Small Boat Whale Watching and Sightseeing Tour
Description
Our full-day Small Boat Whale Watching and Sightseeing Tour delves deep into the breathtaking Kenai Fjords National Park. Your local, experienced guides will reveal the hidden gems of the fjords. This tour is a photographer's paradise, offering stunning views of the Harding Icefield, calving glaciers, playful seals, majestic Steller sea lions, curious porpoises, and endearing sea otters. Imagine pausing for lunch in front of a massive calving glacier, where you’ll have plenty of time to witness and capture the awe-inspiring sight of enormous ice chunks thundering into the sea. The chance to see whales on this Seward excursion is high, adding to the magic of our wildlife and glacier explorations.
Kenai Fjords National Park teems with diverse wildlife. On the Small Boat Whale Watching and Sightseeing Tour, you’ll frequently spot Steller sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops, harbor seals basking in the sun, and sea otters floating lazily in the water. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of elusive mountain goats or a wandering bear on the rugged cliffs. Dall's porpoises often join us, playfully riding the boat’s wake and providing delightful close encounters. In the spring, the sight of grey whales migrating to the Arctic is a highlight. During summer, humpback, minke, and fin whales are drawn to the nutrient-rich waters of the fjords, traveling thousands of miles to feed. Orcas, or killer whales, are a thrilling year-round presence.
For bird enthusiasts, the park is a haven with an abundance of puffins, cormorants, auklets, and other seabirds. Our knowledgeable captains know the prime spots to maximize your birdwatching experience, helping you add unique species to your life list.
Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the Small Boat Whale Watching and Sightseeing Tour, where every moment is filled with the raw beauty and vibrant life of Kenai Fjords National Park.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is the boat?
The Steller Explorer is a 43' long vessel that is certified and inspected annually by the United States Coast Guard.
What amenities are available on board?
The vessel includes a heated cabin, bathroom, life raft, and walk-around decks for excellent viewing. Your guides will provide a morning snack (muffins, scones, etc.), lunch, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, water, and soda. Alcoholic beverages are not provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own, but no glass containers.
What do we wear?
We always recommend warm layers, closed-toed shoes, and rain gear! Summer temperatures can vary between the mid-40s (F) to mid-70s (F) and rain is not uncommon. Even on warm, sunny days, it can be chilly while viewing the tidewater glaciers. We recommend layers that are warm even when damp (wool, polar fleece, etc.) and decent rain gear.
Where is the meeting location?
Please meet your guides at 7:15 AM at the large anchor in front of the harbor located at 1300 4th Ave, Seward AK 99664. Please look for a sign for "Alaska Saltwater Tours". Tours run approximately from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (depending on wildlife, weather, and guest's schedules.)
Know Before You Book
Quick Facts
Itinerary • 9h 00min • 4 activities
Meet your guides at the large anchor at the harbor & head to the boat!
Learn about safety on the boat & schedule for the day
Explore the Kenai Fjords National Park and look for whales & tidewater glaciers!
Return to the boat harbor & disembark, explore Seward if time allows!