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Sea Kayak Trip Guest
Comments
& Media Reviews of Kayak Vacations
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Our
sea kayak trips have won fantastic reviews in several national
and international publications. A small sampling of publications that
have featured Sea Quest Kayak Expeditions are shown below.
Even
more important to us are the comments and opinions made by our guests. Each guest is
provided an evaluation form at the end of their kayak vacation so they may contribute their
suggestions and ideas. These have led to most of the improvements we have made to our
kayak tours over the years. We want to hear from you! |
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Television
"Cry of the Orcas" - a documentary
originally aired on KOMO-TV in the Greater Seattle / Puget Sound
region and now in syndication for telecast throughout the
country, focuses on the conservation problems facing the
continued survival of our local killer whales. Both our executive director, Martine Springer, and
Sea Quest were featured. Look for it to air again in your area in 2005.
Magazines
Men's Journal - May 2005 Sea kayaking
with killer whales in the San Juan Islands trip rated as top 100
adventures in North America!
Horizons Magazine - May 2005 Sea kayaking with Dall's porpoise in the San Juan
Islands. Sea Quest Expeditions was chosen as their featured kayak
tour company due to our in-depth knowledge of the marine mammals
in this region.
Travel and Leisure - March 2003 Sea
Quest Kayak Expeditions is featured as one of ten fantastic
vacations for those with a budget under $1,500.
American Careers - 2002/03 Our Executive Director,
Martine Springer is highlighted in an article called "Out to Sea"
on page 30. The story describes what it is like to be a sea
kayak guide and the magazine is aimed to help young
people plan their careers in today's world.
Sunset Magazine - August 2002 Sea
Quest's kayaking programs are favorably discussed in "Escape to
the San Juan Islands" on page 82.
Family Travel - March 1998 Rated #1 family adventure in North America!
Fitness - November 1997
Shape - February 1997
Paddler - December 1996 San Juan Islands & Sea Quest make the list
for "North America's Top Whale Watching Paddles"
American Way - May 1994
Men's Journal - August 1994 by Bruce Barcott
Outside - January 1993 by Tim Cahill
Family Life
Harper's Bazaar
Pacific Northwest
Self
Women's Sports & Fitness
Newspapers
The Oregonian - July 14, 1994 - Northwest Outdoors
The Columbian - July 31, 1994 - Life Travel
Books
Inside-Out Washington: the Best Places Guide to
the Outdoors
Best Places: Guide to the Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands
Fodor's Travel Guides (several editions)
Going Places: A guide to study and travel
Hidden Pacific Northwest
Inside-Out Washington: the Best Places Guide to the
Outdoors - Ron Judd
Learning Adventures Around the World - Peter Greenberg
Lonely Planet Guides (several editions)
Paddle America
San Juan Island Pocket Guide
Smart Vacations
Ultimate Adventure Sourcebook
Vacations and Bargain Adventures in the USA - Evelyn Kaye
Volunteer Vacations
Washington Wildlife Guide -
Washington State Field Guide
Whale Watcher's GuideBook
Where the Whales Are - Patricia Corrigan
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Guests Write about their Kayaking Trips
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We think you will
find it interesting to read a few comments from adventurers who have traveled with us
on kayak trips and vacations in
recent years.
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"I would like to take this opportunity
to express my sincere thanks to your organization for the fantastic kayak trip in the San
Juan Islands. The expedition was exceptionally well organized, and the pre-trip assistance
and information I received perfectly prepared me for the kayak trip.
I would like to make special mention of our guide - Chris Comeau. The trip
would not have been nearly as pleasant without his organizational, planning, and
motivational skill. He also demonstrated a thorough knowledge of the local animals (both
land and sea), geologic development of the islands, and First Nation history and lifestyle
as he led us while we paddled or hiked on the islands. He also prepared some outstanding
camp cuisine.
Thanks again for a memorable kayak trip. I look forward to paddling with you
again." L. Scott Myers, Titusville, FL |
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"First and foremost I cannot express
enough the high praise and respect I have for the superlative efforts,
judgment, stamina
and skill of the lead guide and for the selfless efforts of his knowledgeable, supportive
and endearing assistant. Both guides were the personification of "professional".
These two kayak guides showed up for "the job" and dealt with the weather and other
mental obstacles with a good spirit and camaraderie. Professionals such as these are the
true heart of your business.
The San Juan Islands speak for themselves. The beauty was glorious... even
rain could not dampen what Denise and I saw and became a part of. Indeed, our encounter
with the three pods of orcas on the first day (many thanks to the alertness of our
intrepid guides who positioned us so expertly) was testimony to what we experienced every
day.
I want to thank you for a great experience, I learned a lot about the area and how
to kayak it. We shall return... maybe we'll avail ourselves of your Alaska
kayaking trips. Sea Quest has
a good mission and does a solid job with integrity. I shall recommend Sea Quest to anyone
wishing to paddle the San Juan Islands. Bill & Denise Girrier, Bristol, RI |
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| "My family and I have just returned from
our incredible kayak tour in the San Juan Islands. Our sole purpose was
to go kayaking with the orca whales. I can't tell how happy we are that
we chose Sea Quest Expeditions to guide us. What an inspiring day we
had... orcas were everywhere! It was amazing! I have never been so
afraid and so awestruck all at the same time. Thank you for such a
memorable trip. It was the greatest birthday of my life! Kim Berger
Portland, OR |
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"I can state without hesitation that
this was one of the great experiences of my life. I truly feel privileged to have been
included in this trip which resulted in my developing a greater appreciation for the
ocean, the geology of the San Juan Islands, and the animal and plant life in the area. The
crucial ingredient in the success of this kayak trip was the guide. His range of knowledge about
all aspects of the trip was truly astonishing. At all times he was supportive and
encouraging and never made any member of the trip feel inadequate or incapable. Since
returning home I have done nothing but sing the praises of your organization to all that I
meet. I hope that this will cause others to take this kayak trip so that they can share this
remarkable experience." Michael Siegel, Chicago, IL |
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"Being one whose vacations come few
and far between, I always hope to get the maximum enjoyment out of my time off! I can
assure you that I did just that on my recent Baja kayak trip with your company. I was
thoroughly impressed with your organization: great itinerary, surprisingly good food and
equipment. While the former items were all impressive, the most outstanding asset that Sea
Quest has is its staff! I couldn't possibly imagine having better guides! Their warmth,
competence, and genuine enthusiasm for what they were doing led to an excellent
kayak trip.
Although I may never see any of them again, I consider all three as friends. Keep up the
good work, and thank you for a great experience." Mark Grassi, California |
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| "I wanted to thank you for an excellent
sea kayaking trip. My father and I enjoyed your friendly guides and
seeing the killer whales, porpoises, and other creatures at home in the
wild. Happy summer. I'm sure I'll see you again!" Lisa Larrabee,
Sacramento, CA |
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"I was pleasantly surprised to find
that the guide Chris was not only highly informed, but he was also a wonderful cook and a
great kayaking partner. He was able to identify all the breathtaking wildlife we encountered
and tell us the stories of their evolution and placement in the cycle of things. He also
was able to share a vast understanding of how the land was carved and how nature has
miraculously survived the hardships of growth among humankind. Despite being a city girl
far removed from my own environment, I felt a comfort and safety, which allowed me the
freedom to fully absorb the beauty around me. This can be greatly credited to Chris'
competency as a guide and sensitivity as a person. Reading poetry by the campfire was an
added treat."
"The food was a culinary surprise. I would never have expected such
hearty, healthy, and delicious meals from the cargo hold of a sea kayak. I would give the
overall quality of my experience the highest rating. I commend you not only for a
wonderful vacation but also for the respect and sensitivity your organization holds towards
the environment. Thank you again for a beautiful experience." Julie Anne Fiore,
Revere, MA |
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"Last Sunday I went on a one-day
kayak trip
with you. I just wanted to thank you and especially the guide for a wonderful day. This
was a trip I've wanted to take for many years, but due to multiple sclerosis, I had put it
off. This was the last year that I felt I would have the strength to go. If I had known my
legs would give out that day, I never would have gone. Thanks to the guide's understanding
and compassion, it was a very special day. He went way beyond the call of duty getting me
in and out of the boat. Thanks for the dream of a lifetime, and the memories of all those
beautiful killer whales." Karen Young, Burien, WA |
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"The travel tips, packing instructions
and checklists were very helpful and complete. Even as first-time rookies we felt well
prepared! Alexandra is an outstanding guide. The depth and breadth of her knowledge is
simply amazing. She taught us about plants, animals, marine life, geography, oceanography,
history, and meteorology. She is an effective instructor, a caring over-seer, and a superb
cook. And she inspires fun and laughter with her delightful sense of humor. Alex was
always responsive to our requests for advice or help with special needs. She skillfully
kept our pace challenging yet achievable. She helped us accomplish far more than I ever
expected we could. Alex was extremely competent and that inspired our confidence - both in
her and in us!
Every piece of equipment we used was clean and in excellent condition. All
meals were well balanced and delicious - the portions were very generous. Alex superbly
prepared everything. Because every facet of the kayak tourwas outstanding, the overall quality
of my experience was superb! I would recommend Sea Quest Expeditions to anyone!" Jane
Debelak, Apple Valley, MN |
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"Your checklist was great and my
husband was given complete and polite answers both times he phoned with additional
questions. We were surprised at how stable our sea kayaks were as it was our first experience
with this sport. We stayed perfectly dry too. (Not only in the kayaks but also in our tent
when it rained.) The guide was outstanding…full of information about everything we
saw, great sense of humor, articulate, and conscientious about everyone's safety. This was
the most fun and exciting experience our family remembers from any vacation. We've been
raving to everyone about it. We plan to return on a longer trip next year! Our heartfelt
thanks to you." Judy Fessenden, Camarillo, CA |
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"The gift of self is priceless - you
have redefined 'above and beyond'. The kayak trip was more than anyone had dared hope for.
You were awesome. PS - See you next year!" Tammy Belcher, Glendale, AZ |
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"I am making a special effort to thank
you for your flexibility and the extra time you took to make arrangements for me. All the
extra effort paid off in a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. Kevin is a wonderful
guide. All aspects of the kayak tour were top-notch. I plan to return to kayak with you again.
Thanks for a premier sea kayaking experience." J Pizzino MD, Cary, NC |
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"Your kayak guides are beyond words! Their
expertise made the trip. What can we say... they were awesome, enthusiastic, and best of
all they were just plain fun to be with!" Michelle and Brian Feeley, Philadelphia,
PA |
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"The experience was full of incredible
sights, great laughs and enough adventure to get the adrenaline flowing - big time!" Bob
Barut, Prospect Heights, IL |
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"I would never go kayaking again
without a biologist guide. We learned so much which gave us a deep appreciation of the
wildlife, the islands, and the sea." Jim Williams, Tacoma, WA |
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"I don't have enough praise for your
staff, they made the trip! Their joy and enthusiasm, wit and intelligence, and superior
people skills surpass any guided tour I've taken before - diving trips, Outward Bound, all
of them." Anne Norton, Wasilla, AK |
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"I found the equipment to be of the
highest quality and in very good condition. I don't believe I have ever been so relaxed
and at peace with myself after a vacation. As my boyfriend put it, 'she didn't stop smiling
from the time we got back until she fell asleep that night'." Gloria Fields,
Beaverton, OR |
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"Being one with nature
sea kayaking last
week seems almost a dream now that we're back to our busy work routine. We appreciated the
organization and preparation that went into making the expedition so enjoyable and
relaxing. It was interesting to learn about marine life, and thrilling to see the Dall's
porpoises leaping around the kayaks! The meals were truly gourmet, thanks to your good
cooking - you made it seem easy to feed such a large group in the wilderness. The group
felt safe and well looked after with your kayak guides. Thank you." Evelyn Anderson,
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada" |
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"Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. I've
recommended Sea Quest to everyone. I was very impressed with how well organized the trip
was. I learned a lot and had a great time doing it. Both kayak guides were loads of fun - which
made the trip! They made it look effortless but I know they were always working.
Thanks." Jane Akers, Seattle, WA |
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"As long-time outdoors people lacking
kayaking experience, we respect and appreciate the high quality of your services and your
equipment. Sea Quest is truly a class act! Thank you doing such an outstanding jobs of
introducing us to kayaking and to the natural magnificence of the San Juan Islands." Carolyn
Altman, Portland, OR |
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"Superb. Almost a dream like quality,
it was so beautiful. As a solo traveler I was made to feel a part of the group. I will
highly recommend you." Melinda Pratt, Tigard, OR |
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"My experience was indescribably
phenomenal!!! We were surrounded by two pods of orcas, and because of this incredible
experience with nature, I would rate the kayak trip as superb, and I look forward to my next
excursion. The equipment's quality made the experience even more enjoyable. Thank you so
much for one of the greatest vacations of my life!" Laura Liedtke, Beaverton, OR |
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"I felt very fortunate to have
experienced my first kayaking trip with such an eloquent, knowledgeable, fun-loving,
life-loving guide. He allowed me to truly enjoy the excursion because he warranted my
complete respect and trust throughout the adventure. Great work on your planning. We had a
great time. Pretty exhilarating for a landlubber like myself!" Julie Briggs,
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA |
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"I loved the sea kayaks! They were so
stable and beautiful. They were quite comfortable even though I am not very tall. The
guide was wonderful, intelligent, humorous, and full of information. His meals were
delicious and full of tender care. 'Relax' seemed to be the key word. I felt pampered and
waited on the entire time. It was a five-day long high! Every second was magical. Every
sunrise - every moonrise. The best, most spiritual experience of my entire life. It truly
changed my perspective on life. I came home a different person!" Joanne Derby, San
Francisco, CA |
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"A terrific kayak trip! Mark did an
excellent job. I would recommend it to anyone." Dave Hoedemaker, Seattle, WA |
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"Mark is an excellent
kayak guide - very
knowledgeable and good at passing that knowledge on to others. I enjoyed his humor and
admired his integrity. He made everyone feel at ease and able to enjoy the experience. I'm
recommending you to all my friends." Amy Wickham, Boulder, CO |
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"Just wanted to thank you folks for a
great vacation. We both appreciated all of your efforts to educate us to the ways of the
kayaking environment and the ecology/zoology of Puget Sound. I was very pleased to benefit
from your knowledge and experience - it added a lot to the beautiful setting.
It is gratifying to know that individuals like you are making the
commitment to study the environment and introduce so many 'outsiders' to nature. Keep up
the good work." Mike Mogal, New York, NY |
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"Absolutely the best! Both guides
showed enthusiasm and knowledge far beyond what could be expected - exceptional people.
Food was delicious and substantial." Vince Nibler, Berkeley, CA |
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"I felt very secure with our guide's
knowledge of the local waters and his extensive experience. The food was excellent from
the content to the presentation. We've come back once now already and I'm sure we'll be
back again. There's nothing like it!" Sarah Jackson, Cleveland, OH |
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"Thanks for leading such a wonderful
kayak trip. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. Your incredible expertise and
concern for excellence made the trip truly outstanding. I hope to make it on another
tour
again sometime. In the meantime, you can be sure I'm spreading the word!" Dorle
Vawter, Minneapolis, MN |
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"As you can tell, I had a great time!
It's hard to believe that just a month ago, I was essentially at the ends of the earth. It
was fantastic!" Mark Hoffman, Redmond, WA |
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"The staff was great. Everyone was not
only experienced in kayaking but very knowledgeable about the region, sea life, geology,
and more. It was a learning experience. Excellent! I would do it again in a flash." Brad
Rodgers, Amarillo, TX |
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"The kayak trip I just finished was a
ball - an absolute joy in every respect. I had never kayaked before but I always felt
safe. Everything provided was in tip-top shape and got the job done. I think that very
special praise should go to the guides. They were excellent. More than any other factor,
Martine made the kayak trip! Her very special personality stamped itself onto a great
personal experience for me from the very first moment. The whole package was without
fault. A-1 quality!" Paul Bromberg, Bellmore, NY |
Sea Kayak Trips & Tours Reviews
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Kayaking with
killer whales in the San Juan Islands, blue whales in Baja Mexico, and
humpback whales in southeast Alaska
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