Anchorage’s best boat tours deliver Alaska’s most impressive glaciers and marine wildlife without the tourist hype. The Portage Glacier Cruise stands out as a practical half-day option, offering reliable glacier viewing just an hour from downtown. For serious wildlife enthusiasts, the Whittier Transit Tour combines glacier views with a worthwhile stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The Valley of Glaciers excursion rarely disappoints, consistently delivering Beluga whale and bald eagle sightings. Two tours earn my highest recommendation: the efficient Glacier Quest Cruise through Prince William Sound and the wildlife-rich Kenai Fjords cruise – both excellent values with guaranteed glacier encounters and high success rates for whale watching. Let’s explore my favorite cruise options for experiencing Alaska’s coastal wonders.
Key Points
- Portage Glacier Cruise offers a half-day adventure with scenic views and wildlife spotting, with an average rating of 4.5 stars and 92% recommendation.
- Whittier: Cruise Transit Tour provides a seamless journey from Anchorage to Whittier, with opportunities to see Beluga whales, sea otters, and Dall sheep.
- Valley of Glaciers Experience is an 8-hour comprehensive tour exploring Anchorage’s natural landscapes, including Beluga Point and Bird Point, with a chance to see wildlife.
- Glacier Quest Cruise takes visitors through Prince William Sound, featuring tidewater glaciers, and offers the opportunity to spot sea otters, harbor seals, and bald eagles.
- Kenai Fjords National Park and Glacier Cruises provide a 7.5-hour cruise from Seward, with close encounters with Holgate and Aialik Glaciers, and the chance to see orcas and humpback whales.
Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Explorer Tour
The Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Explorer Tour offers a captivating half-day adventure in the heart of Anchorage.
Set out on a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm, where you may spot Dall sheep and beluga whales. Explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, home to 12 species including wood bison and lynx.
Then, take a glacier cruise to witness the breathtaking Portage Glacier, venturing within 300 feet of its cliff. Knowledgeable and entertaining guides, like the acclaimed Matt, provide insightful commentary about the local wildlife and ecosystems.
With an average rating of 4.5 stars and 92% recommended, this tour promises a memorable experience amidst Anchorage’s natural wonders.
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Whittier: Cruise Transit Tour to & From Anchorage
Traversing the captivating landscapes between Anchorage and Whittier, the Whittier: Cruise Transit Tour to & from Anchorage offers a seamless and immersive journey.
Aboard a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter with leather seating, you’ll enjoy the expertise of a live tour guide as you explore the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm.
Along the way, marvel at the possibility of spotting Beluga Whales, Sea Otters, and Dall Sheep.
Highlights include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a chocolate factory, and Alaska Sausage and Seafood.
With bottled water, snacks, and gratuities included, this 6-hour tour provides a well-rounded Alaskan experience for up to 10 participants.
Read our full review: Whittier: Cruise Transit Tour to & From Anchorage Review
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Valley of Glaciers Experience With Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Tour
Set out on a captivating 8-hour journey with the Valley of Glaciers Experience, which takes you on a comprehensive exploration of Anchorage’s stunning natural landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm, stopping at Beluga Point and Bird Point. Cruise Portage Lake to explore the magnificent Explorer and Middle glaciers.
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see lynx, wolves, and reindeer. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to spot bald eagles, bears, and moose.
With knowledgeable and friendly guides, private transportation, and all gratuities included, this tour offers an exceptional value at $249 per person.
While weather can sometimes impact the glacier cruise, travelers consistently praise the overall experience.
Read our full review: Valley of Glaciers Experience With Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Tour Review
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From Whittier: Glacier Quest Cruise With Onboard Lunch
Explore the stunning glacial landscapes of Prince William Sound on the Glacier Quest Cruise from Whittier. This 4- to 11-hour tour costs from $205.54 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Cruise through Blackstone Bay, observing tidewater glaciers and wildlife like sea otters, harbor seals, and bald eagles. Enjoy live commentary by a Chugach National Forest Service ranger and an onboard meal of wild Alaskan smoked salmon chowder or hearty vegetable chili.
Getting there’s easy with the 1.5-hour drive from Anchorage via the Anton Anderson Tunnel. With high-speed catamaran amenities and an overall rating of 4.7/5, this cruise is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Anchorage.
Read our full review: From Whittier: Glacier Quest Cruise With Onboard Lunch Review
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26 Glacier Cruise and Coach From Anchorage, AK
Why not start your Alaskan adventure with the Glacier Cruise and Coach From Anchorage, AK?
This full-day excursion combines sightseeing and a glacier cruise, departing from your hotel in Anchorage at 9:15 AM.
You’ll travel through North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel, arriving in Whittier by noon to board the cruise.
The comfortable catamaran will take you through Prince William Sound, where you’ll see 26 glaciers, including Harvard Glacier.
Enjoy onboard amenities, a delicious lunch, and opportunities to spot wildlife like otters, sea lions, and bald eagles.
With 92% recommendation, this is a must-do experience for exploring Alaska’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Read our full review: 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach From Anchorage, AK Review
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From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise With Lunch
For those seeking a more in-depth look at Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes, the Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch from Seward is an excellent option.
This 7.5-hour cruise offers the chance to witness orcas, humpback whales, and other wildlife, as well as close views of the Holgate and Aialik Glaciers. The tour includes a deli lunch, beverages, and use of binoculars.
While the captain’s knowledge may vary, reviewers generally found the experience worthwhile despite the higher price tag.
With wheelchair accessibility and a flexible cancellation policy, this cruise is a great way to explore the Kenai Fjords during the peak whale-watching season from mid-May to early August.
Read our full review: From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise With Lunch Review
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Anchorage: Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise
The Anchorage: Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise offers an immersive journey through Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes. Priced from $239 per person, this 5-hour tour is limited to just 14 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
After a scenic van ride, you’ll explore Portage Glacier and witness the awe-inspiring sight of calving glaciers. The tour then takes you to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll have the chance to observe native wildlife, including the possibility of witnessing bear feeding.
With transportation, entry fees, and a knowledgeable guide included, this tour provides a comprehensive Alaskan adventure. However, recent customer feedback has been mixed, with one traveler reporting a cancellation due to weather conditions.
Read our full review: Anchorage: Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Anchorage offers a variety of cruises and boat tours showcasing its stunning glaciers and diverse wildlife. Whether you choose a Portage Glacier cruise, a Whittier transit tour, or a Kenai Fjords National Park excursion, you’ll witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska’s landscapes. These tours provide an unforgettable way to explore the region’s icy wonders and abundant marine life.