Seaman's Ecotour Adventures

Can we call or email you to help plan trip?

Absolutely!  Guests are welcome to call or email us to assist with trip planning.  It will also give us a chance to understand your preferences and needs so we can design the ideal tour for you.   

When should we arrive?  

We recommend passengers arrive 10 minutes before your trip.  This will allow adequate time to board, receive a safety orientation, and discuss the day ahead.  Unless other arrangements are made, full-day trips typically leave at 8:30 am, morning half-day trips leave at 8:30 am, and afternoon half-day trips leave at 1 pm. 

Where do we meet the boat?

The boat is parked in the Homer Boat Harbor.  Unless other arrangements are made, we will meet at the boat slip, EE-21 (click here for printable map to the boat slip).  EE-21 is located on the east side (inner bay) side of the harbor.  There is ample free public parking near the top of ramp 6. 

What should we bring and what is provided on the on-water boat trips?  

Guest should bring clothes suitable for the variable weather of Kachemak Bay.  You may wish to check the local weather before your trip.  Our boat, the Pinbone, does have a heated, fully-enclosed cabin with surround windows, but guests often spend a lot of time on the spacious back deck to take photographs or enjoy the sunshine and natural beauty of the area.  The boat has seats for six adults in cabin, and the deck has a large sturdy cooler which doubles as a seat for two or three people. Bring a few layers of cloths and rain gear or water-resistent wind breaker for those cloudy, rainy, and breezy days. 

For full-day summer trips, guests may bring their own lunch or take advantage of an optional lunch (see "food and drinks" below). 

Bring binoculars and cameras if you have them.  We do have few extra binoculars to share with our guests. 

What should we bring on guided hiking trips?

Bring suitable footwear for hiking with good traction on potentially wet trails. 

Bring a raincoat or water-resistent wind breaker if the weather forcast calls for chance of rain. We suggest you bring a small pack to carry personal gear and food.

Do you offer exlusive trips?

Yes, we offer exclusive or private trips.  Guests have an option of choosing private tour at the time of booking, either through the online booking or by email or phone.  Our boat is licensed and insured for a maximum of six guests.

Combined groups are more economical and allow guests to meet other people from around the country or the world.  The first group to book a trip will determine the type of trip (e.g., on-water tour, hiking, interdal exploration, etc.).

Are last minute reservations acceptable?

Yes, dependent on availability.  You may book up to 8 pm the day before your trip (please send us a text or call to confirm) if there is availability in the type of trip your are interested in.  We will add you to an existing tour or create a new tour.

What about seasickness?

It is extremely rare for a guest to get seasick on our tours.  Our adventure tours focus on the relatively calm waters of the bay and other protected coves and island areas nearby.  Moreover, the Pinebone is a well-designed boat that handles choppy seas well.  If you are prone to motion sickness, let us know and we will make a special effort focus on calmer waters.  Ultimately, we defer to our guests on whether to take medication or use other means to resist motion sickness.  

Do you allow children?

We are family-oriented business, with over half of our bookings includimg children.  We have three children and three grandchildren of our own, and believe kids are not a hindrance but a blessing ... adding youthful excitement to our adventure!  We have life jackets for infants, small children, and adults.  Let us know if you have an special needs. 

What about food and drinks? 

We offer complementary snacks and drinks on our trips.  For full-day trips, clients may bring their own lunch or we can arrange to order lunch and bring it to boat.  Lunch options include a Deli Sandwich from La Baleine Cafe or, when available, a local fish BBQ on the boat during a mid-day stop in one of the quite bays.  More information will be provided at the time of your reservation.  

What accomodations do you have regarding accessibility?

While not fully-accessible due to the vessel's design, the Pinbone has several features that improve access for those with physical needs.  Low sides and stairs for ease in boarding the boat.  The roomy back deck and cabin are all level, with no tripping hazards.  The sides of our boat are small step up from the dock, and we add removeable steps to get in the boat.  The head (toilet) is considerably more roomy than most small vessels, making it easier to use for all passengers.  Moreover, we would happy to arrange pick up and drop off at boat launch ramps or handicap accessile ramp (Ramp 3) to facilitate boat access.   

What is your season?  

We are open year-round for tours, subject to availability and safe marine and weather conditions.  There are many great opportunities for wildlife scenic tours in fall, winter, and spring.  Our on-line booking system is available for booking tours from April 1 to September 30.  Please contact us by phone or email for reservations from October 1 to March 30; early reservations will help secure a trip that works best for you.  Where possible, we recommend you make your reservations early.  

We want to know more about Homer and other things to do in the area

Glenn and Bette are 23 year residents of Homer, and 48 year residents of Alaska.  We are active bikers, hikers, Nordic skiers, and general outdoor enthusiasts who have traveled over much of the Kenai Peninsula and Alaska.  Ask away, we would love help you make the most of your visit to Homer or other places in Alaska.   

Other questions?

If you have any other questions, please contact us!  Guest comfort and safety is our first priority.

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