Sea Kayaking

The most adventurous way to explore Glacier Bay is by paddling your own kayak through the bay's icy waters and inlets. But unless you're an expert, you're better off joining a guided tour.

Alaska Discovery. You can book a six-day or an eight-day guided expedition through Alaska Discovery. Operated by Mountain Travel Sobek, the company provides safe, seaworthy kayaks and tents, gear, and food. Its guides are tough, knowledgeable Alaskans, and they've spent enough time in Glacier Bay's wild country to know what's safe and what's not. Private and custom-designed tours for small groups can also be organized through this company. Gustavus, Alaska, 99826. 888/831–7526; www.mtsobek.com/trips/br/region-north-america. From $4,195.

Alaska Mountain Guides. Take day kayaking trips for whale watching at Point Adolphus, a premier humpback gathering spot, as well as multiday sea-kayaking expeditions next to tidewater glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, with Alaska Mountain Guides. Gustavus, Alaska, 99826. 907/313–4422; 800/766–3396; www.alaskamountainguides.com. From $460.

Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks. Kayak rentals for Glacier Bay exploring and camping can be arranged through Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks. You will be given instructions on handling the craft plus camping and routing suggestions for unescorted trips. Guided day trips with knowledgeable guides are available in Bartlett Cove. The company is an official NPS concession for guided day kayak trips. Bartlett Cove, Gustavus, Alaska, 99826. 907/697–2257; www.glacierbayseakayaks.com. Trips from $95.

Spirit Walker Expeditions. Take one- to seven-day sea-kayaking trips from Gustavus to various parts of Icy Strait with Spirit Walker Expeditions. Trips to Glacier Bay and other remote areas of Southeast Alaska, including Fords Terror and West Chichagof, are also offered on a limited basis. Gustavus, Alaska, 99826. 800/529–2537; www.seakayakalaska.com.