Family Multi-Day Kayaking

Our trip begins this morning in Friday Harbor, Washington, located in the San Juan Islands archipelago. We meet a few hundred feet from the Friday Harbor Ferry Terminal, then transfer to Roche Harbor to prepare for our kayaking excursion. Packing into dry bags, we load our kayaks and begin paddling across the open water of San Juan Channel and paddle along the Wasp Islands enjoying spectacular water and island views. Once we arrive at Jones we will set up camp, then there is free time to relax, hike or go tide-pooling. Tonight's dinner, made with locally sourced ingredients, is prepared by our guides. Lunch and dinner included. Take an evening paddle, build a camp fire (burn bans permitting), or do a sunset hike to finish the day.

We will start the day with a hot breakfast and coffee. Our main activity is to paddle the Wasp Islands, a beautiful chain of small islands located between Jones Island and Shaw Island. We prepare for another fabulous dinner back at camp and end the day with activities or down time.

After a delicious hot breakfast, pack up camp to be launching by 10 am. Cross San Juan Channel paddling toward San Juan Island enjoying views of the channel, Speiden Island, and Canada. Arrive to our docks in Roche Harbor around 2 pm – do not plan off island travel prior to 4:30pm. Return time is subject to change due to tides and weather. If you do not have a car, we will shuttle you back to Friday Harbor.

Depending on your family and group size, some itinerary items can be switched up to give your family the best trip! Want more camp time or more paddling? Let us know! We email a pre-trip questionnaire prior to your tour.

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff. 

We provide

• All Group Cooking Gear
• Dry Bags
• Group First Aid Kit
• Paddles
• PFD and Spray Skirt
• Tandem Kayaks

• Tent(s)

   

What to pack

Required gear

• Flashlight or Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
• Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
• Hiking Pants (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
• Hiking Shoes
• Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
• Sleeping Bag (30°-39°, Lightweight, Compressible)
• Sleeping Pad
• Sun/Rain Hat
• Sunblock and Lip Balm
• Tee Shirts (Synthetic)
• Water Bottle (One 1-Liter) or Hydration System
• Water Shoes (Full Foot Protection)

Recommended gear

• Bandana or Buff for Sun Protection
• Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Synthetic)
• Camp Towel (Washcloth Size)
• Cycling and/or Paddling Gloves
• Day Pack (Lightweight, Compressible)
• Fleece/Wool Hat
• Hand Sanitizer
• Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
• Insect Repellent
• Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
• Rain Pants (Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
• Sunglasses and Accessories
• Toiletries
• Face Mask
• Sit Pad
• Small Binoculars
• Stuff Sacks
• Swimwear
• Travel Games

Printable Packing Checklist

Weather
The San Juan Islands average 50% less precipitation than Seattle. This is due to the rain shadow effect of the Olympic Mountains located to the south and west. During summer months, expect daytime temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s with evening temperatures in the 50s.Most days are sunny with occasional fog in the early morning, however rain is a possibility at any time making adequate rain gear essential.

Single Travelers
Tent accommodations are shared and solo travelers will be paired with a same gender tent-mate. If you request single accommodations, we will provide you with your own tent at no additional charge if a single tent is available. Please be advised that there are a limited number of tents and single tents are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.