Full-Day Kenai Fjords Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Seward
Spend 7.5 hours traversing Resurrection Bay into Kenai Fjords National Park to watch tidewater glaciers calve, cruise past sea lion rookeries, and search for orcas and humpbacks. This full-day cruise balances heated indoor comfort with generous time on deck for wildlife and glacier viewing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Wind and spray make conditions colder than town—bring a warm, waterproof outer layer and hat.
Prepare for motion
The full-day trip goes into open Gulf waters; if you get seasick, take medication before boarding.
Bring optics
The captain will position close to wildlife and glaciers but a telephoto lens or binoculars improves sightings and photos.
Charge batteries and bring spares
Cold drains camera batteries quickly—carry spares in an inside pocket to keep them warm.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Scan the lee sides of islands for quiet sea otter feeding rafts away from busy rookery rocks
- •Ask the naturalist about local place names—Alutiiq names and stories give context to many bays and glaciers
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Steller sea lion
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords faces glacier retreat from warming and increasing coastal vessel traffic; keep distance from hauling wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles when ashore.
The Seward area developed as a fishing and rail terminus in the early 20th century; indigenous Alutiiq communities have harvested these coasts for thousands of years.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow or upper viewing deck for sweeping ice and glacier faces
- • Close to Chiswell Islands for seabird colonies and sea lions
What to Bring
Waterproof windproof jacketEssential
Protects against spray and the cold winds of Resurrection Bay.
Sturdy non-slip shoesEssential
Decks can be wet and you’ll want secure footing while moving about the vessel.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps with distant wildlife and capturing detail during glacier viewing.
Motion-sickness medication
Recommended if you’re prone to seasickness—take before boarding for best effect.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise and what distance does it cover?
The tour is approximately 7.5 hours and covers about 130 miles roundtrip through Resurrection Bay into Kenai Fjords National Park.
Will we get close to the glaciers?
Yes; the vessel will stop in front of tidewater glaciers like Aialik and Holgate for roughly 20 minutes when conditions allow to allow viewing and potential calving sightings.
Is food provided?
A complimentary deli lunch (turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian sandwich) is served, plus water, coffee, and tea onboard; note dietary preferences when booking.
Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
The vessel is wheelchair accessible but limited—notify the operator ahead of time to arrange seating and boarding assistance.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins, kittiwakes, bald eagles, and occasionally mountain goats on coastal cliffs.
What should I do if I get seasick?
Choose a seat mid-ship at deck level, watch the horizon, take antiemetic medication before boarding, and stay hydrated—fresh air helps most people.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to board vessel and stand on deck for periods
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