Paddle Deer Harbor at night and look for glowing plankton
2-hour
Up to 8 people
Tandem kayak, gear, guide
Explore sheltered Deer Harbor on a 2-hour after-dark tandem kayak tour and watch the water glow when you paddle. Bioluminescence sightings are common but vary in intensity and aren’t guaranteed.
Minimum age is 15. Maximum weight is 260 lbs per person and maximum height is 6'4". Gratuity for your guide is not included.
1–4 people: cancel more than 72 hours before start for a refund minus $15/person. 5+ people: cancel up to 5 days before for a refund minus $10/person. Late cancellations/changes, late arrivals, and no-shows are not refunded unless filled. Full refund if Shearwater cancels and you choose not to reschedule.
Bring warm layers, clothing appropriate for the weather, and a wind jacket. Wear secure footwear (sport sandals, water shoes, or sneakers; avoid flip-flops). Bring drinking water, optional snacks, and an optional headlamp to help at the end of the tour.
No. Please do not bring alcohol.
Yes. Minimum age is 15. Maximum weight is 260 lbs per person, and maximum height is 6'4".
Deer Harbor Marina - Orcas Island
Kayaking around Orcas Island becomes genuinely special when your guide knows every current, creature, and story of the San Juans. The guides here consistently earn praise for their deep knowledge of marine life and local ecosystems, with names like Dan, Moe, Nara, and Mason appearing repeatedly as standouts. They strike that sweet balance between being informative naturalists and relaxed companions on the water. Expect to see harbor seals, jellyfish, starfish, and bald eagles on most tours, with guides carefully keeping appropriate distances from wildlife. The small group sizes mean plenty of personal attention, which first-time kayakers especially appreciate. Tours launch from both Deer Harbor and Doe Bay, with three-hour excursions being the most popular choice. The bioluminescence tours also get rave reviews for those visiting during the right season. Equipment quality is solid, including tandem kayaks for couples and dry bags for belongings. The company shows flexibility too, offering to reschedule when weather looks questionable rather than pushing ahead with less-than-ideal conditions.
Family kayak excursion out of Deer Harbor on Orcas. The company was easy to schedule tour, provided a discount for a group booking and flexibility rescheduling when our original day/time had less than ideal weather. Our guide Dan was knowledgeable about the area and passionate about wildlife. It was a great experience!
Michelle Murray
July 29, 2025
Family kayak excursion out of Deer Harbor on Orcas. The company was easy to schedule tour, provided a discount for a group booking and flexibility rescheduling when our original day/time had less than ideal weather. Our guide Dan was knowledgeable about the area and passionate about wildlife. It was a great experience!
Michelle Murray
July 29, 2025