Locally Owned. Professionally Driven.

Discovery Sea Kayaks was founded over twenty years ago by a group of dedicated local paddlers who shared a simple but ambitious vision: to raise the standard of kayak guiding on San Juan Island. At a time when the industry was still developing, they believed the islands deserved a level of professionalism, safety, and training that matched the beauty of the place itself. Their goal wasn’t just to run tours — it was to elevate the entire craft of sea kayak guiding in the San Juans.

Founding member Richard Swason helped shape that early vision, and soon brought in fellow island paddler Jason Gunter to expand the company’s expertise. Jason brought a passion for multi‑day expeditions and a commitment to small‑group, high‑quality experiences. What began as a collaboration quickly grew into a partnership built on shared values:

• uncompromising safety
• rigorous guide training
• top‑tier equipment
• and deeply personal, small‑group adventures

Together, they built Discovery Sea Kayaks into a company known for setting the bar that others would try to reach.

A True Local Business

Discovery Sea Kayaks has remained locally owned for its entire 20+ year history. That continuity is rare — and meaningful.

Today, Discovery is led by full‑time islanders Jason Gunter and Kelly Yelverton, who are not only owners but the hands‑on team you’ll meet when you walk through the door or call with a question. Kelly joined the company in 2010, and over the years, the island became her home. Her partnership with Jason grew from guiding and operations into marriage, and together they’ve become the heart and face of Discovery Sea Kayaks.

They aren’t absentee owners. They aren’t seasonal residents. They are part of the community.

A Guiding Philosophy Built on Skill, Safety, and Stewardship

From the beginning, Discovery Sea Kayaks has believed that great tours start with great guides. That’s why Discovery has long been known for having some of the highest training standards in the region. Guides are selected not just for their paddling ability, but for their professionalism, naturalist knowledge, and commitment to guest experience.

Small groups aren’t a marketing angle — they’re a core value. They allow guides to connect with guests, share deeper knowledge, and maintain the highest safety standards on the water.

And because the owners live here, Discovery’s approach to wildlife and environmental stewardship is personal. These waters are home, not just a workplace.

What Makes Discovery Different

Without naming competitors, here’s what sets Discovery Sea Kayaks apart in a crowded market:

• 20+ years of continuous local ownership
• Owners who live full‑time on San Juan Island
• Founders who built the company to raise industry standards
• The highest guide training expectations in the region
• Small, personal group sizes
• Premium equipment and safety‑first operations
• A team that knows the island because it’s their home

This isn’t a franchise. It’s not a legacy brand run from afar. It’s a living, breathing island business shaped by the people who paddle these waters every day.

💬 A Message From Jason & Kelly

“Discovery Sea Kayaks has always been more than a business to us — it’s our home, our community, and our way of sharing the place we love with others. When you paddle with us, you’re not just joining a tour. You’re joining a small group of people who care deeply about these islands, their wildlife, and the experience you take home with you. We look forward to welcoming you to the water.”