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• Visiting Us

AK Wildlife Boat Tours

AK Wildlife Cruise's multi award-winning cruises take place all year round covering the whole of Falmouth Bay and its surrounding rugged coastline. This is a wonderful way to see Cornwall’s outstanding marine wildlife. With passionate naturalists on board every trip and potential sighting of dolphins and seals on any single cruise, they are popular with all ages!

Upcoming Dates

£50 per adult and £40 per child for our 3 hour cruises.

Please note, future dates to be confirmed.

Please call AK Wildlife Cruise on  07553606838 to book your trip today!

Seals in Cornwall

Seals can be spotted along the shoreline at any time of the year, basking and playing in the water or hauled out on beaches or rocks, particularly at low tide.

Occasionally they are also found further out to sea where they have been hunting, as well as right up our spectacular Fal Estuary - the third deepest natural harbour in the world.

Falmouth, on the south coast of Cornwall, has several small colonies of grey seals making it a great place to spot these charismatic mammals, and pupping season which usually falls between September – January offers a time for when we can observe mums with their pups which is always very special.

Captain Keith

Captain Keith has been working as a professional wildlife guide now for some 45 years and loves nothing more than sharing his knowledge and passion for all wildlife with everybody.

Each of his crew are qualified zoology and marine biology graduates so you can be sure you are in excellent hands.

AK Wildlife Cruises are proud to work closely with several conservation groups and charities, collecting valuable data on all species encountered and encouraging respectful wildlife-watching practices, allowing you to come and view our marine wildlife in a responsible way, causing minimal disturbance.

©Joshua Wilson and ©AK Wildlife Cruise

Prince William Sound

GLACIER & WILDLIFE CRUISES – VALDEZ, ALASKA

meares glacier excursion

Columbia Glacier Cruise

Why choose us

A day spent on the water with Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises is a complete Alaska experience! The Stephens family and crew will navigate through Prince William Sound with sights of magnificent glacial ice at Columbia Glacier, glacial calving at Meares Glacier, and wildlife like orcas, humpback whales, Steller sea lions, seals, puffins, bald eagles, kittiwakes, cormorants, porpoise, goats and bears along the way.

In addition to the amazing wildlife and glaciers, we will share information about the history of Prince William Sound and Valdez, including commercial fishing, the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System terminal, oil shipping, the area’s early explorers, and copper and gold mining.

Welcome to Valdez and Prince William Sound 

Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises respectfully acknowledges that we live, work, and operate on the traditional land of the Alaska Native Alutiiq/Sugpiaq peoples. It is because of their stewardship that we are able to share the wonders of Prince William Sound today.

The traditional name of this area in Sugt’stun, the language of the Sugpiaq, is Suacit, which means, “the people of the place that rises into view.” Suacit and the surrounding Prince William Sound villages provided a bountiful harvest for the Alutiiq/Sugpiaq people. We strive to respect the traditional lands and waterways as we operate. We encourage our guests to take time to learn about the history of our region’s Alaska Native people and their living culture.

Our Boat & Crew | AK Wildlife Cruises

Experience unmatched expertise and comfort with ak wildlife cruises & boat trips in falmouth, cornwall.

At AK Wildlife Cruises, we take great pride in providing exceptional experiences for our guests. Our dedicated crew and state-of-the-art boat ensure that your wildlife cruise  in Cornwall is not only safe and comfortable but also filled with knowledge, excitement, and lasting memories.  

Our C rew : Our crew members are passionate about marine wildlife and are committed to creating an engaging and educational experience for all passengers. With th eir extensive knowledge and expertise, they will guide you through the journey, sharing fascinating insights about the local ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts. Their friendly and approachable nature ensures that you feel welcomed and well-cared for throughout the cruise. We take pride in our crew's dedication to your enjoyment and safety.

Our Boat : We operate our wildlife cruises on a modern and well-equipped boat, designed to provide the utmost comfort and convenience for our guests. The boat is equipped with advanced technology and safety features, ensuring a smooth and secure journey. Its spacious layout allows for ample viewing opportunities, ensuring that you don't miss any of the breathtaking sights and wildlife encounters along the way. Whether you choose to relax on the deck or gather information in the indoor viewing area, our boat offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Safety and Sustainability : The safety and well-being of our passengers and the marine environment are of utmost importance to us. Our boat undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to meet the highest safety standards. Additionally, we adhere to responsible wildlife-watching guidelines, respecting the natural habitats and behaviors of the marine wildlife we encounter. We are committed to promoting sustainability and minimizing our ecological footprint, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate the wonders of the ocean.  

Join us aboard our boat, accompanied by our experienced crew, as we embark on a wildlife adventure along the captivating coastline of Cornwall. Discover the beauty of marine life, immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Book your wildlife cruise with AK Wildlife Cruises and let our dedicated crew and comfortable boat elevate your experience, making it an unforgettable journey into the realm of marine wildlife.

SPIRIT OF THE SEAS 

" Spirit of Our Seas " is based on a tried and tested Blyth 33 , twin-engined displacement catamaran and has been completely custom modified, to Capt Keith's exact specifications for your absolute comfort and assurance 

With her two, industry-leading and award-winning for their low emission and superb quietness, electronic D6 Volvo engines @ 380hp . 

Spirit of Our Seas ", giving her a fabulous range of superbly comfortable cruise speeds, up to her very fast sprint speed of 28knots.

This will allow us all, to venture safely forth in too many new areas East, South, and West out of our wildlife-rich and sheltered waters of Falmouth Bay.   

Meet the AK Wildlife Cruise Team

The Crew working with Captain Keith will be with you on the day

Keith Leeves

Your Captain CK has vast experience working in the private boat chartering business over the many years of his long-standing career. Throughout this time, he has worked closely with such people as Dame Ellen MacArthur, working as her towboat captain during her record-breaking round-the-world trip. He has also worked alongside a selected team in the “Whitbread Round the World Race”, plus several other cross-Atlantic challenges that finished off at the Lizard Point in Cornwall.

From both a personal and business point of view, we do our utmost to support all the conservation groups we work closely with and help promote their conservation initiatives.

CK is a dedicated, professional wildlife guide, who understands the complex issues of filming in the natural world.  In the past, he has worked with “The Really Wild Show” and their presenter, Michaela Strachan, filming basking sharks. Furthermore, he has carried out survey work for the WDCS and the RSPB.

CK was the very first operator in the UK to endorse and sign up for the nationally accredited “WiSe” scheme, as well as being endorsed by the SeaWatch Foundation and the WDCS, ensuring sensitive interaction with all the marine mammals and birds observed during our “safari” excursions .

Cetacean Researcher

Sam Plowright

I’ve had a passion for the conservation of our marine environment since a very young age after being brought up in Cornwall and around the water and boats in Falmouth, seeing all of the diverse wildlife that the Cornish coastlines have to offer. As a result, I have completed my level 2 powerboats license and a course surrounding the identification of seabirds and marine mammals. All these experiences have led to me successfully applying to join Plymouth University to complete a degree in Ocean Science and Marine Conservation, where I’m now in my second year. My current research involves the beginning of my final year project where I will be looking at the effect of marine traffic on the numbers of common dolphins in Falmouth, which will be using the data that you allow us to collect aboard AK Wildlife Cruises!

I joined the team as a volunteer last year and I have been able to witness some truly amazing sights with by far the most amazing encounter being a collection of different groups of bottlenose dolphins amounting to over 200 in a small area! My aim for this year is to pass on the knowledge that I have around cetaceans to anyone who joins us onboard and promote the education of the conservation needed to a whole host of different communities to protect our vital marine ecosystems!

A multi-award-winning wildlife & sight-seeing eco-tourism cruise.  Including whale & dolphin watching, snorkeling adventures, filming trips, corporate hire, special occasions

We are WiSe Master accredited The WiSe Scheme is a training program all about watching Marine wildlife the wildlife-safe way!   The UK is home to a fantastic variety of marine wildlife, whether visible from the shore or from a boat. However, these wild animals are vulnerable to disturbance if not encountered in a manner that respects their wild nature. The aim is to promote responsible wildlife-watching, through training, accreditation, and raising awareness.

Book your wildlife cruises & boat trips in cornwall, 3 hr estuary cruise.

Embark on a scenic 3-hour estuary cruise from Falmouth to Truro. Discover the beauty of Cornwall's waterways, observe diverse marine life, and soak in the picturesque landscapes. Join us for a memorable journey along the stunning estuary. Book your cruise now

Immerse youself

Adults : £48 Child : £34

3 hr bay wildlife cruise.

Due to high demand, our shorter trip is aimed at those who have a younger families. The 3-hour boat trip will head out into Falmouth Bay to search for seals, seabirds, and if we are lucky a potential dolphin!

Perfect for families

Adults : £58 Child : £44

3 hr snorkel wildlife safari.

New for this season is the Snorkel Safari. Immerse yourself with the wonderful marine wildlife of Cornwall. You will not be alone in the water, and have a guide with you every step of the way. We will see what incredible marine wildlife there is to see!

Snorkeler : £60

4 hr coastal cruise.

Our most popular wildlife cruise. In which you will spend your boat trip exploring the southern coast of Cornwall as we cruise under the cornish cliffs, we search for wild animals which inhabit this region!.

Seeking more

Adults : £75 Child : £60

7 hr ocean exploration cruise.

Our longest boat trip we offer here at AK Wildlife, we start our day with a trip down the coast to the Lizard before adventuring into deeper water in search of our rarer

wildlife such as fin whales, storm petrels, and bottlenose!

Wildlife Enthusiasts

Adults : £115 Child : £100

Private boat hire - falmouth.

You will have Captain Keith as your skipper with his team of crew onboard. The boat will be only available to you and those you decide to bring along with you, you will be allowed a total of 14 people onboard.`

Cost : Enquire for prices

• Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

Explore fjords, glaciers, barrier islands, and Alaska’s favorite marine wildlife.

• Things to Do in Seward

More Details

Rates & dates, departure times, availability.

Add to My Trip

The cruise begins as captain and crew welcome passengers onto their triple-deck catamaran and show them to their assigned seats in one of two indoor cabins. The setup gives passengers a spot to store their items and a warm place to return to after spending time in the brisk ocean air of the exterior decks.

Board a triple-deck catamaran with panoramic views.

Those decks provide panoramic views as the boat cruises through Resurrection Bay. When crew and passengers spot wildlife, the captain slows and maneuvers at a safe distance to give everyone a chance to see. Depending on the season and the day, it may be Dall's porpoises or otters playing in boat wake, seabirds of every variety diving from cliffside nests, or orcas gliding just below the water surface. The boat's captain narrates the experience throughout.

After dipping into the Gulf of Alaska, the boat rounds Aialik Cape and heads north into the calmer waters of Aialik Bay. Here, guests enjoy a deli lunch as the boat nears and then idles alongside one of the massive tidewater glaciers within Kenai Fjords National Park . These rivers of ice cascade dramatically from jagged mountainsides, their massive faces shedding car-sized chunks of ice into the water with thunderous claps. Passengers will spend as much as an hour in this dramatic setting before heading back toward the Gulf of Alaska on the return trip to Seward.

This Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers three departures. The 8 AM and 11:30 AM departures are six hours long. The 9:30 AM departure tour is 7.5 hours long. The earlier departures works well for guests already in Seward, while the later departure fits for guests arriving into Seward that same morning by train or Park Connection Motorcoach .

The tour boat has three exterior decks and two indoor cabin levels with fog-resistant windows. No smoking is allowed on the boat. Passengers are assigned seats when boarding but can carefully move throughout the boat while underway. Children are encouraged to enjoy educational games and activities as part of the Junior Ranger Program.

A deli lunch with turkey sandwich, chips, granola bar, brownie, and soft drink is served on board. A vegan/vegetarian lunch option is available and must be requested in advance. Additional snacks, hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

What to Bring

To make the most of views and fresh air on the exterior decks, it is important to dress in layers for this tour. Bring a rain jacket, hat, and gloves, and wear warm base layers and rubber-soled shoes. Even on a sunny day, the air coming off a glacier can be quite chilly. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars. If seasickness is a concern, err on the side of caution and take motion sickness medicine in advance. Dramamine, Bonine, and ginger chews are available for purchase onboard.

Special Instructions

Check in at the boat tour office located in the Harbor 360 Hotel. The tour office provides luggage storage if needed.

Transfers & Meeting Points

Several local hotels provide shuttle service to the Small Boat Harbor. For self-drivers, parking is available across the street from the Harbor 360 Hotel or one block south of the South Harbor Office on 4th Avenue. There is a $10 charge per vehicle per day.

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

Child rates apply to children under the age of 12. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.

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Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

SHOW MAP >

Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

Book Now >

Quick Facts

• Price From $219 + Tax
• Duration From 6 Hours
• Departures 8 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM
• Operating Dates Daily from 5/4/2024 to 9/22/2024
• Activity Level Less Active

What's Included

• Deli lunch with vegetarian option.
• Onboard narration by the boat's captain.
• Assigned seating in a spacious cabin.
• Guide to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Guest Feedback

"Our captain maneuvered our boat so we could see a family of orca whales up close...so exciting! Breathtaking scenery, we loved this!"

~Judith from Indiana~

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• Specials & Packages
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KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK CRUISES

Locally-owned & operated.

View Whales & Wildlife

See towering glaciers, seward cruise & hotel packages, mother's day special, full-day glacier & wildlife tours, half-day wildlife tours, specials & packages, cruise kenai fjords national park with major marine tours.

Major Marine Tours offers world-class wildlife and glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park, departing from the beautiful harbor town of Seward, Alaska. We are a locally-owned, family company with over 30 years of sharing authentic Alaska adventures with our guests.

Tour Kenai Fjords on one of our cruise options ranging from 4 hours to 8.5 hours. Our cruises explore the glacier-carved fjords and abundant wildlife of Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, offering some of the best glacier viewing and whale watching opportunities in Alaska.

We offer a range of different tours based on your interests and itinerary, including cruise options with educational kids programs, cruises for birders and photographers, and shorter cruises that stay in calmer, protected waters. Cruises 6 hours and over include a complimentary hearty deli lunch for all guests.

From family-friendly cruises on large, stable catamarans to full-day small vessel adventure cruises – we have the cruise for you!

We are an Alaska company that cares - about our guests, about our community, and about protecting the beautiful places that we explore. Our goal is provide you with a high-quality, authentic, environmentally responsible experience that inspires you to love Alaska as much as we do.

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Sitka Wildlife Tours

Sitka's best scenic land & sea tours, sitka scenic tour.

See local attractions and spectacular wildlife on this tour, ideal for small groups.

• Users 10 people
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

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Locally Owned Alaskan Excursions

Enjoy a small-group tour of the scenic Sitka, Alaska, with Sitka Wildlife Tours. Our locally owned and operated Alaskan tours offer great photo opportunities and wildlife experiences from the comfort of a climate-controlled van and our 26-foot Glacier Bay catamaran vessel.

Sitka is home to majestic whales, eagles, otters, bears, and other wildlife, and our knowledgeable guides are experts at spotting them. Book one of our tours and see the best of Alaska.

Our Knowledgeable Staff Provides The Best Alaskan Wildlife Excursion

We can highly recommend this private company. We took a cruise to Alaska, got off the ship in Sitka, and looked over the private tour offerings. The owners of this company were friendly, personable, and made things work just for us. The price was more than reasonable. We were a group of 6, and 2 more people joined us in the van. Small, easy group. Our tour guide, Deanna, is a Sitka native and was just delightful. We couldn't have been happier.

One of the best excursions we had in Alaska. We were on a small boat with only 6 guests. Sonny was our Captain/guide. He is personable, knowledgeable and knows where to find the marine wildlife. First, however, we saw more bald eagles on one of the islands than I could imagine. Next came sea otters, sea lions, and of course whales. As an extra, we also saw Puffins. A great two hours with a wonderful guide. We highly recommend this excursion and this company.

We finished a cruise in Sitka and had less than a day in town. This tour fit the bill because we really wanted to see these sights before leaving. The owners worked with us about pickup (originally scheduled to be picked up at port, but we arrived earlier than expected. Luckily we were able to make last minute arrangements to change our pickup time/location). Our guide was amazing -- so enthusiastic about her town & the sights. She really made the tour enjoyable and shared her love of Sitka with us.

I always seek out local tours and this has to be one of the best! Bruce and Rhonda run a great business that can show you Sitka better with a smaller, more personalized tour and even save you some money over the cruise line excursions. Highly recommended!

We always try local companies and this time we hit the jackbox! Sikta Wildlife Tours are the best!, they are smaller group tours with most tour guides that have grown up in Sitka so they really know what they are talking about.

This was a wonderful tour and birthday celebration, most especially due to our amazing guide, Lindsay!! As a native of Sitka, she knows every inch of this beautiful place and shared her joyful knowledge with us along the way. I highly recommend the premium tour. There were only 7 of us in a comfortable small van. You will see unforgettable sights!!

Our group of six had the best time on our Sitka Wildlife Tour. Our captain was on time, friendly, and prepared (safety wise and with snacks). None of us could believe the amount of wildlife we observed during our 3 hour tour. Our Captain had a plethora of information from the history of Sitka to the migration patterns of the native species. It was an unforgettably perfect day.

Rhonda was a great guide, a native with lots of personallity and good insights! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the totems, raptors, and bears. There was just enough time at each location! What a lovely experience!

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Seward Kenai Fjords 4 Hour Wildlife Cruise

• Photos / Video
• Things to know
• Reviews (3)

Excursion Overview

Explore the calm, protected waters of resurrection bay.

Do you have limited time but still want to cruise and view wildlife? This 4 hour Seward Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise is a perfect tour for you! Look for Orca, humpback whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoises, puffins, harbor seals, bald eagles, and other marine life during your cruise on the calm and protected waters of Resurrection Bay. You will sail through the "Captain's Choice" route as your experienced captains will explore the area's wildlife hot spots to maximize your chances of viewing wildlife. This cruise is fully narrated by knowledgeable captains and crew members. Depending on the weather and sea conditions, you may see alpine glaciers tucked in the surrounding Chugach and Kenai Mountain Ranges and cruise by Bear Glacier, a piedmont glacier and the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. Experience the cruise that President Obama took on his visit to Alaska in 2015! Route Highlights: - Resurrection Bay - Bear Glacier (piedmont glacier, visibility weather permitting) - Cape Resurrection - Bird Rookery - Steller Sea Lion Haul Out - Thumb Cove and Humpy Cove - El Dorado Narrows *This can vary depending on wildlife and weather conditions.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Complimentary coffee, tea, and water
• fully narrated cruise
• Multiple viewing decks

Requirements:

• There are no additional requirements for this excursion.

Duration: 4 hours (Roundtrip from Seward.)

• 4 hours - cruise

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the 4th Avenue check-in office. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible. 

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, there is no meal included on this cruise. We have a snack bar onboard, and you are more than welcome to bring your own food with you. Glass containers and personal alcohol are not permitted. Snacks, beverages, beer, and wine are available for purchase at the snack bar during the cruise.

The Seward Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise offers reserved seating, onboard National Park Ranger narration, and features optional Alaska Salmon and Prime Rib Meal. The benefit of this 4-hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise is that it's less expensive, offers two departure times throughout the season, and less time on the water. This 4-hour cruise is narrated by our experienced captains and naturalist crew members.

Our guests stay on the boat for the entire cruise to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Guests are urged to dress in layers, including a warm rain-proof coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable, rubber-soled shoes. Guests are welcome to stay in our heated cabins, but warm clothes are recommended for guests who would like to spend time outside on the viewing decks.

Cameras (tripods are prohibited), extra batteries, and binoculars.

Our cruises go out rain or shine. We only cancel cruises due to unsafe sea conditions, in which case we will notify you as soon as possible. We reserve the right to cancel or re-route our cruises based on weather or other conditions.

You are welcome to store your luggage in our office during your cruise. We can also assist with delivering luggage to the train or cruise ship depots in Seward and Whittier.

Pets are not permitted onboard unless your pet is a needed companion due to a medical reason. There are several doggy daycare/boarding facilities in Seward.

No. All vessels are non-smoking. There are no designated areas on the vessels for smoking.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On jul 2023.

Nice boat and beautiful water, mountain views - wildlife viewing is unpredictable, as is nature! We saw what was available in a 4 hours cruise and were satisfied. No complaints - well run company highly recommend.

This tour ticked all our boxes for seeing wildlife. Excellent tour

Elizabeth G

On jun 2022.

Our captain was the best! So informative but didn't talk too much. The rest of the crew was very friendly and helpful. The sites and wildlife that we saw were amazing. The boat was very comfortable and it was helpful that everyone had dedicated seating areas if they wanted them.

• Reviews Showing: 3

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Duration: 4 hours

Date Required

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# of Passengers Required

Adult (12+): $ 139.00

Child (2-11): $ 69.50

Infant (Under 2): $ 0.00

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Explore Girdwood/Alyeska a Self-Guided Tour is for those who enjoy getting away from the crowd and explore on their own and at their pace.

• Hour Glass 2 hours

Gold Panning Tour at Indian Valley Mine

Get out of the city of Anchorage and take the Turnagain Arm Shuttle and have an opportunity to visit a real mine that helped shape the area.

Bear Feeding at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Your shuttle will take you directly to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where you can witness Alaskan Wildlife up-close. We have timed this tour so that all customers will enjoy the bear feeding!

• Hour Glass 3.5 hours

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Express

This tour is for those who are on a time constraint and budget. This is a direct shuttle to the Wildlife Center with a scenic stop at Beluga Point.

Winter Alyeska Express

Board your Turnagain Arm Shuttle for the guided drive along Alaska’s most scenic highway on your way to ski Alyeska. Enjoy lunch and a day of skiing.

WHERE YOU'RE SURE TO FIND ADVENTURE!

Visit two of Alaska’s most popular attractions and enjoy a guided tour along scenic Turnagain Arm at a terrific price!

EXCITING AND UNIQUE ADVENTURES!

Mathew was an amazing guide!! He went out of his way to make the trip meaningful, exciting, and unique. He was so knowledgeable about the Alaska, having lived here for 30 years and we were able to see so many different kinds of wildlife!! I highly recommend this tour for anyone looking to experience a soulful, spiritual, lovely Alaskan nature and wildlife experience!

What can I say?! From the amazing tour guides (Matt & Chris) one WILL NOT be disappointed or have a lack of a great experience! Anchorage has so much natural beauty to offer paired with very kind and knowledgeable tour guides that offer nothing but the best!

It was easy to book online and the afternoon was jam packed with awesome stops. Matt is super knowledge and friendly! Best way to spend your afternoon while getting to see so much that Anchorage has to offer. One of the coolest parts for me was the Wildlife Conservation Center - we got there at feeding time and really got to see the animals up close.

Amazing trip. I messed up on the date. 100% my fault. I showed up and the lovely women at the visitors center called the owner, who immediately tried to make it right. Thank you Chris for that amazing 1:1 tour….even if we only saw the “Queen” moose for a second 🤣

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Whale Watching, Bear Viewing, and Birding Tours

Home » Tours » Wildlife

Wildlife viewing is among the most popular activities in Alaska. From whale watching for orcas or humpbacks to brown bear viewing and Alaska birding tours , your friends and family will delight in meeting Alaska animals of all shapes and sizes.

Learn about Alaska’s “big five ,” their habits and habitats, and their hunting and feeding behaviors, and then grab your camera or video and photograph away. Take a cruise to view seacoast and marine wildlife at home in Alaska’s many fjords and bays. With abundant animals in all regions of the state, your ticket to mind-blowing Alaska wildlife viewing is simply choosing what you want to see and book a day tour or overnight adventures.

You can also visit many educational centers throughout the state to learn more about Alaska wildlife:

• The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Anchorage)
• The Kodiak Brown Bear Center (Kodiak)
• The Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center (Homer)
• The Murie Science and Learning Center (Denali National Park)
• The Alaska Raptor Center (Sitka)
• The American Bald Eagle Foundation (Haines)

Choose from 75 vacations in Alaska related to Wildlife

Alaska by Rail Tour

Duration: 10 days

Starting at: $3449 / pp

Travel the entire Alaska Railroad in just nine days! Take the train from Anchorage to Seward, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. Cruise to an active glacier, jet boat on the Talkeetna River, view wildlife in Denali National Park and... Browse itinerary

Glaciers and Wildlife Tour

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $2289 / pp

Combining Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali, this tour provides wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic touring throughout. You travel by the Alaska Railroad to Seward and cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park, well known for glacier scenery and viewing... Browse itinerary

All Alaska Classic Self Drive Tour

Duration: 15 days

Starting at: $3649 / pp

Explore three of Alaska's National Parks: Denali, Wrangell - St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords. Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout. Travel on four designated National Scenic Byways showcasing Alaska's natural beauty with its jagged mountain peaks, lush alpine meadows,... Browse itinerary

Glacier and Wildlife Turnagain Arm Tour

Length: 8 hours

Starting at: $249 / pp

Enjoy the intimacy of a small group on an Anchorage day tour as you travel along the Turnagain Arm along the Seward Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the country. A professional Alaska tour guide will... Browse itinerary

Turnagain Turnaround Tour

Length: 6 - 6.5 hours

Starting at: $179-199 / pp

On this Anchorage day tour, travel with a small group along Turnagain Arm, one of the most scenic drives in Alaska. Your driver will pick you up from your Anchorage hotel and take you south along the Seward... Browse itinerary

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Anchorage

Length: 14-15 hours

Starting at: $369 / pp

On this day trip from Anchorage, travel to Seward, Alaska, early morning by motorcoach, then depart on a wildlife and glacier cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park. This seacoast area in Southcentral Alaska is famous for its rich... Browse itinerary

Katmai and Brooks Falls Bear Viewing

Length: 10-12 hours

Starting at: $1399 / pp

Fly from Anchorage to one of Alaska’s most famous bear viewing destinations, Katmai National Park and Brooks Falls!  Depart Anchorage early on a scheduled flight to King Salmon (approximately 1.5 hours).  On arrival, a local representative will transfer... Browse itinerary

Denali & Glacier Experience

Duration: 6 days

Starting at: $1919 / pp

By train, travel along the scenic Seward and Portage Glacier Highways before entering the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the second-longest tunnel in North America. On arrival in Whittier, embark on the 26 Glacier Cruise with lunch. Enjoy viewing... Browse itinerary

Family Fun Vacation by Car

Duration: 9 days

Starting at: $2459 / pp

An excellent family itinerary designed to allow for a leisurely travel pace with plenty of time for family-oriented activities. Top destinations include Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks. Touring highlights include riding aboard a "whistle stop" train operated... Browse itinerary

Great Alaskan Road Trip

Starting at: $1889 / pp

Explore Denali, Seward, and the Matanuska Valley with the freedom of a rental car. These three destinations complement each other with natural beauty from mountains to valleys to coastlines. The bus tour into Denali National Park is a... Browse itinerary

Alaska Highlights Self-Drive Tour

Starting at: $1809 / pp

This independent Alaska self-drive tour features many of the state's most popular attractions and scenic roadways. Visit Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park and the cities of Anchorage, Fairbanks, Valdez, and Seward. The circular... Browse itinerary

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing

Length: 6 hours

Starting at: $1076 / pp

Depart from Anchorage by wheeled plane for a 90-minute scenic flight southwest over Cook Inlet toward the Chigmit Mountains. Enjoy spectacular views of the Alaska and Aleutian Mountain Ranges and two active volcanoes – Mt. Redoubt and Mt.... Browse itinerary

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Alaska Wildlife

Land, sea and air — be surrounded by alaska's wildlife.

Alaska wildlife includes some of the most amazing animals on the planet, making it a dream destination for anyone who appreciates nature. See otters floating through the water or orca whales surfacing from the sea. In Denali National Park, look for the Big Five — grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou and Dall sheep. Head into the depths of the Inside Passage for the chance to see hundreds of animals on an Alaska cruise.

Alaska Marine Life

Humpback Whales

In the summer, Alaska's waters are filled with more than 2,000 humpback whales that feed throughout Prince William Sound, Glacier Bay National Park and much of the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska. Humpbacks are the most well-known — and sought-after — of Alaska's wildlife, with their massive 35-ton bodies gliding effortlessly through the waters feeding on thousands of pounds of small fish.

Orca Whales

Contrary to their name, killer whales, also known as orcas, are members of the dolphin family. They are the largest, fastest and most powerful members of their kind. Not to mention, orcas are some of the most crowd-pleasing animals on an Alaska cruise. They receive the name "killer whale" due to their impressive hunting abilities, putting them at the top of Alaska's wildlife food chain.

Harbor Seals

Often seen lounging on the ice floes and bouncing on their bellies, harbor seals are one of the most famous Alaska animals. While not as limber on land, they make up for it with grace and speed in the water. In the summertime, almost two thousand harbor seals gather to hunt for fish, mate and raise their pups.

With strong front flippers and flexible rear flippers, sea lions can move their 600-2000-pound bodies faster than you’d imagine. Much like seals, their speed and maneuverability in the water are undeniably impressive, with the ability to dive more than 1,000 feet and hold their breath for over 15 minutes. Visitors can see and hear these adorable animals in Alaska during the summer as they gather to hunt and mate.

After near extinction, the sea otter remains one of the most recognized creatures of the ocean. You can often find these Alaska animals diving for shellfish or floating on their backs to eat. With up to one million hairs per inch — the most of any mammal — sea otters are comfortable in any climate. Look out for otters with lighter-colored fur around their faces. The lighter the color, the older the otter.

Salmon are the lifeblood of Alaska's ecosystem. Their annual return to the sea fills the rivers and feeds Alaska's animals, like bears and wolves. The local fishing industry relies on the plentiful harvest of salmon to provide for their economy and citizens. As world-famous celebrities, the native King Salmon attract locals and visitors to relish in what many call the best-tasting of their kind.

Alaska Animals on Land

Alaska's wildlife includes both brown bears — often known as grizzlies — and black bears. Between the coastline, forests and hunting grounds, there is evidence of bears everywhere. Look for tracks across the beaches or trees rubbed clean of their bark. If you're lucky, you might even see bears themselves wandering the landscape in search of their next meal.

Standing at over six feet tall and weighing nearly as much as an automobile, moose are the largest of Alaska’s wildlife. Often found wandering the forests in search of fresh willow shoots, moose are solitary creatures that travel far and wide looking for nourishment. This frequently leads them into urban areas, along roads and in the path of everyday Alaskans, who have learned to live peacefully alongside them.

With both males and females being able to grow horns, herds of migrating caribou are a dramatic sight among the wildlife in Alaska. Most recognize caribou by another name — reindeer. But, in North America, that name is only given to domesticated caribou found across Alaska. Keep your eyes peeled for herds in search of food and their favorite calving grounds.

Mountain Goats

Covered in thick white fur, mountain goats live along the rocky cliffsides and mountain slopes of Alaska’s southern coastal region. Similar in appearance to Dall sheep, mountain goats can be easily distinguished by their black horns and thick fur as well as their ability to scale sheer cliffs at nearly a full run. Keep a lookout for these animals on your Alaska cruise.

Large curved horns, white fur and a stout body give Dall sheep the distinctive look of one of the toughest Alaska animals. Many recognize the dramatic clashes between males as they run full speed and crash their horned heads together. Yet, Dall sheep are rather peaceful animals. They live in the dry interior regions and wander mountainous areas in Kenai, Denali and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

Wolves roam much of the Great Land, traveling in small packs as they hunt for their favorite Alaska wildlife — caribou, moose and Dall sheep. While not typically seen in urban areas, wolves can be heard calling to each other from the distance. At up to three feet tall and over 100 pounds, these canines are slightly larger than your dog at home, and often work together to bring down moose that weigh over 1,000 pounds.

Alaska Birds

Bald Eagles

Arguably the most iconic bird in North America, the bald eagle lives throughout Alaska, Canada, the United States and northern Mexico. Alaska once held almost the entire population of the species when it was seriously endangered. Thanks to conservation efforts, bald eagles are now flourishing. Look for possible sightings of these Alaska animals along the coast and near rivers teeming with fish.

Puffins — both horned and tufted — live along the waters of Alaska, bringing their colorful plumage to the skies and sea. You can differentiate between the two by looking at their facial features. Tufted puffins have yellow feathers just above their eyes while horned puffins have black "horns" beneath them. While the tufted species is heavier than the horned, both Alaska animals are similar in size and wingspan.

Willow Ptarmigan

The willow ptarmigan is the official state bird of Alaska and can be found in sparsely timbered or treeless areas. While visiting Denali National Park, you’re likely to see families of willow ptarmigan at streams along the length of the park road. This unique Alaska animal often changes with the season – donning a brown coat in the summer and a bright white fleece in the winter to hide from predators.

Partnerships

Animal planet™ partnership.

Combining knowledge, insight and passion for exploration, we offer special excursions approved and recommended by the experts at Animal Planet™. When booking excursions, look for the corresponding mark to find immersive experiences and exclusive opportunities to meet Alaska’s wildlife and gain a fresh perspective on the places you travel.

Contribution to Wildlife Fund

In 2017, Princess® contributed $25,000 to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center from the Princess Animal Welfare Sponsor, a fund within the Princess Cruises Community Foundation. The sales of Stanley the Bear, named after Princess founder Stanley B. McDonald, helped to finance the expansion of AWCC facilities. The donation is also being used to build a bear-viewing area and interactive space to enrich visitor experiences.

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Alaska Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

F or many, an Alaska cruise is a bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. The wildlife you see there is amazing- truly breathtaking. I once had a bald eagle fly a foot above my head at Juneau! Here’s a list of Alaska cruise tips and mistakes to avoid.

Alaska cruise packing list with free printable

Go During the Salmon Run

If you’re hoping to see wildlife, the best time to go on an Alaska cruise is during the peak months of late June through August. This is the time when the salmon run is happening. That’s when you have the highest chance of seeing wild bears. As the salmon swim upstream to spawn, the bears closely trail them.

Watching the bears sit by the river trying to catch salmon as they swim upstream is fun. I once saw a mother bear with her adorable cubs by the river! 

Under Budgeting

Alaska cruises are often more expensive than you think. Budgeting is key. Alaska cruises can be pricey, with costs typically twice that of a Caribbean cruise. This is because you’ll also need to factor in the cost of shore excursions, which can be quite expensive. 

For example, whale watching can cost over $200 per person, while a helicopter tour to go dog sledding on Mendenhall Glacier can cost over $700 per person. These experiences are truly bucket-list worthy, so it’s worth budgeting for them. I recommend comparing the prices of cruise shore excursions with those of independent tour operators like Viator .

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Book Shore Excursions in Advance

Shore excursions are a must to fully enjoy your Alaska cruise. However, many popular shore excursions do sell out. I suggest you book them early so you get your top choice. 

If the cruise shore excursion sells out, you should check with independent tour operators like Viator to see if they offer something similar. Chances are high that they do because oftentimes it’s the same tour company. You’ll also probably get the same shore excursion for less.

Winging it in Alaska

I don’t recommend winging it in Alaska. But if tours are sold out or you just like spontaneity, then you can certainly try your luck and see if you can get a cab or book a tour at the port. 

Some ports such as Juneau have booths where you can book shore excursions like whale watching, etc. If you plan to book shore excursions at these booths, be sure to arrive early, since many tours start early, and they tend to fill up quickly. 

Book Shore Excursion when You’re a Large Group

I can’t say this enough, if you’re traveling with a large group and have your heart set on a particular excursion, booking in advance is especially important. The last thing you want to do is to be wandering around the port aimlessly. It’s harder to wing it if you are a big group.

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Book a Balcony

To fully enjoy the sea days, book a balcony cabin. This way, you can sit back and enjoy the views of glaciers, whales, dolphins, and other wildlife from the comfort of your own balcony. Wildlife sightings are quite common on Alaska cruises. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

Book a Cabin on the Correct Side

When you book your Alaska cruise, make sure you book the balcony on the correct side. If you’re cruising northbound, book a balcony on the starboard side (right side) so you have a view of the land. If you’re cruising from north to south, book a balcony on the port side (left side) so you can see the land.

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Enjoy the View During Sea Days

One of the most amazing things about going on an Alaska cruise is the breathtaking view you’ll get to experience. You’ll see glaciers, floating ice pieces, playful seals, whales, and dolphins- so much wildlife! 

If you have a balcony room, I recommend spending some time there to enjoy the view. If not, you can still take in the beautiful scenery from the deck or a lounge. 

Some ships even have an observation lounge at the front of the ship with cozy chairs and floor-to-ceiling windows that are perfect for relaxing with a book and taking in the view. Just make sure to get there early to grab the best seats. 

Make sure you dress warm when you’re out on the deck. If you’re worried about getting chilly, don’t worry- some cruise ships even provide fleece blankets to keep you warm and cozy.

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Get a Window Table

Another tip I have is to try to get a table by the window in the main dining room. Seeing wildlife during dinner is such a fun experience! I remember seeing seals and dolphins. I also love hearing the excited outbursts from other diners sitting by the window “Look, dolphins!” 

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Dress in Layers

When it comes to clothing, it’s important to dress in layers. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for both cold and hot temperatures. Bring a raincoat and an umbrella, and make sure to pack a winter jacket if you plan on going to the glaciers. Check out my Alaska cruise packing list with free packing list printable.

What to See

You’ll probably go to three ports, Skagway, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Skagway is a charming gold rush town. There’s not much to do at the port so it’s best to book a shore excursion. You can visit the White Pass Summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge , or take a bus tour of the Yukon to see wildlife and a dogsled camp. You can even go on a dogsled ride ! Or you can take a high speed catamaran to Haines where you will have an expert naturalist guide to view the wildlife at Chilkoot Lake State Park (that’s where I saw the bear in the wild!)

Ketchikan is a bigger port than Skagway. If you don’t book a shore excursion, you can walk around the shops at Creek Street, see the totem poles in Ketchikan, and even watch for seals & salmons at the creek next to Creek Street. 

But I do suggest, doing an excursion. You can take a seaplane to tour the breathtaking Misty Fjords , or opt for a budget-friendly Ketchikan tour to see the salmon ladder, totem poles and wildlife for less than $100. 

Juneau is the biggest port of the three. You can walk around the shops if you don’t book a shore excursion. But I don’t recommend it. You should at least go to Mendenhall Glacier. You can take a bus to get there! 

I highly recommend taking a shore excursion to Mendenhall Glacier. Go canoeing at Mendenhall Glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And if canoeing is too active for you, no worries- you can always opt for a whale watching and Mendenhall Glacier combo tour . 

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

Alaska cruise packing list

Caribbean cruise packing list

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Mexico cruise packing list

Bermuda Cruise Packing List

British Isle Cruise Packing List

25 Things People Forget to Pack on their Cruise

16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

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