Thai, jogging, popping some popcorn, or water coloring.

Clai Seier

Claiborne is from Wisconsin where he grew up with the mighty Yahara River in his backyard. He began canoeing when he was just 12 years old, and has been hooked on paddling ever since. At 18, he started working at a canoe and kayak shop and is now spending his 5th season exploring the San Juan Islands by kayak. In his spare time, Clai loves backpacking, mountain biking, whitewater paddling and anything else that takes him outdoors.

Ryder Cuddington

A native San Diegan, Ryder grew up near the ocean and has spent the past six years guiding around San Juan. He enjoys spreading his love for kayaking and the ocean, and educating others about the area. Along with kayaking, he enjoys biking, hiking and running.

Activities

Hike and paddle in search of wildlife and whales! Two days of easy kayaking suitable for beginners, three days of easy hiking, and an half day zodiac tour in search of humpback, orca and Minke whales.

Lodging

Four nights comfortable lodging at the historic Roche Harbor Resort, with free Wi-Fi, three restaurants, a cafe, spa, swimming pool, and scenic gardens.

Climate

Summer is optimal for a visit, from late June through early September, with an average daytime temperature of 67°F degrees in June and 71°F in July and August.

FAQ

What airport should I fly in and out of?

Friday Harbor is accessible by car, boat, or plane. The nearest airport is Sea-Tac airport in Seattle (SEA). From there, two shuttle services operate transfers from the airport to the ferry terminal where you can board a ferry to Roche Harbor where our trip begins. Please take the 9 AM or earlier shuttle to arrive in time for the trip start.

Do I need any previous kayaking experience?

No previous kayaking experience is required. Our guides will teach the basics and provide safety instructions.

What is the kayaking like?

The kayaks will be one-person kayaks and route selection will be determined by weather, tides and group ability.

What wildlife might I see?

There will be a chance to see many different kinds of wildlife - on land and on sea While kayaking and on the zodiac, you may encounter orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, Dall's porpoises, and Pacific harbor seals. During the hikes, you may spot red foxes, blacktail deer, and over 32 specifies of butterflies.

Testimonials

"I have taken 12 trips with MT Sobek. Each has left a positive imprint on me-widening my view of the world and its peoples."

Jane B.
MT Sobek Guest

"MT Sobek took care of everything for our extended family vacation. Not a hiccup in the planning, the itinerary, the lodging or the guide. Everything in life should be so easy."

Kathy J.
MT Sobek Guest