Captain's Choice Kenai Fjords Cruise from Seward: 7-Hour Glacier & Wildlife Tour
Spend seven hours chasing glaciers and whales on a captain-guided cruise from Seward. This flexible Kenai Fjords tour prioritizes time on the water—more chances for calving glaciers, breaching humpbacks and seabird-packed cliffs.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Weather on the water changes rapidly—base layer, insulating mid-layer and a waterproof shell will keep you comfortable.
Arrive early and bring ID
Check in at the Kenai Fjords Tours desk at least 45 minutes before departure to exchange vouchers and sign the waiver.
Manage seasickness proactively
Take medication or use acupressure bands before boarding if you’re prone to motion sickness; sit mid-ship for a steadier ride.
Keep binoculars and camera handy
Glacier calving and whale sightings are unpredictable—stow gear where you can access it quickly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Watch the shoreline near Holgate for quiet beaches where harbor seals haul out.
- •The stretch around Aialik Bay often has spectacular light late in the afternoon—good for photos and calmer seas.
Wildlife
- •Humpback whale
- •Tufted puffin
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords and adjacent marine refuges are protected to maintain marine and seabird habitat; visitors are asked to minimize disturbance and follow wildlife viewing distances.
Seward was established as a port and rail terminus in the early 20th century, earning its role as the launch point for coastal Alaska explorations.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow or forward deck for unobstructed glacier views
- • Starboard rail when the captain positions near tidewater glaciers
- • Open deck near the pilot house for seabird cliffs
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Shields you from wind, spray and sudden rain common in fjord weather.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)Essential
Keeps core temperature steady during long observation periods on deck.
BinocularsEssential
Essential for spotting whales, distant glaciers and seabird colonies.
Motion sickness medication or bands
Helps prevent nausea on choppy water—take before boarding if you’re susceptible.
Common Questions
Where do I check in for the cruise?
Check in at the Kenai Fjords Tours desk on 4th Avenue in Seward—plan to arrive 45 minutes before departure to exchange your voucher and sign the waiver.
What wildlife will we likely see?
Common sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, puffins and kittiwakes—sightings depend on season and foraging behavior.
Are meals included?
Lunch is included on this seven-hour cruise; operators typically offer a hot option with vegetarian choices available if requested at booking.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Transportation and boarding options are wheelchair accessible, but contact the operator in advance to discuss any special assistance needed for boarding the vessel.
Can I bring a camera and tripod?
Cameras are encouraged; tripods may be limited on deck due to space and safety—consider a monopod or handheld stabilizer instead.
What if my train arrives late?
If you arrive late by train you risk missing the scheduled departure; the operator may try to accommodate you on another trip based on space, but refunds aren’t guaranteed.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Low; suitable for most fitness levels but requires ability to board a small passenger vessel.
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