Highlights of Baja - Loreto to Cabo

*Please note that the the following information is meant to provide a general overview of your tour. The specifics of your trip will be contained in a pre-trip letter you will receive prior to your confirmed departure.

MEETING PLACE: Hotel Rosarito, Loreto 
MEETING TIME: 7PM
RETURN TIME: Around 4PM in Cabo
THE LAST SUPPER: Join your guide and fellow trip guests for a final farewell dinner at a favorite local restaurant. 
TRIP LENGTH: 8 days
AGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 8

 

Day 1: Arrive in Loreto, Evening Dinner with Guides

Fly to Loreto, Baja California Sur.  Nonstop flights available via Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles, American Airlines from Phoenix and Dallas/Fort Worth and Westjet from Calgary.  Other options are available via the Tijuana Airport using the Cross Border Bridge crossing. Transfer from the airport to the lovely seaside town of Loreto!  Settle in before we gather for a welcome dinner. 

Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.

• Accommodations: Boutique Hotel in Loreto
• Meals: Dinner

 

Day 2: Hiking, Kayaking, or Boat Excursion - Selection Based on Weather and Other Considerations

There are several options for the next two days which gives us flexibility to work with whatever weather may present itself.  We have hiking and sea kayaking options to choose from, as well as a boat excursion.  Options include:

Hiking in Tabor Canyon aka Steinbeck Canyon

Hiking in Tabor Canyon aka Steinbeck Canyon – A short drive from Loreto takes us to a narrow canyon that leads into the Sierra La Giganta mountains. This is a moderate hike inside a beautiful arroyo where your naturalist guide illuminates the mysteries of this desert ecosystem. 

The renowned author John Steinbeck loved Baja and in 1940, traveled here aboard a boat, the Western Flyer, with his friend and Baja mentor, biologist Edward F. Ricketts (who is best known to readers as “Doc” in Cannery Row and other books). As they sailed south, they stopped at Puerto Escondido, just south of Loreto where they were invited by locals to hike into the rugged Sierra la Giganta.  Steinbeck wrote: “After a short climb we emerged on a level place in a deep cleft in the granite mountains. In this cleft a tiny stream of water fell hundreds of feet from pool to pool. There were palm trees and wild grapevines and large ferns, and the water was cool and sweet. This little stream, coming from so high up in the mountains and falling so far, never had the final dignity of reaching the ocean.”
We enjoy a simple picnic lunch next to the small creek in the canyon as we relish the scenery around us. We descend back towards the coast and return to Loreto.

Snorkeling & Swim Tour to Isla Coronado 

There are two ways we can run this fun day to visit Isla Coronado.  One is by traveling on a small fishing boat from Loreto to the island.  The other, for more active folks, is to kayak to the island, crossing about 2 miles from the mainland.  Either way, we arrive at this classic volcanic island with expansive white-sand beaches, a sea lion colony and colorful snorkeling. 

Part of the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, your naturalist guide shares their knowledge of the flora and fauna.  Snorkeling in the Gulf of California is a treat and you are likely to see 20-30 species of fish, or more, depending on your observation skills.  During some months we provide a light wetsuit, while at other times of year the water is warm enough that this isn’t necessary.

We have a picnic lunch on the island, walk on the beach and then later in the afternoon, return by panga or kayak to the mainland and Loreto.

Kayaking Towards Isla Danzante and Punta Coyote 

Sea kayakers come from around the world to paddle the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez.  Today you enjoy a wonderful introduction into the world of sea kayaking.  We launch about 30 minutes south of Loreto and paddle east towards Isla Danzante, another one of the islands included in the Loreto Bay National Marine Park.  After a short orientation and kayak safety talk, we paddle into the warm waters, protected by the towering Sierra La Giganta mountains to the west.  We paddle a couple of hours to Punta Coyote where we stop for lunch and a short hike to view cactus and other desert plants.  It’s an idyllic cove where snorkeling is another great option. During the months of February and March, there is also the possibility of seeing blue whales and at any time of year, we may see dolphins and always, plenty of seabirds. We paddle back to our launch point and return to Loreto for the evening.

• Accommodations: Boutique Hotel in Loreto
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 3: Hiking, Kayaking, or Boat Excursion - Selection Based on Weather and Other Considerations

Do one of the activities today that we did not do yesterday.  Having some flexibility means we can choose the best weather day for the kayaking or the Isla Coronado tour. At the end of the activity wevreturn to Loreto for dinner and overnight.

• Accomodations: Boutique Hotel in Loreto
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 4: San Javier and South to LaPaz 

We leave Loreto and drive about an hour from sea level to 1400’ (420 meters) above sea level to the small town of San Javier.  Climbing into the mountains is a dramatic scenery change and soon we arrive at the small, palm-fringed town. We explore on foot, visiting the historic San Javier Mission, built in 1744.  The first mission in the area was built in the town of Loreto in 1697, but a lack of water caused the Jesuits to move the location inland to San Javier.

After a peaceful exploration of the town and church, we drive a little further inland to see some of the prehistoric rock art of the region and enjoy lunch at a local ranch.  We then return to the main highway near the coast and begin our 3.5 hour drive south to Baja Sur’s capitol city of La Paz.  On arrival in the late afternoon we check into our accommodations, then walk to dinner.

• Accommodations: Hotel 7 Crowns El Centro
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 5: Swim with Whale Sharks, El Triunfo

We depart early for an amazing experience to swim with whale sharks!  These giant yet gentle creatures live in the waters near La Paz most of the year.  We head out in a small motorboat to find the whale sharks, and slip quietly into the water with our fins, mask and snorkel.  It’s a real thrill to swim alongside these gentle giants for an intimate view. 

We have a simple but delicious lunch on the boat and then return to town by mid-afternoon.  We drive about an hour west, into a subrange of the Sierra La Laguna, the Sierra la Victoria.  We arrive at the small town of El Triunfo, once a bustling mining town where silver was king. We learn about the development of mining in the region as we explore.

• Accommodations: Cabanas El Triunfo
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 6: Mining Village Tour, San Antonio

In the morning we wander among the ruins of the old silver mine, including La Ramona, a 150’ (50 meter) high smokestack that was part of the smeltering operation.  We then begin a hike to the nearby village called San Antonio. The hike is 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of about 403’ until above the town of San Antonio, then followed by a 679’ drop to the main plaza of the town.  

After walking the village streets, we join our local friends for lunch in a village home.  It’s a chance to learn more about village life in the mountains of Baja and traditional Baja cooking.  The town is slowly nurturing thoughtful tourism and we are proud to support their efforts.

Back on the road, we drive about 45 minutes south to an area of rural haciendas near the village of Santiago.  We arrive and settle into our basic evening accommodations.

• Accommodations: Local Ranchero
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 7: Hiking, Cabo Plumo National Marine Park

This morning we have the choice of a couple of different hikes through a boulder-strewn landscapes to magical pools of water for swimming.  If the weather is cool and/or we’re feeling lazy, there is also a natural hot spring we could drive to.  We either picnic lunch or enjoy lunch at a local ranch.  

After lunch we continue driving another hour or so to Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park.  This Park was established in 1995 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. It is considered one of the world’s most successful reef ecosystem restorations ever since its protection in 1995.

Located 62 miles northeast of Cabo San Lucas, the Park spans a distance of about 5 miles from Pulmo Point to Los Frailes Cape and is home to one of the most biodiverse areas in the entire Mexican Pacific including the Gulf of California.  It is home to one of only three coral reefs on the west coast of North America. The reef here is the oldest of the three Pacific reefs, estimated at some 20,000 years. Of the 14 different coral species described in the Gulf of California, 11 of them can be found here. The protected waters of the Park function as a immense refuge area, feeding grounds and reproduction and nurturing area for a number of marine organisms.

We stay in the small village and learn more about how this former fishing village has transformed itself into a prime tourist destination for those seeking to explore the magnificent marine environment. 

• Accommodations: Local Casitas
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 8: ​​​​​​​Snorkeling, Return to Cabo San Lucas

After breakfast we head to the sea to snorkel in this underwater world of biodiversity.  Colorful fish, corrals and other sea creatures await. There are some 875 species that live in these waters including 226 species of reef fishes and 154 of marine invertebrates.  If lucky, you may also see dolphins, sea turtles and rays.

After lunch, we drive south to Cabo San Lucas about 2 hours.  We spend our last evening together with a festive farewell dinner.

• Accommodations: NA
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Please see our Baja Travel Guide for full details on travel to and from Baja.

Baja Temperatures: 

Baja has a desert climate. The weather is typically dry, warm, and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 60 - 90 F. While it may be very warm during the day, temperatures can drop down to the 60’s (50’s at Whale Camp or in the mountains) during the evening hours.  Please plan to pack appropriate layers for the evenings.  If you are interested in more specific information regarding the weather in Baja, we highly suggest the Weather Underground site. If you put in the location you are traveling, and the date, it will provide you with historical weather data that you can use to plan for your upcoming adventure.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Here at ROW Sea Kayak Adventures our first and foremost goal is for you to have an enjoyable and safe experience. While most of our trips are suitable for beginners, some of our trips are more active than others and it’s important that you understand the physical requirement of the trip you choose. 

All of our multi-day kayaking trips are active adventures that involve some level of physical exertion and possible exposure to the elements including but not limited to wind, rain, heat, sun, cold temperatures and cold water conditions.  ROW Sea Kayak Adventures is able to accommodate people with physical limitations, disabilities and medical conditions; please speak with your Adventure Consultant if you think you will require any additional assistance while on the trip.  We ask that you consult your Doctor if you have health or medical conditions that could impact your ability to participate in an active and outdoor adventure.  In general, all trip participants must be able to do the following:  

• Wear all protective and safety equipment that are required by ROW Adventures and recommended/required by industry wide standards.
• Load and unload, on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion, the bus and/or van providing transportation for ROW Adventures activities.
• Reach the water access points (put-in and take-out) on their own, or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Enter and exit the raft, kayak and/or inflatable kayak on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion.
• Remain seated and balanced in a floating raft, canoe, kayak or inflatable kayak w/ the aid of adaptive equipment, if necessary.
• Float on their back when entering moving and still water.  The participant must be capable of turning from face-down to face-up in the water with the aid of a Personal Floatation Device and must be able to hold their breath while under water.
• Remain calm and keep breathing under control in the event of a swim.
• Climb into the kayak, with the help of another person, should an involuntary swim happen at any point on the water.
• Make progress toward the shoreline or a boat by swimming in moving water and must be able to exit the water and ascend the shoreline once reached.
• Participate as an active paddler when instructed by the guide for the duration of trip. 
• Move about the campsite on their own or with the aid of a qualified companion on all trips that include overnight camping and/or lunch.

PHYSICAL PREPAREDNESS

Whether you are an avid sea kayaker, or it is your first time, you’ll enjoy these incredible trips, and share in our passion for adventure, commitment to conserving the environment, and relishing unique experiences. For those new to the sport, kayaking is easy to learn in the sheltered waters that we visit, and we provide all of the camping gear, kayaking equipment and guidance needed. In addition, we keep our groups small to allow you to not only travel intimately among nature, but to ensure you receive the necessary attention from our guides.

Baja Bubble Journeys Packing list

The packing list outlined below is meant to serve as a guide to help you plan, prepare and outfit yourself for your upcoming travels.  Below, we have provided our best recommendations and suggestions.  These suggestions are broken down by your tour type and are based on the outlined itinerary, the geographic region, our knowledge of Baja, and our personal experience.  We hope you find this list helpful, use it as a guide and feel free to amend it with your favorite travel items too!

Our Baja Bubble Journeys are generally hotel-based.  However, on those trips that stay in our Magdalena Bay whale camp, you are camping in canvas tents with cots and sleeping bags.  Our Cave Art & Cowboys trip is also a camping trip.  When packing the important thing is to be prepared for the outdoor activities during each day.  Many meals will also be eaten outside in the open air, so you will want to prepare for that as well.

Gear Provided:

During any specialized activities such as sea kayaking, snorkeling and whale watching, Sea Kayak Adventures provides all necessary equipment including: personal flotation devices (PFDs), snorkeling gear, all kayaking equipment, etc.. For those tours that include camping, we also provide all necessary camping equipment including: tent, cot (on whale camp & multi-sport tours), sleeping pad, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and pillow with pillow case.   

Luggage Recommendations: 

These adventures are best enjoyed if you travel light. We think it is wise to avoid checking any luggage under the plane.  If you do check a bag, make sure that you have everything that is either essential or would be hard to replace, with you in your carry-on.  Please see below for our specific luggage recommendations for your sea kayaking, whale watching, or multi-sport tour.

• One roll-on (ideally a non-hard-sided version) or duffle luggage that meets carry-on requirements – This will serve as your main piece of luggage for the trip. If desired, you can pack an extra soft-sided duffle inside your main luggage for souvenirs on your return flight.  Again, while we recommend using only carry-on luggage, checking baggage can be done at your discretion. 

• One small day pack – This dual purposed pack can serve as your personal item during your flights as well as your day pack during the tour.  Outside zippered pockets are nice and allow you to organize your travel gear.  Carry medications, travel documents, important personal items and other essentials or “hard to-replace” items in this on the plane.

• Dry bags (for any kayaking tours): For any sea kayaking included in your tour, we provide you with a 10-liter dry bag that sits on the deck of the kayak for anything you might need during the day.

Packing List Essentials:

• Passport. Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months after the date of your arrival.
• A photocopy of your passport, inside a ziplock bag and stowed elsewhere in your luggage. As an additional precautionary measure, consider leaving a photocopy with family or friends at home as well and taking a photo of your passport and keeping it on your phone.  
• An e-copy of your air tickets with ticket numbers, emailed to yourself and someone at home in case you lose the device that has your emails.
• Cash.  Plan to use local currency (pesos) for small purchases, taxis and gratuities.
• Credit and/or Debit card(s) that works internationally, ideally with chip technology. Before leaving home, if applicable, notify your bank of your travel to help prevent any fraud detection holds on your card.
• Watch or small travel clock with alarm. Phones work well for this purpose. 
• Money belt or concealed passport carrier to carry your passport, travel documents and money, hidden under your clothing.

Adventure Clothing: 

• One - two pair long, lightweight, nylon pants with zipper pockets. Zip off legs provide additional options. 
• One- two pair nylon shorts, which can double as a swimsuit bottom.
• Swimsuit.
• Sarong, which can be handy for changing clothes, laying on the ground and many other uses. 
• Two - three short sleeve button-up shirt(s) or t-shirt(s). We recommend synthetic materials. 
• One - three long sleeve quick-drying shirts for sun protection. Tight-weave nylon shirts with SPF protection are a great option for warm climates like Baja.  
• Rash guard or set of synthetic long-sleeve top and full length bottoms for snorkeling. *Note - we do provide wetsuits, snorkels, masks and fins for snorkeling activities including swimming with whale sharks.
• Underwear 
• One wide-brim, tie-on hat that packs well.   
• One lightweight raincoat or water resistant windbreaker.   
• Three pair light synthetic or merino wool socks.
• One pair sturdy trail shoes, or running shoes, to use for hiking and for casual camp time.
• One pair sandals with ankle straps to wear while kayaking, on the beaches, walking around towns, etc. 
• Extra synthetic or wool layers for warmth during cool evenings or days. 

Casual Pre & Post Activity Clothing:

• One - two additional pair(s) of pants, shorts, skirts or dresses. 
• One - two short sleeve, long sleeve or button up shirt(s).
• One light sweater or jacket for warmth in the evenings and mornings. 
• One pair pajamas.
• Underwear and socks.

Gear and Other Essentials:

• One buff or bandana for sun protection and cooling off.
• Face mask – while buffs do serve as a face mask we ask you to consider bringing a more effective mask primarily to use during vehicle travel.
• Walking poles – collapsible poles are great.  If you have only carry-on luggage it’s best if these have dull points so you don’t have any problems with carrying them on the airplane.
• One pair of paddling gloves for kayaking tours. 
• Small day pack or fanny pack for hikes.
• One wide-mouth water bottle, 1 liter or larger. A bottle that fits in a daypack pocket or clips to the outside is ideal. The wide mouth makes it much easier to refill from our large water jugs.
• Camera with batteries or charging method.  
• Waterproof camera and phone case. For non-waterproof cameras and phones you may want to bring a small dry box or bag to use while kayaking. They can also slip inside the dry bag we provide during kayaking.
• Binoculars or monocular (optional).
• Sunglasses, polarized lenses are highly recommended for UV protection and enhanced clarity.  
• Retaining strap for glasses and sunglasses.
• Extra pair of glasses or contacts if used for corrective or enhanced vision. 
• Head lamp or small flashlight.
• Three to four kitchen garbage can liners to be used for wet clothes, dirty laundry, soiled shoes, etc.   
• A few quart-size or 1-gallon ziplock bags for packing sunscreens, lotions or anything that might make a mess.
• Books or e-reader, pen and note pad, iPod or small portable music player with headphones  if desired. 
• Travel towel.

 

Toilet Kit/First Aid:

• Standard toiletry kit including general hygiene products, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. (keep liquids under 3.38 oz.(100ml) for carry-on)
• Insect repellent, bug spray or bug balm.
• Sun screen and lip balm with SPF 15-30.
• Pre-moistened toilette packets or disposable shower wipes to refresh.
• Personal medicines and prescriptions
• Dramamine - motion sickness, Benadryl - allergic reactions, Advil or Aspirin, etc.
• Heavy duty skin lotion for dry, sun-baked and salted skin.
• Small squeeze bottle of hand-sanitizer gel.
• Shampoo and soap; biodegradable options are preferable.

Packing Tips for Your Baja Adventure Tour

Whale Camp Travelers: 

If you are visiting one of our Whale Camps, either Magdalena Bay or San Ignacio Lagoon, we would like to offer the following additional suggestions:

• Use Soft Sided Luggage: We do not use dry bags for our Whale Camp tours.  If you will be joining us at Whale Camp, we suggest using soft sided luggage for your main bag.  Your bag will accompany you to our Whale Camp, where it will be transported by Van and Panga.  Using soft sided luggage will make this transfer easier.

• Pack An Extra Layer: The evenings and early mornings at Magdalena Bay and San Ignacio Lagoon can be chilly.  We suggest packing a lightweight synthetic or down jacket, synthetic or merino wool long underwear, and a knit hat.  

• Pack Extra Batteries:  You will likely take a lot of photos while whale watching.  Packing extra batteries will ensure you don’t miss any great shots. (While we do have a solar charger available at our whale camps, please don’t plan on this as your sole source of power)  

• Pack A Book Or Small Games:  Our Whale Camp tours offer free time in the afternoons and evenings.  You can always go for a hike, stroll the beach or hang out with fellow guests; however if you think you may want to just relax, pack an e-reader or book, and some small travel games. We also have a good portable library with natural history books located at camp. 

Kayaking Clothing Suggestions: 

• We highly suggest that all of your kayak clothing is synthetic or wool, NOT COTTON.  Synthetics are also ideal for activity, as they wick away moisture from the body and dry quickly. Added SPF protection in your clothing is always a great option for Baja.

Re-Wear Your Clothes: 

• The suggested numbers of clothing items are based on a one week adventure tour.  We suggest using 1-2 kayaking or touring outfits, and 1-2 camp outfits that you will reuse throughout the trip. You are welcome to bring extra clothing for before or after your trip.  *Note - on any hotel-based tours you can wash clothing in the bathroom sink and some accommodations may offer laundry service as well. 

Snorkeling Attire: (Kayaking & Whale Shark Snorkel Tours) 

• We will provide you with a shorty wetsuit, snorkel mask, fins, and PFD. For day tour extensions that include snorkeling, we recommend guests wear their swimsuit and bring sunscreen, a water bottle, sunglasses, and a lightweight windbreaker.  We also strongly recommend a rash guard or synthetic long-sleeved top and full-length bottoms that you can comfortably swim in, as in some locations (particular where we snorkel with Whale Sharks), we have seen increased numbers of jellyfish.  You are welcome to bring dry clothes to change into as well.

*If you have any questions, or need gear suggestions, please don’t hesitate to call the office or shoot us an e-mail. We are happy help!

Baja Recommended Reading List-  Some of our favorite books about Baja. 

Weather Report- Check the local weather before you go.

Trip Advisor - Read guest reviews.

Sea of Cortez - The amazing geology, flora, and fauna of this region

OUR COMMITMENT
Our hope is that your first trip with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures is just one of many. Thus our goal is to provide thorough and complete communications and be clear with the details of our agreement with you.  Because the fine print sometimes changes, you will receive the most current Terms & Conditions along with your travel documents at the time of booking.

PREPARING FOR YOUR TRIP
We do our best to provide you with all kinds of useful resources to prepare for your trip.  These include packing lists, reading lists, detailed itineraries and more. The reservation packet that we send you will include a detailed gear list of what you should bring. Our Adventure Consultants will send you a full packing list when you make a reservation. They will also be in contact leading up to your trip departure with important reminders and any information specific to your tour date.

CHOOSING AN APPROPRIATE TRIP
Most of our trips are suitable for beginners; however, some are more active, physically challenging or demanding than others.   A spirit of flexibility and adventure is a good thing to bring along.   It’s important that you understand the physical requirements for whatever trip you choose. If you’re not sure if an itinerary is right for you, please call one of our Adventure Consultants for advice. Be sure to read the “Trip Member’s Responsibility” below and if you have any medical concerns we encourage you to speak with your doctor before making a reservation reserving space on a trip.

HOW TO SIGN UP
To make a reservation, please contact us by one of the following methods:
1). Call us at 800-616-1943 – Monday-Friday from 9:00 to 5:00 pm Pacific Time.
2). Send us an email at info@seakayakadventures.com
3). Use the “Book Now” tab found on every trip page on our website.

When we confirm the availability of your desired date and adventure, we will send you an electronic reservation packet and detailed invoice.

DEPOSITS
A deposit is required within 7-10 days of making your reservation for all trips booked 90 days or more in advance. Confirmation is not final until we also receive a copy of your completed trip application and signed waiver. We accept all major credit cards for the initial deposit. Credit cards are accepted for deposits only – the balance must be paid by check. Alternatively, if you wish to use a credit card for final payment, you may do so for an additional 3% administrative fee. Complete details on deposit amounts and payment due dates for your specific adventure will be sent to you on your initial invoice.  All monies must be paid in US dollars.

Early reservations are recommended as space is limited. While it is often possible to join one of our trips on short notice, space is limited and we recommend you sign up well in advance.

BALANCE DUE
Full payment is due 60 - 90 days prior to departure.  Specific payment terms will be included in your reservation invoice.  Reservations made after the balance due date must be paid in full at the time of booking. We reserve the right to cancel your reservation if full payment is not received by the due date.

TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN
We strongly recommend that you protect yourself and your equipment through the purchase of a short-term travelers' insurance policy, covering baggage, accident/life and trip cancellation.  Baggage is carried entirely at owner's risk, and ROW Sea Kayak Adventures accepts no responsibility whatsoever for loss, damage, or delayed property. ROW Sea Kayak Adventures assumes no liability regarding provisions of medical care. Participants should realize that hospital facilities for serious problems may be remote and evacuation prolonged and expensive. Participants are urged to check their medical coverage to be sure it is adequate. US residents may purchase reliable coverage through our office. You will receive additional information in your electronic reservation packet. You should purchase cancellation insurance soon after signing up, as the policy will cover any deposits paid if you need to cancel for covered reasons. Participants are responsible for researching the terms of their insurance coverage.

TRANSFERS
You may transfer your payment to another trip four (4) months or more prior to departure without penalty. Within four (4) months you are subject to the applicable cancellation fees stated above. The trip date you transfer to must be within 12 months of your original departure date.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
If you find it necessary to cancel your trip, you should notify ROW Sea Kayak Adventures in writing, by e-mail or fax immediately.  If written cancellation is received (call to verify) before the final balance is due, you will be given a refund less the amount of the deposit.  Deposits are not refundable.  If cancellations are made on or after the final balance due date, no money will be refunded.  If you are unable to go on the trip, you are welcome to find a replacement for yourself.  Any replacement participant must be able to meet trip criteria, complete a trip application, sign a waiver form and agree to the Terms and Conditions. Please understand that once you’ve signed up, we lose the right to sell your reserved space to other individuals or groups. Therefore we regret that we cannot make exceptions for personal emergencies. For this reason as well as those listed above we strongly recommend you consider purchasing a travel protection plan.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. must normally make substantial payments to its suppliers far in advance of scheduled departures. If a trip is canceled due to force majeure (acts of God, war, labor strikes, flooding, earthquake, etc.), ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. will promptly refund the portion of the trip cost not advanced to suppliers and use its best efforts to recover and refund the balance as promptly as possible. However, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. does not guarantee recovery of any or all of the advance payments made, and our use of best efforts to recover these payments will not include the institution of any legal proceedings in foreign jurisdictions.

SINGLE TRAVELERS
On most camping trips that do not include hotel accommodations we do have a limited number of single tents available at no extra charge.  On tours that include hotel accommodations, tour prices are based on double occupancy. If you are a single traveler, and request individual accommodations, we will apply a single supplement fee to your reservation. If you are willing to share accommodations, we will pair you with a roommate, should there be one available, allowing us to waive the single supplement fee. For some of our tours we have a limited number of single accommodations available. A select few of our tours do not offer single accommodations, regardless of traveler’s interest. 

WAITING LISTS
If you wish to be waitlisted for a full trip, the normal deposit is required. If an opening occurs on the trip, you will be informed and automatically transferred to the trip roster. If you accept the slot you will be subject to the normal cancellation policy. Otherwise, your deposit will be refunded in full.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
US Citizens are required to have a valid passport when traveling to another country.  It is your responsibility to be sure that your passport is valid for 6 months after your tour dates.  For some of our destinations you may also be required to get a Tourist Visa; for these tours we will provide specific instructions in your reservation materials. 

AIR RESERVATIONS
You may book air transportation for this trip through online booking sites, by working with a local travel agent, or contacting our preferred provider – Exito Travel at 800-655-4053 or online at www.exitotravel.com.  This is an independent company that has wholesale agreements with several airlines and can often get very good fares.  If you do book online or buy discount tickets through a consolidator, the tickets can be restrictive and you should review the booking conditions carefully.  These tickets tend to have stiff penalties for changes or cancellations.  Once you have booked your flights, please fax or mail us a copy of your air itinerary so we can inform your trip leader of your expected arrival.

TIPPING
If you are happy with the service you receive, it will be more than welcome.  Tipping is a very personal matter and the decision to tip and how much to give is entirely yours.  If you believe your guide deserves a tip, a suggested range is from 7-12% of your trip cost.  If you had the time of your life, then the sky’s the limit!  We also appreciate your comments.  We use your feedback to recognize extraordinary guest service and to discover areas where we can make improvements.  Our goal is to exceed your expectations!  Tips can be given to the “ROW Team Leader”, who will distribute them equally among the crew.

GUIDE REQUESTS
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures is proud of the fact that we can sometimes bring guests together with their favorite guides. However, guide requests are often not possible and cannot be guaranteed for a variety of reasons. We will do everything we can to schedule you with the guide you have requested, but in the end, please understand, your request may not be feasible.

TRIP MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITY
Trip members have the responsibility to choose a trip appropriate to their abilities and interests. We are happy to discuss this with you. Trip members are held responsible for being in sufficient good health to undertake the trip and for preparing for the trip by studying the itinerary and pre-departure information sent by ROW Sea Kayak Adventures.

While most travel, including travel to international destinations, is completed without incident, travel to certain destinations may involve greater risk than others.  ROW Sea Kayak  Adventures urges passengers to review current announcements and advisories, travel warnings, and restrictions issued by the United States Government prior to booking travel to any international destination. Up to date infromation on various international travel conditions can be found at www.state.gov, www.tsa.gov, www.dot.gov, www.faa.gov, www.cdc.gov, www.treas.gov/ofac and www.customs.gov. By offering travel to particular international destinations, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures does not represent or guarantee that travel to such locations is advisable or without risk, and ROW Sea Kayak Adventures is not liable for damages or losses that may result from travel to such destinations.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right to disqualify anyone at any time before or during the trip for medical or psychological reasons. Each trip member is ultimately responsible for his or her own medical expenses. We cannot refund costs of medical examinations or other expenses incurred while preparing for a trip. If you arrive at the start of your trip with a pre-existing condition or injury that was not disclosed in writing to ROW Sea Kayak Adventures and you are subsequently forced to leave the trip because of this condition, you will be charged all extra evacuation expenses and will not receive a refund of any unused trip services. All health information is treated as confidential. 

TERMS OF SERVICE 

RESPONSIBILITY ~ AN IMPORTANT NOTICE
These paragraphs define our responsibility with respect to all of our trips. Please read carefully. Payment of deposit represents an acceptance by the tour member of these terms and conditions.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. an Idaho Corporation, and its owners, agents and employees give notice that services provided in connection with its itineraries, including transportation, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and other services, are purchased from various independent suppliers who are not affiliated with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. Although it endeavors to choose the best suppliers possible, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. has no right to control their operations and therefore makes these travel arrangements upon the express condition that

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. and its own agents and employees shall not be liable for any delay, expense, mishap, inconvenience, bodily injury or death to person, or damage to property occasioned through the conduct or default of any company or individual engaged in providing these services. Each of these passenger conveyance companies, hotels, tour companies, restaurants, etc. is subject to the laws of the state or country where the service is provided.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. shall not be liable for bodily injury or property damage for any reason, including but not limited to acts of God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, strikes, thefts, pilferage, force majeure, failure of any means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulation, discrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right, either prior to or after departure, in its good-faith discretion and in circumstances that warrant it, to change or re-price any tour, trip, or expedition.  This includes the possibility of moving to an alternate location due to extreme water conditions, wind conditions, forest fires, road closures and/or acts of God.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. reserves the right to substitute hotels and leaders and to alter the itinerary when deemed necessary or advisable.

ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. reserves the right to take photographic or film records of any of our trips and may use any such records for promotional and/or commercial purposes.

LIABILITY RELEASE
All of our guests are required to sign a liability release form acknowledging that there are inherent risks associated with the nature of activities planned prior to traveling with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures.  Your trip is not confirmed until ROW Sea Kayak Adventures receives this signed liability release form.  Participation in the tour will not be allowed without a signed completed liability release form, and consistent with ROW Sea Kayak Adventures’ cancellation policy, no refund will be granted.

FOREIGN TRAVEL 
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. operates our trips in British Columbia, Canada.  All other trips in foreign countries are arranged through and are operated by independent suppliers that provide the goods and services for your trip including, for example, food service providers, equipment suppliers, yacht and other transportation companies, lodging facilities, local ground operators, certain guides, etc.  As a result, we have no right to control their operations and therefore make the described travel arrangements upon the express condition that the ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. its subsidiaries, agents and employees, shall not be liable for any delay, mishap, inconvenience, expense, irregularity, bodily injury or death to person, or damage to property occasioned through the conduct or fault of any company or individual engaged in providing these services.

ITINERARY CHANGES
We do our best to follow our itinerary as published; however, the nature of adventure travel is such that each trip will be slightly different. Weather, park regulation changes, hotel availability, guest ability, and other factors may require modifications. We always do our best to substitute equivalent destinations and activities. ROW Sea Kayak Adventures will not be held responsible for any refunds whatsoever for changes to the printed or scheduled itinerary.

DELAYS
Travel requires a flexible attitude.  Due to factors out of our control, including but not limited to weather, unannounced road construction, etc., delays do occur.  For example, flights sometimes don’t operate as scheduled, roads may wash out, or detours may be necessary.  We advise you to consider these potential factors when planning your travel to our tour destinations, as well as ask for your flexibility and understanding when delays due to factors out of our control necessitate changes to your tour itinerary. 

CANCELLED TRIPS
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures reserves the right to cancel any trip prior to departure for any reason whatsoever, including insufficient sign-ups or logistical problems, which may impede trip operations.  The refund of all land payments received shall release ROW Sea Kayak Adventures from any further liability.  In the event of trip cancellation, ROW Sea Kayak Adventures, Inc. is not responsible for expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for a cancelled trip (e.g. visa fees, equipment, nonrefundable advance purchase air tickets, etc.) or for any additional arrangements should the trip member have embarked prior to the scheduled group departure date. A trip cancellation due to insufficient sign-ups would normally occur at least 30 days prior to departure.

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS
ROW Sea Kayak Adventures shall not be liable for (a) expenses such as additional hotel nights and meals not specified in the individual trip itineraries, but which may be required to get to and from a trip start or end; (b) expenses due to the delay of a trip for any reason (e.g. bad weather, trail conditions, landslides, flooding, sickness, etc.); (c) expenses incurred in recovering luggage lost by airlines, belongings left behind on a trip or in shipping purchases or other goods home from abroad.