The tour travels the Bay giving you insight into one of Alaska’s richest and most diverse ecosystems. It provides information on its wildlife, history, local climate, geology, and the marine diversity found in the Bay. We learn of the Native people, the Russian Fur Rush and archaeological sites found in the Bay. Throughout the tour, stops are made to view marine mammals such as Sea Otters, Bald Eagles, and sea birds.

Geographic Stops

First Stop: Gull Island


Here, immerse yourself in a thriving seabird rookery, home to as many as 20,000 seabirds. Dominated by 8,000 to 10,000 Black-legged Kittiwakes, the island buzzes with the activity of Common Murres, Glaucous-winged Gulls, Pelagic Cormorants, and other avian species like Horned and Tufted Puffins. The cacophony of their calls fills the air, creating a stunning audio-visual experience as flocks take to the sky in unison. Watch for playful sea otters, harbor seals, and shy harbor porpoises that frequent these waters.

Departing Gull Island we will begin our search for more sea mammals (common to see rafts of Sea Otters along the way to Peterson Bay.)

Second Stop: Peterson Bay


Next, our route takes us to nearby Peterson Bay, where the contrasts of Alaska’s wild and human-inhabited landscapes merge. Visit a local oyster farm and observe how these delicacies are cultivated in the bay. The area is also prime for viewing majestic bald eagles and other wildlife, such as river otters and harbor seals. We will search for Pigeon Guillemots, Marbled Murrelets, and Harlequin ducks in the bay. Along the shore we will listen for Cliff Swallows and Kingfishers.

Third Destination: Sadie Cove


Our journey continues to Sadie Cove. Sadie Cove is the best example of a (sill) fjord within the Kachemak Bay State Park. This area is most concentrated there are lots of eagles and eagles nest, (all winter there are eagles there); there are very few private cabins in the cove, and because of the steep terrain it provides breathtaking scenery. May - goats, big, way up high. Black bears occasionally, early in the spring along the shore. This is where we will stop, turn the engines off, and listen to one of the most quiet places in the Bay (and have hot or cold drinks and lunch).

Fourth Destination: Hesketh Island

To make a geology stop to stop and describe what the major formations are within Kachemak bay and how the arches seen at various places such as Gull Island and Halibut Cove are formed. This is also an excellent place to watch Bald Eagles on the top of a cliff, which like to survey the upper part of Tutka Bay for catching salmon. It is also one of the only places in the Bay where we can see small flocks of pigeon guillemonts, both on the water and on the shore. Our final stop are the reefs that are on the tip of Hesketh Island. This is where we commonly see small rafts of Otters. Many females* with pups. Then we return to Homer Harbor.

Activities Overview:

Wildlife Viewing: Explore the rich marine biodiversity and wildlife of Kachemak Bay as you spot sea otters playfully navigating the waters, harbor seals sunning on rocky outcrops, and perhaps even a glimpse of elusive harbor porpoises. Each sighting provides a unique opportunity to learn about the behaviors and habitats of these fascinating marine creatures.

• Sea Bird Rookery Observation: Immerse yourself in the bustling life of a sea bird rookery on Gull Island, a sanctuary for thousands of nesting seabirds. Witness the dynamic interactions of Black-legged Kittiwakes, Common Murres, and other species such as Horned and Tufted Puffins and Pelagic Cormorants. Experience the overwhelming sight and sound as these birds socialize, nurture their young, and take flight in spectacular flocks.

The Russian-American history including fur rush and archeology of Kachemak Bay. Human history.

What’s Included:

• 7x50 Waterproof Marine Binoculars: Enhance your viewing experience with high-quality optics.

• Comprehensive Interpretive Guides: Gain insights from expertly crafted guides detailing the flora, fauna, and history of the regions visited.

• Oyster Farm Interpretation: Engage in an informative session at a local oyster farm, learning about sustainable aquaculture practices and the lifecycle of oysters.

• Hot & Cold Drinks: (The stop in Sadie Cove allows you to visit a cafe that offers hot drinks and milkshakes.)

• Locally-Made Muffins

Join us for a small group tour that not only highlights the natural wonders of Kachemak Bay but also brings you closer to the unique stories woven into the landscape. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a budding photographer, or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the bay, this tour promises memorable moments and breathtaking scenery.

Tour Details:

• Duration: 5 Hours

• Price: $275 per adult (12+), $50 per child (ages 5-11)

• Minimum Participants: 2 persons required for the tour.

• Maximum Participants: 6 persons per tour.