Learn to kayak while exploring Penn Cove’s history, habitat and aquaculture
2 Hours
Guide, tandem kayak, safety gear
Explore Penn Cove with a local guide on a beginner-friendly tandem kayak outing. Learn about the cove’s history, habitat and aquaculture as you paddle together.
Before we leave the dock, you’ll get to know your guide(s) and the equipment. You’ll need to feel comfortable sitting on a dock, gently sliding into your kayak, and later using your arms to push yourself up from the kayak back onto the dock. We’re here to assist if you need a hand! As we launch, we'll paddle east out to open waters taking in the Cascades, learning about Penn Cove Shellfish Co and exploring Whidbey's coastline in the search for wildlife. Cap your adventure with a drink or meal at the restaurant of The Captain Whidbey, enjoying a front-seat views of the cove.
Full refunds for cancellations made at least 14 days before the activity. No refunds for cancellations within 48 hours or for no-shows. If the operator cancels due to adverse weather or water conditions and rescheduling is not possible, choose a full refund or electronic gift card.
Product ID: U3DRVG
No. The tour is designed as an introduction to kayaking, and all equipment is provided.
Bring a bottle of water and sun/eye protection (sunglasses and/or a brimmed hat). Wear synthetic, athletic clothes and footwear that can get sandy or wet (or go barefoot). Avoid cotton items like jeans and sweatshirts.
Yes. You need to sit on the dock, move into a seated position in the kayak, then move back to the dock at the end and raise onto your knees before standing. The team can assist.
Captain Whidbey Inn boat dock, 2072 W Capt Whidbey Inn Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
With an exceptional track record and glowing feedback, this operation stands out for its genuinely helpful staff and well-maintained equipment. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Patricia, Sydney, Tate, and Tucker for being knowledgeable, personable, and creating experiences that strike the perfect balance between fun and informative. The team goes above and beyond for accessibility, with multiple mentions of staff assisting guests with mobility challenges, including carrying someone in their kayak to the water. The process is refreshingly straightforward, from online check-in to launch. The location around Langley Harbor delivers scenic beauty with frequent wildlife sightings, particularly seals and jellyfish. Beyond basic rentals, they offer guided tours and instructional courses that even experienced paddlers found valuable for refining technique and learning about local conditions. Their bioluminescence tours get special mentions for the stunning night sky views. Whether you're renting for a quick 90-minute paddle or taking a course to build your skills, visitors consistently describe the experience as hassle-free and memorable, with many planning return visits.
August 2026: Kayaking I class with Sue Rogers (4 hours). Sue is a fantastic teacher and very knowledgeable, as well as relaxed, patient and kind. The class was small and at a lake so the water was not too cold. She taught us how to exit from a flipped kayak and then get back in (a good thing to practice). We did both a self rescue and an assist rescue. Sue also taught us paddle skills and shared a lot of her knowledge about the process of learning to kayak well and about equipment and types of kayaks. Can't say enough - the class was fun and left me feeling excited about getting good at these skills.
Betsy Rogers
September 1, 2026
August 2026: Kayaking I class with Sue Rogers (4 hours). Sue is a fantastic teacher and very knowledgeable, as well as relaxed, patient and kind. The class was small and at a lake so the water was not too cold. She taught us how to exit from a flipped kayak and then get back in (a good thing to practice). We did both a self rescue and an assist rescue. Sue also taught us paddle skills and shared a lot of her knowledge about the process of learning to kayak well and about equipment and types of kayaks. Can't say enough - the class was fun and left me feeling excited about getting good at these skills.
Betsy Rogers
September 1, 2026
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