Brown bears forage on the abundance of berries during early summer, while offshore our paddling is often punctuated by sightings of the spectacular humpback whale. This most dramatic of wild marine species adds an exclamation point to a rich and rewarding Alaskan adventure.
Learn more about our Photography Tours
Become a Fan
We supply nearly everything necessary for your sailing expedition. You'll need to bring your clothes and a few personal items, including raingear and rubber boots. If you're planning to bring beer or wine for your personal consumption, please discuss this with us prior to your departure.
The equipment we supply includes:
And of course, we also provide:
While some of the items in the packing list are optional, others are essential for your comfort and safety. Your clothing should fit into two small duffle bags, approximately 21" x 12" x 10", or one larger duffle bag. You should also bring a small daypack or camera backpack for your camera and personal items.
We can provide temprary storage for any luggage you can't take on the trip.
Clothing. The particular quantity and combination of items you bring is up to you. However, be sure to bring enough warm clothes. Thermal underwear is highly recommended. Dress in layers for maximum flexibility – you should be able to wear everything you bring at the same time! Bring an extra layer you do not really think you will need.
Rain Gear. Essential. You'll need good raingear. Thin, coated-nylon rain gear is inexpensive.
Rubber Boots. Essential. You'll need a pair of sturdy rubber boots. XTRATUFS are great!
Warm Hat. Essential. Should be wool or synthetic and cover your ears (not a baseball hat).
Sweater or Fleece Jacket. Essential. This is your insulation layer. If you tend to be cold, you should bring two or more additional insulation layers.
Warm Pants. Essential. A synthetic pair like Polartec™ or Synchilla™. They don't absorb much water, are warm when wet, and dry quickly. Bring an extra pair, just in case.
Long Underwear. Essential. Polypropylene or smart wool – not cotton.
Wool Socks. Essential. The warmth, cushion, and absorbency of thick wool (or wool/silk/polypropylene blend) socks is important. There is nothing worse than wet feet. Bring several pairs – and change your socks each day.
Underwear. Your regular underwear is fine.
Shirts. Warm long-sleeved wool or synthetic. Cotton soaks up water and becomes cold and uncomfortable. One or two depending on length of trip.
Other Shirts. Short-sleeved or T-shirts. Two or three for longer trips.
Comfortable Shoes. For use on the Kirsten Anne. Please note that most of the time we are not on the Kirsten Anne, (including hikes) you will be wearing your rubber boots.
Gloves. Lightweight neoprene diver's gloves work well for paddling.
Shorts. For sunny days!
Equipment. Over the years, we've found this to be a handly list, but bring along whatever you like.
Day Pack. A day pack is great for keeping things close by in your kayak, on the skiff, and on short walks or hikes. To keep things inside dry, consider lining it with a small plastic bag.
Dry Bags. A couple of small dry bags, to keep your expensive equipment protected from the rain.
Sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses allow you to see into the water.
Camera. Be sure to bring your camera, a telephoto lens and wide angle lens, plus lots of memory cards and extra batteries. If you plan to edit your digital pictures during your trip, please bring a laptop computer. We have a generator and an inverter, and they provide plenty of power for your electronics.
Binoculars. For wildlife viewing.
Medications. Please bring an adequate supply of any medications you depend on. And be sure to let us know if you are taking subscription medications.
Toiletry Items. Toothbrush, comb or small brush, personal items, disposable razors, etc.
Miscellaneous. A cap with sun visor, pocket knife, flashlight or headlamp, fishing gear and license, reading and writing materials, and several zip-lock bags to keep items dry.