Bioluminescent Kayak Tour
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Come Kayak With Us
Experience Bioluminescence!
Departing at sunset from Roche Harbor, join our professional staff on a 3-hour long guided kayak tour in the sheltered and still waters of Garrison and Westcott Bays in search of these unique microorganisms. Stirring of the water by small animals, fish, and paddle strokes ignite the reactive plankton; creating a phosphorescent glow.
Here in the Salish Sea, the bioluminescence is most active after hot and sunny days and is most visible during the new moon. For this reason, we only offer this tour during select times throughout the summer to maximize visibility of the glowing plankton.
Bioluminescent Tours are adult tours (13+ years). If you have younger children and would like to join, call us to set up a family specific tour!
Shuttles with San Juan Outfitters are not offered on Bioluminescent Tours. As there is not a ferry off island after this tour, you will need to plan on staying the night of your tour on San Juan Island.
Prepare for Your Bioluminescent Tour
Departing from Roche Harbor on the northwest corner of San Juan Island gives us close access to the waters where bioluminescence is most reactive. Our custom finger docks make for easy entry into the kayak and you keep your feet warm and dry. For the comfort and safety of all participants, guests must paddle in stable double and triple sea kayaks — no previous kayak experience is needed. Tours are limited to only 12 participants, so book early!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What to Bring
- Headlamp!
- Warm layers
- Wind breaker
- Footwear you don't mind getting wet
- Camera
- Snack
- Water bottle
Please no alcohol, tobacco, or marijuana.
- What to Wear
We recommend bringing layers! Wear bottoms that you feel comfortable sitting in for a long duration of time. Folks often wear athletic bottoms, a base shirt and possibly a jacket or sweatshirt. If you bring extra layers that you decide to leave behind, we can secure them on the dock during your adventure!
- Will I Get Wet?
You will stay nice and dry on our tours. We do not depart the kayaks during the bioluminescent tour.