Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise, Self-Drive

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska and want a memorable way to see its breathtaking glaciers and diverse wildlife, the Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise offers an excellent option. This 5-hour adventure, operated by Phillips Cruises & Tours, is specially designed for guests with their own transportation, making it flexible and accessible for travelers staying in Anchorage or Girdwood.

What we particularly appreciate about this cruise is its comfortable, stable catamaran design—excellent if you’re worried about seasickness—and the dynamic nature of the route, which adapts to weather and wildlife activity. Plus, the all-inclusive amenities, from onboard food to narration by a forest service ranger, really add to the value. One consideration to keep in mind: the cruise departs from Whittier, requiring about 90 minutes from Anchorage or 45 minutes from Girdwood, so plan your day accordingly.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love stunning scenery and wildlife, are comfortable with a moderate travel time, and appreciate guided narration. If you’re seeking an authentic glimpse of Alaska’s wilderness with plenty of comfort and flexibility, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Flexible self-drive option allows you to explore at your own pace and avoid crowded tour buses.
• First-class catamarans provide a stable, smooth ride suitable for those prone to seasickness.
• Dynamic route means the crew adapts to weather, ice flows, and wildlife activity for the best possible experience.
• Informative narration from a Chugach National Forest Service ranger enriches the trip with local insights.
• All-inclusive amenities include food, beverages, restrooms, charging stations, and a no-seasickness guarantee.
• Accessible for most travelers, including those with mobility issues or service animals.

An In-Depth Look at the Cruise Experience

Departure and Travel to Whittier

The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive to Whittier, a tiny harbor town tucked into the coast of Prince William Sound. From Anchorage, you’ll spend about 90 minutes traveling through scenic wilderness along the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—an impressive feat of engineering that allows vehicles to pass beneath the Chugach Mountains. If you’re coming from Girdwood, allow about 45 minutes.

This is a good time to soak in the landscape, as the drive sets a peaceful tone before hitting the water. Keep in mind that parking costs around $10-$15, and transportation to Whittier is not included, so factor that into your planning.

Departure from Whittier

All cruises depart from the Phillips Cruises & Tours terminal in Whittier, located conveniently in the harbor. The boat itself is a high-speed catamaran, designed to handle the narrow fjords and ice flows smoothly, providing a comfortable ride. With a maximum group size of 14 travelers, this is a more intimate experience than some larger tour boats—great for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The core of this tour is the exploration of Prince William Sound, a pristine wilderness teeming with glaciers and wildlife. The route covers around 140 miles, with key stops in areas such as Port Wells, Esther Passage, and either College Fjord or Blackstone Bay—these are famous for their dramatic glaciers and scenic vistas.

A typical cruise includes:

• Glacier viewing: You’ll get up close to massive, face-front glaciers calving ice into the sea. The crew and narrator will point out particular glaciers, sharing their stories and significance. Since the route is weather-dependent, the crew adapts to find the best glacier faces available that day.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see sea otters, seals, sea lions, and possibly whales. Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of seabirds, including puffins and cormorants.
• Educational narration: A ranger from the Chugach National Forest Service provides insights into the area’s ecology and history—adding depth to the experience.
• Wildlife & glacier photography: The stable catamarans and wide decks are perfect for photography, so bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery.

Food and Comfort on Board

The cruise offers a delicious lunch featuring wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, oysters, fresh vegetable salad, cheese, fruit snacks, and a York Peppermint Pattie for dessert. Vegetarian chili or a kids’ meal can be requested 48 hours in advance, which is handy for dietary needs.

The vessel is smoke-free and equipped with USB charging stations at every table, ensuring you stay connected or recharge your devices. Restrooms are aboard, a welcome convenience on a day that involves a fair bit of time on the water.

The No Seasickness Guarantee

One of the standout features is the industry-exclusive No Seasickness Guarantee—if you feel unwell, you get your money back. This is especially reassuring if you’re concerned about seasickness, as the stable design of the catamaran makes this cruise accessible even for those prone to discomfort. Most reviews mention how smooth and comfortable the ride is, with almost no seasickness reported.

Arrival Back at Whittier

After a scenic return, you’ll be back in Whittier with enough time to explore the town. The harbor boardwalk, local shops, and the Prince William Sound Museum are all worthwhile stops. It’s a relaxed way to wrap up your day before heading home or to your next Alaska destination.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Insights

A traveler on Tripadvisor raved, “The cruise is very comfortable and takes you through beautiful gulfs and fjords. It’s suitable for everyone, as it’s almost impossible to get seasick—it’s an inside passage, so the water is calm.” This highlights the comfort and accessibility of the experience.

Another review appreciated the flexibility, noting that the crew adapts to weather and wildlife activity to optimize viewing conditions. The expert narration adds a layer of understanding that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing.

Evaluating the Value

At $259.17 per person, this cruise offers a lot for the price: scenic views, wildlife encounters, expert narration, and a comfortable vessel. Plus, the food and amenities make it a stress-free day. While it’s not the cheapest option, the value comes from the quality, intimacy, and flexibility of the experience.

Final Thoughts — Who Will Love This Cruise?

This self-drive glacier cruise suits travelers who are comfortable with a moderate drive to Whittier and want an up-close look at Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife without the crowds of larger ships. It’s perfect for those who appreciate personalized narration, comfortable travel, and a flexible itinerary that adapts to conditions on the day.

If you’re someone who values authentic wilderness experiences with minimal hassle, this cruise delivers beautifully. The friendly crew, expert commentary, and stunning scenery make it a solid choice for nature lovers, photographers, and curious travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Whittier from Anchorage or Girdwood?
The drive from Anchorage takes about 90 minutes, and from Girdwood about 45 minutes. You’ll pass through scenic wilderness and the impressive Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel—be sure to account for this travel time when planning your day.

Is parking available at Whittier?
Yes, parking costs around $10-$15 and is available at the cruise terminal. It’s best to arrive a little early to secure a spot.

What should I bring on the cruise?
Bring layers of clothing, including waterproof options, as weather can change quickly. A camera, binoculars, and sunglasses are recommended for wildlife viewing and photography.

Does the cruise have accessibility features?
Yes, the vessels are ADA accessible, providing a safe and comfortable experience for most travelers, including those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, narration, lunch, beverages (coffee, tea, water), and onboard amenities like restrooms and charging stations.

What is not included in the ticket?
The Anton Anderson Tunnel toll, parking fees, transportation to Whittier, and souvenirs are extra. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

In The Sum Up

The Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise offers an excellent balance of comfort, authenticity, and adventure. Its flexible routing and expert narration ensure you see the best glaciers and wildlife, all while staying relaxed and comfortable. While it requires a bit of planning around travel time to Whittier, the payoff is a day filled with stunning scenery and meaningful wildlife encounters.

This cruise is particularly well-suited for travelers who crave an intimate, guided look at Alaska’s wild side without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or someone simply eager to witness glaciers calving into the sea, this tour promises a memorable and truly scenic experience.