small boat cruises ketchikan ak

Ketchikan Small Ship Cruises

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Alaska's Inside Passage Sojourn

• Watch glaciers calve giant icebergs
• Journey through Tracy Arm Fjord
• Kayak along the Alaskan coastline
• Visit the highlights of Juneau

Voyage to Great Bear Rainforest: Native Culture & Wildlife in the Land of the Spirit Bear

• Kayak across Great Bear
• Look our for Kermode bears
• Swim at hot spring pools
• Experience unique landscapes

Vancouver to Seward

• Explore Vancouver
• Discover Inside Passage
• Experience Ketchikan
• Explore Icy Strait Point

Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & the Misty Fjords

• Witness glaciers up close
• Observe wildlife
• Explore waterways and fjords
• Learn about Tlingit Culture

Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell, and the Misty Fjords

• Observe a variety of wildlife

Ice of the Inside Passage

• Journey through Endicott
• Explore Wrangell

Cruise To Alaska : Inside Passage with Glacier Bay & Olympic National Park

• Visit Glacier Bay National Park
• Experience wilderness kayaking
• Watch for whales
• Tour LeConte Bay iceberg gardens

Alaska Adventure Cruise - Alaska Fjords and Glacier Bay

• Discover Glacier Bay National Park
• Activities in Haines
• Discover diverse wildlife
• Explore Corner Bay
• Explore Misty Fjords
• Discover Haines and Pelican

Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

• Experience Skagway
• Witness Glacier Bay National Park
• Discover Haines
• Explore Juneau

Alaska Fjords & Glaciers

• Explore glacial landscapes
• Navigate Wrangell Narrows
• Kayak along the Alaskan coast

Top Ketchikan Travel Destinations

• Inside Passage

Ketchikan Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Ketchikan trips (14)
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• September 2024 (9)
• September 2025 (11)

Ketchikan Trips by Duration

• 8 day trips (3)
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Ketchikan Trips by Activity

• Ketchikan wildlife viewing (14)
• Ketchikan small ship cruises (12)
• Ketchikan kayaking (11)
• Ketchikan whale watching (9)
• Ketchikan hiking (8)
• Ketchikan village visits (3)
• Ketchikan stand up paddle boarding (3)

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Popular Ketchikan cruise ships Explore all cruise ships

• Wilderness Discoverer
• from ₽ 36,218 / day
• 9.1   Superb
• 15   Reviews

• Baranof Dream
• from ₽ 46,652 / day
• 7.6   Good
• 1   Review

• Safari Endeavour Alaska
• from ₽ 39,429 / day
• 9.3   Superb
• 12   Reviews

• from ₽ 40,733 / day
• 3   Reviews

• Safari Quest
• from ₽ 46,452 / day

• Discovery Alaska
• from ₽ 53,374 / day
• 10.0   Exceptional
• 2   Reviews

Small Ship Cruises in Ketchikan

Ketchikan Cruises offer the chance to discover stunning natural landscapes, enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, spot diverse wildlife, learn more about the local people, dine on fresh and tasty fish, and relax as you drift through the scenic waters. With a history dating back to the 1880s and founded on the fishing industry, the city also has the claim to fame of having the biggest collection of standing totem poles in the world! Alaska’s most southeastern city, Ketchikan sits on Revillagigedo Island, one of the islands in the Alexander Archipelago. Explore the area’s many delights on adventure cruises to Ketchikan.

Things to do & see in Ketchikan

Cruises around Ketchikan are the perfect way to explore the area’s dramatic landscapes, learn about the local culture, and enjoy varied activities. Some of the best things to enjoy whilst on a Ketchikan cruise include:

Dine on Fresh Fish and Seafood - Ketchikan is proud to be known as the “Salmon Capital of the World”. Tuck into fresh and tasty locally caught fish and savor the flavor of different types of wild salmon, including Alaskan King Salmon, Chum Salmon, Pink Salmon, Red Salmon, and Sockeye Salmon. Halibut is also abundant, and you can try other local specialties such as cod, crab, and rockfish. Watch fish swimming through the waters, and perhaps take a fishing adventure cruise to catch your own dinner.

Learn about the Local Mining Industry - Ketchikan has a mining history, and you can discover old gold and copper mines as part of your Ketchikan cruise itinerary. Descend into the dark depths of the mines, see old mining equipment, and learn about life in the pits and within a mining community.

Spot an Array of Wildlife - Ketchikan wildlife encounters let you get up close and personal with a fascinating assortment of creatures. Look out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and seals swimming through the waters, and see ravens, bald eagles, and other birds soaring through the skies. Deer, mountain goats, minks, bears, and wolves are among the animals that roam the land. Tongass National Forest and Behm Canal are some of the best places to see various wildlife, while Stephens Passage is terrific for whale watching.

Discover the Local Culture - Admire Ketchikan’s many standing totem poles and be enchanted at a traditional tribal house, such as Chief Shakes Tribal House in Wrangell. See native art and architecture, be entertained by cultural performances, including dancing and music, and learn more about the skills required for delicate totem pole carving.

Get the Adrenaline Pumping with Outdoor Activities - Have fun on the waters in a kayak or a skiff, or try paddleboarding. Keen hikers will be pleased, especially at Stephens Passage . Whether you prefer glacial terrain or rainforest, a Ketchikan adventure cruise provides fantastic experiences in the great outdoors.

Admire Stunning Landscapes - Small ship cruises through Ketchikan take you through picturesque and photogenic places that will leave you in awe. From the glorious Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm , where you may be lucky enough to see ice calving away from the large block, to the Misty Fjords National Monument, with cascading waterfalls, sparkling deep blue lakes, scenic glacial valleys, and snow-topped mountains, there is a lot to feast your eyes on while onboard your Ketchikan cruise.

Top Tips for visiting Ketchikan

• Ketchikan is a very wet destination, with rain almost all throughout the year. Make sure you pack wet weather gear.
• Dress in layers to cope with the unpredictable weather conditions and temperatures. While you must dress for the cold, the sunny summer days can catch you off guard!
• Take sunglasses on your Ketchikan cruise, especially if traveling in the summer.
• Have a change of clothes to hand for after-water-based adventure activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Ketchikan offers some terrific hiking opportunities; pack suitable walking shoes/boots.
• Try the local salmon and halibut; Ketchikan is famous for its seafood and fish.
• Don’t forget to take your camera to capture the majesty of Dawes Glacier.
• Pack your long-zoom lenses for the best wildlife pictures, and bring binoculars for close-up views of the local creatures.

The best time to cruise Ketchikan

The best time to visit Ketchikan is during the summer months of June to August. Temperatures are at their warmest, and you can enjoy sunny days. Summer also lets you see migrating creatures, such as humpback whales, returning to the area. On the other hand, April in Ketchikan is an ideal time to see hummingbirds returning after the winter.

If you are hoping to spot the Northern Lights from your Ketchikan cruise, plan ahead and arrange your trip for the summer.

The driest months are generally April to June, while September and October are often rainiest. Rain is common in Ketchikan, however, all throughout the year.

Where do Ketchikan cruises depart from?

You can fly to Ketchikan International Airport (KTN) and then take a short boat ride to the harbor for your Alaska adventure cruise from Ketchikan. Ferries and water taxis carry passengers to the harbor. There is no road access to Ketchikan.

Domestic flights serve Ketchikan from various airports around Alaska, including Anchorage, Craig, Coffman Cove, and Edna Bay. There are flights from several mainland US cities, including Seattle , Fresno, Eugene, Houston, Austin, Denver, and Salt Lake City. (Note that a flight change may be needed depending on your chosen route.)

Ketchikan Reviews

• 9.5 Exceptional
• 7 Verified Reviews
• 10.0 Exceptional

We really enjoyed the tours

Cruising Ketchikan in May on the Alaskan Dream

We went on our own to a totem park which was worth seeing.

Cruising Ketchikan in August on the Wilderness Discoverer

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Alaska Fjords and Glaciers Cruise

Experience misty fjords national monument and explore parts of the inside passage known for their wildlife viewing and landscapes..

Photo Journey:

Home » Tours » Alaska Cruises » Adventure Cruises » Alaska Fjords and Glaciers Cruise

Tour Overview

See Alaska on this glacier cruise adventure in Alaska’s Inside Passage! This adventure cruise sails between Juneau and Ketchikan* and offers unparalleled personal experiences on a small ship.

On this adventure-rich cruise, explore by ship, skiff, kayak, and foot. Wind through canals and explore the Tongass backcountry. Watch for whales, try a paddle-board, and go beachcombing with your companions and expedition leader. Relax in a hot tub before an awe-inspiring glacier, and access remote areas that only the lucky few will ever see.

* NOTE: Cruise may operate in the reverse direction from Ketchikan to Juneau, depending on sailing dates.

What's Included

• Local transfers & baggage handling on day one and day eight
• Seven nights accommodations in a private cabin
• All meals and most alcohol while onboard
• From-the-boat adventure activities, including kayaking, paddle-boarding, skiff excursions, and hiking
• Onboard professional naturalists
• Entry fees to national parks/preserves

What's Not Included

Airfare from/to Juneau/Ketchikan; pre-night hotel in Juneau/Ketchikan; super-premium wine, beer and liquor; port fees and taxes; and gratuities (approx. 10-15% of cruise fare).

Tour Itinerary

Below outline is for the Juneau to Ketchikan sailing. The Ketchikan to Juneau sailing will operate in reverse direction.

Juneau Arrival

In the afternoon, transfer from the airport or hospitality area to your small ship for embarkation. Meals are included on board beginning with dinner tonight, so please arrive no later than 2:30 pm.

Endicott Arm / Fords Terror

Take an early peek out your window to spy fjord cliffs and deep valleys, along with harbor seals and their pups lounging on chunks of floating ice. At the end of Endicott Arm is the blue face of Dawes Glacier. Tides permitting, your skiff driver will guide you along to see towering walls, the Coastal Mountains, and countless waterfalls. Look for mountain goats along the towering cliffs.

Frederick Sound

Humpbacks visit here each season to feed on krill, zooplankton, and herring; watch for them feasting in these abundant glacial waters. Based on wind and weather, your expedition team has the lineup of adventures all mapped out. Cruise past Five Fingers Lighthouse, Alaska’s oldest light station and The Brothers Islands, where sea lions nap on rocks. Paddle into the deeps of Port Houghton or Windham Bay or head ashore for a hike. Tonight, toast another big day in Alaska.

Thomas Bay / Wrangell Narrows

Step into the backcountry of Alaska’s wilderness with glacial landscapes marked by moraines, muskegs, and mud. Kayak and skiff in water almost clear as glass. Hike through the outwash of Baird Glacier. Later, wind into the Wrangell Narrows. Abundant bright red and green navigation lights guide the way, inspiring the nickname “Christmas Tree Lane”.

Blashkee Islands

The Blashkee Islands offer a full day of choose-your-own-adventure fun. Hiking, kayaking, skiff tours, snorkeling, and full day yak-n-whack excursions. Get ready for a full day!

Wildlife abounds in Behm Canal and the surrounding Tongass National Forest. Be on the lookout for black bears, mink and eagles. In the water, porpoises, seals and otters go about their business. On Cleveland Peninsula, your expedition team leads a low-elevation hike near clear, rushing streams. The area offers great opportunities for enticing forested shots of Southeast Alaska. Enjoy a guided paddle in the waterways that feed into Behm Canal.

Misty Fjords National Monument

Also called “the Yosemite of the North”, Misty Fjords National Monument represents nearly every ecosystem found in Southeast Alaska. Glacial valleys filled with sea water and steep, sometimes sheer, walls are a haven for sea birds, bears, mountain goats, and Sitka black-tailed deer. Kayak in Walker Cove or Rudyerd Bay or skiff to the base of a waterfall for a fjord-released shower. This evening, join the captain in a farewell toast and a delicious dinner.

Ketchikan Departure

After breakfast this morning, disembark in Ketchikan at about 9:00am. A transfer to the airport or the Un-Cruise hospitality area is provided. (Please arrange a departure no earlier than 11:30am today)

Listed itinerary is a guideline only! Variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience!

Dates & Rates

*** 2024 Special! Save $500 per person on all departures ***

Dates with a (*) indicate Ketchikan to Juneau sailings!

The listed prices are per person based on double occupancy. Taxes/port fees are $375 per person and are not included in these rates.

Wilderness Discoverer :  76 guests / 34 cabins.  174 feet in length / 39 feet wide

Special Payment Policy: Deposit of 50% is due at time of booking. Final payment is due 90 days prior.

Special Cancellation Policy: Any time after confirmation up to 91 days prior to cruise date:  $250 per person cancellation fee 90 to 61 days prior to cruise date: 70% cancellation fee 60 to 0 days prior to cruise date: 100% cancellation fee

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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We had an amazing trip, Alaska Tours did a great job of setting this up for us. We decided on the railroad trip and we were not disappointed. I would highly recommend going this way, we went from Anchorage to Seward and up to Fairbanks.

Brenda | Facebook

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Classic Alaska Charters

Ketchikan, Alaska best overnight yacht fishing charter cruise service.

Call Now: 1(907) 225-0608

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Alaska Fishing Charters And Wilderness Adventure Cruises In Southeast Alaska!

5 days, 4 nights, saltwater and freshwater fishing, crabbing and shrimping, wildlife viewing, photography, hiking and kayaking, in wilderness.

Best Wilderness Charter Service In Ketchikan

Classic Alaska Charters has long been the sportsman’s best choice for affordable overnight Alaska fishing charters in Southeast Alaska’s Ketchikan and Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness areas. Since 1990 we have demonstrated a consistent ability to satisfy our clients vacation goals above and beyond their expectations as we fish, cruise, and explore, the remote and unspoiled wild areas of Alaska’s Inside Passage.  Captain Rob  has lived, worked, fished, and played, in SE Alaska since 1984, beginning with the US Forest Service, and since with CAC. He has accrued more field exploration hours on the wilderness lands and protected waterways of the Misty Fjords area than any other charter guide. During the season he spends 24 hours a day with his clients and guests 5 days, 4 nights a week, every week!

Private Yacht Charters…Your Group Only

Enjoy a small ship cruise expedition aboard our 40’ charterboat, the  Saltery C  that is specifically designed for your group only of family and or friends. The trips are 5 days and 4 nights and designed for 4-6 persons with a wide variety of fully guided outdoor activities available to suit any experience level. On every adventure with us you’ll explore designated wilderness areas far from the cruise ship tourist scene, and away from those crowded fishing grounds close to town and around the corner from the big lodges.

The Real Alaska Up Close And Personal

With CAC you’ll engage in an intimate and harmonious wilderness experience surrounded by pure nature in the real Alaska, remote and wild, the way you’ve always dreamed about.

SE Alaska’s hidden treasures haven’t changed for thousands of years and you’ll be mesmerized by its beauty, forever changed by it’s peace and tranquil environments. Everyone takes with them an amazement of the incredible diversity and productivity of the wilderness ecosystems they never dreamed possible.

Young and old, guy groups, girl groups, couples and families, along with corporate groups, no matter what your group configuration is, we can custom design a trip for you and include as many activities as you like at a pace you’re comfortable with.

Our Specialties!

Wildlife photographers, welcome birders.

Captain Rob  

U.S. Coast Guard Certified since 1990 with a flawless record of safety! Captain and crew are enrolled in a mandatory random drug testing program required by the US Coast Guard, again, with a stellar record.

A Federal Halibut Charter Permit

Cac is a registered outfitter guide ….

and 5 Year Priority Use Permit Holder with the U.S. Forest Service (Tongass National Forest) for land use activities we offer. The service days for guests are always paid for in advance of the season and good to go!

Do Your Homework And Charter The Best

Please explore every page here, make notes, ask us questions, compare us to the traditional Alaska vacation fishing packages. You’ll discover that CAC is a completely different type of operation than any lodge, day charter, or hotel & boat trip. We are truly unique and authentic, an exceptional wilderness fishing, photography, cruising experience. Our rates are the BEST VALUE you could possibly hope for with all the activities we offer in a single 5 day, 4 night trip in Alaska’s magnificent wilderness areas.  Contact CAC  today with your questions, preferred trip dates, and goals, and then let’s discuss making it all happen for you! Find answers here to basic  “Frequently Asked Questions”.

Book Your CAC Wilderness Adventure Today!

Misty Fjords Expedition

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 4 hours & 30 minutes
• Users Boat Capacity: 4-passenger min., max. of 6

Minimum : This tour requires a 4-person minimum to operate, we will do our best to fill the remaining seats however, if the tour doesn’t reach the minimum, you will be given the option to pay for the remaining minimum seats or given a full refund.

Intimate Wilderness Voyage to the Misty Fjords

Feel the magnitude of nature while learning the fascinating history of Rudyerd Bay, the fjords, and Punchbowl Cove on our Ketchikan Misty Fjords boat charter.

What makes our Misty Fjords tours unique is that we offer the only customized boat charter to the fjords. You will work in close partnership with the captain to determine the course. You are the captain of your ship! If you decide you would like to stop and enjoy certain areas of the Misty Fjords longer — perhaps New Eddystone Rock, an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea, or the abundant coastal and marine wildlife including bald eagles, black and brown bears, humpback and orca whales, and more — we will do so.

Begin your Misty Fjords Expedition from the Ketchikan Cruise Ship pier. Please call us at (907) 225-9899 or email us at  [email protected]  at least 24 hrs before your scheduled tour for pickup location. Misty Fjords is about 40 miles east of Ketchikan, Alaska, along the Inside Passage coast in southeastern Alaska, and approximately two hours (one way) by boat. Revel in your private Ketchikan Misty Fjords boat tour through this splendid two million-acre wilderness preserve surrounded by 3,000-foot vertical cliffs, glacial fjords, cascading waterfalls, and abundant marine and coastal wildlife.

We prioritize safety, comfort, enjoyment, and exceeding your expectations!

• Chevron down Boat

A 30’ aluminum chambered boat with twin Honda 250 outboards, deluxe seating, oversize windows, generous observation deck, heated cabin, restroom, life jackets, and great visibility for memorable photos.

• Tour duration is 4.5 hours
• Four- person minimum, seating up to 6 passengers
• Chevron down What to Bring

When exploring Alaska, please consider packing clothing items that can be layered including a lightweight shirt, sweater, and jacket allowing you to adapt to varying temperatures. Lightweight raingear, waterproof hiking shoes, hat, and gloves should be considered as well. Binoculars are provided to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.

Check online for current weather conditions:

http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/ketchikan-ak/99901/weather-forecast/331730

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Alaska’s Fjords & Glaciers with Ketchikan

Juneau to ketchikan (or reverse) from $3,600 on board wilderness discoverer.

Your Dream Alaska is Only a Click Away

Skiff, kayak, and paddleboard through fjords and inlets as wildlife greets you from land and sea. See the Tongass National Forest as Alaskans do, by hike and bushwhack.

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS:

• Dawes Glacier and ice-rich Endicott Arm
• Adventure exploration in Misty Fjords National Monument
• Tongass backcountry by kayak, paddle board, skiff, and hike
• Search for wildlife - bears, Sitka deer, sea lions, Eagles, mink, porpoises, and mountain goats
• Navigate the narrow Wrangell Narrows, locally known as Christmas Tree Lane due to the amount of navigation lights needed for traveling this scenic pass.
• Visit Ketchikan, famously known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.”
• Kayakers’ paradise in the little-known Blashke Islands.
• Snorkeling in the fridged Alaskan Waters, wetsuits on board.
• Hike and Kayak Thomas Bay, the land of the Kushtaka a half man, half Sea Otter.
• Visit Juneau, Alaska’s Capital, and home of UnCruise Adventures.

Your day-by-day details

Day 1 juneau embarkation.

Welcome aboard the Wilderness Discoverer . Lovingly referred to as the “Jewel of the Fleet” by her crew, she is storied, elegant, and ready to cast lines and explore Southeast Alaska with you this week. Meet your Captain and crew as you familiarize yourself with your home for the next week. In the lounge, a welcome cocktail and champagne toast await you as you prepare for the grand stories yet to be written about the coming week. As we push off the dock, get out on deck with a pair of binoculars (there is a pair in your cabin for your use this week), and start the search for spouts! (D)

DAY 3 Fredricks Sound Whale and Marine Mammal Search

Day 2 endicott arm fjord and dawes glacier wilderness area.

Overnight, we’ve sailed into a new dimension. Sheer granite walls propel themselves thousands of feet above milky blue waters as the Discoverer glides between massive icebergs. Deep, U-shaped valleys tell the story of the last Ice Age and Harbor Seals haul out on the ice with this year’s recruitment of pups. Endicott Arm is a spectacular place to get out for our first activities of the week, and you’ll feel the air get cooler the deeper you travel into Endicott’s wilderness. The ship slows down as it approaches a massive wall of blue ice that blocks the end of the fjord–Dawes Glacier is our destination for the day. Bundle up and jump on a skiff tour for an intimate visit with one of the most active tidewater glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Back onboard, a warm meal welcomes you home. (BLD)

DAY 4 Thomas Bay - Wrangell Narrows

In the distance, a symphony of water emerges–the resonant flow of Cascade Creek, cutting through the forest in a mesmerizing display of waterfalls. A crew favorite, this hidden gem is a rarity in Southeast Alaska, accessible through one of the region's few trails. Don't let this opportunity slip away, as we offer hiking challenges tailored to every skill level, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this pristine wilderness. Hiking not your forte? Jump into a kayak for a paddle. The afternoon cruise is a photographers dream, as the Discoverer deftly navigates the Wrangell Narrows–a famed waterway and home to eagles, Steller sea-lions, and more. Count the navigational markers as you get a peek into life as only local Southeast Alaskans can relate to. (BLD)

DAY 5 Blashke Islands Watersports Paradise

Today, set your sights on the captivating Blashke Islands–a realm of endless possibilities for your adventure-seeking spirit. Immerse yourself in a day of personalized, choose-your-own-adventure delights. Whether you crave the unknown treasures found on a bushwhack, the serenity of kayaking, the exploration of skiff tours, the underwater wonders of snorkeling, or the thrill of full-day yak-n-whack excursions, the options are as diverse as the islands themselves. This hidden gem remains a mystery to most, featuring a chain of islands perfectly tailored for off-vessel escapades. Amidst the excitement, keep an eye out for the majestic whales that gracefully roam these waters–they may just surprise you with their awe-inspiring presence. Brace yourself for an entire day filled with exhilarating experiences in this undiscovered paradise! (BLD)

DAY 6 Yes Bay and Misty Fjords National Monument

Embark on a morning of adventure as we kickstart our activities in the captivating Yes Bay–an opportunity too enticing to resist! Prepare to be surrounded by the wonders of wildlife, from the elusive black bears and playful minks to the majestic eagles soaring overhead. As we navigate through Behm Canal, be prepared for a journey into remote waterways, revealing the pristine beauty of the isolated Tongass National Forest. Our expert expedition team leads a low-elevation hike alongside crystal-clear, rushing streams. Immerse yourself in your own adventure with a guided paddle through the tiny, deserted waterways that seamlessly blend into Behm Canal. Say yes to an unforgettable day filled with exploration and the enchanting beauty of Yes Bay! (BLD)

DAY 7 Walker Cove and Misty Fjords National Monument

Experience the overwhelming beauty and tranquility of Misty Fjords National Monument, a place that encapsulates the diverse ecosystems of Southeast Alaska. Navigate glacial valleys with sea-filled waters, towering 3,000-foot cliffs, and find sanctuary for wildlife like bears, mountain goats, and sea birds. Whether kayaking in Walker Cove or Rudyerd Bay, the area aptly nicknamed "The Yosemite of the North" offers an enchanting blend of paddle-and-go or sit-and-soak-it-all-in experiences. As a fitting end to your Alaskan journey, share a Farewell Dinner with your Captain, celebrating the week's adventures and capturing memories with a photo slideshow presented by your dedicated guide team. It's the perfect conclusion to a week immersed in wilds of Southeast. (BLD)

DAY 8 Ketchikan Disembarkation

The Discoverer is hard to say goodbye to, but our time together ends here in Ketchikan. The Salmon Capital of the World, there are more adventures to be had–ask your crew for suggestions as you depart and wave goodbye to your crew–new friends made along the way. We can’t wait to see you again! (B)

Passport required (non USA citizens). Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.

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Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan

• Rates & Dates

Accommodations

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• Extend your trip
• Travel Guides

Voyaging through Southeast Alaska on the Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan itinerary is an unrivaled experience. The 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird and Sea Lion sister ships maximize adept maneuverability to discover an authentic Alaska unreachable by large cruise ships. Spend time navigating narrow channels like Behm and Blake, Walker Cove in Misty Fiords, Eastern Passage and Wrangell Narrows. Adventure via Zodiac to explore places like Hole in The Wall State Marine Park on Prince of Wales Island, and drop kayaks into salmon-studded waters to trace the rugged, wildlife-rich shorelines of Kupreanof and Kuiu Islands.

Throughout your travels, encounter abundant and varied wildlife. Take advantage of a sighting of a pod of killer whales or linger on shore to watch a brown bear sow and her cubs forage. See humpback whales, brown bears and bald eagles—the iconic wildlife of Southeast Alaska. Search for whales in the wildlife-rich channels between islands and sure-footed mountain goats in steep fjords. This wildlife-packed adventure within a shorter itinerary makes this trip an ideal option within our  Alaska family cruises .

Explore with the top-level guidance of the expedition leader, five veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor, plus a wellness specialist—the largest and most knowledgeable expedition team in Alaska. Their knowledge and passion for Alaska is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Experience the surprisingly colorful life below water through video shot by the undersea specialist. Benefit from the team’s expertise—marine and terrestrial biology, botany, geology and more—and benefit from their passion to share the wonder of this incredible place. Enjoy their company throughout the voyage; you’ll find them highly engaging and fun to share a drink or dinner with, as well as a hike.

This itinerary offers you a choice of directions—embark from Ketchikan to travel north to Juneau; or head south from Juneau to Ketchikan. Elect to combine the experience with the Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka to Juneau to double the sights, wildlife spotting and wildness.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips , small ship Alaska cruise options and  Inside Passage cruise  itineraries.

Main Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords Itinerary

The main 6-day Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords cruise travels southbound, beginning in Juneau and ending in Ketchikan.  

Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, in the early afternoon and embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew.

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Today explore either LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm. These areas feature some of the most active glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Icebergs regularly break off from glaciers, getting caught in shallow moraines and along the shorelines as they float out of the bay. Your experienced captain will evaluate the underwater morraine outside of LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, where you’ll set out by Zodiac to navigate among these surreal floating sculptures. Take advantage of spectacular photographic opportunities, practicing tricks and tips from your certified photo instructor.

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Navigate the stunning Wrangell Narrows, an area inaccessible to larger ships, and then cruise into the Sumner Strait, keeping watch for humpback whales surfacing and sea otters gliding through the clear water around the ship. Explore the coast by kayak or expedition landing craft and go ashore to trace bear trails through forests intersected by crystalline salmon streams while learning about the rainforest ecosystem from the naturalists. Fix those binoculars on the banks to spot Sitka black-tailed deer and moose, as well as black bears, wolves and bald eagles that frequent the shoreline in search of plentiful salmon.

This morning arrive in the small town of Wrangell. The Tlingit and their ancestors have made this island their home for thousands of years. Take an optional jet boat excursion up the Stikine River or explore town, including a visit to Chief Shakes Tribal House and the Petroglyph Beach, home to the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska. This afternoon cruise Eastern Passage and Blake Channel, narrow waterways on the backside of Wrangell island where other ships rarely venture.

Wake up this morning to catch the sunrise over the stunning cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument, rising more than 2,000 feet above the deep blue waters of the fjord. Watch wisps of cloud drift down the winding waterway and drape over green peaks as the ship cruises through the mists that give this extraordinary landscape its name. Set out by expedition landing craft and kayak to get close to the forested banks and the many dramatic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.

Arrive in Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of sylvan slopes on Revillagigedo Island. Its many monikers, from “salmon capital of the world” to “rain capital of Alaska,” capture the spirit of this city, famous for colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Visit the Totem Heritage Center to view the priceless collection of 19th-century totem poles. Enjoy breakfast aboard ship before disembarking.

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation  

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure: 120 or more days – 100% of deposit** 119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost 89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost **Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.  

( For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023 : Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)  

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions . Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU) and ends in Ketchikan, Alaska (KTN). Plan flights to arrive to Juneau by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 6 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Ketchikan no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details.  Learn more about travel insurance  or  get a free quote .

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords Itinerary

The reverse 6-day Wild Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords c ruise travels  nor thbound , beginning in  Ketchikan  and ending in  Juneau .  

Arrive at Ketchikan, the southeasternmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of forested slopes on Revillagigedo Island. Its many monikers, from salmon capital of the world to rain capital of Alaska, capture the spirit of this city, famous for its colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Visit the Totem Heritage Center to view a unique collection of 19th-century Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian totem poles from abandoned villages around Ketchikan before embarking the ship.

Navigate the stunning Wrangell Narrows, an area inaccessible to larger ships, and then cruise into the Sumner Strait, keeping watch for humpback whales surfacing and sea otters gliding through the clear water around our ship. Explore the coast by kayak or expedition landing craft and go ashore to trace bear trails through forests intersected by crystalline salmon streams and learn about the rain forest ecosystem from naturalist guides. Fix binoculars on the banks to spot Sitka black-tailed deer and moose, as well as black bears, wolves and bald eagles that frequent the shoreline in search of plentiful salmon.

Today we explore either LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm. These areas feature some of the most active glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Icebergs regularly break off from glaciers, getting caught in shallow moraines and along the shorelines as they float out of the bay. Your experienced captain will evaluate the underwater moraine outside of LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, where you’ll set out by Zodiac to navigate among these surreal floating sculptures. Take advantage of spectacular photographic opportunities, practicing tricks and tips from your certified photo instructor.

Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, situated on the banks of the Gastineau Channel at the base of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts. Enjoy breakfast aboard ship. Then, disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

The reverse Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan cruise begins in Ketchikan Alaska (KTN) and ends in Juneau, Alaska (JNU). Plan flights to arrive to Ketchikan by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 6 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Juneau no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day.

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

National Geographic Sea Lion is a tried and true educational-based 62-guest expedition ship. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship, and its twin the National Geographic Sea Bird, unique.

National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates 62 guests with special features including a hydrophone and Splash-Cam. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship and its twin sister, the Sea Lion, an extra special experience.

Current Deals on This Trip

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Compare and contrast the various Lindblad Alaska cruises and ships from an expert who's been aboard. Learn what stands out about Lindblad's Alaska programming, guides and crew.

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

All details were attended to. Everything went smoothly. Many instant connections were made.

All details were attended to. Everything went smoothly. Many instant connections were made. [I chose this destination and trip based on the] Reputation and expertise of National Geographic and adventure to somewhere I’ve never been.

Crew & Guides Review

Spending time with the naturalists in nature was just the best. I especially enjoyed being with Shaun in the zodiac listening to stories laced with his fun sense of humor. He seemed to thoroughly want to be with us.

Itinerary Review

[I most enjoyed] Watching the Sawyer glacier calving and hanging out with the sea lions and eagles.

Traveler Advice

Be open to all excursions and reach out and connect with those journeying with you. Relax. Enjoy.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
• Lindblad Expeditions

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Choose from a variety of other  AdventureSmith   Alaska  trips to extend your journey, combine cruise itineraries, or opt for a  pre- cruise  extension with your fellow passengers on this cruise.

Combine this cruise with the Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau for an 11-day Alaska cruise that travels between Sitka and Ketchikan with no repeated landing sites. Inquire with an Adventure Specialist for details.

A pre- or post-cruise 7-day extension to Denali is also offered in conjunction with this cruise. From the Grand Denali Lodge, explore the park via a tundra wilderness and wildlife tour; river-rafting on the Nenana River; pup-cuddling at a sled dog training facility; or an optional flightseeing tour. Call for pricing.

You may also wish to consider one of AdventureSmith Explorations’ more affordable independent tours: Denali Backcountry Explorer  or Camp Denali Adventure . Our Alaska experts will help you customize your Alaska adventure, call today.

This premier Denali National Park base camp, in view of Denali, is located near Wonder Lake at the end of the 92-mile Denali Park Road and offers expert guided explorations and unique hikes.

The Within the Wild luxury Alaska adventure brings travelers into the Alaskan backcountry without sacrificing comfort. Enjoy remarkable helicopter- and floatplane-assisted adventures, hiking, sportfishing and a wellness program with massage and yoga.

Spend 3-4 nights at a remote backcountry lodge situated 90 miles inside Denali National Park. Unbeatable wildlife viewing, landscape photography, guided hikes, fishing, dog sleds and an Alaska railroad ride can be customized to complement any Alaska small ship cruise.

Inspiration & Education from Our Staff

A former guide gives his recommendations on itineraries and ships that offer the top Alaska wildlife cruise experience. Plus tips that will maximize your chances of seeing these iconic animals: brown bear, orca, humpback whales, moose, and mountain goat.

When is the best time to visit Alaska? Consult this month-by-month guide for help planning your Alaska travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, daylight and the benefits of each month.

Our guide to whale watching Alaska from small overnight ships will help you plan and prepare, with tips on whale types, visitor sites and packing tips. Maximize your chances of close encounters with whales in Alaska.

Trips You Might Also Like

This active, 6-day adventure aboard 62-guest sister ships National Geographic Sea Bird or Sea Lion is a perfect complement to a land program, offering plenty of off-ship adventure opportunities to raft, hike, skiff, kayak & fish.

On this 8-day adventure with National Geographic guides, watch for whales and calving glaciers and take kayaks and Zodiacs into protected fjords. Join the 100-guest National Geographic Quest or Venture.

This 14-day itinerary between Seattle, Washington, and Sitka, Alaska, is an educational voyage aboard 100-guest sister ships National Geographic Quest or Venture.

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Ketchikan Small Group Private Tour

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Excursion Overview

Customize your time in ketchikan with a small group adventure.

See the sights around Ketchikan like a local with this customizable small group tour. Your guide will take your group of up to 6 passengers to your chosen destinations. This tour allows you to maximize your experience in Ketchikan! It's a great option for families of varying activity levels. Potential stops include (but are not limited to): Saxman Native Village, Totem Bight State Park, waterfalls, the beach, the salmon hatchery, Tongass National Forest, bear viewing, scenic photo opportunities, the salmon ladder, and a local favorite bar called Hole in the Wall. Your expert guide will narrate your experience at every location you visit. Learn about the fascinating history of Alaska's "first city," take in beautiful Alaska Native cultural works, see firsthand how salmon are caught and processed, or try a local brew. All of this and more is possible on the Ketchikan Small Group Private Tour. This tour can be fully customized with options that are more/less active or limited mobility accessible. We can also tailor your tour in accordance with the weather since it can be unpredictable in Southeast Alaska. Please note: The ticket price includes entry/service fees for most chosen activities. Additional tour costs are infrequent but could apply depending on your chosen itinerary. We will contact you in advance with this information. This is a small group tour with a maximum capacity of 6. Please book one "Vehicle" for your party of 6 or fewer. Please check out our Ketchikan Exclusive Sightseeing Private Tour if your party is larger than 6.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation
• Bottled water, snacks, other beverages
• Umbrella and rain jacket if needed

Requirements:

• This tour can be customized to accommodate guests of different ages and activity levels.

Duration: 2.5 hours (Roundtrip from the Ketchikan Visitors Center.)

• Ketchikan city loop
• Herring Cove Wildlife Sanctuary
• Saxman Native Village
• Totem Bight State Park
• Local beaches
• Scenic photo opportunity locations
• The salmon hatchery
• The salmon ladder
• Ward Lake Recreational Area (hiking)
• Hole in the Wall bar

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour includes roundtrip transportation from the cruise terminal. Guests can also request drop-off at an alternate location should they prefer. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility and wheelchair accessible, depending on which destinations are selected. Guests should be able to climb three steps into and out of a tour van, with assistance if necessary. There is limited storage for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. Our vans are not able to accommodate motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required.

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

Please click here to check out our larger group version of this tour!

Yes, car seats are available upon request. Please leave a note at checkout if you will require a car seat.

Bottled water and snacks are provided.

Most potential locations on this tour are accessible to guests of all activity levels. Some locations will have stricter physical requirements than others. For instance, guests who choose the hiking option should be comfortable walking 1.5 miles on uneven terrain. For information on specific physical requirements at certain tour stops, please contact us.

We recommend wearing layers and close-toed, comfortable, waterproof shoes. Rain jackets and umbrellas will be provided if necessary. Ketchikan is often rainy, but it never hurts to bring your sunglasses just in case.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On jul 2023.

Our tour guide, Caroline was fabulous!!!! She was very knowledgeable and personalized our trip! This was a five star tour!!!!

We had a very knowledgeable, nice, and great tour guide. I would definitely do this again.

On Jun 2023

We really enjoyed the tour around Ketchikan. Our guide was very courteous and informative. He provided a lot of historical information about Totem Poles and got us into the carving shed to see how the poles are made.

This was a super cool tour! We were fortunate to have the owner of the company lead our tour. He provided invaluable information as a native of the Tlingit tribe.

• Reviews Showing: 4

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Duration: 2.5 hours

Date Required

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Vehicle (1-6p): $ 425.00

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Help me choose: which Alaska Cruise is right for me?

Apr 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Taking to the water is a wonderful way to see Alaska's incredible coastline © Bala Sivakumar / Getty Images

Alaska's impressive southern coastlines contain hordes of island archipelagos, deep fjords and ancient glaciers. Nearly all of the area is roadless, so seafaring vessels, including cruise ships, are a popular way for visitors to experience these pristine areas.

Large cruise companies sail Alaska's Inside Passage from Seattle , Washington and Vancouver , and on through the Gulf of Alaska to Seward or Whittier. In between, passengers usually stop in Ketchikan , Juneau and Skagway , and then sail up College Fjord to see glaciers stretching their icy fingers into the sea. You'll see plenty of stunning scenery along the way but not up close – for most cruisers, it's more than enough to satisfy.

Smaller cruises max out at around 200 passengers and can nose into Southeast Alaska's nooks and crannies, launching skiffs and kayaks from their lower decks for an immersive shore visit full of exploration. These vessels may not stop in local ports, instead anchoring at night and offering guests the chance to hike a remote shoreline, whale-watch from a kayak or attend a presentation by indigenous artisans. If any ports are visited, they're likely to be smaller communities like Wrangell, Sitka, Petersburg and Yakutat.

Additionally, with the Northwest Passage now open to marine traffic, the northwestern city of Nome is a regular port of call for higher-end, midsize cruise lines to expose passengers to the rural reaches of coastal Alaska. The Aleutian Island city of Unalaska is also on some boutique cruise line itineraries, so check carefully that the region that sparks your interest.

Which part of Alaska should I choose to cruise?

For an overview of Alaska The standard Inside Passage cruise between Vancouver or Seattle and Seward or Whittier is an excellent choice, boasting beautiful scenery and the chance to experience a route taken by steamships of the late 1800s. You’ll get a snapshot of the Tongass National Forest , glaciers and the occasional whale or bear, but not up close unless you’re on a specific shore excursion. Holland America, Cunard and Viking all have cruises that fit this itinerary.

Taking a deep dive into Alaska’s coastal regions   Book a small ship cruise between Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau for a week or longer in the nooks and crannies of southeast Alaska. You’ll hike where there are no trails, paddle without another human in sight, and get to know the traditional lands of Alaska’s Coastal Native tribes. We like Alaskan Dream Cruises, UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions for smaller, more sustainable cruises.

To discover Alaska’s rich history You can’t skip Ketchikan, Juneau or Skagway on an itinerary. Juneau is the state capital and a former mining community. Ketchikan once was a major player in the timber industry and has a sordid past steeped in bootlegging and brothels. Skagway was a jumping-off point for the Klondike Gold Rush beyond Chilkoot Pass and has an old railroad to prove it. All three cities are often on large ship itineraries.

Explore Alaska’s most remote coastal areas Consider a luxury midsize (or smaller) cruise to places like Dutch Harbor in the Aleutian Islands or to the northwestern city of Nome. Both combine a look at the rugged, raw coastlines with time spent on shore in towns with few frills. Weather can often be cold, rainy and windy, but if you want a unique adventure in Alaska, check out the itineraries from Hurtigruten.

When should I go?

Depending on the cruise line, sailings begin in late April and continue through to early October. The most dependable weather typically appears in July and August, but that's also the most popular (and expensive) time; pick a trip earlier or later in the season for cheaper passage and shore excursions.

For spring and fall passengers, know that temperatures will be cooler than you might expect and variable types of precipitation, including snow showers, aren't unusual. In the summer, it's still cool on deck and near glaciers, so don't expect a lot of outdoor pool time or sunbathing on board.

If spotting wildlife is a priority, consider cruising during the salmon runs, when bears are most active and can be spotted from the decks of the ship. Humpback whales often follow schools of herring and other small fish during the summer and can be seen anytime between May and September before they migrate to Hawaii or Mexico .

How do I know my cruise line is operating sustainably?

While all travel has environmental and cultural impacts, cruising leaves its mark to varying degrees on Alaska's fragile ecosystems. The average large cruise ship can have a carbon footprint greater than 12,000 cars and produce up to a ton of trash each day. While there can be a positive economic impact on ports of call, a small community visited by 15,000 people per day during sailing season can intrinsically change.

The industry's trade group Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) touts a desire for "conscious cruising." They have guidelines for water conservation and upgrades to heating, air-conditioning and ventilation, with a goal for ships to be net zero by 2050. There is also a focus on respecting the cultural traditions of destinations through cooperative regenerative tourism that preserves a community's unique history, culture and values.

What kinds of activities can we experience?

Onshore activities differ depending on the size and style of the cruise. Traditional excursions are created to fit a specific number of people, all of whom come from the ships and are expected to be in port for a specific time. They provide an overview of Alaska's history, culture, recreation and industry, and don't offer much of a personal touch.

Smaller boutique cruises strive to immerse their guests in the wild Alaska they've researched and desire to experience. Trips to shore rarely involve large port cities except for embarking and disembarking – instead, they drop kayaks in the water from the ship or use a rubber skiff to reach a deserted shoreline for a hike. The communities they visit are usually smaller, like Petersburg, Wrangell or Haines.

• Glacier & Wildlife Tours: Cruise for a few hours aboard a smaller vessel to witness whales, otters, seals and icy glaciers.
• Dogsledding: Learn about mushing, huskies and the operations of sled-dog kennels before taking a spin behind a team.
• ATV Adventuring: Rev up for a wilderness or tundra tour aboard a four-wheeler or side-by-side vehicle.
• Flightseeing:  Take a unique peek at Alaska's landscapes from above, spotting wildlife, and ogling glaciers and mountain ranges.
• Alaska Native Traditions:  Learn the ways of Alaska's many tribal groups, with dancing, drumming and art displays as part of the program.
• Ride a Historic Train:  Skagway's White Pass Yukon Railroad climbs over Chilkoot Pass for a hands-on gold-rush history tour.
• Paddle Power:  Hop in a raft or kayak and explore Alaska's beautiful coastlines and rivers.

Need-to-know before you go

Plan for wet weather Alaska’s southeastern region is part of a rainforest, where wet conditions are the norm even in summer. Bring waterproof rain gear, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves to stay warm and dry.

Know your physical limits If mobility or other health issues may affect your ability to enjoy a cruise to the fullest, consider traveling with a larger operator. These companies are well-versed in accessibility and have made accommodations for those with mobility needs. Smaller ships are full of trip hazards and watertight door jambs and require bending and stepping up or down to access activities like kayaking or skiff rides.

Plan your own shoreside activities There is no requirement to book excursions or activities through the cruise line. If a more independent style of exploration is your thing, feel free to do your own research ahead of time or visit each port of call’s visitor bureau upon arrival. Just be sure to adhere strictly to the ship’s boarding time. 

Look to shoulder season sailings Not only will you often receive a significant discount, you’ll also be able to witness Alaska’s seasonal transitions and fewer crowds at ports of call.

Know what "all-inclusive" really means:  Drill down into the details of your cruise and ask questions about meals, alcoholic beverages, activities and shore trips. It may be that a smaller cruise line will include everything at one price.

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The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

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Even with a season that only runs from April through October, there are some 40 big ships and dozens of small ships cruising Alaska , making it one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world after the Caribbean and Europe. The best Alaska cruises range from off-the-beaten-path voyages on vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers to weeklong jaunts through the Inside Passage aboard megaships that hold thousands.

The itinerary choices are numerous in Alaska. Some ships stick to tried-and-true ports, sailing through Southeast Alaska and into western Canada. Others wander deeper along the Alaska coastline to places such as the Kenai Peninsula, north to Nome and Barrow and even deep into the Bering Sea.

Some trips hit multiple national parks; others dive into Alaska culture, allowing guests to learn the stories told by totem poles or hear about “the big one” from a fisherman at a dive bar.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

It can be hard to figure out which ship will deliver your idea of a “bucket list” experience in The Last Frontier. A lot comes down to your travel style, preferences and budget. Some travelers demand luxury, while others don’t mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs.

The good news is there’s a ship in Alaska for you no matter your taste or style. Here’s a beginner’s guide to the best Alaska cruises to help you narrow down your choices.

Best for megaresort fans

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both sail some of their largest ships in Alaska. They are floating megaresorts, carrying thousands, and are big on amenities, glitz and a certain amount of glamor — think flashy casinos, Broadway shows, lavish spas. Dining and drinking venues number in the dozens, while amusement park features thrill the kids and adrenaline-seekers.

Norwegian Encore

On Norwegian Encore, you can race along a go-kart racetrack, compete in outdoor laser tag and zoom down slides at the water park while you traverse Alaska’s Inside Passage. The ship sails seven-night cruises from Seattle, visiting Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Ovation of the Seas

On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, you can order a drink from a robotic bartender, try simulated skydiving or surfing experiences and take a ride in a glass capsule that travels high above your ship on a mechanical arm — a weird and wonderful way to see the Alaska scenery.

Ovation of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle on seven-night cruises, but the exact itinerary varies by week. The ship cruises Endicott Arm for scenic views of Dawes Glacier and typically visits three Alaska ports and Victoria.

Best for land and sea adventures

You’ve traveled far to get to Alaska, and it would be a shame to miss inland sights such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the sight of Denali, North America’s largest peak — so big it’s often shrouded in clouds caused by its own weather system.

Market leaders Holland America Line and Princess Cruises both send a half-dozen ships to Alaska each year, and they have 75 and 55 years in the market, respectively.

They top the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The companies operate their own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska’s interior and beyond. Many of the ships have permission to sail in Glacier Bay.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

Choose from 10- to 17-night land tours that combine a standard weeklong cruise (sometimes half a cruise) with time spent exploring Alaska’s interior by bus, train or even plane.

Holland America will base six ships in Alaska in 2024, with tour offerings to Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, it also offers nine- to 14-night cruise tours on Koningsdam that head into the Canadian Yukon, following the route of the Klondike Gold Rush from Alaska to northwestern Canada. Disembark your cruise ship in Skagway, then travel to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon before continuing on to Fairbanks (the gateway to Arctic Alaska), Denali National Park and Anchorage.

Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises offers a cruise tour where you visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, the Kenai Fjords and America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. The 15- and 17-night trips combine a seven-night cruise on Sapphire Princess from Vancouver to Whittier, Alaska, with another week or more on land, ending in Fairbanks or Anchorage.

Best for travelers on a budget

Older ships in Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s fleets tend to offer more reduced prices than you’ll find on the lines’ larger and newer ships, based on the fact the older ships don’t have as many bells and whistles.

Since they have so many ships in the market, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises also tend to offer frequent sales — especially on their older tonnage. These ships have a loyal following and tend to have fewer families on board, which some couples find particularly appealing.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

If you’re looking for other surefire ways to save, consider sailings in the area’s shoulder season. You’ll find better deals from April to early June and in September than you will in the height of summer.

Also, in Alaska, balcony cabins are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers. As those reserves get low, the prices tend to get higher. Bargain seekers should either book early for these accommodations or choose inside, outside or guarantee cabins (where you don’t pick your room location) to save more.

Radiance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures.

However, its early-season May 2024 sailing from Seward to Vancouver is the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise of the season. It starts at $368 per person for an inside cabin.

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises has so many ships based in Alaska that you’re bound to find deals, especially on shoulder-season cruises. Both Grand and Sapphire Princess offer weeklong Alaska cruises in May 2024 starting from $548 per person for inside cabins. The itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Whittier, Alaska, with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

Want to see and deeply experience coastal Alaska, and don’t mind a mellower environment where lectures and impromptu guitar singalongs replace casinos and show productions? Consider lines such as UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions and Alaskan Dream Cruises, all with ships that carry fewer than 100 passengers (and in the case of Alaskan Dream, even under 20 passengers).

On these small ships, captains have the flexibility to alter itineraries and linger if the naturalist onboard spots a pod of whales or bears digging for clams on a beach.

Small ships can go places bigger ships can’t, so itineraries stretch far beyond the traditional ports. You’ll visit more remote places such as Petersburg, a fishing town with strong Norwegian roots, and Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Some itineraries are conducted entirely in the wild, with no port calls at all.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures explores Southeast Alaska on seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries. A day might start with a morning birding expedition, continue with a kayaking adventure and end with an evening campfire ashore. You might visit LeConte and Baird Glaciers (where the big ships don’t go), plus UnCruise has the only permits for hiking and biking adventures on Chichagof Island.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions frequents off-the-beaten-path destinations in both Alaska and British Columbia, with itineraries ranging from six to 15 nights.

Guests might explore the small fishing town of Petersburg or discover native petroglyphs on the beaches of Wrangell Island in Alaska, or search for grizzly bears in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Lindblad has special permits to bring passengers into the wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, beyond what the big ships can offer.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises’ ships carry 12 to 76 passengers to remote Native villages that rarely see visitors, with plenty of time for wildlife viewing far from the cruise ship crowds. Itineraries range from five to nine nights, from departure ports such as Sitka, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Best for families

If you’re traveling with your kids or grandkids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, target the newest and biggest ships of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival and especially Disney Cruise Line. All have excellent camp-like activity programs for kids, plus eye-popping amusement attractions.

Disney Wonder

On Disney ships, Goofy might make an appearance as you admire soaring eagles, blue icebergs and glaciers. The extensive children’s program, entertainment and such activities as water slides and play areas deliver what you would expect from the purveyor of dreams. Bonus: Cabins are designed with families in mind and include split bathrooms (one with a toilet and sink, the other with a shower/tub combo and sink).

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

While lacking in whiz-bang attractions, Princess Cruises is another good choice, both for its children’s and teens program, complete with spacious facilities, and for such programming as bringing sled dogs on board, which is a hit with young passengers. The line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess, sails round trip from Seattle, a convenient U.S. home port for families to fly or drive to.

Carnival Spirit

Water slides, a partnership with Dr. Seuss and three hangouts for kids and teens make Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit a great bet for families in Alaska.

The ship’s huge array of included quick eats — pizza, tacos, Guy Fieri’s burgers and unlimited soft serve ice cream — and casual atmosphere take the stress out of dining with the family. The ship sails round trip from Seattle on seven-night itineraries that call in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best for luxury lovers

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking one of the all-inclusive luxury cruise lines in Alaska: Seabourn , Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea .

All these lines include ships that are experts at delivering gourmet cuisine and the other finer things in life in intimate, cushy floating environments. Additionally, all the lines are big on featuring lectures by experts, which provides passengers with a deeper insight into Alaska.

Itineraries tend to include the popular ports and beyond. You might, for instance, visit Wrangell and Prince Rupert, a port city in Canada, and linger in places such as the Misty Fjords and Prince William Sound. Seven- to 14-night sailings embark from ports such as Vancouver, Seward and Juneau.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent’s 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is an all-suite ship offering guests in Alaska multiple gourmet onboard restaurants, all-inclusive beverages, free airfare and included gratuities. Many shore excursions are complimentary. Enjoy little luxuries, like an afternoon in the thermal suite of the two-story spa-and-fitness center, or really splurge out by booking the Regent Suite, the most lavish suite you’ll find at sea.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey boasts an onboard expedition team and does a posh version of expedition cruising in Alaska, using inflatable Zodiac craft and kayaks.

Seabourn calls its program Ventures by Seabourn. Experts onboard these sailings include naturalists, biologists and other scientists who are members of the expedition team. Once guests finish communing with nature, they can indulge in complimentary Champagne and caviar on board or relish a meal created by famed chef, Thomas Keller.

Related: The 4 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best for solo travelers

Solo travelers don’t always have to pay double to cruise Alaska on their own. Several ships feature cabins designed and priced for one. Single cruisers should also note that luxury lines Silversea and Seabourn, while not cheap, do a great job of taking care of single cruisers, hosting them at dinner and providing easy opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers.

Norwegian Bliss

The ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Getaway classes all have cozy studio cabins designed and priced for one person. Additionally, they’re located in a complex where a private lounge encourages mingling. Norwegian Bliss offers 82 solo rooms on its round-trip Seattle cruises that visit Dawes Glacier, Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s studio staterooms, on its Quantum-class ships in Alaska, give solo travelers the benefits of both decent space and balconies.

On Quantum of the Seas, choose a 101-square-foot inside cabin or a 119-square-foot ocean-view room with a 55-square-foot balcony. Either way, you get a full-size bed and plenty of space for one person. The ship sails a similar weeklong itinerary to sister ship Ovation of the Seas, round-trip from Seattle with scenic sailing along Endicott Arm.

Holland America offers ocean-view accommodations for one in Alaska only on Koningsdam. Measuring 127 to 172 square feet, these rooms come with a full-size bed and a picture window.

Koningsdam sails round trip from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. Its cruises can be combined into nine- to 14-night cruise tours to the Yukon and Denali.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Seaplane tour thru cruise line - Ketchikan Forum

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We are visiting Ketchikan tomorrow, may 2

We were just informed our seaplane tour has been cancelled and we are of course beyond disappointed

Can anyone recommend a tour that is good that might have availability tomorrow.

4 replies to this topic

You might want to check once you arrive. Very hard to know availability. We can't check for you even if we wanted to - we don't know how many people or your weights, both of which are crucial to find availability.

We are going to check when we get off ship. Thanks!

I would stop in at the Visitor's Bureau at Berth 2 for local tours.

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