Can I Paddle My Own Boat?

February-March 2005

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

V. Jim Kyle

The ‘Last Frontier’ beckons all paddlers! Southeast Alaska (the Panhandle) is a kayaking paradise, offering intricate shorelines, whales, glaciers, bears, hot springs and much more. You can explore an infinitely varied seascape, including ice-laden fjords, ocean capes with sea arches, and tidal lakes and sloughs. You can choose between a self-guided excursion, a camping trip with an outfitter, or a mothership tour. Can you paddle your own boat? Many outfitters will say yes, but be sure to ask. If you are within driving distance of Northwest Washington, you can send your kayak to any port in Southeast.

The first of two ways to send your ‘baby’ north is via Alaska Marine Lines barge. Remove the rudder or protect it by taping foam blocks alongside and then wrap your boat with bubble wrap. Transport it to AML’s terminal in South Seattle, where it will be placed inside a container, on top of the load to prevent crushing. Shipping by this dependable company takes a week to ten days. Cost is under $300 round trip to Sitka, and will vary depending on the port. Then you can fly Alaska Airlines north to rendezvous with your boat.

The second way is to accompany your boat on an Alaska Marine Highway ferry ride on the Inside Passage from Bellingham, Washington to British Columbia and Southeast Alaska. This is a world-class protected ocean route, with the scenery alone worth the price of admission. You can put wheels on your boat and stuff your gear inside. The total cost is similar to that of barging your kayak plus a super-saver airline ticket. Go with friends, or make them on the ferry, and the two-day passage will sail by!

Our guests have shipped their kayaks both ways, and report only positive experiences. Of course, if you own a folding kayak, you can just pack it on your back!

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