Seal Watching Kayak Tour in Narragansett Bay
Kayaking in Rhode Island with Eastern Mountain Sports Schools
Highlights
- Come explore Narragansett Bay and see the migratory harbor seals
- 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
Full Description
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!
Start/End: 9am to approximately 1pm
Meeting Location: Tours will launch from Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island
Includes:
- Kayak
- PFD
- Paddle
- Neoprene booties and dry suit (with waterproof socks)
- Professional instruction
Excludes:
- Lodging
- Transportation
- Meals
- Personal gear and clothing
About The Operator:
Eastern Mountain Sports Schools
Headquarters:
North Conway, New Hampshire
The Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School was started in Boston in 1968, and currently has 4 major locations and 7 satellite locations throughout the East, making it the oldest and largest climbing school in the eastern U.S. In addition to its Climbing School, Eastern Mountain Sports also operates a Kayak School and Ski School. Special programs have also been added to accommodate handicapped and disabled participants. Since the inception of the first School, the mission has been to provide the best outdoor experience possible.
The Eastern Mountain Sports Schools work closely with the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), The American Canoe Association (ACA) and the Professional Ski Instructors Association (PSIA). All staff members are engaged in ongoing training for technical topics and specific individual development, as well as ongoing First Aid and Rescue Training.
Outdoor activities have been proven to be an effective tool for addressing a variety of challenges: promoting good health and well-being, improving behavioral problems, building healthy relationships and improving morale in the workplace.
Our programs are fun, challenging and educational. We can build a program to suit any organization's needs, and tailor it to children, teens, adults, clubs or business groups.
Sessions may be scheduled for just a half day, a full day, multiple days or a whole season!