Kenai Fjords Tours: Unforgettable Wildlife Cruise in Seward, AK
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, as the trip involves mostly sitting and light walking on the boat.
Overview
Explore Alaska's marine wildlife and glaciers on a 6-hour cruise with Kenai Fjords Tours in Seward. Experience whales, porpoises, sea otters, and dramatic glacial landscapes firsthand.
Details
Kenai Fjords Tours offers an iconic wildlife and glacier cruise departing from Seward, Alaska, a small coastal town situated at the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. This 6-hour journey on pristine waters delivers an up-close experience with some of Alaska’s most compelling natural attractions. The highlight is the chance to witness marine mammals including humpback whales, orca whales, Dall’s porpoises, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and puffins. Along the way, the captain navigates carefully around impressive glaciers, allowing passengers moments to hold glacier ice and observe the dramatic blue ice formations that shape this rugged coastline.
The waters of the Kenai Fjords region are rich in wildlife and geologic history. This area is defined by fjords carved from ancient glaciers, now submerged valleys offering deep waters ideal for marine life. The glaciers themselves are dynamic, calving ice into the sea and creating stunning spectacle for visitors. Kenai Fjords Tours stands out by combining experienced captains with knowledgeable crew members who share the story of the ecosystem and keep guests engaged throughout the tour. Their warmth and helpfulness make the experience enjoyable for all ages, and the small touches, like offering binoculars and taking photos, enhance the trip's intimate nature.
Seward itself is a hub for outdoor recreation, with direct access to the national park and diverse opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Kenai Fjords Tours complements these land adventures with this marine wildlife journey, making it an essential offering for visitors seeking a complete picture of Alaska’s wild coastline. Whether it's your first trip or a return visit, this cruise reveals the stunning beauty and vibrant life that define Alaska’s marine environment, supported by a crew dedicated to making every trip special. The fresh air, wildlife spectacles, and glacier views combine for an unforgettable day on the water.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Weather on the water can be chilly and windy, so layered clothing keeps you comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring motion sickness remedies
The waters can be choppy; if you are prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding.
Use binoculars for wildlife viewing
While the crew offers binoculars, bringing your own will enhance close-up viewing of distant wildlife.
Charge your camera in advance
You'll want to capture the stunning glaciers and animal encounters, so a fully charged camera or phone is a must.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Aialik Glacier viewpoint from the boat
- Less crowded northwestern fjords section
Wildlife
- Dall's porpoises
- Humpback whales
History
Kenai Fjords National Park was established in 1980, preserving one of Alaska’s largest glacier systems and surrounding marine habitat.
Conservation
The tours support local conservation efforts by promoting sustainable wildlife viewing practices and minimizing environmental impact in sensitive marine areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Near the glacier front
- The bow of the boat for unobstructed water views
- Close proximity to whale sightings
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Windproof jacket
Protects you from chill and wind on the open water.
Binoculars
Enhances distant wildlife viewing beyond what the naked eye can see.
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during long exposure to sun and reflective water.
summer specific
Motion sickness medicine
Helpful for those prone to seasickness due to occasional choppy water.