Discover the wonders of Prince William Sound on a 7.5-hour excursion from Valdez. This comprehensive Alaskan adventure provides a hassle-free experience, allowing you to marvel at the awe-inspiring Meares Glacier, observe a diverse array of marine wildlife, and witness cascading waterfalls and picturesque bays. With knowledgeable crew, complimentary amenities, and accessibility features, this cruise promises an immersive and unforgettable journey. What secrets does Prince William Sound hold, and how will this excursion unveil them?
Key Points
- Depart from Valdez for a 7.5-hour excursion to explore the glaciers, wildlife, and landscapes of Prince William Sound.
- Witness the awe-inspiring Meares Glacier and observe a diverse array of marine life, including seals, otters, and whales.
- Enjoy a morning bagel snack, late lunch, and dinner roll, along with complimentary beverages during the cruise.
- Gain insights about the region’s natural history from knowledgeable crew members and explore the on-board gift shop and snack bar.
- Meet at the local partner’s office in Valdez, with transfers available to/from RV parks in the city center, and wheelchair accessibility.
About the Cruise
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is a 7.5-hour excursion departing from Valdez, allowing visitors to discover the glaciers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes of Prince William Sound.
The full-day cruise offers a chance to experience Meares Glacier and view marine wildlife like seals, otters, and whales. Passengers will also see waterfalls and beautiful bays as they learn about the natural history from the crew.
The cruise includes a morning bagel snack, late lunch, dinner roll, and complimentary coffee, tea, lemonade, and water. With a gift shop and snack bar on board, this cruise provides a comprehensive Alaskan adventure.
Meeting at the local partner’s office, the tour operates rain or shine and offers wheelchair accessibility.
Included Amenities
Passengers on the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise can indulge in a complimentary morning bagel snack, late lunch, and dinner roll.
Plus, they’ll have access to free coffee, tea, lemonade, and water throughout the day.
An on-board gift shop and snack bar provide further amenities and refreshment options.
This ensures cruisers stay energized and hydrated as they discover the wonders of Prince William Sound.
The included provisions allow guests to fully focus on sighting glaciers, wildlife, waterfalls, and beautiful bays without having to worry about bringing their own food and drinks.
With these convenient amenities, the all-day cruise is an effortless and enjoyable experience.
Cruise Highlights
With the included amenities taken care of, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers an array of captivating highlights for passengers to experience.
Cruisers can expect to witness the awe-inspiring Meares Glacier, a natural wonder that’s the centerpiece of the journey.
Explorers will also have the chance to view a diverse array of marine wildlife, including seals, otters, and whales, as the boat navigates the stunning Prince William Sound.
Plus, the cruise provides opportunities to see cascading waterfalls and picturesque bays.
Throughout the adventure, the knowledgeable crew will share insights about the region’s natural history, enriching the overall experience.
Pickup and Transportation
Where can guests meet for the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise? They’ll gather at the local partner’s office behind the Best Western Hotel in Valdez.
Transfers are available to and from RV parks located in the center of Valdez.
The cruise is also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all passengers.
The convenient pickup and transportation options for this cruise include:
- Meeting at the local partner’s office in Valdez
- Transfers to/from RV parks in the Valdez city center
- Wheelchair accessibility for easy boarding
- Rain or shine operation, so guests can enjoy the cruise regardless of weather
- No need to worry about parking or transportation to the cruise departure point
Important Information
Guests should come prepared for the cruise, bringing along warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, and sunscreen, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Ramp access to the dock may be steep, and the use of drones isn’t permitted.
The cruise is designed to be an all-weather adventure, so visitors should dress accordingly.
While the vessel is wheelchair accessible, the ramp leading to the dock may present some challenges for those with mobility issues.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the cruise operator has a strict no-drone policy in place.
Proper preparation and adherence to the guidelines will help make the most of this unforgettable Alaskan journey.
Discover Meares Glacier
From Valdez: 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
The centerpiece of this unforgettable Alaska cruise is the spectacular Meares Glacier, where visitors can marvel at the sheer size and grandeur of this natural wonder.
As the boat approaches the glacier, guests are treated to an up-close view of the stunning, towering ice formation:
- Witness the glacier’s brilliant blue hues and dramatic, jagged edges
- Listen to the thunderous rumble of calving ice as it breaks off and crashes into the water
- Spot seals, otters, and other marine life swimming near the glacier’s base
Learn about the glacier’s history and formation from the knowledgeable crew.
Capture breathtaking photos to commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Observe Marine Wildlife
Passengers on the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise can spot a variety of marine life, including seals, otters, and whales, as the boat navigates the scenic Prince William Sound. The crew is knowledgeable about the natural history of the area and can provide insights into the behaviors and habitats of the diverse wildlife. A typical cruise may include sightings of:
| Animal | Behavior | Habitat |
|---|---|---|
| Seals | Resting on ice floes | Coastlines and open water |
| Sea Otters | Floating on their backs, grooming | Kelp forests and rocky shores |
| Humpback Whales | Breaching, feeding, or simply surfacing | Deep fjords and bays |
With the stunning backdrop of glaciers and waterfalls, the wildlife viewing on this cruise is truly a highlight for passengers.
Explore Prince William Sound
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise takes visitors on an in-depth exploration of Prince William Sound, a pristine and dramatic coastal region of Alaska. From the comfort of the tour boat, travelers can admire the towering glaciers, rugged shorelines, and an array of waterways that characterize this stunning natural landscape.
The cruise highlights some of the most breathtaking sights in the region, including:
- Serene bays and inlets carved by glaciers
- Cascading waterfalls tumbling down rocky cliffs
- Lush green islands teeming with diverse wildlife
- Towering mountains reflected in the calm, mirror-like waters
- Historic sites and landmarks that showcase the area’s rich history
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Cruise?
Photography is allowed during the cruise. The tour information states that guests should bring a camera to capture the glaciers, wildlife, and scenic views they’ll encounter throughout the day-long excursion.
Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Personal Food/Drinks?
The cruise allows passengers to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. However, it provides a morning bagel snack, late lunch, and dinner roll, as well as complimentary coffee, tea, lemonade, and water for all guests.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Cruise?
Pets are not allowed on the cruise. The tour operator has a strict no-pets policy to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Service animals are the only exception, but they must be properly identified and accommodated.
Is the Cruise Suitable for Children?
The cruise is suitable for children. It offers a morning bagel snack, late lunch, and dinner roll, as well as complimentary beverages. The crew provides information about the natural history of the area.
Is There a Way to Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Cruise?
Yes, it’s possible to purchase tickets on the day of the cruise. The tour operator offers on-site ticket sales, so visitors can secure their spots right before the departure time.
Recap
This comprehensive 7.5-hour cruise from Valdez allows travelers to discover the wonders of Prince William Sound.
Passengers will marvel at the awe-inspiring Meares Glacier, observe diverse marine wildlife, and witness cascading waterfalls and picturesque bays.
The excursion includes knowledgeable crew, complimentary snacks and beverages, and hassle-free transportation, making it an ideal Alaskan adventure.
