Ketchikan’s best lunch experiences combine great food with Alaska’s natural beauty. These well-organized tours offer a perfect mix of dining and sightseeing.
The small-group wilderness boat cruise stands out, with its 4-hour excursion featuring fresh-caught Dungeness crab against a backdrop of magnificent glacial fjords. George Inlet Lodge delivers an excellent 3-course crab feast while offering panoramic waterfront views. Adventure enthusiasts will appreciate the UTV forest tour to Mahoney Lake, which includes a hearty meal after exploring Tongass National Forest.
All tours provide reliable transportation and accommodate various mobility needs. I especially love the boat cruise option for its intimate setting and the chance to spot wildlife while dining.
Let’s explore these top lunch tours in detail.
Good To Know
-
The George Inlet Lodge Crab Feast Lunch offers a 2.5-hour experience with a three-course meal featuring Alaskan-caught Dungeness crab, salad, and cheesecake.
-
The Ketchikan Wilderness Boat Cruise includes a 4-hour small-group tour with a Dungeness crab feast, salad, dessert, and a complimentary drink.
-
The Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour provides a 3.5-hour guided adventure with a delicious meal at the basecamp after the ride.
-
The tours offer shuttle services, transportation, and accommodate dietary requirements, making them accessible for a wide range of guests.
-
Guests praise the tours for their informative and fun servers, well-prepared crab, and the intimate small-group experience.
Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch
This Ketchikan wilderness boat cruise and crab feast lunch offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Southeast Alaska. Priced from $215.92 per person, the 4-hour small-group tour is limited to just 6 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
Guests can expect to cruise through the George Inlet, with sights including a former cannery and glacier-carved basins. The highlight is participating in pulling up crab pots from Revillagigedo Island, followed by a delectable Dungeness crab feast at the George Inlet Lodge.
Along with the crab, the meal includes a Romaine salad and dessert, plus a complimentary glass of wine or beer. While reviewers praised the overall tour and dining experience, some noted the meal felt a bit rushed.
Keep in mind there are 79 steps at the lodge, though a shuttle is available for those unable to climb. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an excellent way to savor the flavors of Ketchikan.
Read our full review: Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
From Ketchikan: Crab Feast Lunch at World Famous Lodge
Although located just outside of Ketchikan, the world-famous George Inlet Lodge offers visitors a chance to savor the flavors of Alaska with a delectable crab feast lunch. Priced from $92.22 per person, the 2.5-hour experience includes a three-course meal featuring Alaskan-caught Dungeness crab, a salad with Asian-style dressing, and cheesecake with blueberry toppings.
Lunch also includes alcoholic beverages, with extra available for purchase on-site.
The experience includes transportation to and from the lodge, with the meeting point at the Rock statue by the Ketchikan Visitor’s Bureau on Berth 2. Those arriving at the Ward Cove Docking Facility will need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting location. Guests can also drive to the lodge, but should arrive 30 minutes after the departure time.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 13 reviews, the crab feast lunch is praised for the large quantities of well-prepared crab, informative and fun servers, and scenic views during transportation.
Guests are advised to bring cash, a camera, and comfortable clothing, and to notify the supplier of any dietary requirements.
Read our full review: From Ketchikan: Crab Feast Lunch at World Famous Lodge Review
Book now: Check availability
From Ketchikan: Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour With Lunch
Adventurous travelers visiting Ketchikan can embark on an exhilarating 3.5-hour UTV tour that whisks them through the stunning George Inlet Fjord and Tongass National Forest.
The Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour with Lunch is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
During the guided adventure, you will ride along 5 miles of muddy trails to reach the serene Mahoney Lake, exploring the region’s temperate rainforest and rugged landscapes.
The tour also includes a delicious lunch at the basecamp after the UTV ride, giving visitors a chance to refuel and relax.
With pickup and drop-off in downtown Ketchikan, this tour is easily accessible, even for those arriving by cruise ship.
The $264.74 per person price tag covers transportation, UTV training, the guided ride, and the tasty lunch.
While not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or individuals over 300 lbs, the Mahoney Lake UTV tour promises an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
Read our full review: From Ketchikan: Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
The dress code for these lunch experiences is generally casual. Most restaurants encourage visitors to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire, avoiding overly formal or dressy outfits. The focus is on enjoying the meal, not adhering to a strict dress code.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available for the Meals?
Many Ketchikan restaurants cater to dietary needs, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. Guests should inquire about menu accommodations when making reservations to ensure their preferences can be met during the lunch experience.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages to the Lunch Venues?
Most lunch venues in Ketchikan don’t allow guests to bring their own alcoholic beverages. It’s generally best to check with the specific restaurant or hotel beforehand to confirm their policies on outside alcohol. Some may offer a selection of beer and wine instead.
Are the Lunch Tours Suitable for Children or Seniors?
The lunch tours are generally suitable for children and seniors, though some venues may have age restrictions or accessibility concerns. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure it meets the specific needs of your group.
What Is the Process for Reserving and Purchasing the Lunch Experiences?
Reserving and purchasing lunch experiences typically involves contacting the tour operator directly, either online or by phone. Customers can check availability, select a date and time, and complete the booking and payment process through the operator’s website or over the phone.
The Sum Up
Ketchikan offers a variety of exceptional lunch experiences. Visitors can enjoy a wilderness boat cruise and crab feast, explore the world-famous lodge, or embark on an off-road UTV tour with a delicious lunch. These diverse dining options allow travelers to savor the flavors of Ketchikan while immersed in the region’s natural beauty and local culture.