If you are looking for the cheapest guide service, try someone else. The Kayak Academy
specializes in high quality tours with a unique emphasis on safety. We provide a choice of
Goretex dry suits or wet suit farmer johns (bib style neoprene pants) at no charge. We do
this because the summertime water temperature in most parts of the Puget Sound and San
Juan Islands is about 55 degrees F., and hypothermia is the primary cause of death in sea
kayaking accidents in these waters. We are also unique for encouraging trip participants
to practice basic safety procedures such as getting out of the kayak after a capsize (a
wet exit) and getting back in (re-entry rescues). This practice can be done in Seattle
prior to the trip or on location at the beginning of the trip. Although not a requirement
for kayakers, a two-way VHF radio (marine band), cellular phone, flares and other distress
signals are carried by guides on all of our trips. Each participant must be over the age
of sixteen and able to swim (even though we will be wearing life jackets while on the
water). Typically, all clients will paddle two-person kayaks; however, exceptions may be
allowed for skilled individuals.
There is a maximum of six clients on a trip, and of course since it is a private trip all of them will be members of your own party. Private trips also allow a great deal of flexibility with regard to destinations and schedules. For an extra fee we can even arrange for drop off or pick up with the kayaks by a charterboat to most destinations in the San Juan Islands.
On multi-day camping trips, we paddle to islands on the less developed eastern side of the San Juan Islands.
The kayaks, life jackets, paddles, spray skirts, dry bags for gear, and Goretex dry suits
or wet suits are provided. If needed, tents will be provided and other camping gear may be
rented from us. We provide group cooking equipment (stoves, pots, pans, etc.) as needed at
no charge, but prefer to have the participants bring their own food and fix it themselves
(otherwise there is an extra charge). Participants are responsible for their own
transportation to and from the location where we launch.
A fifty percent non-refundable deposit is required to make a reservation; the balance is
due four weeks before the trip (However, you will get a full refund if we cancel the trip
before we launch due to unsafe weather/sea conditions). Upon receipt of your deposit, we
will send you directions, equipment lists, liability release forms, and other information.
For two clients, the cost per person per day is $200.00
For three, the cost per person per day is $150.00
For four to six clients, the cost per person per day is $125.00
Call us to sign up or E-Mail us for more information:
Phone/Voice mail (206) 527-1825
© George Gronseth 2003, all rights reserved.