Exploring Kachemak Bay with Captain Scott: A Family-Friendly Journey Through Nature & History
A day on the water with Tutka Tours isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about understanding Kachemak Bay in a way that sticks with you long after the trip ends. Having grown up in Homer and spent years working in Kachemak Bay as a deckhand, I thought I already knew a lot about this place. But after taking my family on a custom tour with Captain Scott, I walked away with new stories, fresh insights, and an even deeper appreciation for the bay’s natural history.
A Tour That’s as Educational as It Is Fun
From the moment we left the harbor, Scott wove together the past and present of Kachemak Bay. We weren’t just looking at rock formations—we were learning about how glaciers carved this dramatic landscape. We weren’t just spotting wildlife—we were gaining insight into their behaviors, habitats, and vocalizations.
The tour was engaging from start to finish, even with little ones on board. My youngest, Matilda, who was 8 months old at the time, was comfortably onboard and took in all of the smells and sounds of Kachemak Bay. My father-in-law, visiting from Venezeula, loved looking through binoculars at Gull Island, where thousands of nesting seabirds filled the sky. We stopped at Peterson Bay to see an oyster farm, where Scott explained the ins and outs of sustainable aquaculture. And throughout the trip, we spotted sea otters, various gulls, bald eagles, and more.
A Respectful Approach to Wildlife & Nature
One thing that stood out to me was Scott’s deep respect for the environment. He never got too close or disrupted the animals—everything was done with care to observe without interfering. Even after decades of being on the water, it was refreshing to be on a tour that wasn’t just about checking off wildlife sightings but about truly understanding the bay and its ecosystem.
Ending the Day in a Sadie Cove
Our tour ended in Sadie Cove, a quiet, protected bay where we had a picnic lunch we packed. Depending on your tour, Scott may provide food, but bringing your own is always a great option, especially if you want to enjoy a meal with a view.
Book Your Own Kachemak Bay Experience
Whether you're a local like me or visiting Homer for the first time, Tutka Tours offers a truly immersive way to experience Kachemak Bay. Tours can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s wildlife viewing, marine biology, geology, or just getting out on the water with your family.
Tour Highlights:
Up-close wildlife viewing
Stops at Gull Island, Peterson Bay, and other hidden gems
Optional visits to an oyster farm or other cultural/historic sites
Hands-on learning with interpretive guides and soundscaping equipment
