We booked this through Sockeye Cycle, on their bike and raft adventure. It was cool and a little drizzly the morning our cruise arrived in port (Sept 16, 2015). We connected with the cycle shop and headed up the highway with our guide on bicycles. It was a great ride on a nice road - 21 miles out from the city into the Bald Eagle preserve. Once we reached our destination we waited just a few minutes for Andy to arrive with the raft and a couple of other rafters. Andy and 'Dad' quickly got us set up with boots, lifejackets, instructions, and we were off.
I didn't notice it as much while pedaling up the highway, but there was quite a cold wind blowing. Even though we were basically floating downstream, Andy had to row us against the wind. He was amazing. Rowing and guiding us down the river he also taught us and kept us entertained about what we found around us. He spotted eagles before I could even see them and did an excellent job of carefully steering us so that we could get as close as possible for pictures. We spent an enjoyable, if a little cold, time on the river with Andy and came home with great memories and a few pretty good pictures.
When we got off the river, Dad was there with hot chocolate, tea, crackers, cheese, smoked salmon, and granola bars. We visited and noshed while Andy and Dad packed up the raft and our bikes. A short van ride later and we were back in Haines.
While it would have been awesome to be there when the huge hordes of eagles are there, Andy worked hard to find us eagles and fish to see. He even found us some bear prints in the mud at the side of the river. If we ever went back to Haines, I wouldn't hesitate to book again with Haines Rafting - Thanks for a great day Andy!!