Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour on the Seward Highway — Portage Glacier Cruise & Alaska Wildlife Center
In six hours you can move from urban Anchorage to ice and rehabbed grizzlies: a scenic drive down the Seward Highway, a boat cruise within 300 feet of Portage Glacier, and a 90-minute visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Practical, photo-ready, and ideal for first-time Alaska visitors.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sudden weather
Temperatures can swing quickly along Turnagain Arm and on the boat—carry a waterproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Bring motion-sickness protection
The cruise and bumpy highway sections can unsettle sensitive travelers—take medication or use acupressure bands if you’re prone to seasickness.
Use binoculars for wildlife
Beluga whales and shore birds are often visible from overlooks—binoculars boost sightings and keep you off fragile shoreline areas.
Plan lunch after the cruise
Lunch isn’t included; schedule time at a nearby restaurant after the Portage Lake cruise or pack a durable picnic.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pull over at smaller Seward Highway turnouts for tideflats and unexpected shorebird concentrations
- •Chugach overlook near the tour’s final stop often has fewer people and broad views of the Anchorage bowl
Wildlife
- •Beluga whale
- •Moose
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center focuses on rehabilitation and education; visiting responsibly supports care for animals that cannot return to the wild and highlights the effects of habitat change on local species.
The Seward Highway follows routes used for trade and travel long before the modern road; the region is within historic Dena’ina territory and many place-names reflect indigenous usage.
Photographer's Notes
- • Beluga Point overlook for coastal panoramas and whale-spotting
- • On-deck of the MV Ptarmigan near Portage Glacier for close glacier perspectives
- • Chugach Mountain overlook for wide-angle views of the Anchorage bowl
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and warm through coastal wind, spray from the glacier, and unpredictable showers.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides traction on boardwalks, gravel paths, and uneven viewing areas at wildlife sites.
Binoculars or spotting scope
Improves chances of spotting belugas, birds, and distant mountain wildlife from roadside lookouts.
Camera with zoom lens
A telephoto lens helps capture calving events and wildlife without disturbing animals.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6–7 hours, including a one-hour glacier cruise and time at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Is lunch provided?
No—lunch is not included; there will be an opportunity to purchase food after the cruise or bring your own.
Is the Portage Glacier cruise guaranteed?
The cruise is weather-dependent and may be canceled or altered; the operator will notify you if changes occur prior to departure.
Can children and strollers join?
Infants and small children can ride in a stroller; specialized infant seats are available but must be requested at booking.
What wildlife might I see?
Typical sightings include beluga whales in Turnagain Arm, eagles, moose near the wildlife center, and sometimes sea otters or Dall sheep from higher overlooks.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may also be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness required—able to walk short distances on uneven surfaces and board a small boat with minimal assistance.
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