About Outdoor Odysseys

Why Choose Outdoor Odysseys

We recognize you have a variety of outfitters to choose from. Here’s why we hope you’ll consider Outdoor Odysseys for your San Juan Island Kayak Tour.

Experience

We have been leading sea kayaking tours since 1987 and have built a well-deserved reputation for offering high quality, meticulously crafted kayak tours. We’ve explored the islands with over 100,000 paddlers in the past 30 years, while staying committed to providing personal, small group experiences.

Safety in Small Numbers

Outdoor Odysseys takes particular pride in our mature and professional guides. Every guide has Wilderness Medical training and is trained to handle emergency situations both on and off the water. Each guide is equipped with a cell phone, VHF marine radio, and comprehensive first aid kit. Additionally, our groups are small to insure customer attention on the water and a more personal experience.

Kayaking First

Sea kayaking is our first priority as a small business. We believe it is the best way to truly enjoy the islands, both in the up close experience and in consideration of noise pollution for our wildlife. We made a conscious decision to focus on human powered trips (no motorized whale watch boats, no motor vessel support on tours). We’re not anti-motorboat, rather, we offer the kinds of trips we ourselves would love to take.

Giving Back

Our trips have always been designed with a deep respect and concern for our environment. Our guides are eager to share their passion for the unique ecosystem of the San Juan Islands whether sharing their knowledge of wildlife or cooking with locally sourced ingredients. Outdoor Odysseys donates a portion of all profits to organizations that we believe best protect and sustain the environment we paddle in. Learn More

Whales & Wildlife

Wildlife are just that, wild. Our tours launch from the West side of San Juan Island, a premier whale watching spot for our endangered orca whales. No company can guarantee whale sightings, but we strive to provide a fantastic kayak experience and consider orca whales to be the “icing” on an already amazing cake of adventure and natural beauty.Please remember that these endangered animals have a large territory to cover, a limited food supply, and have suffered a huge decline in their population over the last century. We try not to give them too much flak if they don’t show up on cue. Learn More

Food & Amenities

Our cuisine sets us apart in the field. Food and drink is one of the first places where others try to cut corners. We provide all the meals for our trips, including three course dinners and wine on our overnight excursions. Our guides are excellent cooks, adept at tailoring menus to our guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions. We use only organic ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. Learn More

Our Guides

Great guides make great trips. Our guides are mature, passionate naturalists, and committed to Outdoor Odysseys’ mission. They have made the San Juan Islands their home and return year after year to share their explorations with others. Learn More