Kenai Fjords Orca Quest Cruise — Seward Orca Whale Watching in Resurrection Bay
Spend an afternoon scanning Resurrection Bay for orca whales on a four-hour cruise led by local captains and naturalists. This search-style tour follows recent sightings, offers hydrophone listening, and blends wildlife watching with practical interpretation.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the deck can be 15–25°F colder than on shore; bring a waterproof outer layer, warm hat, and gloves.
Take motion-sickness precautions
If you’re sensitive to rolling, take anti-nausea medication at least an hour before departure.
Arrive early for check-in
Check in one hour before the 12:30 p.m. departure at the Major Marine office to secure boarding and seating.
Use the hydrophone
Listen to underwater calls — it helps you interpret behavior and feels like a direct connection to the animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Scan the narrow channels at the heads of bays—otters and rafts of seabirds often indicate feeding activity nearby.
- •Ask the crew about recent local sightings; small coves often host transient wildlife not visible from the main channel.
Wildlife
- •Orca (killer whale)
- •Steller sea lion
Conservation Note
Operators follow viewing guidelines to minimize disturbance and the hydrophone-based listening approach reduces the need for close approaches; support local regulations and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Seward developed as a railroad and port town in the early 20th century and became the primary gateway for marine excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow rail for open-water action
- • Upper viewing deck for wide fjord vistas
- • Heated cabin windows for steady shots in rough seas
What to Bring
Waterproof outer shellEssential
Blocks wind and spray while you watch from the decks.
Warm hat and glovesEssential
Keeps you comfortable during cold, exposed viewing.
Binoculars
Helps spot distant blows and dorsal fins—some tours provide binoculars, but bringing your own is useful.
Motion-sickness medication
Useful if you’re prone to seasickness on open-water trips.
Common Questions
When is the best time to see orcas from Seward?
Prime orca season for focused sightings is mid-May through mid-June when orcas commonly hunt offshore; sightings can occur outside this window but are less predictable.
How long is the cruise and where does it depart?
The Orca Quest Cruise is four hours long, departing at 12:30 p.m. from the Major Marine Tours check-in at Harbor 360 Hotel in Seward; check-in is one hour prior.
Are restrooms available onboard?
Yes—there are onboard restrooms and a heated cabin if you need to warm up during the cruise.
Is the trip suitable for children and seniors?
Yes; the tour is rated suitable for all physical fitness levels, though children should be supervised on deck and seniors should plan for standing and movement on a rocking vessel.
What if I get seasick?
Bring or take over-the-counter or prescription antiemetics before boarding; staying on deck, focusing on the horizon, and eating light can also help.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure; cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to stand or move on a vessel for several hours.
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