Pros & cons
PROS
- Official NPS concession with guided and unguided options
- Great for budget-minded multi-day backcountry trips if you bring your own gear
CONS
- Best suited to experienced campers; not a fully outfitted service
- Bartlett Cove day trips don’t reach tidewater glaciers
Overview
Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks is the park’s long-running kayak concession based in Gustavus, serving Bartlett Cove and the wider inlets of Glacier Bay since 1978. They rent sea kayaks for independent paddlers and run guided backcountry and day trips, including naturalist-led offerings aimed at people who like to do most of the camping logistics themselves.
What They Offer
- Unguided backcountry rentals for independent, experienced campers who bring all their own camping gear and food.
- Guided backcountry “rental trips” and citizen-science style itineraries with an experienced naturalist/guide—more interpretation and leadership without being a fully outfitted expedition.
- Guided or unguided day trips in Bartlett Cove for an easy taste of Glacier Bay by paddle.
What You’ll See
Bartlett Cove delivers protected waters, rainforest shoreline, and rich intertidal zones—prime territory for sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, and abundant bird life (bald eagles and seabirds are common). Humpback whales are sometimes encountered from kayaks. Multi-day itineraries push deeper into the bay’s remote coves and beaches, trading convenience for solitude and big wilderness feel. Note: you won’t see tidewater glaciers from Bartlett Cove; those take a longer backcountry journey or a boat-assisted drop-off.
Who It’s For
This outfitter is dialed for independent travelers: competent campers who want flexible, lower-cost access to Glacier Bay’s backcountry by bringing their own kit. If you prefer a fully outfitted, beginner-focused trip, this isn’t that.
Planning Essentials
- Bring all of your own camping gear and food for backcountry rentals and most guided backcountry options.
- Reservations are strongly recommended—kayaks and popular logistics (like boat drop-offs) can book up.
- Ask about using the daily tour boat’s kayak drop-offs to bypass long, exposed paddles and reach remote areas more efficiently.
- Expect rainforest conditions: rain, wind, and cold happen. Waterproof layers are mandatory, and bear-aware food storage is essential in the backcountry.
Best Time to Visit
They operate daily with typical hours around 8 am–5 pm. Day trips in Bartlett Cove are a good entry point anytime they’re running; multi-day paddles are commonly planned for 5–10 days. Book early for peak demand periods, and build flexibility for weather.
Where it is
58.4191, -135.7288Tips for Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks
- 01Reserve ahead—kayaks and boat drop-offs can fill fast.
- 02Bring your own camping gear and all food for backcountry rentals.
- 03Day trips from Bartlett Cove don’t reach tidewater glaciers; plan multi-day or boat-assisted access if glaciers are the goal.
- 04Ask about the daily tour boat’s kayak drop-offs to shorten long, exposed paddles.
- 05Pack for rain and wind; waterproof layers and dry bags are non-negotiable.
Near Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks
All places →All trails →
1.2 mi awayGlacier Bay LodgeIn-park lodge at Bartlett Cove with views, dining, and day toursRestroom · Parking
1.2 mi awayGift Shop at Glacier Bay LodgeAuthentic local crafts and handy last‑minute gear under one roofStore · Food
5.8 mi awayBartlett RiverShort rainforest walk to a living estuary with real wildlifeTrailhead
6 mi awayXunaa Shuká HítA living Tlingit clan house on Bartlett Cove’s shorelineExhibit
6.2 mi awayTlingit TrailA gentle bayside stroll into Huna Tlingit culture and Bartlett CoveEasy · 1 mi · 1 hr
Bartlett River TrailQuiet rainforest walk to a wildlife-rich river estuaryEasy · 5 mi · 4.5 hr
Forest Loop TrailRainforest loop with pond views, beach detour, and spring birdsongEasy · 1 mi · 1 hr
Bartlett Lake TrailLong, soggy rainforest trek to a quiet lake—bring rubber boots.Moderate · 8 mi · 7 hr
