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Seal Watching Kayak Tours

  • Come explore Narragansett Bay and see the migratory harbor seals!
  • Join our experienced guides on this popular off season tour
  • See seals as they “haul out” on the rocks and soak up the sun
  • Our most popular off season tour in Rhode Island
  • 30 minutes from Providence, RI. 20 minutes from Newport, RI
  • Great way to get outside for a paddle during the off season
  • Basic instruction and guidance included to allow you to enjoy your tour
  • One of our most popular tours!


  • Join the EMS Kayak School staff as we go in search of one of the most endearing winter residents of Narragansett Bay, the harbor seal. Harbor seals migrate from the Gulf of Maine and Atlantic Canada into Narragansett Bay’s warmer waters in the winter months. Once quite rare in the area, harbor seal populations have rebounded since the passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act in 1972. Here in the Bay, they are protected from many of their natural predators like orcas and sharks.

    Viewing these animals by kayak gives you an opportunity not available any other way; you can look these animals right in the eye, from their perspective, in their environment. There are several locations throughout Narragansett Bay that are regular haul out spots for the seals, and due to tides, winds and the cooler temperatures our launch sites often vary!

    The plan is to get out on the water and head toward one of these haul out spots like Rome Point and view the seals without spooking them. The viewing is often done on land during one of our breaks, or an occasional on the water “spy hop” as we are paddling around! These curious creatures are often quite interested in kayaks and will investigate boats from behind, following almost silently. Come out with one of our experienced guides and enjoy one of the gifts of Narragansett Bay!


    Cost
    $75 per person


    Dates
    November 20, 21
    December 4, 5


    Start/ End
    9am to approximately 1pm

    Meeting Location
    Tours will launch from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. Meeting location may vary depending on seal migration. Meeting and launch locations vary due to weather, tides and the location of the haul outs. Traditionally we have visited populations in Newport and in North Kingstown, RI. Your confirmation letter will give you directions to your put in. Please, monitor your emails before this trip due to frequent changes and requests that occur during these off season tours.
    Prerequisite
    None.

    Includes
    Kayak, PFD, paddle, neoprene booties and dry suit (with waterproof socks), professional instruction

    Does Not Include
    Lodging, transportation, meals, personal gear and clothing. We will be wearing dry suits so please dress appropriately for this tour. Wear base, over- base and insulating layers under the dry suit. Bring and wear thick wool socks, winter hats, scarf’s and gloves, neoprene paddling gloves and things that help to warm you while outdoors in the winter. If there is a question, bring it and we can decide if it is appropriate before the paddle.

    WHAT TO BRING?

    Shop for Gear!
    Please come dressed for the weather and prepared with the appropriate gear and clothing for your kayak program. Below is a list of gear and clothing recommended by the Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak School. If you have any questions please call 800-310-4504.

    Neoprene long or short sleeve top
    Neoprene is recommended. Any non-cotton material is appropriate as well.


    Non-cotton pants or shorts
    This will depend on the weather and season. Wetsuits are available from the Kayak School for spring, summer and early fall paddling. Drysuits are used for cold weather paddling.


    Water shoes
    Can be provided by the Kayak School upon request. No open toed shoes please.
    Food and Water
  • Lunch and snacks (sandwich, chips, bars, etc...)
  • 1 liter or more of water

    Additional Items
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Bug spray
  • Camera
  • Dry bag (optional)
  • Extra change of clothes and towel

    Kayak School will provide
    You are welcome to bring your own boat and gear. Both need to be equivalent to gear provided, appropriate for class, in good working order and approved by the instructor. Call 800-310-4504 with any questions.
  • Kayak (singles and tandems)
  • Paddle
  • PFD
  • Spray skirt
  • Spray jacket
  • Wet suit
  • Dry suit (seasonal)

  • Missing anything on this list?
    Don't forget your 20% discount EMS coupon that comes with your Climbing School confirmation letter!