Wearing a 7mm wetsuit, you enter clear, cold water off Ketchikan to snorkel along kelp and rocky intertidal shelves. This guided, three‑hour shore excursion offers close views of seals, abundant invertebrates and the odd passing whale, but demands solid fitness and comfort in cold water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A brisk marine wind meets the dock as you step off the cruise walkway and into a small group bound for Mountain Point. The shoreline here is rocky and immediate — you don a heavy 7mm wetsuit, feel neoprene shoulders hug your frame, and slip into water that is startlingly clear for Alaska. Kelp forests sway like dark, deliberate curtains; starfish cling to boulders and curious fish hover where currents converge.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
High level of cardiovascular fitness and basic swimming proficiency; comfortable with sustained cold exposure and beach entries.
Wildlife
History
The area is within Tlingit traditional territory; marine harvesting and shoreline stewardship remain central to local culture and seasonal rhythms.
Conservation
The intertidal zone is fragile — avoid touching life, pack out all gear and follow guides’ instructions to minimize disturbance to marine mammals and habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Snorkel Alaska today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear socks under the wetsuit
Thin socks help the heavy 7mm suit slide on and reduce chafing when donning and doffing; bring two pairs in case one gets wet.
Practice a rocky beach exit
Expect slippery, uneven stones — wear sturdy neoprene booties or old water shoes and use guide assistance when exiting.
Protect electronics
Leave phones in waterproof cases or on the boat; salty spray and wave sloshes are common during shore entries and exits.
Hydrate and warm up
Drink water before the tour and accept the offered hot beverage afterward to stabilize body temperature following cold immersion.
Swimsuit
Worn under the wetsuit and useful when changing at the dock.
summer
Thick socks
Make putting on and taking off the tight wetsuit much easier and protect your feet.
summer
Neoprene booties or sturdy water shoes
Protect feet on rocky entries and provide traction on slick stones.
summer
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Capture underwater life but secure it with floatation and waterproof housing.
summer