We’ve kayaked with guides in Alaska previously and we’ve paddled on guided trips in the lower 48 as well – Ryan Collins at Paddlers’ Realm set himself apart: patient (with some first timers who were with us), safety conscious, knowledgeable about wildlife and the area, great host at lunch with a gourmet spread, great sense of humor. We were with him for an entire day and throughout that time he kept us engaged and involved. One other thing: the water taxi service he works with is also a top-notch outfit – new boats that they keep clean as a whistle. If you’re in Whittier and want to have a great paddle, this is the one you want to do.