Out to Sea Expedition Company

Explore the gorgeous, dynamic scenery and wildlife around Ketchikan by getting out on the water in a low-impact Zodiac—an authentically Alaskan way to travel!

Small Group Journeys

The 2.5-hour outings are more like expeditions—they’re about the journey, not the destination. And each is a different experience, depending on the wildlife and the tides.

First, you’ll meet at the shop in Ketchikan and gear up with rain jackets & bibs, overboots, life jackets, and dry bags for your stuff. Then you’ll head out with an intimate group (up to 12 passengers) where you can have conversations and hear from your guide about the experience of living in Alaska.

You’ll head out from Ketchikan Creek, the town’s birthplace and former fish camp. Learn about the history of the area and its people as the majesty of nature unfolds before you. Look for eagles, deer or mink along the shoreline, and marine mammals like seals, porpoise, and whales.

Every Day on the Water is Different

Every expedition is different as there’s flexibility for some spontaneity. Where larger boats have to keep to a strict schedule, here you can spend extra time in a place if there’s a magical, National Geographic-type moment happening.

Then you’ll take a short break to enjoy coffee, tea, or hot cocoa and a small snack. With the engine off, you’ll get to just sit and drift, listening to sounds of the ocean, looking for birds and seals, and taking in the spectacle around you during a moment of true serenity.

When you return to dry land, don’t miss a trip through the shop, where you’ll find outdoor gear and gifts, as well as rentals of paddleboards, camping gear, and pack rafts. Need suggestions on where to go? Ask the staff—they’re locals—and are happy to share their suggestions.

And if you want to go out for a longer time, or if you have a specific interest like wildlife and birding, it’s easy to arrange for a private or custom charter.

About Out to Sea Expedition Company

The company launched in July 2019 and is inspired by a love for the wilderness and wildness of Alaska. They are committed to the environment and their community, participating in beach cleanups, citizen science, and donating 1% of all sales to non-profits like Audubon Alaska. Delaney is one of the naturalist guides, and as a fourth-generation resident of Ketchikan, knows the area really well! The captain, Eric, is an ocean lover and has 25 years of experience in the maritime industry. Also joining the crew as a naturalist in 2023 is Jenny aka Science Mom, a molecular biologist and kelp enthusiast that is excited to show you the diverse ecosystem of Southeast Alaska.