Although there were rental kayaks available, we decided we needed a guide as we'd never gone kayaking before. We chose AK Discovery because they seemed to have the most experience.

We booked the day kayak trip which meant paddling around Barlett Cove (about 60 miles from the glaciers). They picked us up at 8:00 from our lodge and provided all the equipment and basic instructions. Instructors were experienced and helpful. The kayaks provided are the fancy ones with foot pedals controlling the rudder.

We kayaked for a few hours, had a snack. Then we went on a hike along a bear trail before stopping for smoked salmon and bagels for lunch. After luch, we kayaked for a few more hours and then dropped back at our lodge at 4pm.

We saw eagles and harbor seals and some bear poop. It rained in the morning so we were glad we were all decked out in raingear. Arms got tired after a while and we were glad to have gloves to prevent blisters but definitely an experience of a lifetime. Very peaceful.