Exploring Ketchikan’s Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles: A Coastal Wildlife and Culture Cruise
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal mobility needed to board and disembark the vessel comfortably.
Overview
Discover the raw beauty and rich heritage of Southeast Alaska on Ketchikan’s Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion. This three-hour wildlife and culture cruise offers close encounters with eagles, ancient tribal totems, and historic landmarks—a practical and inspiring introduction to the region’s coastal wilderness.
Exploring Ketchikan’s Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles: A Coastal Wildlife and Culture Cruise
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The salty air briskly fills your lungs as the small vessel slips quietly from Ward Cove’s sheltered dock. The hulking remnants of a once-mighty pulp mill, relics of an industry that shaped Ketchikan's past, fade behind you as the boat nudges forward toward the open waters of Southeast Alaska. The rhythmic slap of waves against the hull sets a steady pulse for the three-hour Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion, an immersive passage through Alaska’s rich coastal landscape and heritage.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring Weatherproof Layers
Southeast Alaska’s weather can shift rapidly; waterproof jackets and warm layers help you stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Use Provided Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing
Waterproof, fogproof binoculars are included—take advantage to spot distant eagles and subtle shore details.
Choose Morning or Late Afternoon Departure
These times offer softer light and quieter waters, ideal for photography and wildlife sightings.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart
Warm beverages and local snacks like alder-smoked salmon are provided to keep energy up during the excursion.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagle
- Harbor seal
History
Ward Cove was once home to one of the largest pulp mills in the U.S., a major driver of Ketchikan's economic development before its closure.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes respect for native habitats and supports local initiatives protecting the temperate rainforest and coastal waters.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ketchikan
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Essential for damp coastal conditions common in Southeast Alaska, especially in fall and spring.
fall specific
Non-slip Footwear
Keeps footing secure on the vessel’s wet decks and docks.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Captures detailed shots of wildlife, totems, and lighthouses from a distance.
Warm Hat and Gloves
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings during shoulder seasons.
spring specific