Kayaking With Orcas

Orcas swimming off the Lofoten Islands, Norway (c) Pixabay

Kayaking with orcas is a wonderful opportunity and provides a once in a lifetime chance.

Orcas (or killer whales) is a toothed whale that belongs to the dolphin family. They are black with a white underside to their body and can grow up to 8 metres and weigh over 6 tonnes.

They have a characteristic large dorsal fin that can often be seen above the water.

They are great swimmers and can leap out of the water - this is called 'breeching'.

They are carnivores and eat fish, penguins and marine animals such as sea lions and seals.

They may attack a kayak or canoe from underneath believing it to be a seal. This is unusual though.

Kayaking near and around them requires skill and some knowledge about their movements and potential behaviour.

However, done carefully, it will be safe and result in some stunning kayaking and photo opportunities.

6 Things You Should Know When Kayaking With Orcas

Orcas at Seaworld, Florida

There are some key points you should know when kayaking with orcas.

1) Never feed an orca. Keep all food in sealed containers in the kayak or canoe. When stopping for lunch, clear away all left over food into sealed containers and take it with you.

2) Plan your route carefully - Minimise times where you will be very near the orcas and potentially worry or startle them. Their movement in the water could tip your canoe or kayak. They are large and powerful!

3) Keep your distance - Stay a safe distance away from the orcas. If you want that special photo close up - use a zoom lens! Leaving them to do their thing is the kindest thing to do and will show the natural behaviour.

4) Stay in the kayak or canoe - Minimise the amount of time you are out of the kayak or canoe - and never, ever swim in proximity to orcas. They are large and their movement could accidently hurt you.

5) Carry a whistle, sea flare or air horn - if you do get into trouble around orcas, you can attract the attention of rescuers.

6) Never provoke an orca- doing anything that focuses the orca's attention on you could be dangerous. Waving your arms, splashing the paddle etc are all to be avoided. Quiet and gentle movements will allow them to remain calm and you will get an amazing experience.

With these points in mind, you can safely kayak (or canoe) with orcas.

As always, make your own judgement with your own circumstances. Advice on this page is for reference only.

PS. Paddlesports can be dangerous.
Read our safety disclaimer - here

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