Experience Bioluminescence
Our most popular tour, this experience is a must do for anyone excited to explore the incredible bioluminescent plankton blooms the San Juans are so famous for
About This Tour
Join our guides to explore the magical bioluminescent plankton blooms that light up the waters of the Salish Sea. Departing from the historic Rosario Resort, this 2 hour tour will bring you to some of the best bioluminescence the coasts of Orcas have to offer. With each stroke of your paddle, watch as the waters below come to life.
Bioluminescence Vibrancy Note: Regarless of the time of the year/month, bioluminenecese is always visible to some degree in the water surrounding Orcas Island. That being said, various factors such as moon lumancy (biggest contributor), water conditions, day sunlight levels, and cloud coverage all impact the brightness of sightings. We understand most people don’t book their vacation around the moon cycle! Because of this we, choose to run this tour all month long to allow everyone to have this experience but the closer you book to the new moon, the brighter the sightings are likley to be.
Come experience real life magic with us!
2026 Lunar Calendar
Things to Bring
– Headlamp, we have some donor headlamps but bringing your own is always recommended
– Warm Layers
– Shoes you’re ok getting wet
– Wind breaker or rain jacket
Check In
You will meet our crew at 1608 Rosario Rd. Please check-in 30 minutes prior to your departure time. Note that departure time changes depending on the time of year your booking is, make sure to double check your reservation
FAQ
How Difficult Is this Tour?
While wind and water conditions can make a certain day more or less difficult, This tour is one of our easiest and most accessible.
I Don't have a headlamp, what should I do?
While we always recommend bringing your own, we do some lender headlamps you’re welcome to use for the duration of your trip
Is it Safe to Kayak at Night?
Yes, when done with the proper precautions kayaking at night is perfectly safe! All of our guides undergo rigorous training in local waters and are licensed kayak guides by the state of Washington. Additionally, each guide is CPR Certified and adept at water rescues (which to this day have never been needed). Our kayaks and route are specifically chosen to give you an incredible bioluminescent experience in the safest way possible.