Kayak
into the heart of one of the last pristine estuaries
on the California coast. This sea kayaking tour launches
from Drakes Bay Oyster Company onto Schooner Bay,
the second largest of the five bays that comprise
Drakes Estero. The day is spent meandering through
this unspoiled estero, exploring the coastlines in
search of bat rays, leopard shark, harbor seals, and
water fowl. Midday we will find an inviting beach
to enjoy our lunch and relax. After lunch there may
be time for a walk on the beach, a hike up the hillside
to enjoy the view, or even to take a short nap.
Time: 10am to
4pm*
*Drakes
Estero's tidal changes may affect launch time.
You
will be informed of exact launch times when you register.
Price: $110
- Includes picnic lunch
Launch
Site: Drakes
Bay Oyster Company (see Directions for details)
Dates: July 18 & 19, Aug. 1 & 2: 7&8: 15 & 16; 29 & 30; Sept. 5 & 6; 12 & 13; 26 & 27
Most Saturdays & Sunday July through February. Check Calendar for additional dates.
Drakes
Estero
Striking open
vistas surround the protected wildlife sanctuary known
as Drake’s Estero. Fresh water commingles with
the ocean’s salt to create some of the most
productive and diverse wildlife habitat on the planet.
This 160 acre tidal salt marsh is to home thousands
of seals, bat rays, migrating birds and leopard sharks,
making this a paddlers’s paradise for anyone
interested in viewing Mother Nature’s intricate
web of life.
Protected by the
Point Reyes National Seashore, the estuary is closed
for six months of the year to protect harbor seal
pups. This unique habitat maintains its wilderness
integrity and yet is easily accessible for first time
kayakers.
Surrounded by
golden hillsides we will glide and daydream as we
watch pelicans float over our heads and come to rest
on Bay. Following the rhythm of nature that surrounds
us, we paddle slowly and carefully, quietly waiting
for the tip of a bat ray fin to rise gently above
the water as it travels to its muddy feeding grounds.
Caspian terns, brown and white pelicans, osprey, great
and snowy egrets, bufflehead, peregrine falcons, great
blue herons, surf scoters, black crowned night herons,
and Brant geese seasonally pass through the
estero as they make the journey between breeding grounds
and their winter destinations. The hillsides that
surround the bay are to coyote, bobcat, mountain
lions, northern harriers, red tail hawks, and the
only free-roaming herd of tule elk in the state of
California. Be prepared for anything!
Like its ebbing
and flowing tides this is a constantly changing environment.
Our guides will help you connect to the past, present,
and future with stories of the Miwok Indians who once
called this drowned river valley their home. You will
hear tales of Sir Francis Drake himself, his ship
and supposed discovery of the Bay. As well as the
rich history of the first European explorers who ranched
and settled in this rich, agricultural countryside.
You will also
learn about the present day culture that protects
and supports this amazing wildlife sanctuary. From
our launch site at Drakes Bay Oyster Company you will
observe the operations of a local oyster farm. Oysters
are integral in maintaining the health of the estero
by filtering the water, keeping algae levels in check
and absorbing bacteria in their environment. The oyster
farms help to keep this relationship alive and the
bay thriving.
Drake’s
Estero is one of the most spectacular paddling destinations
on the California coast. No matter what time of year,
Drakes always has surprises in store for its guests.
The stunning beauty and incredible wildlife of Drakes
Estero amazes and thrills us every time. We look forward
to sharing this magical experience with you
Preparing for Your Trip
The success of any journey is based on well prepared
participants. The most important contribution you
can make is to arrive on time prepared and eager to
enjoy the trip. When getting ready please make sure
that you understand the directions and allow yourself
plenty of travel time. It is very important to be
appropriately dressed to ensure your comfort and enjoyment.
Please study and follow the Clothing Recommendations provided.
Food
To complement
this exceptional adventure PRO provides a wonderful
catered meal prepared locally and using organically
grown produce, baked breads, local cheeses and
delightful desserts. We are proud to incorporate the
local flavors of Point Reyes into our tours. Please
if you have special dietary needs.
Your Guides
PRO takes pride in the quality and skill level of
your guides. Impeccably trained, they bring a wealth
of knowledge and proficiency to each trip. With expertise
in group facilitation, natural history, wilderness
first aid and specialized kayak instruction, your
guides are ready to provide you with a safe, relaxing
and enjoyable experience. As a trip’s success
and safety depends on their judgment, we ask that
you respect and support their decisions.
