Kayaking
Whether you choose to explore the untamed wilderness of the Galápagos, the glacial beauty of Alaska, or the desolate islands of Antarctica, you’re unlikely to experience an expedition cruise without setting out on a kayak at some point. If you haven’t yet tried it, you won’t understand the meditative tranquility that you’ll only find out at sea or on the glassy fjords, no sound but the gentle swish of your paddle moving through the water and the occasional call of an albatross in the distance. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more adrenaline-filled experience, a kayaking excursion can be exactly that too.
Put your pedal to the metal (or should that be hand to the paddle?) as you navigate jagged coastlines, twisting icebergs and concealed coves, seabirds swooping overhead, hammerhead sharks gliding underneath. Regardless of whether you’re in the market for a mild or wild ride, one thing is for sure: kayaking is a profoundly intimate experience. When it’s just you and your kayak at the edge of the world, the vast vistas of these far-flung destinations rising up all around, you’ll be reminded of just how small you are.
What is the experience like?
They will also be aware that there will be an array of physical fitness and experience levels across the group and will accommodate accordingly. Those in search of a gentler experience may opt for a sit-on-top kayak, whilst those wanting a bit more of a workout will enjoy a challenging sea kayaking excursion. Whichever one you plump for, you will start the outing in a Zodiac, which will drop you off at a pre-determined starting point where your kayaks await.
Guests who want to really experience the solitude of expedition kayaking may set sail in a single kayak, but double kayaks are also available for pairs. Each excursion typically lasts between one and three hours and may wind up in another location, segueing into a hike or other exploratory excursion. Others will simply be focused on the thrill of the paddle. As always, guest safety is paramount and there will always be a detailed safety demonstration and a safety driver in a nearby Zodiac will always be on hand.
What should I wear? What should I bring?
In terms of equipment, the cruise line will provide you with a kayak (don’t worry, you’re not expected to bring your own!) a paddle, muck boots or water shoes, a spray skirt, grippy gloves and a waterproof bag for your possessions.
What you should wear depends on the climate you’re kayaking in. In polar climates, opt for warm thermal layers and waterproof clothing. For warmer climates such as the Kimberley or the Galápagos, wear clothing in lightweight, breathable, quick-drying fabrics such as cotton or linen. Regardless of where you are, you should always bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat (a warm woolly one in colder regions, a wide-brimmed one to protect for the sun in warmer ones).
Where can I do kayaking?
- See Antarctica through a new lens as you meander around the Errera Channel and aptly-named Paradise Harbour.
- Get up close to diverse wildlife and smooth glaciers when you kayak in the waters surrounding Greenland, Svalbard and the Lofoten Islands.
- Marine wildlife is close enough to touch as you kayack around Santa Cruz, Isabela and the San Cristóbal Islands.
- Seward and Homer are among the most popular kayaking spots in Alaska
- You can’t snorkel or dive in the Kimberley due to the presence of saltwater crocodile, so kayaking is the perfect alternative.
Other activities
