Whale Watching & Photo Tours in Sitka with A Whale's Song Expeditions - Juneau

Whale Watching & Photo Tours in Sitka with A Whale's Song Expeditions

Juneaueasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–13 days depending on tour length

Fitness Level

Basic mobility required for boarding vessels and spending time on deck; suitable for most fitness levels

Overview

Set out from Sitka’s rugged Alaskan coast with A Whale’s Song Expeditions for private whale charters and immersive photo tours, where close encounters with humpbacks, orcas, and sea otters await. Discover why this dedicated team leads some of the most respectful and rewarding marine wildlife adventures in the region.

Details

Located on the rugged coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Sitka offers one of the richest wildlife viewing areas in the Pacific Northwest. A Whale's Song Expeditions specializes in private charters and immersive multi-day photography tours that put guests in the heart of this prime marine ecosystem. From humpback whales performing bubble-net feeding to graceful orca pods cutting through sheltered waters, each trip offers intimate wildlife encounters framed by Sitka’s striking natural backdrop—steep forested mountains, jagged rocky shores, and tide pools teeming with sea life.

Whether you're booking a 2-hour Quest Whale & Wildlife Tour or committing to an 11-day Ultimate Alaska Photography tour, Captain Neil and his team bring deep local knowledge and a respectful approach to every outing. Their vessels are thoughtfully outfitted for comfort and photography, including ample inside and outside seating, binoculars, and basic comforts like hot drinks and seasickness aids. Neil’s years of experience and patience mean guests get into the right positions to capture rare moments without disturbing the animals.

Sitka’s waters are home to humpbacks, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and bald eagles, offering dynamic subjects for photographers and nature lovers alike. The tours range from short private charters to comprehensive multi-day photographic expeditions, allowing visitors to tailor their experience. Beyond marine life, the area’s temperate rainforest and towering volcanic peaks provide a spectacular wilderness setting rarely matched elsewhere in Alaska.

A Whale’s Song Expeditions stands out as a local leader not only for their wildlife expertise but for their conscientious stewardship of the environment. Emphasizing low-impact wildlife viewing, their tours educate and inspire protection of these waters. For those seeking a blend of adventure, wildlife intimacy, and photographic opportunity in Sitka, this is a top-tier option with exceptional guides and unforgettable encounters.

Adventure Tips

Dress in waterproof layers

Alaskan weather changes quickly, and mist or spray is common on the water. Layering keeps you comfortable throughout your trip.

Bring a camera with zoom lens

Wildlife usually keeps a respectful distance; a quality zoom lens helps capture detailed photos without disturbing animals.

Pack seasickness remedies

Even calm days can produce choppy water near islands — ginger chews or motion sickness bands are good preventive measures.

Book private charters for personalization

Smaller group sizes allow more flexibility to pursue targeted wildlife sightings and better photo opportunities.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Sitka National Historical Park’s Totem Trail
  • Shis’Taán Haida Heritage Centre and nearby beaches

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales performing bubble-net feeding
  • Resident orca pods cruising the Inside Passage

History

Sitka was the capital of Russian America until 1867, and its deep connection to Tlingit and Russian cultures shapes local traditions and conservation efforts.

Conservation

Tours are conducted with strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to whales and marine ecosystems, supporting Sitka’s commitment to sustainable wildlife tourism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour in early morning or late afternoon
Overcast days for even light
Calm weather windows for clear reflections

Best Viewpoints

  • Open deck of the Catdaddy vessel
  • Approaching Sitka Sound’s rocky shorelines
  • Bubble-net feeding sites

What to Photograph

Humpback whales
Sea otters and harbor seals
Sitka’s coastal mountains and forest backdrop

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket and pants

Essential

Protection from wind, rain, and sea spray keeps you dry and warm on the water.

spring specific

Zoom lens for camera

Essential

Allows close-up shots of distant wildlife without disturbing animals.

Binoculars

Helpful for spotting wildlife before photography opportunities emerge.

Seasickness remedies

Ginger chews or medication help manage motion sickness on open water.

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