Embarking on an unforgettable glacier adventure, the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package offers a 3.75-hour journey from Anchorage to Blackstone Bay. Gliding aboard a smooth-sailing catamaran, guests can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Alaska’s landscapes. With ranger-led narration, visitors can expect to witness the grandeur of glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and potential wildlife sightings. Complementing the experience, the cruise provides complimentary refreshments and a delectable lunch option featuring the region’s renowned wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder. Whether seeking an exhilarating outdoor escapade or a chance to appreciate Alaska’s breathtaking scenery, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure.
Good To Know
- The Glacier Quest Cruise is a 3.75-hour catamaran cruise from Anchorage to Blackstone Bay, offering views of glaciers, waterfalls, and potential wildlife.
- The cruise package includes a scenic coach ride along the Scenic Byway, complimentary refreshments, and lunch options featuring local cuisine.
- The cruise is operated by Phillips Cruises & Tours, LLC, with onboard narration provided by a Chugach National Forest Service ranger.
- The cruise has limited ADA accessibility, but the catamaran design ensures a smooth sailing experience for passengers.
- The cruise package is priced at $295.07 per person, with flexible cancellation policies and a well-stocked gift shop for souvenirs.
Overview of the Cruise Excursion
The Glacier Quest Cruise is a scenic excursion that takes visitors on a journey from Anchorage to explore the breathtaking glaciers and wildlife of Blackstone Bay.
The experience begins with a narrated coach ride along the Turnagain Arm Drive, a designated Scenic Byway. Guests then embark on a 3.75-hour cruise aboard a smooth-sailing catamaran, where they’ll witness the awe-inspiring sights of glaciers, waterfalls, and potential wildlife sightings.
The cruise is operated by Phillips Cruises & Tours, LLC, and includes onboard narration by a Chugach National Forest Service ranger. Passengers can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and ice water, as well as lunch options and a full-service bar.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Anchorage.
Meeting Point and Departure Details
The meeting point for the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package is the Hotel Captain Cook, located at 939 W 5th Ave in Anchorage, Alaska.
Guests should check-in at 9:00 AM, with the coach departing at 9:15 AM.
To board the cruise in Whittier, passengers will need to show their ID at 12:00 PM to receive their boarding cards.
The activity ends back at the meeting point.
The cruise and coach package offers a smooth and enjoyable experience, with the coach ride along the designated Scenic Byway and the 3.75-hour Glacier Quest Cruise to Blackstone Bay, where guests can witness stunning glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Accessibility and Onboard Amenities
The Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package offers limited ADA accessibility, so guests requiring assistance should call ahead.
The smooth cruising catamarans come with a no seasickness guarantee, and onboard narration is provided by a Chugach National Forest Service ranger.
Passengers can enjoy complimentary coffee, hot tea, and ice water, as well as lunch options like wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder and vegetarian chili upon request.
The smoke-free vessels have restroom facilities, and there’s a gift shop for souvenirs.
Guests can also visit the full-service bar for alcoholic beverages during the 3.75-hour cruise to Blackstone Bay.
Culinary Offerings and Refreshments
Along With the smooth sailing and on-board narration, the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package offers a selection of culinary offerings and refreshments to enhance the experience.
Travelers can enjoy complimentary coffee, hot tea, and ice water throughout the journey. For those seeking a more substantial meal, the cruise provides options like wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder and vegetarian chili, which can be requested gluten-free.
The full-service bar also offers alcoholic beverages for guests who’d like to indulge.
Whether you’re looking for a warm beverage or a hearty lunch, the Glacier Quest Cruise has you covered with its variety of culinary choices.
Souvenirs and Bar Services
For those interested in taking home a memento of their Glacier Quest adventure, the cruise offers a well-stocked gift shop filled with an array of souvenirs.
Guests can browse through a selection of Alaska-themed items, including postcards, t-shirts, mugs, and local artisanal crafts. The gift shop provides a convenient opportunity to pick up a special keepsake to commemorate the stunning glacier views and wildlife sightings experienced during the cruise.
Along With the gift shop, the cruise also features a full-service bar, offering a variety of alcoholic beverages for those who wish to enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The bar menu includes local craft beers, wines, and cocktails, catering to a range of preferences.
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Pricing and Cancellation Policy
At a starting price of $295.07 per person, the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package offers an affordable way to explore the stunning glaciers and landscapes of Alaska.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. For added convenience, there’s also a reserve now and pay later option available.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless it’s within 4 hours of travel. With these flexible pricing and cancellation terms, the Glacier Quest Cruise provides an accessible and hassle-free way for visitors to enjoy this breathtaking Alaskan adventure.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package has garnered a total of 13 reviews, with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Positive comments highlight the stunning glacier views and informative narration provided by the Chugach National Forest Service ranger.
However, some guests were critical of service issues, food quality, and weather-related challenges.
The crew’s friendliness and assistance, particularly for those with mobility issues, were appreciated by many.
While some guests preferred longer cruise options, the overall experience seems to have left a mixed impression, with logistical issues dampening the enthusiasm of a few.
Things To Known
Are There Any Restrictions or Age Limits for the Cruise?
The cruise has limited ADA accessibility, so passengers with mobility issues should call for assistance. There are no specific age limits, but young children may find the cruise experience challenging due to the duration and potential weather conditions.
What Should Guests Wear and Bring With Them for the Excursion?
Guests should dress in warm, layered clothing suitable for the Alaska climate. Bring binoculars to spot wildlife, a camera to capture the stunning glaciers, and a small backpack or bag for personal items. Weather-proof gear is recommended.
Is There Any Opportunity to See Wildlife Such as Whales or Bears?
The Glacier Quest Cruise offers the chance to spot wildlife like whales and bears. The 3.75-hour cruise takes passengers into Blackstone Bay, where they can see glaciers, waterfalls, and possibly spot marine life and animals along the Chugach National Forest coastline.
Can Passengers Disembark and Explore the Glacier up Close?
Passengers can’t disembark and explore the glacier up close on the Glacier Quest Cruise. The cruise is a sightseeing tour, providing scenic views of the glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife from the safety of the boat.
Is the Cruise Suitable for Those Who Are Prone to Motion Sickness?
The cruise is suitable for those prone to motion sickness. The smooth-sailing catamarans provide a seasickness guarantee, and the narration by a forest ranger helps keep passengers engaged throughout the 3.75-hour journey to Blackstone Bay.
Sum Up
The Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package is an exceptional opportunity to take in Alaska’s stunning natural beauty. With its seamless logistics, diverse onboard offerings, and flexible booking policies, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to explore the region’s glaciers, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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