kenai fjords boat tour reviews

Which kenai fjords tour is best for me?

Which Kenai Fjords Tour is best? Captain Leif of Northern Latitude Adventures here, and I get asked this question a lot. I will Break down the different options, and offer honest suggestions and recommendations based on my 20 years experience working on boats in Kenai Fjords National Park. Ultimately the answer to which Kenai Fjords tour is best won’t be the same for everyone. For Most people however, I recommend the 9 hr Kenai Fjords Ultimate Adventure . Keep reading to find out more.

How many Hours, and which Glacier(s)?

Which kenai fjords tour is best, half day or full day.

I know it might seem like there are a lot of options to choose from but lets check out the differences

Half Day – Bay Tours

Often refered to as “half day” or “bay tours” we have the 3.5 hr Resurrection Bay Tour , and the 3.5 hr Whale Watch . The olny difference between these two is whether you are here during “whale season”, or not. These tours are great for whale watching when in season, wildlife viewing and some very nice scenery. While they do make it into parts of Kenai Fjords National Park, they do NOT make it all the way to the calving tidewater glaciers . Resurrection Bay does have it’s own glaciers that add the the beautiful scenery. These Glaciers, including the massive Bear Glacier, can be seen from a distance but do not reach the ocean

Full Day Park Tours to the Glaciers

If you are looking to check out the glaciers that drop (calve) ice into the ocean then you are going to want to check out one of the “full day” or “park tours” . Here at Northern Latitude Adventures we offer 3 different park tours to the tidewater glaciers.

6 hour Tidewater Glacier Express

This is our shortest trip out to the glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park. We offer 2 departure options for this tour. Morning departure of 8:00 am – 2:00 pm. Due to the shorter time frame this tour is faster paced than our other park trips.

Holgate Glacier is typically the gacier visited on this trip. Holgate Glacier is about 1/2 a mile wide and several hundred feet tall at its face. While not the biggest glacier in the area it is very impressive and beautiful. Holgate does calve ice into the ocean every day. Keep in mind that large calvings can sometimes be several hours apart so luck and timing are key.

I recommend this trip for anyone who prefers a faster pace, such as families with small children. This is also a good option for groups with tight itineraries.

7.5 hour Kenai Fjords Glacier Odyssey

Our Classic Glacier and Wildlife cruise. Enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of time for a little bit of everything. With 7.5 hours and a relaxed schedule there is more time at each stop. Time spent at the glacier is usually 40-60 minutes compared to roughly 20-30 minutes on the 6 hr tour. We also have more time for exploring the coast, whale watching, and other wildlife viewing stops. Lunch is provided on this trip and we often eat while enjoying the view of the Glacier.

Aialik Glacier is the glacier we usually go to on this tour. It’s a little bit further to travel, but is worth the extra time. Aialik Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in our area at over 1 mile wide, and tends to be the most active as well. Calvings are more frequent here so it’s your best chance to see it happen. Since this is such a popular spot for tour boats and kayak trips we like to get there as early as possible. With our 8:00 am departure we often get the whole place to ourselves for a little while.

9 hour Kenai Fjords Ultimate Adventure

This is definately the best option for Birders, photographers as well as for anyone who wants more time to see the National Park and all of its Beauty and wildlife. Here we can travel further and deeper into Kenai Fords National Park to secluded coves and other areas many people never see. These tours are Captains Choice of Glacier and often see more than one tidewater glacier in the same trip as well having more time for wildlife viewing and coastal exploring than any of our other tours. Lunch is also provided on this trip and we often eat while enjoying the view of the Glacier.

Birders will definitely want to choose this option as it is the only trip that we offer with a focus on birding. Kittlitz’ murrlets can often be found in the waters of Northwesten Fjord or near Aialik Glacier. The tour also visits the Chiswell islands which is part of the Alaska National Maritime Wildlife Refuge. Its one of the best spots for birding around.

Aialik Glacier & Holgate Glacier Aialik Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in our area at over 1 mile wide, and tends to be one of the most active as well. Calvings are frequent here so it’s your best chance to see it happen. Holgate Glacier is about 1/2 a mile wide and several hundred feet tall at its face. While not the biggest glacier in the area it is very impressive and beautiful. We usually see both Holgate and Aialik Glacier up close on this trip making this the most glacier packed boat tour available.

Northwestern Glacier We sometimes choose to use the extra time of this trip to visit Northwestern Glacier which is even farther off the beaten path. Iceflows can actually make it difficult to aproach this glacier through its narrow fjord. While not as wide as Aialik, it is very tall and unique in its flow pattern.

I recommend the 9 hr Kenai Fjords Ultimate Adventure 6 passenger max glacier and wildlife cruise as the best Kenai Fjords tour option for most people.

By Captain Leif Brasher on October 7, 2020

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Kenai Fjords Tours

Review Highlights

“ We saw sea lions, sea otters, harbour seals, humpback whales, cute puffins-hundreds of them and of course orcas. ” in 44 reviews

“ Dinner on Fox Island wasn't anything to rave about - so probably not necessary to add to your itinerary but nonetheless, a 5/5 day. ” in 43 reviews

“ I found myself sitting inside to warm up and then popping back outside when there was wildlife or nice scenery! ” in 73 reviews

Location & Hours

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1304 4th Ave

Seward, AK 99664

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About the Business

Alaska's #1 Wildlife and Glacier Cruises-Kenai Fjords Tours- Specializing in sightseeing tours of Kenai Fjords National Park. View whales, glaciers, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, eagles and so much more. All tours include a meal in the price. Stop at Fox Island-- step ashore and enjoy our all you can eat Alaska Salmon and Prime Rib buffet. 6 different itineraries to choose from. …

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225 reviews

We had the most amazing time on Kenai Fjord Tours. We departed from Seward Alaska, and had a boat side view of Resurrection Bay, the Gulf of Alaska and the Holgate Glacier. Along the way we saw animals including mountain goats, sea otter, killer whales, puffin, eagles, hump back whales, sea lions and seals. We had an on boat lunch and a fantastic dinner meal on Fox Island served by friendly and outgoing staff. Most importantly was the friendly knowledgeable and interesting commentary by the captain and her crew which made every moment interesting and fun! I can't recommend this tour enough, it was worth every penny!

See all photos from Shaun B. for Kenai Fjords Tours

We did the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour (6 hours). This is a great way to see several glaciers up close and personal! We got lucky with such a beautiful day, but didn't see whales or bears, though we looked. But the scenery was worth it. The captain took us in and out of coves to search for wildlife, and we did see some harbor seals, puffins, sea lions, and eagles! We also got very close to the glaciers--I've been to a lot of glaciers on this trip but hadn't gotten as close as we did on this tour. The captain and crew were really wonderful--knowledgeable and very kind. We hit some very big waves and the crew walked around asking each person how they were doing and if they needed a bag, ginger ale or Dramamine, etc. They also warned us about the waves ahead of departure, so we could prep accordingly. The boat is two stories, and there is a lot of room both inside and out, though it was a bit tight getting in and out of the doors with people standing near them. The lunch they served exceeded my expectations. They served a chicken wrap for most people, a chicken salad for gluten free, veggie wrap for vegetarians, and chicken nuggets for kids. The wrap was really good! It also came with a granola bar, chips, and an Andes mint. At the end, they even passed out warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies! The galley also served drinks of all kinds.

The scenery

We got very close to the glaciers

Although the weather the day of our cruise was not ideal, our captain and staff made our experience truly memorable. This is an amazing tour and opportunity to see things you won't see from land! The 6 hour national park tour was just the right amount of time. We saw glaciers, waterfalls, puffins, seals, sea lions, and orcas. The captain and crew were great and super knowledgeable on what we saw. I highly recommend this tour! Pro-tip: take Dramamine if you think you might get seasickness.

This is an awesome tour and well-worth it! This was the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour that's about 5.5 hours. They also offer other tours. We saw so many animals - orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, harbor seals, puffins, murres...The tour guide knows the locations where the animals might be spotted and the tour companies let each other know where there are animals. Chances of seeing wildlife are great. The boat stops for a good amount of time to let you take pictures and enjoy the sighting. He also turns the boat so that both sides have the opportunity to see the animals or glacier. The guide also was good to let you know that the boat would be moving along so that you could get your last picture. The staff works hard on the boat to make sure everyone is having a good time. They are mindful that some may get seasick and make it a point to let you know to tell them if you are getting seasick. There are unprotected areas that do get a bit choppy so taking preventative motion sickness medication might be a good idea if prone to seasickness. The operator is very good about warning about choppy waters and saying for how long it will last before reaching calmer waters. They provide lunch. When we went, it was a chicken wrap, granola bar, and chips. There is a vegetarian option. They sell snacks and beverages. When we disembarked, they gave each of us a chocolate chip cookie.

A highlight of our first trip to Alaska was the 6-hour National Park tour. Getting to see the gorgeous landscape of Kenai Fjords NP and tons of wildlife (whales, puffins, seals, sea lions, porpoises, lots of birds) was epic. We saw multiple glaciers, but Holgate Glacier was the largest. It was so cool to be moving towards this glacier for the longest time, since it's so big. You can step in and out of the cabin whenever you want to get a closer look. The crew scooped up a piece of the calved glacier and I got to hold it! Be prepared- in early June, we wore warm winter coats, gloves, and hats. Sunglasses are always needed. A base layer of pants would have been nice. Also, the provided lunch was terrible (flavorless chicken wrap), so I'd recommend bringing your own food and water. It was funny to watch everyone realize that this food was so bad, and seek out sauces to drown the flavors. Dress warmly, exit the cabin as much as possible, and you'll have a blast!

Booked the 6 hour tour of Kenai Fjords, but seeing how the weather was i started to question if the tour would go on. I called twice to see if the tour was still on and was told it was rain or shine. I asked at what point would they consider cancelling the tour and was told if the water gets too choppy. I hoped for the best seeing how it was rainy and gloomy. The staff was super nice and helpful. The captain of the boat was very knowledgeable about the wildlife. He would point out animals on land and sea. The boat water was nice as well helping with food, pictures and checking on people in case anyone got sick. We were given a light lunch (choice between a chicken wrap, a vegetarian option and another that I can't remember). Lunch also included chips, granola bar and a chocolate. Later on we were also treated to a freshly baked chocolate cookie. Unfortunately for our tour group the captain had to make the safety decision to turn back around as the water in the direction we were heading was getting more intense. We spent the rest of the tour in resurrection bay whale hunting. We were able to spot a whale and got some good videos of it. Since the tour was not the complete 6 hours the company provides a partial refund. If i am ever back in Seward i will definitely rebook this tour and with this company.

See all photos from Vina R. for Kenai Fjords Tours

I appreciate how the itinerary is designed to hit a marquee glacier and otherwise flex based on the best wildlife possibilities. We didn't see any whales, likely due to being late season, but one black bear and mountain goat -- and tons of birds, seals, otters, and sea lions are practically guaranteed. Good small staff cheerfully working all the jobs simultaneously and keeping good watch for wildlife. The chicken wrap lunch was nothing great, but not bad, the kind of simple thing I'd make at home. I would advise that everyone going should be keen to absorb the scenery and watch for wildlife for several hours. There are fast sightings like puffins flying by that they can't announce. One time walking through the boat, I noticed like 8-10 people napping -- that's an expensive nap, and I'm not sure the stop at the glacier alone is worth making the trip. To that end, everyone should have either a huge telephoto or decent binoculars...the latter being pretty cheap relative to the cost of a ticket, and really necessary on any sort of Alaskan visit.

My notes from the Resurrection Bay Tour With Fox Island (which we called "the wildlife tour"): Nice, knowledgeable, professional crew. Sea otters, bald eagles, seals, mountain goats. The boat gets amazingly close to the shoreline. Arrive early to get a good seat on the boat. The only part less than excellent was the meal on Fox Island. Otherwise, A+.

We took a tour with this company last week and had the opportunity to see just about everything. We had a Black bear, Orcas, Humpback whales, Sea lions, Harbor seals, Sea otters, Tufted and Horned puffins, and many species of other bird life. There was also beautiful habitat and scenery along the trip, including a wide variety of islands, coves, and then of course, the glaciers. It's difficult to understand the size of the glaciers until you see a boat in front of one.

See all photos from Lamar G. for Kenai Fjords Tours

Decent tour with ample seating on boat. We did the 5 hr resurrection bay with lunch on fox island. The lunch was decent. Salmon way over cooked but still decent tasting. Steak was medium and very tender. Caesar salad and the curried quinoa were the best things on the plate. Didn't care for the green beans and wax beans with carrots and we love green beans. Chocolate cookies close to home were also a nice touch. It was a rainy day but we still saw a nice variety of wildlife and some of the features of the bay were lovely on the fog.

See all photos from Shelbie C. for Kenai Fjords Tours

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The 5 Best Kenai Fjords National Park Cruises [2024 Reviews]

If you’re looking to experience one of the most unique, fascinating places on Earth, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-see.

Located just south of Anchorage, it’s a hot spot for natural beauty, mountain views, lakes, abundant wildlife, and of course, its glaciers! If you want to experience the unmatchable nature in this park, we highly recommend going on a proper tour.

This way, you’re going with an experienced guide, and can make the difference between a boring and memorable time. We have all the top cruises in the Kenai Fjords Park right here, so don’t go anywhere!

Best Kenai Fjords Boat Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best kenai fjords cruises from seward.

• Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise From Seward
• Kenai Fjords Half Day Wildlife Cruise From Seward
• Kenai Fjords National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
• Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise From Seward

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise Reviews

1. kenai fjords national park 6-hour cruise from seward.

• Duration: 6 hours
• Departure: Tour desk located inside the Harbor 360 Hotel lobby, 1412 4th Ave, Seward
• Departure Time: Morning
• Includes:  Access to Kenai Fjords National Park, a ccess to Resurrection Bay, l ive tour guide, t ransport for activity duration: sightseeing cruise, b inoculars

Starting things out on the right foot, we bring you the Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise . This tour is consistently one of the highest-rated, and will take you through the stunning mountains and fjords of this legendary national park.

Not only that, but if you are looking to catch sight of some sea critters, you’re in the right place! Start out by heading to their tour desk in the morning, where you’ll meet up with your guide.

The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and will take you to go board the catamaran you’ll be taking out! This catamaran is one of the biggest in this area, and is perfect for traversing Resurrection Bay.

The cruise starts with Resurrection Bay, where your guide will give you a history of the area, its geography, and the kind of wildlife that lives here. They’ll keep an eye out for any whales (Orcas, Humpback, etc.), sea otters, puffins, and other animals in the bay.

A National Park Ranger will also tell you all about the animals, glaciers, fjords, and cultural history. The tour does provide you with binoculars so you can keep watch as well, and make sure you see everything they’re referring to. Make sure to take some photos, as well!

You’ll make a stop at an impressive tidewater glacier which has various calving events! This is where enormous pieces of ice break off from the glacier, crashing into the water below. It’s not guaranteed to happen while you’re there, but it could!

A full bar is also available if you’d like to sip on a beer or glacier margarita while exploring! The deli-style lunch served onboard is delicious, and tastes even better in the fresh air.

Weather can change quickly, so we highly recommend bringing some waterproof clothing and shoes!

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. kenai fjords half day wildlife cruise from seward.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure: Major Marine Tours desk inside the lobby of the Harbor 360 Hotel, 1412 4th Ave, Seward
• Includes:   Binoculars to use on board, s huttle from railroad depot or cruise ship port

Perhaps you want to experience everything the Kenai Fjords National Park has to offer, but have a busy schedule. Maybe you or someone else in your group gets seasick on longer water cruises.

Whatever the case may be, if you are on the hunt for a shorter tour, the Seward: Kenai Fjords Half Day Wildlife Cruise is perfect for you.

Head to the tour desk located inside the lobby of the Harbor 360 Hotel, where you’ll meet up with your guide. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes and warm layers, including a waterproof jacket and/or pants.

After taking the included shuttle from the railroad depot, board the large vessel, which can get a bit wet if it’s rainy. It all depends on the weather, but it’s not uncommon for it to be wet and windy.

As you cruise through the protected waters of Resurrection Bay, your guide will tell you all about the ecology, geology, and history of this area. Their personal stories and experiences were our personal favorites, and really made us see the bay differently.

The captain and crew are very experienced, so they will make sure to head towards the spots where wildlife is most commonly spotted. They do provide everyone with high-quality binoculars to ensure nothing is missed!

Depending on the time of year, you could sea otters with their pups on their bellies, floating over the waters. Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to see the impressively-fast Dall’s Porpoise, who love to play in the boat’s wake and entertain!

If you’re really lucky, you may even see massive whales like Orcas and Humpbacks. There are also tons of jellyfish and puffins hanging around!

Overall, if you’re looking for a tour for the entire family (including younger ones who may not do well on longer cruises), we can’t recommend this one enough!

3. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour with Fox Island

• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Departure:  Kenai Fjords Tours, 1304 4th Ave, Seward
• Departure Time: 10 am
• Includes:  8.5 hour sightseeing cruise, lunch, dinner, on-board wildlife guide

Our next tour is on the opposite end of the spectrum! If you are looking for an even longer tour than any we’ve covered so far, check this one out! The National Park Tour with Fox Island packs a lot of adventure into 8.5 hours, including time exploring the bay and on the island!

Start off at the Seward Small Boat Harbor, where you’ll meet your captain and crew, and board the impressive 95-foot cruise vessel. This is a non-smoking cruise so as to not bother any others onboard, as well as to not pollute this area which is home to so many beautiful plants and animals.

As you sail into the bay, you’ll learn all about the fascinating and ever-changing geology of the Harding Icefield, which has been around since the ice age. As you continue, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for animals like Minke whales, Orcas, Humpbacks, porpoises, sea otters, and harbor seals!

Just as well, the geography is breathtaking, with the jagged icy cliffs that surround the Kenai Peninsula, the crystalline fjords, and calving glaciers!

Of course, it’s best seen from the warm and cozy cabin complete with comfortable seating and unobstructed picture windows. Alternatively, the multi-level observation decks offer fresh air and a better vantage point if you’re looking from a distance.

Arrive at the secluded, gorgeous Fox Island, which also has quite the interesting human and natural history! Step off of the boat, where you’ll have plenty of time to stretch your legs and take a stroll around the beach and other parts of the island.

Then, head over to their charming day lodge and enjoy a delicious meal of crab cakes, salads, and rolls!

4. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

• Departure: 1412 4th Ave , 1412 4th Ave, Seward
• Includes:  Reserved seating in the heated cabin, water, coffee, and tea, use of binoculars, all taxes and fees included, souvenir booklet, lunch, onboard naturalist narration

Next, we have another 6-hour tour for you: the Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise ! You’ll get to take a gorgeous cruise with the company of an experienced naturalist to tell you all the about the area’s animals, geology, and much more!

If you’re looking to learn more about Alaska’s nature see one of the most phenomenal spots on the planet, stay tuned. Start your day off early, and set off on the very spacious, beautiful boat with reserved seating.

This ensures you’ll always have a spot, and don’t have to worry about “losing” your seat if you get up to check out better views on the upper observation decks. The captain and crew are very professional, and know this area like the back of their hands.

Start out in Resurrection Bay where your guide will tell you all about the history of this place, as well as the animals commonly found here, and more interesting stories. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of various animals such as whales, porpoises, puffins, sea otters, and more.

Continue on to see Holgate Glacier, which starts from the Harding Icefield, that has been around since the ice age. This glacier sees much less traffic than the Aialik Glacier, which can get quite busy.

However, both are very impressive and simply picturesque! If the timing is right, you may even get to see a glacier calving! This phenomenon is perhaps a bit scary at first, but is something most never get to witness.

Next, continue to the Chiswell Islands, which are a bunch of rocky, uninhabited islands that you can only access by boat or plane. These mysterious-looking islands are part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and an important bird sanctuary.

This is an incredible experience, and the friendly, professional staff really goes out of their way to make sure everyone has a great time.

5. Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise From Seward

• Duration: 7.5 hours
• Includes:   Binoculars to use on board, s huttle from railroad depot and cruise ship port, c offee, tea, and water, d eli lunch

If you’re trying to find another longer tour in Kenai Fjords, this is one of the few out there that are worth the time and money. The Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise will make sure you learn a lot and see a lot! Glaciers, mountains, wildlife, and much more are waiting for you!

We know that longer cruise tours are not for everyone, but if you really want to pack in as much as possible, it’s a great way to do so. Not only that, but we found the cruise very well-structured and laid out in a way that ensured everyone was always entertained.

Hop onboard a high-speed catamaran where you’ll have plenty of room to sit, walk around, and just enjoy this beautiful environment. You’ll start out in Resurrection Bay, where the guide will offer an educational narration about the area’s history, and will tell you a bit about what to expect on the tour.

The captain knows all the best places here with the greatest chances of seeing wildlife like whales, otters, seals, and countless seabirds like puffers! To make sure you aren’t missing out on anything, they also provide everyone with a pair of binoculars.

Next, head out to the Gulf of Alaska, past Bear Glacier. At a whopping 25 kilometers long, it’s the biggest in Kenai Fjords National Park and is one of the most jaw-dropping experiences on the Alaskan coast.

Check out two active tidewater glaciers as well: the Aialik and Holgate glaciers. Keep an eye out for calving glaciers, where massive sections of ice break off and crash into the water below.

The professional deckhands grab a piece of glacier ice, making “glacier margaritas” and other tasty cocktails for you to sip on as you watch. Coffee, tea, and water are always offered on board, as well.

Seward Tour Guide

Getting there.

Getting to Seward, Alaska most times is going to mean you have to fly directly into Anchorage’s Ted Stevens Airport. However, you can also get to Seward from Anchorage by train at just 29 bucks! With more than 100 passenger flights arriving daily to Anchorage’s international airport, you can snag a direct flight from just about any major US city.

There are various cruises you can take up to Alaska from the Pacific Northwest, along with the state ferry system. There are many that depart from Vancouver, BC, and the Alaska Marine Highway System offer regular ferry schedules between Bellingham, WA and Whittier, Alaska.

Getting Around

Seward is a pretty small town, and your preferred method of transportation may vary widely, depending on the time of year and weather conditions.

Walking – Due to its small size, if it’s not blisteringly cold, icy, or windy, it’s perfect for strolling around. The locals tend to be very friendly and will help our where they can. The air is so fresh, and due to its coastal location, offers incredible views that are best seen by foot or by cycling (especially along the waterfront path).

Shuttle – Seward does have the City of Seward Free Shuttle, which is a compact, 5-mile route that takes just half an hour to complete. It covers the cruise ship dock on cruise days, as well as the train depot, harbor, and downtown. Many hotels also offer transportation, and it is definitely worth asking about!

Where to Stay

Speaking of hotels, there are some tried-and-trusted options that we highly recommend. There really is something for everyone, depending on what you value most.

Seward Gateway Hotel – This is a brand-new hotel and was made just a couple of years ago! Located right on the harbor of Resurrection Bay, it’s perfect for catching your cruise(s) or just enjoying these stunning views of the ice-blue bay and jagged mountains.

Not only that, but it’s located just a mile from downtown’s best shops and restaurants! As they do offer a free shuttle running to/from the railroad depot and cruise ship dock you don’t have to worry about transportation, either.

Seward Harbor 360 Hotel – You may already recognize this name, as some of our tours originate here! This absolutely gorgeous hotel is located right on the waterfront – it’s pretty much impossible to get closer! As you can probably deduce from the name, it offers beautiful 360-degree views of Alaska’s majestic mountains and bay.

Abode Well Cabins – If you’re on a tight budget, these cozy little cabins are just the thing for you. You can choose either a King Cabin which includes a kitchenette and sleeps up to 3 people, a family cabin which features a full kitchen, separate bedrooms, and sleeps up to 8. You can also choose a Queen Studio Room, which is a bit smaller than the King Cabin.

Gateway Hotel Seward – This is yet another brand-new hotel, and is placed right along a salmon stream. It’s pretty, cozy, and located right next to most of Seward’s main attractions.

Breeze Inn Seward – This is another budget-friendly option which is located right in the center of Seward and includes a complimentary shuttle to local attractions, and transit spots.

Seward Windsong Lodge – Located just a few miles from Seward, this lodge is absolutely beautiful and worth the slightly further location! They include a free shuttle service to downtown and transit points anyway, so it’s not a big deal. The onsite restaurant is delicious, and tucked into a secluded forest!

Restaurants and Eating Out

As you can probably imagine, Seward has some incredible seafood. However, there is so much more to offer, too!

Chinook’s Bar and Grill – This nautical-themed location sits right on the harbor, offering beautiful views as you enjoy its fresh seafood, sandwiches, and steak.

The Sea Bean – For those mornings when you’re running late and need to catch a boat or tour, there’s The Sea Bean. This little coffee shop offers delicious pastries and fresh-brewed coffee to keep you warm on those chilly days. Do yourself a favor and try their Nutella paini!

The Cookery – Are you looking for the perfect date night spot or to celebrate a special occasion? Then check out The Cookery, which serves dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients including seafood, meat, produce, and even things like mushrooms and other “foraged finds”. Not to mention, they have a solid wine and beer menu!

Smoke Shack – Open only for breakfast and lunch, it’s one of the best places around! If you walk by, you’re sure to hear the loud music playing first in this restaurant set inside an old train car right on the water! It’s always a good time, with friendly locals, a great setting, and delicious southern comfort food.

Apollo Restaurant – Perhaps you’re craving the taste of the Mediterranean, and you’ll find it all here! Gyros, steak, seafood, pastas, and delicious pizzas are all freshly-prepared however you’ll be paying for that freshness.

Nightlife and Entertainment

You probably shouldn’t expect pumping nightclubs that go until the morning here, or massive chandeliers and bottles of premium champagne popping on the dancefloors. However, there is a solid nightlife with convivial spots perfect for getting to know the locals and this beautiful place.

Seward Brewing Company – We’ll let you in on a little secret: Seward has some great brews, and this place is one of the best. This jolly brewpub offers local brews and very interesting dishes in a modern space with plenty of room, and rustic elements that fit perfectly into Alaska.

Yukon Bar – This local dive is always a blast, and is the perfect way to start out the night. This watering hole offers up the typical dive bar drinks and bar snacks. However, you’ll be entertained by the locals, the chatty bartenders, and the most random items adorning the walls and ceilings!

Flamingo Lounge – Just recently changing ownership, it was once the historic spot of “Thorn’s Showcase Lounge”. Most of the food will remain the same, such as its halibut chunks, but the cocktail menu is more upscale with craft cocktails. However, they’re going to keep the Thorn’s Famous White Russians around.

Pit Bar & Liquor Store – This is the place everyone goes to after everything else is closed. Good cocktails and beer with a dive bar atmosphere, except it offers amazing barbecue, poke bowls, fish, and pork. Not only that, but the staff is always nice.

It’s never really hot or that warm in Seward, though July to mid-August are the warmest times. However, it’s rare that it gets above 70 degrees even during these months. From the beginning of June to mid-September, you can expect an average daily high of about 56 degrees. The cold season, from November to mid-March is about 37 on average. However, you should bring clothing for cold, wet weather no matter what time you’re visiting.

Attractions

Go Hiking – This is best done during the warmer months, but you can go hiking really any time of year in Seward. Some of the best hikes will take you by pristine lakes, thick forests, or by enormous glaciers!

Take a Water Taxi – They’re super cheap, and will open up the possibilities in terms of exploration. Caine’s Head is a popular one! It has an abandoned WWII fort that’s really interesting! If it starts getting dark, spend the night in a cabin!

Visit the SeaLife Center – This one is famous in Alaska, and lets you see harbor seals, Steller sea lions, puffins, giant octopi, and much more! It’s great if you saw them on your tour and now want to see them more up-close!

Flightseeing – Alaska is a phenomenal place, and views from the water are incredible. However, seeing it from the air is another one of the best ways to see this dramatic landscape! The pilots are very experienced, and keep your safety at the forefront of any flight.

Walk Downtown/Waterfront – As we mentioned earlier, walking around Seward is easy and one of the best ways to see the area. Downtown offers an array of little charming boutique shops and delicious restaurants. The waterfront has some beautiful restaurants and bars, as well!

• As we said before, it’s a good idea to pack for wet, cold weather no matter the time of year. Wearing layers is best, as they’ll keep you warm. If you get too hot, you can always take a layer off. Make sure your outer layers are waterproof.
• Bring boots. They should be comfortable to walk in, and have a nice tread that won’t leave you slipping all over the place.
• Respect nature. Alaska is a state that takes its wildlife and natural environment very seriously. Seward has very unique ecosystems, and there’s a lot to learn about, from its temperate rainforests to glaciers.
• Hotels are very helpful regarding transportation! If you need help transitioning from a cruise ship or train depot, they can handle the logistics for you and most times, it’s free. Tips are always appreciated, though!

Tour Guides

The Kenai Fjords 6-Hour Cruise From Seward is our Editors Choice for the best Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

Robert Baker

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Alaska (AK) » 14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours

14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours

Featuring breathtaking valleys, towering ice walls, and some of North America’s most unique wildlife, the Kenai Fjords, and surrounding waters are indeed a sight to behold.

Kenai Fjords National Park is comprised of more than 1,000 square miles and more than three dozen individual glaciers, making it a magnet for nature lovers, photographers, and all-around lovers of the great outdoors.

Most tours of the area depart from Seward and come in a variety of lengths and options suitable for those of most ages, interests, and levels of physical ability.

Below are 14 of the best and most popular Kenai Fjord tours.

1. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

Even during the summer months, the weather conditions in Alaska can be downright harsh, and short tours are usually best.

This six-hour tour includes ample time with amazing fjords and glaciers, as well as a chance to get up-close-and-personal with whales, otters, and puffins.

Guests will be whisked to the park on one of the largest, fastest, and most stable catamarans in the area. If the weather gets to be too much, it’s possible to retreat to the indoor restaurant and bar for refreshments.

Narration from a park ranger is included, as is an impressive lunch buffet if you’ve chosen that option at booking.

2. Kenai Fjords Half-Day Wildlife Cruise

According to those who’ve been, Resurrection Bay is one of the most secluded stretches of pristine water they’ve ever encountered.

In addition to the epic fjords that tend to leave viewers speechless, tour participants can generally expect to see lots of wildlife, like dolphins, otters, whales, and a variety of marine bird species.

The boat tour includes narration from an experienced guide, free use of binoculars while onboard, and round-trip transportation from the train station or cruise ship port.

It’s best to wear layers appropriate for a variety of weather conditions and to bring a few dollars for food and drinks.

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3. Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5-Hour Cruise

For hearty travelers who laugh at frigid temperatures and stiff sea winds, this 7 ½ hour tour of Kenai Fjords National Park is probably a perfect fit.

It’s longer than most tours, which means more opportunity to take in the once-in-a-lifetime sights along the Alaskan coast.

Guests will get within a stone’s throw of staggeringly big tidewater glaciers, sea lion colonies, and marine bird breeding grounds.

The tour includes the services of a National Park Ranger, who’ll impart lots of interesting information about the area’s wildlife and geologic history while you’re being mesmerized by the sights.

Coffee, tea, and water are complimentary.

4. Kenai Fjords Wildlife 5-Hour Cruise

For most warm-blooded visitors and those without stout sea legs, tours to Kenai Fjords National Park that last between four and five hours are generally the best.

Though this five-hour cruise tour of Resurrection Bay focuses on wildlife, it also gives guests unparalleled access to the park’s majestic fjords, mountains, and glaciers.

You’ll definitely want to bring a camera to capture it all. It’s possible to choose a lunch option which includes fresh Alaskan salmon and prime rib served buffet-style.

Expect to see tons of wildlife, amazing vistas, and massive chunks of glacial ice plunging into the deep blue waters below.

5. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise

Young? Fit? Adventurous?

If you answered yes to all three, then this full-day Kenai Fjords National Park Adventure Cruise should be on your itinerary.

Forget stepping onto a massive catamaran with dozens of other passengers; this is a small-boat excursion, which means a more exciting and intimate experience.

The tour winds its way through Resurrection Bay, Granite Pass, and the Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.

That means epic sights, lifelong memories, and up-close access to lots of unique marine animals that may include killer whales, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, and puffins.

Not sure? Click the link below for specific information.

6. Bear Glacier Private Flight Tour from Seward

There’s really no bad way to take in such a stunning natural wonder as Bear Glacier, but it’s definitely special to see by air.

Bear Glacier is the longest in Kenai Fjords National Park, and for those who are traveling on tight itineraries, this 30-minute tour is the perfect way to see it in all its majesty.

Due to the tour’s short length, you won’t get a buffet meal or complimentary champagne, but they’ll probably be the farthest things from your mind as you swoop over some of the continent’s most impressive natural formations.

A number of departure times are available to accommodate those with different schedules.

7. Aialik Glacier Wildlife Cruise and Kayaking

First off, kayaking in Alaska isn’t a good idea for everyone, but it’s one of the most memorable ways to experience Kenai Fjords National Park for those who’ve got the guts and muscle.

This 10-hour tour is limited to 12 persons, so it’s great for young families and those traveling in groups looking for a more intimate and exhilarating experience than they’ll find elsewhere.

It includes lunch, light snacks, all the necessary gear and training, and an experienced guide dedicated to making the excursion a safe and memorable one.

Plan on seeing lots of wildlife along the way as well, and sleeping like a log when the day is done.

8. Small Group Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise

With a maximum of only six guests, this half-day whale and wildlife cruise is excellent for those who prefer to distance themselves from the crowds.

That means a truly VIP experience, and although the vessel is relatively small, there’s ample room in the cabin to get out of the elements if necessary.

During the summer, it’s common to see whales and orcas, but since animals rarely cooperate, the captain will tailor the tour depending on the conditions at the time.

Tours typically last between three and four hours and include amazing views of the glaciers.

They depart at 9:00 am, and all guests must be at least two years old.

9. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward

At nearly 100 feet long, the vessel that conveys sightseers to Kenai Fjords National Park on this six-hour morning tour is fast, safe, and warm.

The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is brimming with fantastic wildlife. When seen in conjunction with the stunning natural wonders for which the park is most well-known, it makes for a uniquely unforgettable experience.

Lunch is included, as is a professional narration from an experienced guide, who’ll describe the things you’re seeing and their significance in a fascinating and educational way.

It’s a great tour option for those traveling with little ones and the elderly.

10. Bear Glacier Kayaking Adventure with Jet Boat Transport

You may just fancy yourself a budding Bear Grylls after tackling the great outdoors in this adventure tour that includes jet-boat transportation and kayaking around the majestic Bear Glacier.

Eager participants will be whisked from Seward to Bear Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, and from there, depart on the kayak portion of their trip.

Definitely a tour best left to the young at heart, it’s limited to just six guests, ensuring that each hearty paddler gets the personal attention they expect.

Sea otters, seals, and a variety of marine birds are commonly seen, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

11. Glacier & Wildlife Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park

At between seven and eight hours, this glacier and wildlife cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park is a bit on the long side, but it’s a great option for those who have a whole day to dedicate to seeing the area’s scenery and wildlife.

It’s limited to six guests, so it’s a VIP-style excursion.

The tour is conducted on a small vessel, which previous participants agree provides a much more memorable experience than those on large boats with hundreds of other guests.

Depending on the season, it’s not uncommon to see whales, orcas, and other marine animals in addition to the towering glaciers and mind-boggling fjords.

12. Helicopter Glacier Landing

Helicopter tours definitely aren’t the cheapest option when it comes to experiencing the Kenai Fjords, but they offer tour guests views that boat tours just can’t.

This 45-minute tour departs from Seward and includes time over Kenai Fjords National Park, Resurrection Bay, and the Godwin Glacier.

For photographers, it’s in a class of its own, and leaves plenty of time for those who’d like to schedule a half-day boat tour later on.

Due to comfort and space issues, weight restrictions apply, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

There’s also a minimum of two guests per booking, so find a friend before scheduling your tour.

13. Orca Quest Cruise

Nearly all cruise tours of the Kenai Fjords include both glacier and wildlife viewing, but this four-hour orca cruise is one of the few that focuses solely on killer whales.

The orca season generally lasts from May to June, and they’re often seen in Resurrection Bay.

Guests will not only have a high chance of seeing the majestic marine mammals, but hearing them as well through a hydrophone that clearly captures the clicks and chirps they use to communicate with one another.

Tours include narration from an experienced naturalist, who’ll explain their family structure, feeding habits, and seasonal migratory patterns.

14. Half-Day Whale Watch & Wildlife Cruise

This half-day whale and wildlife cruise generally lasts between three and four hours, and departs at 3 pm, making it a good option for those who’d like to take another tour in the morning.

The tour is capped at six guests, and though the boat is small, there’s heated indoor seating and restrooms.

The summer months in Alaska are when a variety of whale species are seen around Seward, and massive humpbacks are the most common.

Conditions can still be cold and rough, so it’s wise to wear warm layers, as the conditions can change on a dime.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

14 Best Kenai Fjord Tours:

• 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

Kenai Fjords Tours

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Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward

Northwestern Fjord Sightseeing Cruise from Seward

Kenai Fjords Glacier Dinner Cruise from Seward

Resurrection Bay Cruise with Fox Island

National Park Tour with Fox Island

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

KENAI FJORDS TOURS (Seward) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Kenai Fjords Tours

• See all photos

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward

Northwestern Fjord Sightseeing Cruise from Seward

Kenai Fjords Glacier Dinner Cruise from Seward

Resurrection Bay Cruise with Fox Island

National Park Tour with Fox Island

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Kenai Fjords Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Kenai Fjords Cruises

About our kenai fjords cruises.

For over 30 years, Major Marine Tours has been showing our guests Alaska’s towering glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and stunning scenery on our world-class Kenai Fjords cruises. Surrounded by steep mountain walls and glacier-carved fjords, Kenai Fjords National Park provides the perfect habitat for Steller sea lions, sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, mountain goats, bald eagles, puffins, and a vast number of seabirds. Our Kenai Fjords National Park cruises offer some of the best whale watching opportunities in Alaska, with chances of seeing humpback whales, orca whales, gray whales, fin whales, and minke whales.

We offer multiple cruise options departing from the beautiful harbor town of Seward, Alaska. We have something for everyone, from half-day cruises perfect for families to full-day small vessel adventure cruises ideal for photographers and birders. Our Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise was voted most popular attraction in Alaska by TripAdvisor in 2018, and we were named one of the top 10 boat tours in North America by the USA Today Reader’s Choice Award in 2020!

8.5 Hour Northwestern Fjord Cruise

MAY 31 – SEPTEMBER 2, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $289.00 Cruise not suitable for children under 12.

7.5 Hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

MAY 24 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $239.00 CHILD PRICE $119.50

6 Hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

MAY 4 – SEPTEMBER 22, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $219.00 CHILD PRICE $109.50

4 Hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise

JUNE 17 – OCTOBER 13, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $139.00 CHILD PRICE: $69.50

Orca Quest Cruise

MAY 13 – JUNE 16, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $139.00 CHILD PRICE $69.50

Spring Wildlife Cruise

MARCH 8 – MAY 12, 2024

ADULT PRICE: $109.00 CHILD PRICE $54.50

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For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.888.478.3346

• 4 hr. Spring Resurrection Bay Tour
• 5 hr. Resurrection Bay Tour with Fox Island
• 5.5 hr. Glacier Dinner Cruise
• 6 hr. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
• 8 hr. Northwestern Fjord Tour
• 8.5 hr. National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Fox Island History
• Room with a Cruise
• Private Charters

Northwestern Fjord Tour

Traveling further into Kenai Fjords than any other tour, this is a journey to the remote Northwest

Carved out by glaciers, the Northwestern Fjord is unlike anywhere else on earth. Watch for wildlife at every turn, and get so close to the glaciers you can almost touch them on this fully-narrated full-day cruise. Seabird rookeries dot the islands and alpine glacier cover the horizon. What a place!

*Vegetarian and gluten-free items are available upon request. Meal options may vary and are subject to change without notice.

Lock in the best rate when you book in advance Ages 1 and under cruise free Cancel up to 4 days before your trip for a full refund

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.888.478.3346

2024 Tour Dates: May 25 – August 25

Kenai Fjords Tours Safety Promise Guest Information & Reservation Policy

Operating since 1974, Kenai Fjords Tours has the most experienced and knowledgeable captains, sailing the newest fleet of custom sightseeing vessels operating in Kenai Fjords National Park.

These tidewater glaciers are always active – calving and moving and crashing into the sea. In the alpine zone, high-mountain glaciers glisten in the sun.

Watch for wildlife at every turn, including the playful sea lions hanging out on cliffs and in coves.

Tips & Tricks

Tours fill up very quickly, so we recommend you book well in advance to secure your preferred tour.

Arrive early for day trips to take advantage of our free parking and shuttle service.

Dress in layers and bring a water-repellent jacket. Coastal weather changes quickly.

Make sure you have a fresh memory card and your batteries are charged — you'll be taking tons of photos.

The #KenaiFjordsTours Experience

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A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

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Major Marine Tours - Kenai Fjords Cruise

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Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half-Day Wildlife Cruise

Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise

Orca Quest Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Major Marine Tours - Kenai Fjords Cruise - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)