Took a half day tour with Sam yesterday and was extremely impressed. He was friendly, genuine, knowledgeable, and very capable. This guy is a top notch biologist - brilliant, yet down-to-earth and approachable. His knowledge is extensive; I got to learn about wildlife, history, geology, land use, conservation efforts... even some Native American mythology about orcas! He's also a super savvy people person, which means he customizes everything to your interests, so there's never a dull moment. Nisqually Reach is gorgeous. Water was extra smooth when we went out. At one point almost half a dozen curious harbor seals swam up to our kayak just to hang out with us - bobbing around like adorable little corks... so close I could see their nostrils flex when they sniffed. At another point a huge sea lion swam up to us to bark his friendly greetings - very cool! We saw more sea lions, and porpoises too, off in the distance. Also got a good view of a bald eagle. (Saw lots of other birds too, though I've forgotten which kinds since I'm not really a bird enthusiast.) This business is awesome - I can't think of a single way it could improve. Exceeds expectations across the board. Even as a novice I could tell I was in safe hands with Sam. Honestly, the tour he gave was worth twice what I paid - he's that good. Definitely booking with him again the next time I'm in town. read more

I'm definitely a novice when it comes to sea kayaking and this was an excellent introduction to kayaking in the PNW. The guide Robin(sp?) was very informative and knowledgeable. She also works over at the Kayaking Academy. We took the bioluminescence tour and we were by no means disappointed! The guide goes over all of the equipment prior to launching, and verified everyone's comfort level. We pushed off prior to sunset and we were able to watch the sun go down over the sound from our kayak. It was incredible! We were given some historical background on the area and as the moon rose the magic began. Words cannot describe adequately the beauty of the bioluminescence, it was an experience. Things to note: Gear is important. Dress appropriately. Know that you will be responsible for working as a team to get the kayaks in and out of the water, as well as on and off the trailer. If you're new to kayaking, watch some videos and educate yourself on kayaking etiquette. This will help you and your group have the most enjoyable tour. This trip was incredible, and I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Thank you Kayak Nisqually for an excellent time!!! read more

Kayak Nisqually was a really good experience. Sam knows so much about the area, and he's stoked to share and answer the questions I had. It was really inspiring to paddle around and have him tell us about the history of where we were, how the area was protected, settle various misconceptions I had about the local wildlife, sea kayak navigation tidbits, among other things. There were also quiet moments that we could just take in what we were seeing, like when we were respectfully passing some wildlife observing them in their element. I highly recommend this tour to both tourists and locals wanting to experience more in their backyard. For reference we did the sunset tour. read more

We had an unforgettable experience on our day trip with Sam! Sam has a wealth of knowledge regarding the local nisqually fauna, ecology, and history. We had a blast exploring the nisqually Delta and watching wildlife. Sam's guidance permitted us unriveled views of local wildlife including many bird species, seals, and even a harbor porpoise! We will most definitely be booking another trip with Sam and highly recommend Kayak nisqually tours for anyone looking for an authentic Pacific Northwest experience! Sam is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, observant, and energetic. We can't wait to join one of his camping trips as well. This tour will not disappoint. read more

My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed the Sunset and Bioluminescent Kayak tour. The is no way to describe the mixture of colors, nature, and adventure available in this tour. Suffice it to say you have to join Sam on this adventure. His knowledge of the local natural habitat is what enable people to be in the right place at the right time to experience the magic of our local bioluminescent phenomenon. Sam's patience with both old salts and new kayakers makes the trip pleasant for all. The equipment is better than most I have experienced through other kayak trips making the effort easier. See you next time Sam! read more

Tour was great, Sam was very friendly and knew everything about the surrounding area from folklore to key political environmental events. He showed up early and made sure that everyone knew what to expect and was going to be comfortable and efficient in their kayak. While on the tour he was kind, respectful and great to talk to. Took us directly through a popular spot for seals and gave us a close up of seals, jellyfish and more. Great trip overall, would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a fun evening or even day trip. Great for all ages and abilities! read more

Finally a kayaking company in Nisqually!! And it happens to be an excellent one. I did a night bioluminescence tour and it was amazing! Our kayak guide Sam was both friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about the local area and wildlife. What he shared was engaging and informative while making sure everyone was comfortable and having fun on the water. The location (by Nisqually Reach Nature Center) is gorgeous and we could see the sunset while having fantastic views of Mt. Rainier and the Olympics. Definitely coming back with friends! read more

We went the evening kayak tour. We kayak often but not really at night. This tour really gave us a different experience. The evening light on the water, the alpenglow on Mount Rainer, the birds, stars and luminescence all combined for a magical evening. Sam uses his wide experience to explain the biological and geological history of the area. This is a great experience for locals and visitors alike. Paddlers of all levels of experience will enjoy the trip. We will definitely be doing this again. read more

My 6 year old daughter and I had the most wonderful experience on the water with Sam. He was very informative, relaxed, fun, professional, and kept safety first! He was excellent with my 6 year old. We very much enjoyed the kayaking at sunset and the bioluminescent plankton!! The glow sticks on the boat were fun too. The stars at night on the water are heavenly!! We will definitely be coming back and highly recommend this company!! read more

This was such a unique experience! Sam was informative and made kayaking an easy skill to quickly learn! He was able to talk about the scenery and wildlife around us. It was a relaxing trip! The bioluminescent plankton were such a cool thing to see! He gave us plenty of time to play in that area and still have time to paddle around in the open water! He made sure everyone was having a good time and had a good experience. read more

Sam was an informative, patient, flexible, safety conscious, communicative, and FUN guide! Our group, ranging in age from 5 - upper 40's, had a super fun time. We all learned things from Sam that we hadn't known before, despite kayaking with many other guides around the world. Sam is the real deal, a great person, and one we all recommend! Thanks, Sam, for making our summer office get together lots of fun! read more

We had a wonderful overnight paddling trip staying at a beautiful campsite on Anderson island that was teeming with eagles, osprey, seals, and three juvenile otters. Sam was a very knowledgable guide who provided great insight to the history of the region as well as the wildlife, tides, and currents. Great trip. read more

Sam was a rockstar! He knows quite alot about anything related to what is in or around the sound. Whether is it history, animals, etc. - he is very knowledgeable. He was really concerned with our safety and told some pretty awesome jokes. Overall I would do this again in a heartbeat. Cheers. read more

The evening bioluminescent kayak tour was beautiful and memorable. Sam was patient and accommodating for all skill levels. His knowledge of local history, ornithology, and marine biology made the tour even better. I recommend any of Sam's kayak tours for everybody. It will not disappoint. read more

We had a fantastic time! Sam is a knowledgeable and loquacious guide. The area is beautiful, the bioluminescence amazing (at night of course). Special attention is paid for safety, and this is great for people who have never been out in a kayak before. A very special experience! read more

We really enjoyed our sunset kayak at Nisqually tremendously! Sam is a superb host - has great equipment, explains the kayaks and kayaking well, shares great info on the ecosystem, wildlife, and history of Nisqually. Highly recommend any trip with him! read more

It was a great experience getting out in the sound at night. The biolume was beautiful, and felt like something out of a fairy tale. Sam was very knowledgeable when it came to local and state history. I can't wait for the next night tour. read more

We did the bioluminescence tour in Nisqually reach and it was fantastic! Who knew such a strong phenomenon occurred in these waters. The tour was well guided by Robin and informative. The gear used was in great condition. read more

One of the very best "natural" experiences I have ever had. Nothing gets better than a sunset/night kayak trip......except when there is a personalble guide and bioluminescent involved! Magical evening. read more