The Alaskan Bear Encounter by Land & Sea offers a truly remarkable way to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Combining land and sea travel, the tour takes adventurers to prime bear-viewing locations, led by knowledgeable guides who share captivating insights into the bears’ behavior and the importance of conservation efforts. With an average of three bear sightings per tour and a maximum group size of just 36, participants can expect an intimate and thrilling encounter. But what truly sets this experience apart is the chance to gain a deeper understanding of the bears’ vital role in the Alaskan ecosystem.
Good To Know
- Unique opportunity to observe Alaskan brown bears in their natural habitat with an average of three bear sightings per tour.
- Knowledgeable guides provide insights on bear behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts during the land and sea tour.
- Tour is suitable for nature enthusiasts visiting Ketchikan, with a 4.4-star rating and a Badge of Excellence for quality.
- Tour operates daily from July 10th to October 5th, with flexible scheduling options and a free cancellation policy.
- Moderate fitness level required, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Alaskan Bear Encounter tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic Alaskan bears in their natural habitat. Provided by Adventure Ketchikan Tours, this 4.4-star rated experience takes visitors on a journey through the stunning Alaskan landscapes, both by land and sea.
Travelers will have the chance to observe bears in close proximity, with the tour boasting an average of three bear sightings. The knowledgeable guide shares insights about the bears’ behavior and ecology, enhancing the overall experience.
Suitable for most fitness levels, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions. With its Badge of Excellence and rave reviews, the Alaskan Bear Encounter is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Ketchikan.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ketchikan.
Meeting and Departure Details
Travelers will meet at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, located at 131 Front St in downtown Ketchikan.
They’ll find the meeting point at the iconic Rock statue on the downtown dock, right next to the Rain Gauge. From there, the tour will depart and return to the same location.
Be sure to confirm the exact start time with the local provider in advance, as the tour runs from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, during the operating season from July 10th to October 5th.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.
Schedule and Availability
The Alaskan Bear Encounter tour by Adventure Ketchikan operates annually from July 10th to October 5th, with tours running daily during this period. You’ll have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of scheduling options to suit your preferences.
Consider these key details about the tour’s availability:
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Tours operate 7 days a week, from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, giving you ample opportunities to plan your adventure.
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The tour runs for two consecutive summer seasons, with the current year’s tours available from July 10, 2024, to October 5, 2024, and the following year’s tours from July 10, 2025, to October 5, 2025.
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Be sure to confirm the specific start time with the local provider when booking, as schedules may vary based on factors like weather and bear activity.
Tour Conditions and Restrictions
Certain conditions and restrictions apply to the Alaskan Bear Encounter tour.
It’s not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The experience isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
The maximum group size is 36 travelers. These guidelines help ensure everyone’s safety and comfort throughout the bear encounter.
While some limitations exist, the tour remains an incredible opportunity to witness Alaska’s majestic wildlife up close.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, booking the Alaskan Bear Encounter tour is a breeze. Priced from $414.01, this tour offers excellent value for the incredible bear sightings and knowledgeable guide.
To book your adventure:
- Check availability for your desired dates on the provider’s website or contact them directly.
- Secure your spot with a hassle-free online booking or a phone call.
- Relax, knowing you can cancel up to a day before the tour without any penalties.
This flexible booking policy allows you to plan your Alaskan getaway with confidence, ensuring you can make the most of your bear encounter experience.
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Guest Reviews and Feedback
Guests have been raving about their Alaskan Bear Encounter experiences. The tour earns a stellar 4.4-star rating from 19 reviews, with one visitor exclaiming, "Amazing! Such a close encounter!"
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see a total of three bears during the tour. Reviewers highlight the close proximity to the bears, a major highlight of the experience.
The Adventure Ketchikan Tours team has also received the Badge of Excellence, underscoring the high quality of their offerings. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, guests can book with confidence, knowing they’re in for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
About Adventure Ketchikan Tours
Adventure Ketchikan Tours, a highly-regarded outfitter in the heart of Ketchikan, Alaska, has been crafting unforgettable adventures for visitors from around the world.
With a team of experienced and knowledgeable guides, they offer a range of tours that showcase the natural beauty and wildlife of this stunning region.
Some key highlights about Adventure Ketchikan Tours include:
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Commitment to Sustainability: The company is dedicated to eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate Alaskan ecosystem.
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Safety-First Approach: Rigorous safety protocols and training ensure guests can fully enjoy the experience with peace of mind.
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Exceptional Customer Service: Consistently earning high ratings and positive reviews, Adventure Ketchikan Tours is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction.
What to Expect on the Tour
Embarking on the Alaskan Bear Encounter tour, guests can expect a thrilling and immersive experience that brings them face-to-face with the region’s majestic brown bears.
The tour takes visitors by land and sea to prime bear-viewing locations, where they’ll observe the bears in their natural habitat. Led by knowledgeable guides, travelers will learn about the bears’ behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts.
Though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, making it an exciting adventure for a wide range of visitors.
With a maximum group size of 36, the tour offers an intimate encounter with these magnificent creatures in the heart of Alaska’s untamed wilderness.
Things To Known
What Type of Wildlife Can I Expect to See Besides Bears?
Along With bears, travelers may spot seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and a variety of seabirds during this wildlife-focused tour. The diverse Alaskan ecosystem offers excellent opportunities to observe a range of marine and terrestrial species.
Is Professional Photography Equipment Allowed on the Tour?
The tour allows visitors to bring professional photography equipment, but they recommend checking with the provider ahead of time. Guests should be mindful of the group size and avoid disrupting the experience for others.
What Should I Pack for the Tour?
Travelers should pack layers of warm clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, a camera or binoculars, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small backpack or bag. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks and water for the adventure.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Bear Viewing Location?
The tour spend roughly an hour at each bear viewing location, allowing ample time for guests to observe the bears in their natural habitat. The total bear viewing time during the tour is around 2-3 hours.
Are There Any Additional Options or Add-Ons Available for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention any additional options or add-ons. However, it’s best to check with the local provider for the latest information, as they may offer special add-ons or customization opportunities that aren’t listed in the overview.
Sum Up
Discover the wonders of Alaska’s brown bears on the Alaskan Bear Encounter by Land & Sea. This immersive tour, led by knowledgeable guides, offers the rare chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With an average of three bear sightings per tour and a maximum group size of 36, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
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