Ketchikan: Private Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Cruise

Set out on a captivating journey through Ketchikan’s captivating landscapes with a private scenic drive and George Inlet Fjords cruise. Enjoy the region’s rich history as you explore the Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline, discovering the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery along the way. The real excitement, however, awaits as you board a Zodiac boat and venture into the stunning fjords, where towering mountains, verdant forests, and a thunderous waterfall create an unparalleled backdrop for wildlife sightings. With active participation and essential gear provided, this tour promises an unforgettable Alaskan wilderness experience.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline by private van, visiting the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery along the way.
• Cruise the picturesque George Inlet Fjords aboard a Zodiac boat, with opportunities to spot wildlife like Sitka deer, black bears, and bald eagles.
• Discover the largest collection of totem poles in the world at the Saxman Native Village and learn about the region’s timber and fishing history.
• Hike through the lush, evergreen forests of the Tongass National Forest to reach the Zodiac boat for the fjords cruise.
• Actively participate in the Zodiac boat cruise, maneuvering the vessel yourself while wearing provided rain jackets, rubber boots, and life jackets.

Overview of the Tour Itinerary

The private, half-day tour from historic downtown Ketchikan to the George Inlet Fjords begins with guests meeting their guide in the city center.

From there, the group will explore the historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline by van, visiting the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery along the way.

After a short hike, guests will board a Zodiac boat to cruise the picturesque George Inlet Fjords.

During the scenic cruise, they’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife like Sitka deer, black bears, and bald eagles.

Throughout the 3.5-hour adventure, guests will be treated to stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness, including majestic mountains, lush forests, pristine waters, and a towering 2,000-foot waterfall.

Exploring Historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows

After meeting their guide in downtown Ketchikan, guests embark on a scenic van ride along the historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendor.

They’ll witness:

1. The picturesque Saxman Native Village, home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world.
2. The Tongass Narrows, a bustling waterway dotted with fishing boats, floatplanes, and scenic islands.

Remnants of Ketchikan’s past as a thriving timber and fishing town, with historic canneries and docks lining the shoreline.

The lush, evergreen forests of the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world.

This captivating introduction sets the stage for the stunning natural wonders awaiting guests in the George Inlet Fjords.

Visiting Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery

From the historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline, guests then venture to the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery, where they disembark the van and hike to a Zodiac boat waiting to ferry them across the waters.

This former salmon canning facility offers a glimpse into Alaska’s fishing heritage. Guests can explore the remnants of the cannery buildings and learn about the crucial role salmon played in sustaining local communities.

The serene natural setting provides an opportunity to appreciate the pristine environment that supports this important industry.

After the visit, the group boards the Zodiac and continues their cruise into the stunning George Inlet Fjords, keeping an eye out for more wildlife sightings along the way.

Hiking to the Zodiac Boat

Disembarking the van at the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery, guests embark on a short hike to reach the waiting Zodiac boat that will ferry them across the waters.

The trail winds through the lush, verdant forest, with towering trees, mossy ground, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.

As they hike, guests take in the serene surroundings:

Sunlight filtering through the canopy, casting a warm glow on the path.
The sound of a nearby stream, its gentle babbling adding to the peaceful ambiance.
The distinctive scent of the forest, a mix of damp earth, pine, and wildflowers.
The occasional rustling in the underbrush, hinting at the presence of unseen creatures.

Reaching the Zodiac, guests are ready to continue their journey into the George Inlet Fjords.

Cruising the George Inlet Fjords

With the Zodiac boat now bobbing in the waters of the George Inlet Fjords, guests eagerly climb aboard, ready to enjoy the untamed beauty of this Alaskan wonderland.

As the boat glides across the pristine, mirror-like surface, guests marvel at the towering mountains that rise up on either side, their peaks capped with glistening snow.

Lush, verdant forests line the shoreline, providing a home for a diverse array of wildlife, including the elusive Sitka deer and majestic bald eagles soaring overhead.

The highlight of the cruise is the awe-inspiring 2,000-foot waterfall, its thunderous roar echoing through the fjord.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide shares insights about the geology, ecology, and rich history of this stunning natural wonder.

Observing Alaskan Wildlife

As the Zodiac boat glides across the tranquil waters of the George Inlet Fjords, guests eagerly keep an eye out for the diverse array of Alaskan wildlife that inhabits the surrounding wilderness.

Scanning the rugged shorelines, they may spot:

• Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, their distinctive white heads and tails a symbol of the region’s natural beauty.
• Sleek Sitka black-tailed deer, gracefully moving through the lush, verdant forests that line the fjords.

Powerful black bears foraging along the water’s edge, a testament to the region’s thriving ecosystem.

Playful harbor seals bobbing in the pristine waters, their curious gazes momentarily meeting those of the awestruck guests.

This wildlife-rich cruise offers a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.

Guest Participation and Provided Gear

Guests can actively participate in the Zodiac boat cruise, maneuvering the vessels themselves and taking turns throughout the journey.

The tour operator provides essential gear, including rain jackets, rubber boots, and life jackets, ensuring guests stay warm, dry, and safe during the exploration of the George Inlet Fjords.

This hands-on experience allows visitors to fully enjoy the stunning Alaskan wilderness, navigating the pristine waters and keeping an eye out for local wildlife like Sitka deer and bald eagles.

The provided equipment protects guests from the elements, enabling them to focus on the breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife encounters during this memorable private tour.

Considerations and Additional Information

Minimum travelers are required for this private tour, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old, as well as individuals with mobility issues or who use wheelchairs, as moderate physical fitness is necessary.

Weather conditions can impact the tour, with the potential for alterations or cancellations if environmental factors make the excursion unsafe or impractical.

This immersive Alaskan adventure offers:

1. Stunning views of mountains, pristine forests, and a 2000-foot waterfall.
2. The chance to spot diverse wildlife, including Sitka deer, black bears, and bald eagles.
3. Hands-on opportunities to drive the Zodiac boats during the fjord cruise.
4. Complimentary rain gear, rubber boots, and life jackets to ensure guest comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes snacks and hot beverages, but guests can supplement this with their own items if desired.

Is This Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

This tour is not wheelchair accessible. The itinerary includes hiking to a Zodiac boat and moderate physical fitness is required. The tour provider specifically notes it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours prior to the tour. Last-minute cancellations may result in a partial or no refund, as the tour operator needs to account for operational costs.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on this tour. The tour operator’s policy does not allow pets for safety and liability reasons. Only service animals are allowed to accompany guests on the private tour of the Alaskan wilderness.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

There is a minimum group size required for this tour. The tour operator specifies a minimum of travelers to run the tour, though there is no set maximum group size. Guests should check with the operator for the minimum group requirement.

Recap

This private tour offers an immersive Alaskan wilderness experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic Saxman and Tongass Narrows coastline.

The highlights include visiting the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery, cruising the stunning George Inlet Fjords, and spotting diverse wildlife like Sitka deer, black bears, and bald eagles.

With essential gear provided, guests can actively participate in the Zodiac boat cruise for a safe and engaging adventure.