Where To Kayak in Glacier Bay

Bartlett Cove/Beardslee Islands Kayaking

     Most kayakers paddling in the lower bay regions meet us at 9:00 AM on their departure date. Kayaks can then be launched into Bartlett Cove and paddled toward the campground or the Beardslee Islands. The Beardslees offer splendid beach camping and viewing of marine wildlife and birds. For placid paddling, solitude, lush beach and forest vegetation and varied wildlife, the Beardslees make a superb 2-3 day trip. Consider combining your Beardslees kayaking trip with a day cruise on the daily tour boat.

     The nearest tidewater glaciers to Bartlett Cove are in the Muir Arm, about 50 miles away, and in the West Arm, about 65 miles away. Kayakers generally allow 5-8 days to paddle each way. By combining the drop-off service provided by the daily tour boat with the calm conditions of the inlets up bay, less experienced kayakers can enjoy the wonders of Glacier Bay without enduring open water or major crossings. We can arrange one-way or round trip transport into either arm of the bay.

     The daily tour boat departs Bartlett Cove at 7:30 AM and will drop off and pick up kayakers and campers between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. One-way kayaker drop-offs allow you to enjoy an 8-10 day paddle back to Bartlett Cove from either arm of the bay. If you have less time and experience, you may be dropped off and then picked up again some days later.

     Campers departing on the daily tour boat must attend the 5:00 PM kayak rental and instruction session on the evening prior to their departure. You must load your empty kayak onto the vessel by early evening in preparation for the next morning's departure.

     Make sure to look at our kayaker/camper Drop Off Point Map to help you plan your adventure.