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Exploring by boat

Paddle the Hood Canal to get close to nature

Hood Canal Adventures offers unique and fascinating tours by kayak. Courtesy of David and Valerie Wagner

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If you are new to the area, it is not hard to see why so many people fall in love with the state of Washington. Its serene, tree-lined lakes and rivers are appealing to many who are seeking adventure or looking to explore. One way to uniquely explore the area is by boat. Hood Canal Adventures offers tours of wondrous places by using kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and paddle boats. This gives guests the feeling that they are sailing into uncharted lands, untouched by time.

Eight years ago, David and Valerie Wagner came to Washington from California and completely fell in love with everything the state had to offer. Before they knew it, they settled and made Washington their permanent home. They soon purchased Hood Canal Adventures and over the years, they have seen the business evolve for the better. "We want our guests to have a great time," said David Wagner.

Guests have options as to what kind of tour they would like to go on. A salt-water tour gives guests the opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife, including seals and bald eagles. One of the most popular tours takes guests onto Lake Kokanee. This lake is completely tree-lined with no homes in sight. On a sunny day, the lake becomes so clear, you can almost see the bottom. You'll also have the opportunity to kayak right up next to a beautiful waterfall. Hood Canal Adventures also offers a sunset and stargazing tour. Guests will travel to Lake Cushman in the evening hours by paddle board or kayak just in time to see the sun set. "The Sunset Tour is a tapestry of color on the water that reflects like glass," Valerie said. After the sun sets, guests will be enthralled with a sky full of stars twinkling above them.

Tours can accommodate groups of almost any size up to 80 people. Hood Canal Adventures employs knowledgeable guides who are familiar with the area. Groups of 10 or more will have two guides. People of all ages are welcome to take boat tours. Wagner explains that they have children as young as 2 years old and they also have welcome tours of seniors. "We take beginners or those with advanced experience out on tours," said David. "It all depends on the group and what they want to do."

With no time frames or hazardous routes, the tours are an easy way to relax and really get into nature by appreciating the beauty that is around you.  "For me, this reminded me of childhood memories being on the water," said David. "We want to offer a good experience and family memories." Prices start at $85.00 per person for a 2+ hour tour. With David being a former member of the Navy, Hood Canal Adventures is proud to offer active-duty servicemembers a 20 percent discount. If you're looking for a new place to explore that will take your breath away, Hood Canal Adventures is waiting for you.

Hood Canal Adventures is located at: 7211 North Lake Cushman Road in Hoodsport, Washington. For more information, please call 360.898.2628 or visit their website: www.hoodcanaladventures.com 

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