Leave your cruise for a day of Turnagain Arm panoramas, glacier-fed Portage Lake views, close-up Alaskan wildlife at the Conservation Center, and the chance to spot beluga whales at Beluga Point — all on a single shuttle tour from Whittier to Anchorage.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the ship into the cool, briny air of Whittier and the bus waits — windows wide, cameras ready. The road quickly opens onto Turnagain Arm where tide flats ripple like a living map and mountains press close. Over the next six to eight hours you swap shipboard horizon for roadside panoramas: turquoise Portage Lake framed by the Chugach, the walkable loops of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and the wind-sculpted shorelines at Beluga Point where whales sometimes hunt.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers of most fitness levels; the tour includes short walks and mostly seated travel.
Wildlife
History
The road corridor links coastal fishing communities and glacial valleys that have been shaped by repeated glacier advance and retreat; the Anton Anderson Tunnel opened mid-20th century improving access between Whittier and the interior.
Conservation
The Wildlife Conservation Center focuses on rehabilitation and education for native species; visitors are encouraged to follow leave-no-trace practices and respect viewing distances to reduce disturbance.
Reserve your spot on the Whittier Cruise Shuttle Tour with Multiple Stops today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for coastal weather
Temperatures can swing and wind off the water is brisk — wear moisture-wicking base layers and a waterproof outer shell.
Bring binoculars
Wildlife and beluga whales are often best seen from shore or overlook; 8–12x binoculars make a big difference.
Protect camera gear
Coastal spray and sudden rain are common — use a rain cover or waterproof bag for cameras and phones.
Motion-sickness prep
The drive along Turnagain Arm has dramatic curves and tidal flats; if you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions before departure.
Waterproof jacket
Shields you from coastal rain and wind common on spring days.
spring
Binoculars (8–12x)
Helps locate belugas, Dall sheep on cliffs, and distant wildlife at viewpoints.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Useful for short nature walks and uneven viewing-area terrain at stops.
fall
Camera with zoom lens
Captures wildlife and glacier vistas; a telephoto is especially useful for distant subjects.
winter