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 phosphoresce 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.
2020 Dates
June 18 - 22 – Departing at 9:30 PM
July 17 - 21 – Departing at 8:30 PM
August 14 - 18 – Departing at 8:00 PM
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.
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 are required to paddle in stable double and triple sea kayaks. No previous kayak experience needed. Tours are limited to only 12 participants, so book early!
What to Bring & Wear: Head lamp, warm layers and wind breaker, comfortable footwear, snack, water bottle. Please no alcohol.
What our customers are saying:
We had never gone kayaking let alone sea kayaking. Wyatt was our knowledgeable guide and made this first time experience memorable. We really enjoyed ourselves and highly recommend it!
What our customers are saying:
Went out on a kayak with San Juan Outfitters kayak on my trip, yet again the experience was fantastic. The crew were all super friendly and cool and everything was great. Would highly recommend for your next trip.
