moderate
3–6 hours
Participants should have basic physical fitness to handle some heavy lifting and steady balance on moving boats.
Step aboard Morsa Marine’s boats in Juneau for active Alaskan crabbing tours. From hauling king crab pots to witnessing the rugged coastal wilderness firsthand, this is a raw introduction to Alaska’s maritime heritage.
Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, is a rugged gateway to one of North America’s richest marine environments. Morsa Marine offers both commercial and recreational crabbing tours that put travelers right at the forefront of this region’s iconic seafood harvest. Situated among rocky fjords and icy waters teeming with marine life, these trips reveal the demanding but rewarding world of Alaskan crabbing. Unlike more traditional sightseeing tours, Morsa Marine’s crabbing expeditions provide hands-on experiences, with guests deploying pots and hauling up the hefty king and snow crabs that define Alaska’s fishing industry.
The waters off Juneau feature a mix of deep channels and sheltered bays carved by glaciers, offering dramatic backdrops of sheer cliffs and old-growth forests. This coastal ecosystem supports strong populations of crab and other seafood, maintained by cold, nutrient-rich currents. Morsa Marine’s tours give insight into local maritime heritage, tracing Alaska’s commercial crabbing legacy that dates back nearly a century. Whether joining a commercial-level trip or a recreational version, guests witness the physical endurance required for this tough profession and the intricacies of sustainable catch practices employed in the region.
Morsa Marine’s craft and knowledgeable guides stand apart in Southeast Alaska’s adventure scene. The company’s boats are custom-fitted for safety and comfort in these variable waters, allowing visitors of all skill levels to engage authentically with the environment. From dawn’s first light to twilight, every outing offers both education and adrenaline, as passengers haul in crab pots heavy with their catch. This direct connection to a working fishery makes Morsa Marine a unique choice for those wanting more than a passive wildlife cruise. It’s an immersive introduction to Juneau’s rugged marine frontier and a rare chance to experience an elemental part of Alaska’s coastal way of life.
Alaska’s coastal weather changes fast; waterproof jackets and thermal layers keep you warm and dry on deck.
Boat decks can be wet and slippery—sturdy boots with good grip are crucial for safety.
Even experienced travelers can feel queasy; carry motion sickness tablets or patches just in case.
Crabbing involves heavy gear and moving parts; attentive listening protects you and the crew.
Juneau has been a significant fishing and crabbing hub since early 20th century, with commercial fleets shaping coastal communities.
Strict catch limits and gear restrictions protect crab populations, supporting sustainable fisheries and habitat preservation.
Protects against spray, wind, and rain during boat trips.
all specific
Ensures stable footing on wet, slippery decks.
all specific
Keeps body temperature steady during cooler outings.
spring|fall|winter specific
Reduces glare on water during long daylight hours.
summer specific