Summary
- Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
- Kenai Fjords Half-Day Wildlife Cruise
- Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise
- Kenai Fjords Wildlife 5-Hour Cruise
- Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise
- Bear Glacier Private Flight Tour from Seward
- Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking
- Small Group Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise
- Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward
- Bear Glacier Kayaking Adventure with Jet Boat Transport
- Glacier & Wildlife Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park
- Helicopter Glacier Landing
- Orca Quest Cruise
- Half-Day Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise
Featuring breathtaking valleys, towering ice walls, and some of North America’s most unique wildlife, the Kenai Fjords, and surrounding waters are undoubtedly a remarkable destination.
Kenai Fjords National Park encompasses over 1,000 square miles and more than three dozen individual glaciers, rendering it a focal point for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and fans of outdoor activities alike.
Most excursions in the region depart from Seward and offer various lengths and options suitable for individuals of diverse ages, interests, and physical capabilities.
Below are 14 of the top and most sought-after Kenai Fjord tours.
1. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
Even during the summer months, weather conditions in Alaska can be quite severe, making shorter tours typically the most favorable.
This six-hour excursion provides substantial time to explore the stunning fjords and glaciers, along with an opportunity to observe whales, otters, and puffins up close.
Participants will be transported to the park on one of the largest, fastest, and most stable catamarans available. Should the weather become challenging, guests can retreat to the indoor restaurant and bar for refreshments.
Narration from a park ranger is included, as well as an impressive lunch buffet if you have selected that option.
2. Kenai Fjords Half-Day Wildlife Cruise
According to visitors, Resurrection Bay is one of the most isolated stretches of pristine water they have encountered.
Alongside the breathtaking fjords that tend to leave observers in awe, tour participants can generally expect to witness abundant wildlife, including dolphins, otters, whales, and various marine bird species.
The boat tour includes narration from an experienced guide, complimentary use of binoculars while onboard, and round-trip transportation from the train station or cruise ship port.
It is advisable to wear layers suitable for varying weather conditions, and to bring a small amount of cash for food and beverages.
3. Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise
For adventurous travelers who are unfazed by frigid temperatures and brisk sea winds, this 7.5-hour excursion of Kenai Fjords National Park may be an ideal choice.
Being longer than most tours, it allows for more opportunities to appreciate the extraordinary sights along the Alaskan coastline.
Participants will get remarkably close to immense tidewater glaciers, sea lion colonies, and marine bird breeding areas.
The tour includes the services of a National Park Ranger, who will provide interesting insights regarding the area’s wildlife and geological history as you revel in the breathtaking views.
Coffee, tea, and water are complimentary throughout the journey.
4. Kenai Fjords Wildlife 5-Hour Cruise
For most warm-blooded visitors and those who may not enjoy turbulent seas, cruises to Kenai Fjords National Park lasting between four and five hours are generally optimal.
This five-hour excursion in Resurrection Bay emphasizes wildlife observations while also providing unparalleled access to the park’s magnificent fjords, mountains, and glaciers.
Bringing a camera is essential to capture the stunning views. There is an option for lunch that features fresh Alaskan salmon and prime rib served in a buffet style.
Be prepared to encounter abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and impressive chunks of glacial ice descending into the deep blue waters below.
5. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise
Are you youthful, fit, and seeking adventure?
If you respond affirmatively to all three, then this full-day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise should be included in your travel plans.
Instead of boarding a large catamaran filled with numerous other guests, this experience promises a smaller vessel, providing a more thrilling and personalized adventure.
The tour navigates through Resurrection Bay, Granite Pass, and the Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.
This guarantees breathtaking views, memorable experiences, and up-close interactions with a variety of marine species, including killer whales, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, and puffins.
For further details, click the link below.
6. Bear Glacier Private Flight Tour from Seward
There is truly no inferior way to appreciate the magnificent spectacle that is Bear Glacier, but experiencing it from the air is indeed exceptional.
Bear Glacier is the longest in Kenai Fjords National Park, and for travelers on tight schedules, this 30-minute tour serves as the perfect way to behold its grandeur.
Due to the brevity of the tour, a buffet meal or complimentary champagne will not be provided, but those will likely be the last thing on your mind as you glide over some of the continent’s most striking natural features.
A variety of departure times are available to cater to different schedules.
7. Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking
Firstly, kayaking in Alaska may not suit everyone, but it remains one of the most remarkable ways to explore Kenai Fjords National Park for those who possess the requisite courage and strength.
This 10-hour tour is restricted to a maximum of 12 participants, making it ideal for young families and groups seeking a more personal and adrenaline-filled excursion than typically available.
The experience includes lunch, light snacks, all necessary equipment and training, along with a skilled guide committed to ensuring a safe and memorable journey.
Anticipate sighting various wildlife along the way and enjoying a restful sleep at the end of the day.
8. Small Group Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise
With a limit of only six guests, this half-day whale and wildlife cruise is ideal for those who wish to avoid larger crowds.
As a result, participants enjoy a genuinely VIP experience. Although the vessel is relatively small, there is sufficient space within the cabin to shelter from the elements if required.
During the summer months, it is common to spot whales and orcas; however, due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, the captain will customize the tour based on the prevailing conditions.
Typically, tours last between three and four hours and showcase spectacular glacier views.
They commence at 9:00 am, and all participants must be at least two years old.
9. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward
At nearly 100 feet in length, the vessel transporting visitors to Kenai Fjords National Park on this six-hour morning cruise is swift, secure, and comfortable.
The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is teeming with remarkable wildlife. When combined with the stunning natural attractions for which the park is renowned, it creates an exceptionally memorable experience.
Lunch is provided, along with narration from an adept guide, who will detail the sights and their significance in an engaging and informative manner.
This tour option is particularly suitable for families with young children and seniors.
10. Bear Glacier Kayaking Adventure with Jet Boat Transport
You might envision yourself as an aspiring adventurer after navigating the great outdoors in this tour featuring jet-boat transportation and kayaking around the majestic Bear Glacier.
Eager participants will be transported from Seward to Bear Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, after which they will embark on the kayak section of their journey.
This tour is best suited for those with youthful spirits, as it accommodates only six guests, ensuring that each eager paddler receives the personal attention they deserve.
Common sightings include sea otters, seals, and a range of marine birds, with both morning and afternoon departures available.
11. Glacier & Wildlife Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park
Spanning seven to eight hours, this glacier and wildlife cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park is slightly lengthy, yet it is an excellent option for those who can dedicate an entire day to witnessing the area’s scenic views and wildlife.
Limited to six guests, this VIP-style tour is conducted on a smaller vessel, which participants unanimously agree offers a far more memorable experience than larger boats that accommodate hundreds of other individuals.
Depending on the season, it is not unusual to observe whales, orcas, and other marine creatures alongside the towering glaciers and awe-inspiring fjords.
12. Helicopter Glacier Landing
Helicopter tours are certainly not the most economical option for experiencing the Kenai Fjords; however, they offer an unparalleled perspective that traditional boat tours cannot match.
This 45-minute tour departs from Seward and encompasses aerial views of Kenai Fjords National Park, Resurrection Bay, and the Godwin Glacier.
For photographers, it stands out on its own, allowing sufficient time for those who also wish to schedule a half-day boat tour subsequently.
Due to issues concerning comfort and capacity, weight restrictions are applicable, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
A minimum of two guests are required per booking, so be sure to find a companion before arranging your tour.
13. Orca Quest Cruise
Almost all cruise tours of the Kenai Fjords feature both glacier and wildlife observation, yet this four-hour orca cruise is among the few dedicated solely to killer whales.
The orca viewing season typically occurs from May to June, and they can often be spotted in Resurrection Bay.
Participants will not only have a high probability of observing these majestic marine mammals but also will have the opportunity to listen to them using a hydrophone that clearly captures the sounds they make for communication.
Tours include narration from an experienced naturalist, who will elaborate on their family dynamics, feeding habits, and seasonal migratory patterns.
14. Half-Day Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise
This half-day whale and wildlife cruise typically lasts between three and four hours and departs at 3 pm, making it a suitable option for those wishing to embark on another tour in the morning.
The tour limits attendance to six participants, ensuring that while the vessel may be small, there is heated indoor seating and restrooms available.
During the summer months, a variety of whale species can be seen in the Seward area, with the massive humpbacks being the most commonly spotted.
As conditions can remain cold and turbulent, it is advisable to dress in warm layers, as weather can change rapidly.
Additionally, please note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible; however, service animals are permitted.
