Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive

If you’re looking for a way to see some of Alaska’s most dramatic scenery without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself, the Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive offers an enticing package. This tour combines the thrill of a self-guided road trip with the awe-inspiring beauty of a glacier cruise into Prince William Sound. You get to experience towering tidewater glaciers, abundant wildlife, and the scenic Seward Highway, all at a reasonable price.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the flexibility of driving your own car along the iconic Seward Highway, coupled with a cruise into Blackstone Bay where glaciers calve with thunderous pops. Secondly, the tour’s reputation for friendly, professional crew members enhances the overall experience—something travelers consistently appreciate. The potential downside? The logistics of renting a car and booking in advance require some planning, but the stunning vistas and memorable wildlife encounters more than compensate.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a blend of self-direction and guided natural wonders. If you’re comfortable with a bit of driving and want an up-close view of Alaska’s glaciers and marine life, this trip is a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Flexible self-drive option provides independence along the scenic Seward Highway.
• Close-up glacier viewing with calving sounds and signs of movement.
• Wildlife sightings include sea otters, whales, bears, sea lions, and mountain goats.
• Comfortable, smooth cruise on calm waters suitable for most travelers.
• Delicious included food like Alaskan smoked salmon chowder and vegetarian options.
• Moderate price point offers great value for the memorable experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive Experience

How the Tour Comes Together

This tour begins with a self-guided drive from Anchorage or Girdwood to Whittier, culminating with the cruise into Blackstone Bay. The entire package is designed to be straightforward—this isn’t a guided bus tour but rather a flexible adventure where you control the timing and pace. You’ll want to plan ahead, especially considering the scenic drive along the Seward Highway, one of Alaska’s most picturesque routes.

The Scenic Drive to Whittier

The journey to Whittier is part of the experience. We loved the way the drive along Turnagain Arm offers stunning views, with its dramatic tidal flats and mountain backdrops. Allow about 90 minutes from Anchorage, or 45 minutes from Girdwood, to reach the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—an engineering marvel and the gateway to your adventure.

Arriving at the tunnel on time is crucial; the schedule is precise—depart at the 11:30 AM slot for the cruise. The tunnel itself is a unique feature—an 8,000-foot-long dual-purpose rail and highway tunnel that connects Whittier to the rest of the state, making the journey both practical and interesting.

Check-in and Boarding

After passing through the tunnel, you’ll check in an hour before your scheduled departure. This is a good moment to soak in the stunning views of Whittier’s waterfront. The cruise departs from the cozy seaside town, which feels like a true outpost of wilderness.

The Blackstone Bay Cruise

The heart of the tour involves sailing approximately 45 miles into Blackstone Bay. This deep-water fjord is a natural sculpture gallery of glaciers and mountain peaks. As you cruise, you’ll see seven glaciers, including Tebenkof Glacier—named after a famous 19th-century surveyor—and Northland Glacier, which clings dramatically to the mountain edge.

The tidewater glaciers—Blackstone and Beloit—are particularly spectacular. These giants carve their way down to the saltwater, and the calving sounds—loud pops and splashes—offer a visceral reminder of their ongoing movement. Watching a glacier shed a piece of ice is an experience that stays with you.

The calm waters of Prince William Sound make for a smooth ride, and the boat’s design—likely a catamaran—ensures a stable, pleasant cruise, even for those wary of seasickness. The crew’s friendly attitude and knowledge enhance this; they’re quick to point out wildlife and answer questions.

Wildlife Encounters

Sea otters float on their backs, often playing with kelp or snoozing. Seal lions lounge on rocks, and orcas sometimes breach nearby, thrilling passengers. You might also spot bears, mountain goats, and even whales. This rich tapestry of Alaskan wildlife adds an extra layer of excitement, especially as the crew sometimes pulls out fresh glacier ice for your drinks—a small but memorable detail.

Food and Beverage

Included in the tour is a hearty Alaskan smoked salmon chowder, served with oyster crackers, a julienne vegetable salad, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a peppermint patty. Travelers praise the quality of the chowder, noting it’s a perfect warm-up after the chilly outdoor views. Vegetarian options, like chili, are available with advance notice, and there’s even a full-service bar offering local ales, wine, spirits, and unique cocktails like the Glacier Ice Margarita.

Practical Details and Considerations

The entire adventure lasts about four hours—allowing plenty of time for the drive, check-in, cruise, and return. The group size maxes out at 140, which keeps the experience intimate enough without feeling crowded. The tour is smoke-free and designed with accessibility in mind—though limited, it’s worth calling ahead if you have mobility concerns.

The price of around $216 per person might seem steep at first glance, but considering the included meal, the scenic drive, and the cruise, it’s a fair value. Remember, this is a premium experience—closer glacier views and wildlife sightings are worth the extra cost compared to many purely bus-based tours.

Authentic Experiences and Customer Feedback

One traveler described it as an “amazing adventure,” emphasizing the friendly crew and the spectacular views. They enjoyed seeing seals, otters, orcas, and even witnessing glacier calving firsthand. The crew’s willingness to share glacier ice for drinks added a personal touch that travelers cherish. Such reviews reflect the consistent high quality of this tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate independent exploration combined with guided natural wonders. If you’re comfortable with a bit of driving and prefer a flexible schedule, this tour offers value and authenticity. It’s perfect for those eager to see glaciers up close, enjoy Alaska’s wildlife, and savor a hearty meal with spectacular surroundings.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive stands out because it balances self-guided freedom with professional hospitality and stunning scenery. The ability to control your timing along the Seward Highway and then step aboard a smooth, well-equipped boat into a landscape of glaciers and wildlife is a winning combination.

Travelers who appreciate nature’s grandeur and don’t mind a bit of planning will find this experience rewarding. It’s best for curious, nature-loving adventurers who want more than a quick snapshot—expect a solid four hours of breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and Alaskan charm.

FAQs

How early should I arrive for check-in?
You should arrive about an hour before your scheduled cruise departure time to check in, board, and enjoy the waterfront views.

Is the drive to Whittier difficult or scenic?
The drive along Turnagain Arm is considered very scenic, with impressive mountain views and tidal flats. From Girdwood, it takes about 45 minutes; from Anchorage, around 90 minutes.

What should I bring for the cruise?
While the tour provides coffee, tea, water, and a meal, bringing layers, a hat, sunglasses, and camera gear is recommended. The weather can change quickly, and glaciers make for fantastic photos.

Are there accessible options on the tour?
Limited ADA accessibility is available—call ahead to discuss your specific needs to ensure a smooth experience.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see sea otters, seals, sea lions, whales, bears, and mountain goats, depending on the day’s conditions and wildlife activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour offers a full refund for cancellations outside that window or due to bad weather.

Is alcohol available on board?
Yes, you can purchase a variety of drinks, including local Alaskan ales, wine, spirits, and specialty cocktails like the Glacier Ice Margarita.

In summary, the Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive offers an engaging, flexible way to explore Alaska’s wild side—an excellent choice for those who want a balance of independence and guided adventure, with the reward of some of the most spectacular glaciers and wildlife in North America.