Kenai Fjords Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Seward to Aialik Bay
A six-hour cruise from Seward takes you 100 miles round-trip into Kenai Fjords National Park to watch tidewater glaciers calve and to search for whales, sea otters, puffins and sea lions. Heated cabins, onboard naturalists and a deli lunch make this an accessible wilderness immersion.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer-up for variable conditions
Temperatures and wind on deck change quickly—dress in insulated layers with a waterproof outer layer and a warm hat.
Mitigate seasickness early
Take anti-nausea medication before boarding and sit mid-ship in the heated cabin if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Bring a zoom lens and spare batteries
Wildlife sightings often happen at a distance; a 200–400mm equivalent will capture whales and calving without crowding the deck.
Arrive early and plan your drive
Check in one hour before departure at Harbor 360 and allow extra driving time from Anchorage—the Seward Highway can be slower than expected.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for kelp beds and nearshore rock gardens where sea otters raft together; these areas often host rich bird life.
- •Scan cliff ledges near Cape Aialik for nesting tufted puffins—early morning light can make plumage pop.
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Sea otter
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords is managed to balance visitor access with protection of marine and glacial habitats; follow leave-no-trace principles and listen to naturalist guidance to minimize disturbance.
Seward served as a key transport and fishing hub since the early 1900s; the park was established in 1980 to protect coastal glaciers and marine ecosystems.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow or upper viewing deck for glacier calving
- • Mid-ship cabin windows for steady whale photography
- • Starboard side near Cape Aialik for puffins and cliff birds
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Blocks wind and spray while keeping you warm on exposed decks.
Rubber-soled shoesEssential
Provide grip on wet, moving decks and safer footing while viewing.
Telephoto lens or binocularsEssential
Helps you frame distant whales and calving with clarity.
Warm hat and glovesEssential
Protect extremities from cold wind and spray during peak viewing times.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The tour is six hours (approximately 360 minutes) and covers about 100 miles round-trip from Seward into Kenai Fjords National Park.
Will we see glaciers calving?
Guides stop near Aialik or Holgate Glacier to watch calving when conditions allow; calving is unpredictable but common at active tidewater fronts.
Is lunch provided?
Yes—complimentary deli lunch (turkey, roast beef or vegetarian sandwich) plus coffee, tea and water are included; submit your sandwich choice in advance.
Are there indoor seats and restrooms?
Yes—vessels have heated cabins with reserved seating and onboard restrooms; you’re welcome to spend time on deck for viewing.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The boat is wheelchair accessible but limited seating and mobility requests should be communicated in advance to the operator.
What wildlife might we see?
Expect humpback whales, orcas occasionally, sea otters, puffins, sea lions and various seabirds; sightings are seasonal and cannot be guaranteed.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to board a small passenger vessel and move on deck is required.
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