Excursion Waterfront & wildlife cruise tour at Ketchikan

Explore Ketchikan’s vibrant waterfront, historic canneries, and lush Tongass rainforest. Enjoy wildlife sightings like eagles and sea lions, and visit Saxman Village to see totem poles. This cruise offers a rich experience of Alaska’s natural beauty, history, and indigenous culture, all with stunning scenic views and engaging stories.

Ketchikan’s Historic Waterfront

Begin your journey along Ketchikan’s vibrant waterfront, where colorful stilted homes, lively harbors, and the lush Tongass rainforest create a striking backdrop. As your boat glides smoothly across the waterways, your guide shares captivating stories of Alaska’s past, from the heyday of fishing and timber to the city’s unique cultural heritage. Along the way, you’ll pass historic canneries, the bustling U.S. Coast Guard station, and Alaska’s busiest port, where floatplanes soar overhead and fishing vessels bring in the day’s catch. This opening chapter offers a dynamic introduction to Ketchikan, the “Salmon Capital of the World.”

Wildlife and Natural Wonders

The voyage continues into the scenic waters surrounding the Metlakatla Indian Reserve, where the abundance of wildlife is sure to delight. Keep your eyes on the shoreline and sky for sightings of majestic bald eagles, playful sea lions, and harbor seals basking along the coast. With a little luck, you may even spot whales or porpoises surfacing in the clear Alaskan waters. Your experienced local guides will share insights into the region’s delicate ecosystems, making this more than just sightseeing—it becomes an immersive experience in Alaska’s rich natural world.

Indigenous Culture and Traditions

As you approach Saxman Native Village, marvel at part of the world’s largest collection of totem poles standing proudly against the forested backdrop. From the water, you’ll gain a unique perspective on these intricate carvings, each telling stories of heritage, myth, and family lineage. The cruise also reveals fascinating tales of Whiskey Cove’s rum runners and fish pirates, weaving together history and legend. With warm drinks, snacks, and complimentary beer or wine served onboard, your journey concludes with both comfort and a deeper understanding of the cultural and natural treasures that make Southeast Alaska so special.

Note

Please Note: This excursion requires guests to navigate a ramp and a few steps to board the vessel, which may vary depending on tide conditions. Select departures can accommodate guests in manual wheelchairs with advance notice, though electric scooters cannot be accepted. Children of all ages are welcome, and child life vests are provided. A rainproof jacket and binoculars are recommended, though not required. Complimentary beer, wine, and snacks are included, with additional beverages and Alaska-made souvenirs available for purchase onboard. Guests must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol. Although wildlife sightings are common, they are not guaranteed.