From Whittier, the Glacier Quest Cruise winds into Blackstone Bay where tidewater glaciers and towering peaks meet salmon-rich waters. Expect ranger narration, wildlife sightings, and close-up glacier views on this accessible half-day voyage.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the dock in Whittier and the sound of saltwater and distant calving fills the air. The catamaran eases away from the cliffside marina, Prince William Sound opening like a wide, cold theater. Peaks push up from the waterline, and glaciers—Tebenkof, Northland, Blackstone and Beloit—loom ahead, edges groaning as they reshape the sea.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to board a low-gangway and stand or sit for several hours.
Wildlife
History
Whittier grew as a military and rail logistics hub; the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel later connected it to Anchorage and opened public access to Prince William Sound.
Conservation
Prince William Sound’s ecosystems remain sensitive—practice ‘leave no trace’ on shore visits, respect marine wildlife buffers, and follow ranger guidance to minimize disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Time the Anton Anderson Tunnel
Tunnel runs on a strict hourly schedule; arrive at least 30 minutes before your chosen window to avoid long waits and missed departures.
Dress for wind and spray
Layer a waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer—temperatures on deck can feel much colder than in town due to wind and spray.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens
Wildlife sightings and distant calving are common; optics greatly improve viewing and photography from the vessel.
Mind wildlife etiquette
Listen to the ranger, remain seated during close approaches, and never attempt to feed or approach marine mammals from the boat.
Waterproof shell
Blocks wind and spray on exposed decks when viewing glaciers.
spring
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
Traps heat during chilly on-deck periods even in summer.
summer
Binoculars or spotting scope
Helps identify whales, sea otters and distant glacial features.
Camera with zoom lens
Captures calving events and wildlife without crowding the rail.