Exploring Columbia Glacier: A Glacier Cruise Adventure from Valdez, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels since the tour involves sitting and light movement on the boat.
Overview
Set sail from Valdez for a 6-hour cruise through the fjords of Prince William Sound to witness the dramatic calving of Columbia Glacier up close. Spot sea otters, seals, and eagles as the glacier carves the landscape and shapes this wild Alaskan frontier.
Exploring Columbia Glacier: A Glacier Cruise Adventure from Valdez, Alaska
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At dawn, the chill of Prince William Sound settles quietly around Valdez, Alaska, as the cruise vessel sets out to explore one of the largest tidewater glaciers in South-central Alaska: Columbia Glacier. The slow swell of the fjords beckons, the sharp outlines of snow-dusted ridges scanning the horizon while the vessel slips between towering icebergs—each a silent sentinel shaped over millennia. Columbia Glacier looms ahead, actively calving slabs of ice into the deep blue, sending the water into rhythmic ripples and thunderous splashes that sharpen the senses.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for shifting temperatures
Temperatures near the glacier are roughly 15°F cooler than in Valdez; wear layered clothing to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
With sea otters, whales, and eagles often visible, binoculars enhance the viewing experience aboard the vessel.
Wear waterproof shoes with good grip
Wet decks and gangways mean sturdy, non-slip footwear is important for safety and comfort.
Arrive early for check-in
Check in one hour before departure at 112 N Harbor Drive to ensure smooth boarding and so you can ask questions before setting out.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sea otters
- Harbor seals
History
Prince William Sound has long been navigated by native Alutiiq people, who relied on its rich marine life for sustenance before commercial exploration began.
Conservation
The tour operator emphasizes sustainable practices to protect the fragile marine environment, including respecting wildlife distances and limiting impact in sensitive areas.
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Adventure Hotspots in Valdez
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Accommodates temperature changes between Valdez and the glacier.
summer specific
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife and glacier viewing at distance.
Waterproof footwear
Ensures footing on wet and slippery surfaces aboard the boat.
Camera with zoom lens
Captures detailed images of wildlife and ice formations.