whale tour seward ak

• Captains & Boats

Expertly guided small-group & private wildlife tours

In the waters of the kenai fjords national park and beyond, small group (6 person max) wildlife tours private tours • custom tours, seward wildlife offers personalized alaskan whale watching, wildlife and glacier tours from april through september each year – and we can’t wait to share this special adventure with you..

With more than 50 years of combined experience on the waters around Seward, Captains Andy and Terry are passionate about providing you with unique sightseeing experiences that are available only along the Alaskan coast .

We’ll do our very best to tailor the trip to your interests, whether you want to photograph whales and seals, see bears and birds, or focus on the awe-inspiring glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park.

Wildlife Watching Schedule

• Orcas / Killer Whales: April – September
• Humpback Whales: April – September
• Grey Whales: April – June
• Dalls Porpoise, Sea Birds, Sea Lions, Otters, and more!: April – September

Photography Trips • Bird Specialists • Whale Research Experienced

All our whale watching tours begin from Seward and take you out into the waters of Resurrection Bay and beyond. Depending on the time of year, we regularly see five species of whales – Orca, Humpback, Fin, Sei and Grey – alongside the awesome tidewater glaciers.

While on board, you’re likely to see whales spouting , or coming up to the surface for air, and breaching, or leaping part way out of the water.

We have a love for the marine environment and extensive knowledge about the whales, birds and animals that live here. We are local guides and boat owners who have been operating from Seward for over 25 years, so we make sure everyone leaves happy with their trip. We love getting you in the right place at the right time to view everything wild in the Kenai Fjords National Park.

Ready for an Alaskan experience you’ll never forget? Let’s get on board – contact us to book your adventure today!

Seward is one of the most special places on earth when it comes to wildlife watching.  The Alaskan marine environment allows truly amazing opportunities to see, discover and photograph nature up close.  From whales and seals to puffins and cormorants, we’ll show you the animals and birds you want to see.

What we see

In addition to the wildlife we regularly see in or near the water – including five species of whales, as well as porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals and Steller sea lions – we’ll also show you an incredible array of birds and land mammals, including puffins, bears and mountain goats. And all this comes with a backdrop of awesome tidewater glaciers in the Kenai Fjords!

Up-close glacier viewing is an experience that will inspire you with a sense of wonder. The breathtaking landscape of Kenai Fjords National Park, located just outside Seward, is best seen from a boat – in fact, much of the area is only accessible from the water .

We regularly see the glaciers in action, so you’re likely to see and hear huge chunks of ice break off and fall into the water as you’re on board – and with a small group, you’ll never have to compete with other guests to get just the right camera angle for your photo!

With so much to see, professional and amateur photographers will have endless opportunities to capture shot after shot of exquisite beauty.

Our Seward Small Group & Private Tours

A trip to remember out into Kenai Fjords National Park. Packed with all the good stuff. We seek out Whales, Birds, Multiple Glaciers, Marine mammals, Mountain goats, Bears, and unending spectacular scenery.

• 8 Hour Tour
• 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Available May 1 – Sept 6

Private Tour

Plus 7% tax, $3.50 per person port fees and applicable fuel surcharge (see below)

Six person maximum.

We dedicate more time with the whales and marine wildlife on this trip. We cater to those seeking Orcas and Humpback whales and all wildlife in Resurrection Bay and the Gulf of Alaska.

• 6 Hour Tour
• 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Available May – July

Three person minimum. Six person maximum.

We pack as much wildlife and scenery into this amazing journey around Resurrection Bay and out into the Gulf of Alaska. A favorite choice of our trip options.

• 4 Hour Tour
• 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
• 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM
• Available April – October

Please inquire.

Why choose Seward Wildlife for your tour?

• Experience – Together, Captains Terry and Andy have 50+ years of experience in the waters around Seward, and both hold Master licenses from the U.S. Coast Guard. We have a passion for marine wildlife, we know where to find birds and animals and we’ll show them to you!
• Size – Our vessels are limited to six guests, meaning that the trip is tailored to your interests as much as possible. We don’t do cookie-cutter tours – each journey is one-of-a-kind , focused on the scenery, animals or birds you want to see.
• Safety – Both our boats have perfect safety records for the last 20+ years and are frequently inspected by the Coast Guard to ensure they exceed safety regulations. We will supply life jackets and all necessary safety equipment for your excursion.
• Comfort – Our boats are designed with comfort in mind . Each of our boats has a roomy and heated cabin, comfortable seating for all, a private restroom, and state-of-the-art marine electronics.

TripAdvisor Reviews

Google reviews, what to bring.

We recommend that you bring the following along on your trip with us:

• Rain jacket and clothing in layers, as temperature and weather can vary greatly
• Shoes with good traction, as the deck can get very wet (e.g., closed-toe footwear such as sneakers or boots)
• Lunch, drinks and snacks (no glass bottles, please, but we are happy to supply coolers)
• Sunscreen and sun protection – on a warm summer day in Alaska, the sun can be pretty intense out on the water! Bring a hat, long-sleeved shirt, etc.
• Binoculars to enhance viewing of wildlife, birds and glaciers
• Cameras/camera phones with fully charged batteries and plenty of space for incredible photos
• Seasickness medicine: If you are prone to motion sickness or think you might have trouble, you may want to consider taking medication prior to the trip

What not to bring

• Please note that cigarette smoking is not permitted on board
• Pets – we love dogs, but we can’t allow them on the boats!
• Alcohol in plastic or aluminum cans is allowed, but please do not bring any glass bottles. We expect that all our passengers will use good judgment when it comes to drinking on board and refrain from bringing any illegal substances of any kind.

2022 Fuel Surcharge

Our charter rates for this season reflect the current cost for marine fuel, which is our largest expense. However, due to the volatile and uncertain nature of fuel price. Seward Wildlife reserves the right to add a fuel surcharge to our trip rates.

A fuel surcharge would only be applied in the event of soaring fuel prices, based on the price of fuel in Seward at the time of your charter. The surcharge, if necessary, would be assessed at check-in. Should the price of marine fuel remain under $4.25 per gallon there will be no fuel surcharge.

This will ensure that we are able to take you to all areas within our normal range without regard for the cost of fuel or how far we must travel. Therefore, you can feel confident that, as always, we will provide you the ultimate experience. We refuse to limit the range of our trips in order to save fuel to mitigate high prices.

Terms & Conditions

Wildlife trips are 4,6,and 8 hours. All prices are subject to 7% Kenai Borough sales tax, $3.50/person port fee, and a possible fuel surcharge. Advanced reservations are required with full payment needed to confirm the reservation. Payments are fully refundable with 30 days written cancellation notice or if charter is cancelled due to unsafe weather or sea conditions, mechanical failure, illness, or for other reasons beyond our control. Seward Wildlifes is not liable for any expenses incurred by clients beyond the charter fare.

The duration and range of all fishing and/or wildlife trips is based on weather and sea conditions. In inclement weather, the location, range, and/or target species of the trip may be modified at the sole discretion of the vessel’s captain. We do not guarantee requests for specific captains and/or vessels by clients but do our best to accommodate these requests. We reserve the right to change scheduled vessels and/or captains for a confirmed charter for any reason we deem necessary including mechanical failure, injury, illness, and/or scheduling needs.

It is the responsibility of each individual to consider all medical conditions he or she may have and take into consideration the possibility of harsh weather, rough seas, strenuous activity, sea sickness, and the long distance vessels travel away from medical care to determine whether our charter trips are suitable for you before booking.

We accept cash, personal checks, traveler’s checks, MasterCard, and Visa. We highly recommend that you purchase a form of trip insurance to protect yourself in the event you are unable to attend your scheduled charter.

These terms and conditions were last updated: Jan 17, 2023

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Major Marine Tours

Whale watching.

A wildlife cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay is one of the best ways to see whales in Alaska. Seward’s captains are experts at spotting and safely navigating near the majestic mammals, offering a unique experience to observe their behavior. The most common whale sightings near Seward are of Orca (or killer) whales and humpback whales, but you can also spot minke, fin, and gray during certain seasons.

• Watching a giant humpback whale breaching or showing off its tail is a breathtaking experience. Humpbacks are common near Seward starting in the spring when they start migrating back from Hawaii. 
• Orca whales don’t follow a migration pattern, and instead can be found where there is food, socialization, and ice coverage. Orcas, or killer whales, are the largest member of the dolphin family and have three main classifications: resident, transient, and offshore. 
• We often spot resident orcas near Seward, as they feed on fish. Transient orcas can be spotted, but are less likely since they feed on marine mammals like seals. Offshore orcas feed mostly on sharks in the open ocean and are rarely seen in Seward. 
• Each orca has a distinct dorsal fin and unique black and white markings, so if you spot one on your whale watching trip be sure to ask your captain or interpreter if they know the whale’s name!
• Gray whales travel a far way, with the longest migration route of any mammal, with a round-trip migration of over 10,0000 between Baja and the Bering and Chukchi seas. They start their journey in late February, arriving near Seward in the spring.
• Minke sightings aren’t very common since they travel in small pods. They are known for their slow swimming and quiet nature. Spotting an elusive Minke whale is a real treat!
• Fin, or finback, are the second-largest mammals and are among the fastest of all whales, reaching speeds of up to 23 m.p.h. They like to travel alone, but can sometimes be found in small pods.

Glacier & Wildlife Viewing

Day cruises & boat charters.

• Winter Vacations
• Northern Lights
• Railroad Vacations
• Self Drive Vacations
• Alaska Cruise Vacations
• Guided Bus Vacations
• Lodge Stays
• Summer in Alaska
• All Day Tours
• Alaska’s Cities
• National Parks
• Alaska’s Regions
• Arctic Circle
• Bear Viewing
• Day Cruises
• Dog Sledding
• Flightseeing
• Outdoor Adventures
• Glacier Tours
• River Rafting
• Sightseeing
• Sport Fishing
• Whale Watching
• First Time Visitors
• Stories from Alaska
• Booking Policies

Spring Wildlife Cruise in Resurrection Bay

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Seward » Spring Wildlife Cruise in Resurrection Bay

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

• Wildlife & Whale Watching Cruise in Resurrection Bay
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included:

Transportation to/from Seward and meals.

The Tracy Arm Fjord cruise was one of the most amazing tours I have ever been on! Simply breathtaking. The crew was fantastic as well.

Angie | Google

Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use. For more info, read our Privacy Policy Accept & Hide This site uses cookies. Click here to accept.

We are open all year long!

No more than 6 guests per boat.

Welcome to Seward Ocean Excursions, providing year-round boat adventures and activities in beautiful Seward, Alaska.

Why choose us? Seward Ocean Excursions is a locally-owned and family-run business. We pride ourselves in providing custom, small group trips all year long. In fact, we are Seward’s only year-round on the water boat business!

Please check out the rest of our website for more information. Recent pictures, trip updates, specials, and more are frequently posted to our FaceBook page and Instagram page. We hope to hear from you soon!

10% off tours for Alaska residents with code AKRES and 10% off tours for U.S. Military personnel and families with code MILITARY10.

Seward Ocean Excursions is a proud member of Whale SENSE , a voluntary education and recognition program for responsible whale watching practices.

Seward Ocean Excursions follows and promotes sustainable tourism and has achieved AGA (Adventure Green Alaska ) certification.

Tours/Sightseeing

Snow-capped mountains, glaciers, feeding whales, seabirds, and picturesque coves are just a few of the hidden treasures right out of Seward. Learn More

Fall, Winter, & Spring Tours

Looking for a break from the usual winter activities? Or perhaps you find yourself in Seward during the “off” season? We offer year-round tours on Resurrection Bay. Learn More

Custom Trips

Looking for something different/custom? Let us know! Learn More

• Order Status
• Juneau Tours
• Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure
• Mendenhall Lake Canoe
• Dog Sledding
• Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour
• Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier
• Mendenhall Glacier Dog Sledding
• Mendenhall Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Musher's Camp
• Whale Watching & Salmon Bake
• Taku Lodge Flight & Feast
• Things to Do in Juneau
• Skagway Tours
• White Pass Railroad
• Bennett Scenic Railroad
• Yukon Discovery
• White Pass Summit & Beyond
• Glacier Helicopter Tour
• Chilkoot Horseback
• Glacier Point Wilderness Safari
• Wildlife Safari & Bear Viewing
• Things to Do in Skagway
• Ketchikan Tours
• Deluxe Misty Fjords National Monument
• Mahoney Falls Extended Tour
• Trolley Tour
• George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast
• Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour
• Things to Do in Ketchikan
• Icy Strait Point Tours
• Whale Watching
• Wildlife & Bear Search
• Stream Fishing
• Things to Do in Icy Strait
• Sitka Tours
• Premium Scenic Tour
• Sitka Sound Kayak Adventure
• Whale Watching Tour
• Things to Do in Sitka
• Things to Do

Seward Kenai Fjords 4 Hour Wildlife Cruise

• Photos / Video
• Things to know
• Reviews (3)

Excursion Overview

Explore the calm, protected waters of resurrection bay.

Do you have limited time but still want to cruise and view wildlife? This 4 hour Seward Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise is a perfect tour for you! Look for Orca, humpback whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoises, puffins, harbor seals, bald eagles, and other marine life during your cruise on the calm and protected waters of Resurrection Bay. You will sail through the "Captain's Choice" route as your experienced captains will explore the area's wildlife hot spots to maximize your chances of viewing wildlife. This cruise is fully narrated by knowledgeable captains and crew members. Depending on the weather and sea conditions, you may see alpine glaciers tucked in the surrounding Chugach and Kenai Mountain Ranges and cruise by Bear Glacier, a piedmont glacier and the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. Experience the cruise that President Obama took on his visit to Alaska in 2015! Route Highlights: - Resurrection Bay - Bear Glacier (piedmont glacier, visibility weather permitting) - Cape Resurrection - Bird Rookery - Steller Sea Lion Haul Out - Thumb Cove and Humpy Cove - El Dorado Narrows *This can vary depending on wildlife and weather conditions.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Complimentary coffee, tea, and water
• fully narrated cruise
• Multiple viewing decks

Requirements:

• There are no additional requirements for this excursion.

Duration: 4 hours (Roundtrip from Seward.)

• 4 hours - cruise

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the 4th Avenue check-in office. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible. 

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, there is no meal included on this cruise. We have a snack bar onboard, and you are more than welcome to bring your own food with you. Glass containers and personal alcohol are not permitted. Snacks, beverages, beer, and wine are available for purchase at the snack bar during the cruise.

The Seward Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise offers reserved seating, onboard National Park Ranger narration, and features optional Alaska Salmon and Prime Rib Meal. The benefit of this 4-hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise is that it's less expensive, offers two departure times throughout the season, and less time on the water. This 4-hour cruise is narrated by our experienced captains and naturalist crew members.

Our guests stay on the boat for the entire cruise to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Guests are urged to dress in layers, including a warm rain-proof coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable, rubber-soled shoes. Guests are welcome to stay in our heated cabins, but warm clothes are recommended for guests who would like to spend time outside on the viewing decks.

Cameras (tripods are prohibited), extra batteries, and binoculars.

Our cruises go out rain or shine. We only cancel cruises due to unsafe sea conditions, in which case we will notify you as soon as possible. We reserve the right to cancel or re-route our cruises based on weather or other conditions.

You are welcome to store your luggage in our office during your cruise. We can also assist with delivering luggage to the train or cruise ship depots in Seward and Whittier.

Pets are not permitted onboard unless your pet is a needed companion due to a medical reason. There are several doggy daycare/boarding facilities in Seward.

No. All vessels are non-smoking. There are no designated areas on the vessels for smoking.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On jul 2023.

Nice boat and beautiful water, mountain views - wildlife viewing is unpredictable, as is nature! We saw what was available in a 4 hours cruise and were satisfied. No complaints - well run company highly recommend.

This tour ticked all our boxes for seeing wildlife. Excellent tour

Elizabeth G

On jun 2022.

Our captain was the best! So informative but didn't talk too much. The rest of the crew was very friendly and helpful. The sites and wildlife that we saw were amazing. The boat was very comfortable and it was helpful that everyone had dedicated seating areas if they wanted them.

• Reviews Showing: 3

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 4 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult (12+): $ 139.00

Child (2-11): $ 69.50

Infant (Under 2): $ 0.00

Why Alaska Shore Excursions?

• Free Cancellation
• Secure Payments
• On Time Ship Return Guarantee
• Alaska Tour Experts
• Best Price Guarantee
• Chat & Phone Support

Seward Blogs

Best Alaska Helicopter Tours

What to Pack for your Alaskan Cruise

Best Alaska Excursions

Related tours.

Seward Orca Quest Cruise

$139.00 / Person

Seward Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise Tour

$219.00 / Person

• Copyright 2024 Alaska Shore Excursions

For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.888.478.3346

• 4 hr. Spring Resurrection Bay Tour
• 5 hr. Resurrection Bay Tour with Fox Island
• 5.5 hr. Glacier Dinner Cruise
• 6 hr. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
• 8 hr. Northwestern Fjord Tour
• 8.5 hr. National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Fox Island History
• Room with a Cruise
• Private Charters

A springtime highlight in Resurrection Bay

Witness the annual migration of gray whales as they make their 5,000 mile journey from Baja, Mexico to Alaska for summer feeding. See beautiful Resurrection Bay in the spring, as well as additional wildlife viewing and opportunities to view Bear Glacier in the distance.

*Vegetarian and gluten-free items are available upon request. Meal options may vary and are subject to change without notice.

Lock in the best rate when you book in advance Ages 1 and under cruise free Cancel up to 4 days before your trip for a full refund

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.888.478.3346

2024 Tour Dates: March 14 – May 16 Thursdays to Sundays

Kenai Fjords Tours Safety Promise Guest Information & Reservation Policy

Our first cruise of the season gives a front row seat to the annual return of gray whales.

California gray whales travel over 5,000 miles to the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska’s Bering Sea – and we’re en route!

Tips & Tricks

Tours fill up very quickly, so we recommend you book well in advance to secure your preferred tour.

Arrive early for day trips to take advantage of our free parking and shuttle service.

Dress in layers and bring a water-repellent jacket. Coastal weather changes quickly.

Make sure you have a fresh memory card and your batteries are charged — you'll be taking tons of photos.

The #KenaiFjordsTours Experience

Connect with @KenaiFjordsTours on       

Stories from Kenai Fjords

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

1.800.808.8068   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected

Specials & Packages

• Directions & Check-in Information

SPRING WILDLIFE CRUISE

Spring wildlife cruise.

Witness the return of gray whales to Alaska waters on their annual 10,000 mile migration. Join us for our first tour of the season as we cruise through Resurrection Bay to the Gulf of Alaska in search of wildlife. In addition to gray whales, you may also see Steller sea lions, sea otters, eagles, humpback whales, and orcas.

PRICE & DATES

Adult (age 12+): 109.00

Child (age 2-11): $54.50 

Infant (under 2): Free

Tax and fees not included in above price.

March 8 – May 12, 2024

Departing: 12:30 pm

Returning:  4:30 pm

Spring Wildlife Cruise Highlights

• Search for wildlife and enjoy the snow-capped mountains and incredible spring scenery of Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Mountains
• Experience the unique opportunity to view a whale species that is only in the area for a short time in the spring.
• View other wildlife including Steller sea lions, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, bears, eagles, humpback whales, and orcas.

Cruise Overview

Join us for our first cruise of the season as we search for gray whales on their incredible annual migration. Every year, gray whales migrate over 10,000 miles round-trip between Baja and the Bering and Chukchi Seas – the longest migration route of any mammal. These whales begin migrating north in late February and arrive in Alaska in the spring, spending the summer feeding in shallow Arctic waters before migrating south in mid-October. They deliver their calves in the warm, protected lagoons off the coast of Baja in the winter.

Our Spring Wildlife Cruise takes you through Resurrection Bay to the edge of the Gulf of Alaska in search of our returning visitors. In addition to gray whales, watch for Steller sea lions, sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and other whales including humpbacks and orcas. Occasionally, you will see mountain goats with their newly born kids and black bears foraging along the coastline of Resurrection Bay. This tour is fully narrated by our experienced, knowledgeable captains.

• Spring temperatures are cold, particularly on the water. Though all of our vessels have heated cabins, we urge you to dress in warm, waterproof layers and bring a hat and gloves so you can spend time on the outer decks for the best wildlife viewing.
• Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided. Snacks, beverages, beer, and wine are available for purchase during the cruise.
• Complimentary use of binoculars while onboard
• Departure location:  Seward Harbor 360 Hotel
• Not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for guests with limited mobility. More information about vessel wheelchair accessibility can be found here .

ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS:

– Resurrection Bay – Bear Glacier (piedmont glacier, visibility weather permitting) – Cape Resurrection – Gulf of Alaska – Bird Rookery – Steller Sea Lion Haul Out – Thumb Cove and Humpy Cove – El Dorado Narrows

Route may vary depending on weather and wildlife.

Will I see gray whales on this tour? The main focus of this cruise is to see gray whales on their migration from Baja to the Bering and Chuchki seas. While we cannot guarantee whale sightings, our captains do their best to maximize your chances of seeing whales. This cruise travels through Resurrection Bay to search for gray whales along their migration route in the Gulf of Alaska. On average, we see whales on 60% of our Gray Whale Watching Cruises, including gray whales, humpback whales, and orca whales. This cruise provides the unique opportunity to view a whale species that is only in the area for a short time in the spring.

Will I see puffins on this cruise? This cruise runs in the spring, before the puffins have migrated back to the area for the summer. Puffins typically return to the area in May, so you may see them on the Spring Wildlife Cruises that depart in May. However, there are opportunities to see other wildlife on this cruise including whales, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, mountain goats, bears, and other seabirds.

Is a meal included on this cruise? No, there is no meal included on this cruise. We have a snack bar onboard, and you are more than welcome to bring your own food with you. Glass containers and personal alcohol are not permitted.

What should I bring for this tour? Spring temperatures in Alaska can be cold, particularly on the water. Though our vessels have heated cabins, we urge you to dress in warm, waterproof layers and bring a hat and gloves so you can spend time on the outer decks, where you will get the best, up-close views of wildlife and scenery.

HEAR WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING

Great day out on the water.

We took advantage of the spring package so we got a fabulous deal on the gray whale tour. We saw a gray whale and calf, a pod of orcas (that came right up to our boat!), porpoises and lots of other wildlife. The crew made the trip fun with their narration. We felt at ease the whole time and really enjoyed ourselves. Thank you Major Marine, we will be back again!

Akmom16 / TripAdvisor

EPIC day on the water!!

Otters, sea birds, porpoise, whales and more…this day was exactly what we needed this afternoon. The rain made for a dramatic and magical backdrop to the day. Thank you to our guide, Justin and Captain Chris for spotting wildlife!! My first time seeing the gray whale migration. Our group was also able to identify a humpback (EVOS-JRM-20130411-081) who is now warmly names Sam. WE will be back next April!!

Great crew, good times!

We did the 4 hour cruise in early May. The crew and captain were fantastic. They were very knowledgeable and eager to show us as much wildlife as possible. We would definitely do another cruise with Major Marine Tours next time we’re in Seward!

haaayleeey /  TripAdvisor

Newsletter Sign-Up

Signup for our newsletter to get the most recent Major Marine updates.

• Name * First Last
• State/Country
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Orca Quest Cruise

See the orcas that frequent Resurrection Bay.

• Things to Do in Seward
• Orca Quest Cruise from Seward

More Details

Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

Add to My Trip

Rather than follow a set route, every Orca Quest Cruise charts a unique course. The goal? To discover where orcas in Resurrection Bay have been spotted that day. And along the way? Beautiful bay views of sea spires and glaciers, plus a bounty of other marine wildlife to admire.

They breach and slap tails, sometimes even curiously survey nearby boats.

The cruise begins at the Seward Small Boat Harbor where guests board their boat in the early afternoon. On the ride out guests learn that it's resident orcas that are most commonly seen. They feed on fish and, when the eating is good, can be quite playful. They breach and slap tails, sometimes even curiously survey nearby boats. Day cruise boat captains are quite familiar with the resident type and are often able to identify family pods and even individual orcas.

When conditions allow, the crew drops a hydrophone into the water to broadcast orca calls over the boat's loudspeaker. Their chirps and coos, hoots and chatters make the experience all the more thrilling. After a few hours scouting for orcas in Resurrection Bay, the cruise concludes with a return trip to Seward.

The Orca Quest Cruise lasts four hours. Along with resident and possibly transient orcas, wildlife sightings on the cruise may include humpback whales, Harbor seals, Steller sea lions, otters, eagles, seabirds, and land-bound animals like mountain goats and black bears.

The tour boat has exterior decks, a covered awning, and heated indoor cabin space. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided on board. Additional snacks, hot and cold drinks, and adult beverages are available for purchase.

What to Bring

Early May temps can be quite chilly. To make the most of views and fresh air on the exterior decks, it is important to dress in layers for this tour. Bring a rain jacket, hat, and gloves and wear warm base layers and rubber-soled shoes. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars. If seasickness is a concern, err on the side of caution and take motion sickness medicine in advance. Dramamine, Bonine, and ginger chews are available for purchase onboard.

Special Instructions

Check in at the boat tour office located in the Harbor 360 Hotel. The tour office provides luggage storage if needed.

Transfers & Meeting Points

Several local hotels provide shuttle service to the Small Boat Harbor. For self-drivers, parking is available across the street from the Harbor 360 Hotel or one block south of the South Harbor Office on 4th Avenue. There is $10 charge per vehicle per day.

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

SHOW MAP >

Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

Book Now >

Quick Facts

• Price $139 + Tax
• Duration 4 Hours
• Departs 12:30 PM
• Operating Dates Daily from 5/13/2024 to 6/16/2024
• Activity Level Less Active

What’s Included

• Onboard narration and orca identifying by the boat captain.
• Broadcast of underwater orca calls when conditions allow.
• Use of binoculars.
• Complimentary coffee, tea, and water.

Photo Gallery

Alaska Saltwater Tours

Experience the majesty of the sea, explore alaska with us.

Few places in this world have as much wilderness, natural beauty, and adventure as the Kenai Fjords National Park. Come out with us to one of Alaska's most magical destinations! 

Our small group whale-watching tours will leave you awe-struck by what we call "the perfect soundscape," while our wildlife programs bring animals like bears or seals close for amazing encounters.

Pristine waters combined with breathtaking scenery make these areas truly unforgettable.

Alaska Tours

We offer multiple tours into the Kenai Fjords National Park and the Gulf of Alaska. Sightseeing, fishing, and custom photography trips are just some of what we can do.

In addition, We are the only small boat operator in the harbor currently offering a combination fishing and sightseeing trip.  This is a wonderful day on the water where our guests get to experience the best of Alaskan fishing and the best of Alaska's wildlife and sights.  We fish, see glaciers, wildlife, and hopefully whales and orcas. This trip is very popular with families, and is sure to please everyone.

Our ship, the Steller Explorer, is 43' long and has been certified and inspected by the United States Coast Guard every year.

We keep the number of passengers on our Small Group Cruises at 15, even though they were intended to transport more than 30 people.

Alaska Fishing Trip

Our multi-species fishing tour is a great trip for the person who wants to fish but doesn't want to travel half the day out to a place to anchor up to try to catch only halibut. 

On our multi-species trip we target halibut, salmon, rockfish, ling cod, and black bass.  There's nothing better than catching a silver salmon in the ocean when he is still strong and hungry. Salmon jump out of the water like a sport fish and fight like a tuna.  There is nothing to compare to fishing for silvers when "the bite" is on and the whole boat may well have fish on at once.

FOLLOW US AT: https://www.instagram.com/alaskasaltwatertours/

Terms and Conditions

Check out our Aialik/Northwestern Explorer Kayaking and Wildlife Viewing Trip

If you're looking to book a world-class kayaking experience in kenai fjords this summer, we think this trip may be the best around. we designed it from scratch, and we have a beautiful and safe water taxi dedicated exclusively to our customers for this trip.  using our own water taxi gives us the flexibility to go further on the water, ensuring that we have the best day possible by considering the weather and wildlife locations for each new day. it's also much cheaper than many of our competitor's trips that use a shared water taxi.

Escape to Adventure

The finest paddling trips in kenai fjords national park, explore our featured paddle tours, featured all day kayaking trips in the fjords, aialik glacier, northwestern lagoon, and whales. take your time to explore the fjords up close, check out our wildlife viewing kayaking tour options, best guides.

All of our talented guides go through our best-in-class training and mentorship program

We use drysuits where we need to, supply awesome neoprene paddling boots where appropriate, and generally use best-in-class equipment for our trips.

We've created many of these trips from the ground up over the last two decades. We've built water taxis and jet boats, created itineraries, and changed common practices to set ourselves apart and offer the coolest trips possible.

Our Most Popular Glacier Kayaking Trips

• Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking $509 $489
• Aialik/Northwestern Explorer $459

Aialik Glacier is one of the most popular kayaking destinations in Alaska

Seward's most affordable aialik glacier kayaking tour, now on sale, explore aialik kayaking.

Most kayaking companies in town run a version of this trip using the same water taxi out to the same glacier, but we do it cheaper, and we think we run the best trip!

This trip is a combination wildlife viewing and kayaking experience

Interested in a more exclusive glacier kayaking trip? Check out our Aialik/Northwestern Explorer

This Captain's Choice trip is our premier Fjords day trip

Smaller groups & fewer crowds, explore aialik/northwestern explorer kayaking.

For a more exclusive experience in the Fjords, choose our Aialik/Northwestern Explorer Kayaking and Wildlife trip

We don't share our water taxi with any other company for this trip, so we can go to more remote areas where there are no crowds

As always, we provide the best gear, the best guides, and in this case, the best boat, to provide an unparalleled experience

Use Our Interactive Map to Learn About Our Adventures

Use the interactive map below to explore what trips we offer, and where we run them. This website has been designed around our maps so that you can make informed decisions about which trip is right for you.

A private boat means our clients can go where the weather is the best and the crowds are smallest for the day. This captain's choice trip glacier kayaking tour operates in either Northwestern Lagoon or Holgate Arm. 

Watch an interactive film produced by Google and guided by Liquid Adventures that features our Bear Glacier Kayaking trip

Check out this amazing, interactive video that we helped film last season at Bear Glacier with Google and the National Park Service for their Centennial celebration. It's pretty, and pretty incredible, too.

Why Choose Us?

We're local, hand-crafted, safe and skilled..

We know that you're putting in a lot of research to choose the right outfitter for your time in Seward. We strive hard every day to be the best company in town, and we've put together some reasons why we feel that we're the right choice for adventurous travelers.

Package Adventures

Combine adventures with our partner companies and save

Exit Glacier Guides

• Alaska Tourism
• Alaska Hotels
• Alaska Bed and Breakfast
• Alaska Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Alaska
• Alaska Restaurants
• Things to Do in Alaska
• Alaska Travel Forum
• Alaska Photos
• All Alaska Hotels
• Alaska Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Alaska
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Planning for 2025 and have questions - Alaska Forum

• United States    
• Alaska (AK)    

Planning for 2025 and have questions

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• United States forums
• Alaska forum

Hi all! I would greatly appreciate any advice or suggestions you might have for a trip we are planning for 2025.

We were able to see quite a few whales in Juneau when we did a boat tour, however, we didn't see any orcas. Some crew on the ship said we missed them by a week - that there had been a good amount heading South the week before. We would love to show my FIL the whales, period, but orcas would be a definite plus.

I know there are no definite answers when it comes to wildlife, however, would late May be better or worse than late June if we visited Juneau, in particular?

A different option - there are one way cruises that end or begin in Seward - would we be better off doing a cruise that would include Seward?

Thank you so much for any suggestions you can offer as we try to make a trip of a lifetime happen for my FIL!

5 replies to this topic

The best place to whale watch for orcas is the San Juan Islands near Seattle/Vancouver, so maybe consider including that either going to/from your cruise . Ask over on the Seattle or Vancouver forums which would be the best company to use. I know the chances of seeing *some* species of whale runs about 90%, but I don't know the breakdown of species. Except I did find this company which claims a 98% chance of finding orcas: https://www.outerislandx.com/ from Memorial Day thru Labor Day. They guarantee orcas or you can take a second, free tour...which might not be so helpful when you're on the opposite side of the continent. But at least the offer is made, and IMO that counts for something..... Anyway, May through June for orcas: https://majormarine.com/whale-watching/ , and have an Orca Quest from mid-May to mid-June that has a 70% chance of success...but...it's unclear if that is just for orcas...likely it includes sightings of any species. Anyway, post over on the other forums where I'm sure the good people there will give you helpful advice.

That said, no guarantee you'll see any orcas even if you do whale-watches in all 3 areas. I would suggest Seattle and Seward if you want to include only 2 tours. Seward is your best chance to see a variety of marine wildlife.

Is a land-based adventure not a possibility? One does not have to be able to hike mile after mile to have a spectacular land vacation up here.

Scott - Land-based is not probably the best option for this particular trip. We definitely want to do a land adventure, but the movement from place to place is harder with my FIL.

mjyocum - Thank you so much for the response. I have not been to Vancouver, and it's one that I really want to visit, so this may be the way to go.

And just an idea to follow up on what Scott suggested: if your main goal is not to keep switching lodging, have you considered renting an RV? Then you can take your lodging with you, plus have a bathroom available all the time. Plus you'd have food available whenever you want it--you don't have to cook meals if you prefer not to, but even having snacks and cold drinks when you want them is nice. That would also solve the problem of long walks down corridors--you can drop FIL off at the door of any excursion/restaurant, then one of you stays with him while the other parks the RV.

Many folks have their first RV experience in Alaska and the vast majority do really well. You could fly direct to Seattle (a 5 hr. flight ), overnight. Day 2 would be an orca tour and maybe one or two other things that are of interest there. Day 3 take a morning flight to ANC (3.5 hr. direct flight ), pick up the RV in the early afternoon (Great Alaskan Holidays or ABC). Figure out what you'd all like to see and do for 5 to 7 days or so, and of course include heading down to Seward for the Orca and/or Kenai Fjords cruise . The drive to Seward is incredibly scenic, from ANC it takes 2.5 to 3 hrs without stops. With stops, it can take all day if you want it to, lol.

Anyway just something to consider while you're still making plans.

• E-Sim for Alaska and Seattle 5:54 pm
• June 2024 trip - input and advice please! 2:27 pm
• Shore excursions at ports on Alaska cruise 11:42 am
• Pre Cruise itinerary question 10:46 am
• Fishing Charters 7:43 am
• Exit Glacier open? today
• NCL Denali Land tour then on to the Encore today
• help on itinerary- 6 day trip in first week of June, yesterday
• Hikers need Alaska travel advice yesterday
• August 2024 - Itinerary help yesterday
• Anchorage area - hiking trail suggestion yesterday
• Free shuttle to aviation museum, zoo and botanical garden yesterday
• Planning for 2025 and have questions yesterday
• last minute trip yesterday
• "TOP 10" Recommended Things to See & Do in Alaska 7 replies
• Best way to see Alaska 5 replies
• Alaska cruise - best choice cruise line 10 replies
• Train to Alaska from Vancouver 3 replies
• Alaska in August... WHat to expect 7 replies
• Holland america vs Princess Cruise 16 replies
• Bear Lodge in Fairbanks 10 replies
• Estimated Drive Times - are these accurate? 5 replies
• Cell Phone Coverage 16 replies
• Best time of year for Whales & Bears 3 replies

Alaska Hotels and Places to Stay

• Why KEEP ALL QUESTIONS in 1 original thread?
• Why post SPECIFICS about your question initially?
• RESOURCES for planning a trip?
• Why study a MAP of Alaska?
• Weather and sunrise/sunset?
• Which rental companies offer one way car rentals?
• BEAR viewing trips?
• Coupon books?
• FISHING in Alaska?
• CLOTHES for summer travel?
• Renting an RV in Alaska?
• Web cameras for Alaska?
• Car camping in Alaska?
• Trip Reports 2020
• Self-serve laundromats?
• Free wifi in Alaska?
• Panning for gold ?
• Seeing NORTHERN LIGHTS?
• Mileage and travel times?
• Scenic drives?
• Alaska by TRAIN: Alaska Railroad?
• BEAR SAFETY in Alaska?
• Where can I go bear viewing by boat?
• TRIP REPORTS 2020
• TRIP REPORTS 2019
• Trip Reports for previous years

The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Best Alaska Shore Excursions

Raw HTML : GTS form Travel

Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

All per seat tours have a 2 person minimum from May 15 to Labor Day, outside of those dates we have a 3 person minimum on per seat tours.  Single travelers may be added to existing tours if space is available. All tours, including private charters, have a 6 person maximum. Must be at least 2 years or older for our tours.

Searching Availability...