26 glacier cruise food

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26 glacier cruise in Whittier before/after your Princess cruise ship and/or Anchorage train 🏔 Alaska cruise travel blog

The Phillips 26 glacier day cruise tour completely exceeded my expectations!

The 26 glacier tour makes Whittier one of the best cruise ports for glacier tours in Alaska!

Now, I must say, this is easier to do when you pretty much have no expectations. 🤣

And actually, I was originally booked on the shorter Glacier Quest cruise tour but that got canceled, they said because of maintenance on the boat, and offered me a free upgrade to the 26 glacier cruise tour . I am soooooooo glad that the Glacier Quest tour got canceled!!! Because of that, I did the longer route, and I saw a bunch more exciting things!

I was doing the 26 glacier tour after arriving in Whittier from Vancouver to Anchorage on a Princess cruise ship.

A cruise ship that goes to “Anchorage” actually goes to Whittier.

In May, I got off a Princess cruise ship in Whittier after a cruise from Vancouver to Whittier , waited in the Whittier cruise terminal, checked in for the 26 glacier tour and did luggage storage with them, did the 26 glacier tour, took a train from Whittier to Anchorage , stayed overnight in Anchorage, and then flew out of Anchorage airport the next day.

In September, I took a train from Anchorage to Whittier , did the 26 glacier boat tour, and then got on a Princess cruise from Whittier to Vancouver.

Cruise ships doing this route between Vancouver and Whittier sail through College Fjord before arriving in Whittier, and much of the 26 glacier cruise is also in College Fjord.

So I didn’t think it would be much different.

While College Fjord from the cruise ship was nice, sailing on a smaller boat through College Fjord was so great!!

I also didn’t realize that the 26 glacier cruise would also basically be a wildlife cruise!

But you should keep in mind, wildlife is wild so sightings are never guaranteed!

But on the day I did the cruise, I was quite excited about what we saw in terms of wildlife.

And of course as a “glacier” cruise, we saw glaciers.

And it was on this small boat tour that I had the most memorable glacier calving experience!

If you are going to Glacier Bay National Park on a cruise ship , you will become familiar with the term “calving.” This is when huge chunks of ice fall off the glacier and into the water.

And once again you should keep in mind that glaciers also do their own thing and there’s also no guarantee that chunks of ice will fall off when you are there.

It was said that the rainy weather that we had increased the potential for calving.

There was one glacier that we went to (and got up closer to the glacier than a cruise ship does) in which the glacier calved so many times!

All the other glacier days I had on a cruise ship, I kind of a saw glacier calving just once, if I saw it at all.

And I also heard the sound of the calving much better from the Phillips boat, probably because it was much closer to the glacier!

If you attend the naturalist glacier talk that is part of the Princess Alaska cruise activities, you will learn that calving produces a thunderous sound because of the massive chunks of ice dropping into the water.

Can you really see 26 glaciers?

I don’t know. 😆

When you get on the boat, you will be given a map with the route of the 26 glacier cruise. (The same map you can find on the Phillips website .)

There are more than 26 glaciers mapped out, and I am not sure which of the glaciers you can actually see from the water, and which glaciers we actually did see.

But really, you don’t need to see 26 glaciers in order for the tour to be worth it.

What makes the glacier part of the tour worth it is 2 of the glaciers that we did see up close.

Actually, I thought it was worth it after we saw the first glacier up close, because that was the glacier that we saw it calving several times.

After that, I was literally thinking I would be fine if the tour ended there and we just headed back to the boat harbor!

But the tour continued on, and there was more to be seen!

What wildlife can you see on the 26 glacier tour?

When you arrive for check-in, there is a board that lists day-by-day the wildlife that have been spotted during their tours in the past week.

When I arrived, the wildlife that was seen in the past week included breaching whales, dall’s porpoises, sea otters, sea lions, mountain goats, bears, and bald eagles.

What did I see?!

Our first major wildlife watching was of porpoises. They were specifically dall’s porpoises, and they were swimming soooo close to the boat!

It was so exciting.

We also got in some good whale watching , as we kept seeing one whale over and over again showing its fin!

We also saw a bunch of sea otters at a bunch of different times.

And we even saw a harbor seal that was on a piece of floating ice as we approached a glacier!

It was announced that the harbor seal jumped into the water with her pup. I didn’t see the pup, but I did see the seal making a splash.

There was other wildlife spotted, but those were the most exciting for me to see without binoculars.

You can also rent basic binoculars on the boat for $5, which I did mainly so I could get a better view of the cute sea otters. 😄

How to do the 26 glacier tour

The 26 glacier day cruise tour operated by the tour company Phillips cruises does the cruise so you can make cruise ship timings and train timings.

So you can do it before getting on your southbound cruise ship that goes from Anchorage to Vancouver.

You can do it after you arrive in Whittier and get off your northbound cruise ship that goes from Vancouver to Anchorage.

The check-in for a Phillips boat tour is literally right next to the Whittier cruise terminal. It is an easy walk.

A cruise ship that goes to or from Anchorage is actually going to or from Whittier.

If you want to take the train from Anchorage to Whittier, the 26 glacier cruise will work out.

If you want to take the train from Whittier to Anchorage , it will work.

There are people who make a day of it with a round trip train from Anchorage to Whittier and back to do the 26 glacier boat tour.

The spot to get on and off the train in Whittier is literally right across the street from where the Phillips boat tour starts and ends.

Luggage storage in Whittier during your 26 glacier cruise

Here is what Phillips Cruises says about luggage storage in Whittier if you do a boat tour (cruise) with them:

While you will be responsible for transferring your luggage between the transportation provider and the cruise ship terminal, we can provide assistance with storing your luggage during the cruise. Your luggage may be stored in a secure location next to our office and reclaimed after the day cruise. The Cruise Ship Terminal is adjacent to our pier and the ground surface is paved for an easy transition between the day cruise and the cruise ship.

Confirm the info.

See below for pictures of the Phillips 26 glacier cruise out of Whittier!

What can you see in prince william sound during a 26 glacier boat tour.

The tour started just after 12:30pm.

At around 1pm, they started serving the food.

The Alaskan food to eat during the cruise is the wild Alaskan smoked salmon chowder.

It was nice, but it’s not really a big meal, so you should be sure to eat breakfast.

But if you don’t like seafood, you do have a vegetarian option too, which you will make note of when you book the cruise. ( 26 glacier cruise food menu 2023 pdf )

Our first “stop” was around 1:30pm to watch porpoises swimming around the boat!

Our first glacier stop came at around 2:30pm.

This was for the College Fjord glacier of Harvard Glacier.

This is the glacier that we saw huge chunks of ice falls off of several times.

Just after 3:30pm, we began sailing through the narrow Esther Passage.

At the end of Esther Passage is where we had some great whale watching!

Just after 5pm was the other major glacier stop for a Blackstone Bay glacier called the Beloit Glacier.

After 6pm, just before our return back to the Whittier cruise port and small boat harbor where we started from, we also make a short stop to see waterfalls.

Because of the delayed train from Anchorage to Whittier, we got a late start on the boat tour by a few minutes, and we also got a late return by 10-15 minutes.

The first people started walking off the boat at 6:33pm.

I walked off the boat at 6:39pm.

My luggage that I stored during the boat tour was waiting for me, and I walked across the street to catch the train to Anchorage .

The train was scheduled to depart at 6:45pm, and crew on the Phillips boat also told me that the train was waiting for us.

I got on the train no problem.

And that’s a bit about what you might see on a 26 glacier cruise!

My 26 glacier cruise was on May 20, 2023. Your experience may vary!

HAPPY TAKING THE 26 GLACIER CRUISE AROUND PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND!

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• Juneau icefield seaplane + Taku Glacier Lodge salmon bake
• Nugget Falls in Tongass National Forest (Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area)
• Helicopter + glacier walk to see blue ice
• Klondike Highway to Fraser BC + White Pass summit train
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• Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness seaplane + wilderness landing
• Creek Street
• Icy Strait Point to Hoonah
• Sitka National Historical Park totem poles
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• What is it like: Glacier Bay National Park from a cruise ship
• This was not available on my early season cruise: Hubbard Glacier excursion (yes, you can get off the ship on a sea day! available until early September... if it's not already sold out!)
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Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery Train Review (With 26 Glacier Cruise)

In May we set off on the trip of our dreams to Alaska to ride the railroad and do a glacier cruise. We wanted to ride the Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery train to Whittier and it did not disappoint!

Getting to Anchorage

We flew on Delta from Seattle to Anchorage, after arriving in Seattle on the Amtrak Empire Builder and spending a few days looking around the city. The flight itself is incredible, more beautiful than we could have imagined.

Upon landing in Anchorage, we took the hotel shuttle to our home for the next 2 night, the Comfort Suites Ship Creek . It certainly wasn’t the nicest hotel we’ve been in, but you don’t go to Alaska for the hotels. It was however the cheapest hotel we saw, had an airport shuttle, free breakfast, and was really close to the Alaska Railroad depot. I’m kind of surprised this hotel isn’t rated higher considering the convenience and price. We’d stay there again the next time.

Getting to the Alaska Railroad Depot

It was just a short 5 minute walk to the station from our hotel the next morning. The Glacier Discovery leaves early, at 9:45am, but coming from Chicago our clocks were several hours ahead and we were up earlier than normal.

Check in for the Glacier Discovery is a breeze. The staff are nice and assigned us our seats for the day on both trains. Little did we know, they gave us some of the best seats on the train!

On the Glacier Discovery there is an upper level that faces forward over a car with only one level so you can see out of the front and sides of the train at the same time. If you are in seats 1 or 2 on the upper level you’ll have these seats. They would be worth asking about when you get to the station.

The Glacier Discovery route only has Adventure Class , so you don’t need to make any choices on what class of service you’ll have. We thought the Adventure Class was really nice though, even better than we expected. Due to there being no GoldStar Service on this train, there is not an outdoor viewing platform like you would get on the Denali Star.

Our seats were at the table on the left, facing each other. Really amazing seats for this trip. Table 2 is on the right, and those are probably the best seats on the train.

The Ride to Whittier

The train ride started out without much fanfare, but as the ride went on the views just got better and better. Most of the better views are on the right side going to Whittier from Anchorage, but we were looking out the front so it didn’t matter much that we were on the left. This was a really special experience for us, as it is only the 2nd time we’ve been able to see out the front of a train while riding.

As you can see from the picture above, the views are the worst from the lower level left side of the train.

Seats are in groups of 4 and are set around a table. Two of the seats will be facing forward and two will be facing backward. Seats A and C are by the window and seats B and D are on the aisle. Seats A and B face backwards and seats C and D face forward. So the window forward facing seat at the table is seat C.

Try to avoid seats 7 A/B on the upper level at all costs. They both face backwards and look right into a wall! I can’t imagine this is a good ride.

The Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery route runs every day in summer, with round trip service from Anchorage to Whittier. It takes 2.5 hours to get from Anchorage to Whittier which culminates with a ride through the Whittier Tunnel.

Food is available for purchase on board the train from a cafe on the lower level. We bought a pretzel and a coke to share during our ride. We knew we’d be getting lunch on the Glacier Cruise, so we just opted for a snack.

If you need to charge your phone or any other electronics, there are outlets at each table for charging.

The stairs to the upper level are wide and easy to navigate.

If you are connecting to a cruise ship and riding the train one way, there is a luggage storage section on the lower level.

We did see some moose on the return trip at night, but not much wildlife during the day on the Glacier Discovery.

26 Glacier Cruise

When we booked our tour we choose to get the 26 Glacier Cruise included and it pairs perfectly with a round trip or one way train ride from Anchorage. Even though our train was a little late getting in, they held the boat for the train passengers. The 2 companies work in conjunction, so if you are riding the train and taking the 26 Glacier Cruise, you’ll be in good hands. You just step off the train and walk across the street to where the glacier cruise starts. On that day a Holland America cruise ship was also in port.

As soon as you get on the cruise, they start serving lunch, which was pretty good, and we were hungry.

We didn’t really do much research into the cruise, but it was one of our highlights of our entire summer. Doing the 26 Glacier Cruise is totally worth the money and recommended. There isn’t much else to do in Whittier anyway, so if you are spending some time there, you should really consider this glacier cruise.

Not only did we see 26 Glaciers, we saw incredible wildlife. During our cruise we saw seals, orca whales, eagles, otters and lots of other amazing species. What an incredible day!

One note of caution. If you are going to ride this cruise, it is not a slow glacier cruise. It will be going 30-40 mph much of the time and then slow down once there are sights to see. They cover around 140 miles in the time you are on board! If you are going to stand outside during the cruise be prepared for high winds.

Most people rode the train one way and got on the Holland America cruise ship afterwards, but we rode it back to Anchorage that night, as we were booked on the Denali Star route to Fairbanks the next day.

How much does the Glacier Discovery train cost

We paid $228 for 2 roundtrip tickets on the Glacier Discovery. Many people only go one way, so the cost would be cheaper. For that price, we thought it was an excellent value.

Is the Alaska Railroad worth it

The Alaska Railroad is totally worth the money you’ll spend to ride it. We loved the Glacier Discovery Train and would recommend it to anyone that wants to see Alaska by rail. You won’t be disappointed in this trip!

Robert Marmion

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Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise

Plot a course through Blackstone Bay, Esther Passage, and College Fjord to see 26 of Prince William Sound’s spectacular glaciers.

• Things to Do in Whittier
• Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise from Whittier

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Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

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Klondike Express and Bravest, the two modern catamarans that host this popular tour, were built with the enjoyment of day cruise passengers in mind. Spacious and clean, the boats boast large picture windows and ample outdoor deck space to ensure every guest gets the opportunity to enjoy Alaska's iconic coastal landscapes.

Glaciers are the true stars of the sound.

The five-hour cruise departs from the Cliffside Marina in Whittier . The tiny harbor town is located 60 miles southeast of Anchorage and accessible by road through a single-lane tunnel. Prince William Sound's protected waters ensure the trip is a smooth one. The 140-mile voyage passes sea lion haul outs, rafts of clustered otters, kittiwake colonies, and icebergs inhabited by shy spotted seals.

Of all the fun of spotting wildlife, glaciers are the true stars of the day. Harvard, Blackstone, Bryn Mawr, and Marquette are but a handful of the 26 named glaciers seen along the way. The tour boat pauses closest to Harvard Glacier so that passengers can hopefully glimpse huge chunks of ancient ice plunging into the water with thunderous claps. In this extraordinary setting time goes by fast, and soon the catamaran cruises back through College Fjord for a 6:15 PM return into Whittier.

An added bus transfer from Anchorage or Girdwood makes this popular day cruise out of Whittier a perfect fit for independent travelers who'd rather not rent a car. After pickups in Anchorage, the scenic drive takes guests down the Turnagain Arm with a stop in Girdwood, then into a valley overlooked by hanging glaciers and through a 2.5-mile tunnel to Prince William Sound. Guests are dropped at the Cliffside Marina to catch the 26 Glacier Cruise.

Guests cruise aboard either the M/V Klondike Express or M/V Bravest. Both are modern, high-speed catamarans with two indoor cabin decks, large picture windows, and outdoor viewing areas. All passengers are assigned indoor cabin seats around tables with USB ports. The boat is ADA accessible. No smoking is allowed onboard.

The onboard lunch includes wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, fresh salad, a roll, and a sweet treat. Vegetarian/gluten free and child lunch options available when requested in advance. The cruise offers complimentary hot tea, coffee, and water. Additional snacks, hot and cold drinks, and adult beverages are available for purchase.

What to Bring

To make the most of views on the exterior decks, bring a rain jacket, hat, and gloves. Wear warm base layers and rubber-soled shoes. Even on a sunny day, the breeze coming off tidewater glaciers can be quite chilly. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars.

Special Instructions

Passengers driving by car should plan to take the 11:30 AM tunnel entrance into Whittier. Cost per regular vehicle is $13. Click here for more information about the Whittier Tunnel.

Transfers & Meeting Points

Passengers arriving by train can walk from the Whittier Depot to the Phillips Cruises & Tours kiosk at the Cliffside Marina. Passengers arriving by car can park for a fee in pay lots across the Whittier Creek bridge toward the marina.

Guests who opt for the added bus transfer will be picked up at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage and the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. Return service is available to the Anchorage airport upon request.

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

Child rates apply to children under the age of 12. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.

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

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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.

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Quick Facts

• Price From $189 + Tax
• Duration From 5.5 Hours
• Options Cruise Only , Cruise with Transfer
• Operating Dates Daily from 5/4/2024 to 9/30/2024
• Activity Level Less Active

What's Included

• Smooth 140-mile cruise in Prince William Sound.
• Onboard narration by captain and crew.
• Freshly made hot lunch served onboard.
• Reserved seating in a spacious cabin.
• Option to add roundtrip transportation from Anchorage and Girdwood to Whittier.

Guest Feedback

"Excellent tour and amazing Forest Service guide! Very nice cruise boat with breathtaking scenery! The drive to Whittier is incredible. Highly recommend!"

~Kasia from Wisconsin~

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26 Glaciers Cruise Review – Best Glacier experience in Alaska

Last Updated on February 7, 2024

The 26 Glaciers cruise in Whittier is the best glacier experience you can have in Alaska and one of the best tours overall. I know this is a bold statement, but as a former Alaskan, frequent Alaska traveler and tour guide I have experienced a lot of tours and seen a lot of glaciers. While I’ve never been on a glacier tour that wasn’t incredible, this one is special and should be right at the top of the list for things to do if your trip is bringing you to Anchorage at any point and glaciers are your top priority.

It’s true that Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm in Southeast are more famous and just as beautiful and landing on a glacier in a small plane or helicopter is an experience of a lifetime. Getting onto a glacier on a guided hike like Matanuska or Root Glacier , or visiting an ice cave like Castner Glacier or hiking along Exit Glacier for a few hours are more epic experiences, no doubt.

So, why does this tour rise to the top for me? Because it’s accessible to almost any traveler if Anchorage is on their itinerary (those other locations are not), it’s at a price point that is in most traveler’s budgets and it’s perfect for people of any ability level. Add to that you don’t even need a car to get this amazing experience and you really have it all.

I’ve loved this tour for more than twenty years, so when I had the chance to go on it again in May 2023 after a few years, I wanted to give it a thorough and detailed review! On this day, the weather was very cold, rainy and windy and it was still incredible, affirming that this is a wonderful tour in any weather.

• Who is this tour best for?
• Getting to Whittier – 4 ways
• Wheelchair accessibility
• What to expect on board the boat (restrooms, seating, food and drink, weather, etc)
• What to wear and bring for the cruise
• Cost and booking

Who is the 26 Glaciers cruise best for?

The 26 glaciers cruise is an ideal tour for anyone who really wants to see glaciers as a top priority on their Alaska trip (that’s pretty much everyone!) who will be spending any time in the Anchorage area. There is no better glacier experience in Alaska!

Their no sea sickness guarantee on this cruise through the very protected water of Prince William Sound is ideal for those worried about getting sea sick or unsure about boats in general.

You can also combine this with transportation from a cruise ship to Anchorage if you are traveling on a Holland America or Princess cruise that goes in or out of Whittier and you are staying overnight in Anchorage or flying out on a red eye flight that night.

How to get to Whittier and the 26 Glaciers cruise

Whittier is a unique community in Alaska because it is only accessible by boat and by a tunnel that connects it to the Seward Highway and Anchorage. This means getting to Whittier requires a bit of planning and thought, which is well worth it for this epic glacier experience. You have four options for getting to the 26 glaciers cruise:

#1 – Self drive from Anchorage to Whittier

One way to get to the 26 Glaciers cruise is to drive yourself from Anchorage. In order to do this you will need a rental car and you will need to make sure you have the Anton Anderson Tunnel schedule . The tunnel opens to traffic once an hour in each direction so getting through the tunnel in time is critical so you don’t miss your tour!

Once through the tunnel it’s about a five minute drive to the parking area where you board the boat.

This option gives you the maximum flexibility if you want to make stops along the drive (which is incredibly scenic) or you want to wander around Whittier for a few minutes before or after your tour.

#2 – Take the Motorcoach and 26 glaciers cruise combo

One of the best things about the 26 glaciers cruise is that you can do a day trip from Anchorage without a car. When you book your ticket for the 26 glaciers cruise, book the motorcoach transfer combo.

With this option, you don’t need an expensive rental car, don’t need to worry about where you’re going or the tunnel timing and just show up and take in the scenery. The coach will drop you off near the check in office and pick you up in the same location after you return to the dock.

#3 – Take the Alaska Railroad and 26 glaciers cruise combo

Another fantastic unique car free way to get to the 26 glaciers cruise is to take a day trip on the Alaska Railroad’s glacier discovery train. This has the same benefits as the motorcoach, adding in the food and beverage options available on the train and the uniqueness of a train ride. Who doesn’t love a train ride to a boat ride?

After initially following the highway along Turnagain arm, the train then separates from the highway and travels through a beautiful valley with more glaciers all around you.

Make sure to book your train ticket and boat tour ticket together.

#4 – Add the 26 Glaciers cruise onto your cruise ship transfer

If you’re taking a one way cruise to or from Whittier on Holland America or Princess, you can purchase a transfer between Anchorage and the ship that includes the 26 glaciers cruise. You’ll need an entire day to do this, but I highly recommend it!

If you choose this option, definitely book it through your cruise line to ensure a smooth experience with embarkation and disembarkation and so you don’t need to worry about your luggage!

Is the 26 Glaciers cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, however the details of wheelchair accessibility vary a bit between the different vessels used for this tour. It is extremely important to let them know at the time of booking if you will be using a wheelchair, so they can make sure you have a seamless and comfortable experience. The crew is skilled in helping guests in wheelchairs with boarding and getting around the ship.

There are wheelchair accessible restrooms on board and ramps for embarkation and disembarkation. The second level of the boat is not wheelchair accessible (no elevator and steep stairs) but there is no need to go to the second level, the main level is just as good of an experience.

What to expect on the 26 Glaciers cruise

When you check in at the booth before boarding, you will be assigned a seat, so you never have to worry about saving one, getting a good seat or waiting in line for a better seat. The best “seat” is outside on the deck anyway, so you seat is really a place to enjoy your food, take a break from being outside and connect with family, friends or your fellow travelers. Here are some answers to questions I am often asked by my clients about the tour.

26 Glaciers cruise route and length

The cruise lasts about five and a half hours and takes you through College Fjord and Blackstone Bay, both very protected inlets of Prince William Sound that are filled with glaciers, both those that come down to the water and those that are tucked up in the mountains. The exact route varies based on weather and ice conditions.

Philips Cruises also offers a shorter version of this tour, called the Glacier Quest which is just under four hours if you’re looking for a shorter experience. You will still see lots of glaciers on the shorter tour, but not as many as the longer 26 glaciers cruise.

Will I get seasick?

Probably not! If you do, you can get your money back! Seriously though, the water the 26 glaciers cruise goes through is very protected. On my May 2023 visit there was about a 10 minute amount of time with a bit of motion (it was a very windy and wet day) while we were looking at a humpback whale. I have never experienced any significant waves the many other times I’ve been on this tour.

If you have a history of sea sickness or are worried about it, you can always take a sea sickness prevention medication.

Does the boat have restrooms?

Yes! There are plenty of restrooms and I never waited in line or saw a line for the restroom.

Will I really see 26 glaciers?

Probably! It does depend a bit on the weather. You’ll see lots of glaciers that come right down to the water on the cruise no matter what the weather is doing. Some of the 26 could be shrouded in clouds or fog, but you will not be disappointed no matter the weather.

I have done this tour on a perfectly sunny day, and a super wet and rainy day and both were amazing. I honestly didn’t count the glaciers, I was too busy taking them in.

What wildlife will I see on the 26 glaciers cruise?

Although this tour is focused on glaciers and not on wildlife, I have seen wildlife every time I’ve done it. You are very likely to see sea otters, seals, sea lions and many different shore birds. On my recent tour we saw a humpback whale which was incredible! I’ve also seen orcas (killer whales) on this tour.

Overall, if wildlife is your primary focus I would choose a different tour, but you can still expect to see some wildlife on this trip.

Is there wifi on the 26 glaciers cruise?

No. The boats do not have wifi and you will not have a cell signal either once you depart the dock. I recommend putting your phone in airplane mode so you don’t drain your battery while your phone looks for a signal. Enjoy the disconnection for a few hours!

Are there food and drinks available on board?

Philips Cruises includes a complimentary lunch with your 26 glaciers cruise ticket and it’s really good! They have a vegetarian option, but if you are not a vegetarian definitely get the salmon chowder, it’s really really good. It’s served with a roll and some snacks to round out the meal.

There is also complimentary coffee and water on board as well.

You can also purchase snacks and food from the bar as well as drinks. There are plenty of hot and cold alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks available for purchase.

After you make a stop in one of the iceberg filled bays, the crew will collect some ice from the water in a big net, then clean it and chop it up for margaritas! A glacier ice margarita is a very unique drink so give it a try if you like margaritas. You can also try the glacier ice in a soda instead, or just take a look at it once the crew sets it out.

What if it rains?

Don’t worry about the weather! This tour is fantastic even in rainy weather (I’ve been on it in VERY rainy weather so trust me on this). Rain is frequent in this area and also comes and goes, so a day that starts out sunny could bring rain and a rainy day could give way to bright sunshine.

Make sure you’re prepared for both (see below) and know that glaciers and wildlife are not impacted by the weather.

What to wear and bring

The most important thing to bring on this tour is layers for every imaginable kind of weather! The best glacier viewing experience always happens when you’re outside on deck so make sure you have the clothes to enjoy spending time on deck (even if it’s raining).

A rain jacket is critical. Umbrellas are not super helpful on boats because the boat creates wind as it travels across the water. Make sure the rain jacket has a hood. Rain jackets are also great for protection from wind.

I also recommend a warm layer (even on a sunny warm day) as well as a hat.

You’ll also need sun protection, especially sunglasses, even if it’s overcast. Keep in mind that the weather often changes throughout the day, so be prepared for rain and sun.

Make sure to bring your phone charger, they are have charging stations at every seat, but you’ll need your charging cable to plug in.

If you have binoculars, bringing those along is a great idea. You can also rent binoculars from the bartender for $5 for the day on board.

Related : What to pack for Alaska

Cost and Booking Information

The 26 Glaciers cruise is easy to book online and operates from early May through the end of October and costs $189 for adults (anyone 12 and over) plus tax. Children age 2-11 are $125 plus tax. Little ones under two travel free (but still need a reservation).

The shorter Glacier Quest Cruise operates from mid May through early September and costs $149 for adults (anyone 12 and older) plus tax and children age 2-11 are $89 plus tax.

If you want to add on transportation from Anchorage, do that when you buy your ticket. The motorcoach transportation costs an additional $89 per person round trip for adults and $59 for children. The Alaska Railroad option costs and additional $125 for adults and $63 for children, round trip.

Final thoughts

Overall I believe this to be the best glacier experience in Alaska that’s accessible to pretty much everyone, as long as they are spending at least a full day in Anchorage.

The 26 glaciers tour is affordable for most travelers, is fun no matter what the weather is doing and gives you the opportunity to be surrounded by glaciers all day. Add in some delicious food and unique drinks and it is almost impossible to not love the 26 glaciers tour!

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26 Glacier Cruise - Phillips Cruises and Tours

• United States    
• Alaska (AK)    
• Whittier    
• Whittier - Things to Do    
• Phillips Cruises and Tours

26 Glacier Cruise

We took their tour bus from Anchorage. Since we were a small group our bus driver stopped at few viewing spots on our way to Whitter. He was very knowledgeable and fun. Cruise itself was very organized. We were lucky that it was a clear day. Spotted lot of wild life on our way to glaciers. Spent a good amount of time near glacier. Narration was great. Overall an excellent cruise.

We drove to Whittier and did this tour. It was perfect for all ages. Highly recommend this trip for anyone

We did the 26 glacier cruise with phillips prior to boarding our cruise ship. This was a fantastic 5 hours, one of the best highlights of our alaska trip. Saw many glaciers, fantastic scenery all around, seals, otters, whales..etc Good narration on board, the smoked salmon chowder was very good. The captain got us close to many glaciers, and witnessed several great "calving" events. Would highly recommend this tour to anyone

The entire trip was wonderful! The staff was knowledgeable, attentive and friendly. The scenery was beyond description! My husband and I would recommend this trip to anyone and everyone!!

This was one of the highlights of my trip. The Captain was accommodating and the forest ranger Helen was fabulous. So much to learn. The lunch was more than adequate. A must do 5 our tour.

Good day. Beautiful scenery entire cruise - makes time go by. Food is good . Service great. Started and finished on time making tunnel in Whittier easy. Took coach from Anchorage which was nicely narrates entire time. It is a long day - pick up at 930am from hotel and return 745pm. Nothing to see in Whittier. On the cruise - pretty much guaranteed to see otters, seals, sea lions. Likely to see bald eagles but probably not flying. Whales are maybe 50/50 from their sightings board. Saw glaciers calving which was cool - that appears to be about 50/50 as well. So not a great way to see wildlife but all in all a beautiful day. It is expensive considering but everything in Alaska is expensive.

Dear davidsandiego, Thank you for visiting Alaska and taking our cruise and coach package. Many guests have indicated that our cruise and coach tour checks all the boxes on their bucket list items; mountains, glaciers, wildlife, and spectacular scenery. Our price for a full day adventure is very reasonable, especially compared to other tour options with comparable activities. We also encourage all guests to walk about Whittier to discover the many sights to explore. If you get the chance to return, we hope you will cruise with us again. Safe Travels.

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Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise & Coach

Anchorage, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 10 Hours

Meals Included

Meals not included

Welcome Aboard! Travel by coach from Anchorage to Whittier as your experienced driver-guide points out the sights along Turnagain Arm and the scenic Seward Highway. Spend the day retracing the routes early explorers traveled during the Harriman Expedition. Your glacier cruise explore narrow fjords, calm passages and stunning scenery. From your catamaran, you’ll come face to face with towering masses of ice, so close you can hear glaciers move while gazing upon their brilliant blue hues and towering spires. You will see different types of glaciers, including Alpine (hanging), Piedmont and Tidewater. It’s not uncommon to see a glacier calve where pieces of ice break off into the water. To witness this massive movement of ice and hear its thunderous roar is truly an unforgettable experience! Yet, with the bounty of glacial wonders, it's not just about the ice. The wildlife is equally astounding. Enjoy sightings of sea otters, harbor seals, Dall’s porpoise and Steller sea lions during the cruise. You may also spot whales, bears, mountain goats and bald eagles. You’ll even stop at a bird rookery that is home to thousands of kittiwakes. Professional narration about the geography, history, glaciers and wildlife is provided by a U.S. Forest Service Ranger and the Captain on your cruise. Phillips Cruises operates a fleet of high-speed catamarans with two indoor heated seating areas and outdoor observation decks. All decks have outdoor areas with plenty of room for everyone to get an up close view. Modern and stylish comfortable seating at tables is designated for 4-guests and 6-guests and large picture windows provide panoramic views from every seat. The bar offers Alaskan Ales, wine, spirits, light snacks, and a variety of gift shop items for purchase (at your own expense). Restrooms, complimentary hot coffee, tea and ice water at self-serve stations are available throughout the cruise. A complimentary hot lunch is served right to your table featuring wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder or a hearty vegetarian chili upon request. After your cruise, board your motorcoach for your return trip back to Anchorage.

Excursions 26 Glacier Cruise from Anchorage

26 glacier cruise from anchorage.

Departs from Anchorage.

Description

The 26 Glacier Cruise departs from Whittier and travels through the pristine passageways and fjords found in Alaska’s Prince William Sound. Upon leaving Whittier, the vessel heads east out Passage Canal towards Egg Rocks or Perry Island in search of migratory Steller sea lions. From there it proceeds to the very scenic area called Esther Passage, where only small ships can navigate the waterway. High mountains protect this narrow channel from rough seas and winds. Many different animals call this area home: bald eagles are commonly seen fishing in the area along with occasional black bear sightings. It is not uncommon to see orca whales, humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of birds in this narrow passage.

Esther Passage opens into College Fjord, where the vessel turns north for a panoramic view of all the glaciers named after the Eastern Colleges during the Harriman Expedition. Next, cruise to Surprise Glacier and Barry Arm located in Harriman Fjord. The Captiain plots a path through the ice-filled waters up to the front of the glacier so passengers can watch for massive chunks of ice calving into the sea.

On the return trip to Whittier, the vessel will stop one more time at a kittiwake bird rookery that is located just across the bay from Whittier. Over 10,000 birds inhabit these rocky cliffs each summer, laying eggs. They fish constantly in front of the rookery and then train the young hatchlings all the survival tips they will need before returning to fly south for the winter. The rookery is our last stop before returning to Whittier.

Round trip bus transportation from Anchorage to Whittier is included.

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26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

We make it easy to see it all in one day! Relax on the coach as the driver guide narrates while you enjoy the beauty of Turnagain Arm. On the cruise get ready to view one of the largest concentration of glaciers in Alaska. Weather, ice conditions and wildlife activity changes daily and our captains may adjust the route to provide the best cruise experience while keeping your safety and comfort a top priority. We take pride in ensuring that your time with us is an enjoyable memory that becomes a favorite highlight of your Alaska vacation. We operate first-class catamarans. Due to their dual hull design, these powerful high-speed catamarans are extremely stable and able to smoothly navigate through the narrow fjords and passages that lead us to the face of massive glaciers. By operating safely and efficiently, Phillips provides a comfortable cruise and our No Seasickness Guarantee assures nervous cruisers the confidence that they will enjoy our cruise without any unpleasant effects.

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK: $220.71

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• No Seasickness Guarantee - Our smooth cruising catamarans & the calm waters of Prince William Sound.
• ADA Accessibility - Please call regarding your specific needs so we can assist you.
• Captains will provide professional narration during the cruise.
• Smoke-free vessels - We do not allow any form of tobacco, marijuana, vape or e-cigarettes.
• USB Charging Stations are available at every table. Wifi is NOT available.

What's not Included

• Gift Shop items are available for purchase on board to share with family back home.
• Warm your spirits with our signature hot drinks or try our Glacier Ice Margarita. Our full-service bar features Alaskan ales on tap, wine, a full selection of spirits and liquors.

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Travelers need to ascend/descend 3-5 steps to board coach. Please call for assistance
• Be mindful of the space around you for social distancing
• All crew and guests must wear a mask or face covering per current COVID-19 procedures.

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7 Alaska Cruise Excursions That Are Worth The Money

E xcursions come in all shapes and sizes. Some cruise lines include all excursions in the cost of your cruise passage, allowing you to choose the ones that suit your desires. Others include no excursions, which helps keep the initial cost of the cruise low, but you may find your onboard charging slipping higher than you expected. Still other cruise lines offer a hybrid option, where the basic tours are included and there is an upcharge for the higher-priced options.

1. Whales, Wildlife, And Brown Bear Search

For a full-day, 5.5-hour wildlife adventure, try the Whales, Wildlife, and Brown Bear Search out of Icy Strait Point. This excursion is offered by Princess cruise lines.

On this guaranteed whale sighting tour, jump on a high-speed catamaran to cruise the very active feeding ground of the humpback whale. Return to shore for an often bumpy ride to the Spasski River for a guided drive in search of brown bear, black-tailed deer, and bald eagles. The walking portion involves covering about a half-mile of gravel and boardwalk pathways, meaning this excursion requires moderate exertion.

2. Mendenhall Glacier Exploration

Alaska is all about the ice. Glaciers are ubiquitous and the variety of glacier-centric tour options runs from genial walks to full-on glacial climbs.

Mendenhall Glacier is the top excursion for your Alaska cruise’s Juneau stop. You can choose from a large variety of tours, and many providers have handicap-accessible options. They vary in time and price, meaning there’s a glacier tour option for everyone.

Princess Cruises offers the creme de la creme Mendenhall Helicopter Glacier Trek . If you are searching for the bucket-list Alaska cruise item, this is it. The 4- to 5-hour heli/walking tour starts around $480. You will be fitted for outerwear, hard hats, mountaineering boots, and crampons. Your kit will include a much-needed ice ax. After you touch down on the glacier, your guide will lead you on a 2-hour hike. You do not need experience, but you will be hiking for about two miles on uneven terrain.

Disney offers the 5-Glacier Seaplane Exploration that explores the Juneau icefield and five of its glaciers. Your seaplane journey takes you over the Tongass National Forest before you soar over Norris, Hole-In-The-Wall, Taku, and the East and West Twin glaciers. Wildlife spotting is very likely; keep on the lookout for eagles, bears, and moose. This tour is perfect for adventurers who require or prefer little or no walking. The minimum age is 2 years old, making it accessible for most family members. 

3. Sport Fishing

Salmon is king in Alaska, but there are many types of fishing adventures suitable for everyone from novices to hardened anglers.

Disney cruise line also offers a Ketchikan Alaska Fish Camp and Wilderness Dinner . The 5.5-hour fishing trip is available to family members 5 and up. Once you are outfitted with authentic Alaska fishing gear, you can cast your line in hopes of catching “The Big One.” After several hours of fishing, head to the campsite where chuck-wagon cooks will prep and cook your catch, serving up a wonderful outdoor dinner.

4. Panning For Gold

If you are traveling with teens or tweens, gold panning in Skagway is a fun, hands-on activity for the entire gang.

Princess offers a 6-hour exclusive Gold Panning, Sled Dog, and Scenic Railway excursion. The tour includes a gold panning lesson during which you can participate in a prospecting session in a controlled pavilion. You will also watch a dog sled demonstration run that includes a meet-and-greet with the sled dogs and musher. The tour concludes with a historic train ride through Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, and Dead Horse Gulch. This is a great tour for everyone in the family and requires only mild exertion.

5. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen

Hop aboard Holland America Line’s Bering Sea Crab Fishermen excursion and explore the world of Disney’s Deadliest Catch TV Series.

In the port of Ketchikan, travel along the Inside Passage with experienced fisherman hauling up the day’s king crab catch. Guests as young as 5 years old are welcome aboard the ship where stories of Alaska wilderness and maritime adventures will astound wide-eyed guests.

6. Food Tours

There is no shortage of tours for the foodie in your group. Disney’s Woodhouse Wine Estates tasting visit combined with a downtown Seattle tour is a fun date night excursion without the kids. Princess offers a Juneau Foodie Walking Tour in conjunction with Bon Appetit where you can sample some of Alaska’s finest local cuisine.

7. Scenic Drives In Sitka

Viking Cruises offers a 1.5-hour Scenic Sitka by Motor Coach excursion that is included in the passage price. This tour does include some incline walking when you visit Sitka National Historical Park, where you can view the site’s 18 totem poles. Learn Sitka’s Russian and U.S. history in this Southeast Alaska city.

Pro Tip: Booking Excursions

It is a good idea to choose an excursion that is booked through your cruise line. They will, in good faith, wait for you if there is a delay in your returning to the ship. If the ship cannot wait, they may make accommodations to get you to the next port of call. If you book an excursion with a private tour company, though, you are essentially on your own to get to the ship on time. If you miss the departure because of the tour arriving late, you will be responsible for catching up with the ship at the next port of call. That could be a considerable distance if they are at sea for two days, and some of the Alaska cruises have several consecutive days at sea.

Alaska Cruises are a bucket-list item you will want to explore at any age. You will find the history, natural beauty, and fresh-from-the-earth (or ocean) cuisine bring you closer to nature.

Still not sure an Alaska cruise is right for you? Read one traveler’s intimate account of her Alaska by small-ship cruise experience.