Kenai Fjords Glacier and Wildlife Cruise — Seward Shore Excursion
Spend six hours skirting tidewater glaciers and seabird-strewn islands as you explore Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward. Expect glacier calving, whale sightings, onboard narration, and a practical rhythm of safety briefings and warm layers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early
Check in at the Kenai Fjords Tours desk at least 45 minutes before departure to exchange your voucher and complete the safety waiver.
Dress in Layers
Weather changes quickly on the Gulf of Alaska—bring a warm, waterproof outer layer plus hat and gloves even on mild days.
Bring Binoculars
A 7–10x pair will help you pick out distant whales, seals, and nesting seabirds on offshore rocks.
Manage Seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding—the trip lasts six hours with stretches of open water.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Thumb Cove viewpoints for waterfalls and close glacier approaches when conditions allow
- •Sea cliffs near the mouth of Resurrection Bay where puffin and auklet colonies concentrate in summer
Wildlife
- •Humpback whales
- •Sea otters
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords is managed to protect glaciers and marine habitats—visitors are asked to minimize disturbance to wildlife and pack out waste to limit shoreline impact.
Alutiiq peoples used these coasts for millennia; later Russian and American commercial interests mapped and exploited local fisheries and ports such as Seward.
Photographer's Notes
- • Off the Seward breakwater as the boat departs
- • Along the glacier face (Aialik or Holgate approaches)
- • Sea cliffs and rock stacks near seabird colonies
What to Bring
Waterproof JacketEssential
Wind and spray are constant; a waterproof, breathable shell keeps you comfortable
BinocularsEssential
Essential for spotting whales, seals, and distant calving events
Warm Hat and GlovesEssential
Small but effective protection against cold wind off the ice
Camera with Telephoto Lens
Helps capture wildlife and glacier detail from a safe distance
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The tour runs approximately six hours from Seward with onboard narration and a provided lunch.
Will I see glaciers and wildlife?
Yes—routes typically visit either Aialik or Holgate Glacier and pass seabird rookeries; whales and sea otters are commonly sighted but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible and has onboard restrooms; notify the operator in advance for assistance.
What should I wear?
Layers, a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves are recommended; even summer days can be chilly on deck.
Can children and infants join?
Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap; the cruise is family friendly but long for very young children.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; the operator may cancel for bad weather with a refund.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; guests should be able to board the vessel and stand or walk on deck for extended periods.
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