Ketchikan, Alaska, isn’t just a port of call; it’s a showcase of natural beauty, rich culture, and wild outdoor activities. Its compact size and stunning surroundings make it ideal for a variety of tours — whether you’re into wildlife, fishing, or just snapping epic photos. We love the Off the Beaten Path Ketchikan Photo Safari, which combines beautiful scenery with expert photography tips, helping you create lasting memories. This small-group tour offers exclusive access to iconic spots like Creek Street and Totem Heritage Center, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot.
Ketchikan’s tours stand out because of their focus on authentic experiences — from wildlife encounters like whales and eagles to cultural insights at Saxman Village. With options for adventure, relaxation, and culture, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you have limited time or want to go deep into the wilderness, this list offers choices that highlight what makes Ketchikan special.
1. Off the Beaten Path Ketchikan Photo Safari – 3 hr.
This small-group photography tour is ideal for anyone wanting to turn their camera into a storytelling tool. Your guide takes you through Ketchikan’s most photogenic spots like Creek Street, the Totem Heritage Center, and scenic harbor views. The key feature: helpful tips on exposure, composition, and camera settings tailored to all skill levels, from smartphone shooters to DSLR enthusiasts.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of cultural, historical, and natural sights with personalized guidance. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and ability to find those perfect shots, like eagles in flight or salmon spawning. The tour is limited to nine people, ensuring lots of individual attention. It’s perfect if you want to capture the essence of Ketchikan in photos while learning new techniques. At around $134, the value is excellent for a hands-on cultural and visual experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for photography lovers who want local insights and exclusive access to highlights, all in a relaxed, small-group setting.
2. Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour
For about $161, the Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour offers an immersive paddle through Clover Pass—where the Tongass National Forest meets the Pacific Ocean. No experience is necessary, and guides lead you past sea lions, humpback whales, and eagle nests. It’s a true wildlife-watching adventure, with guides sharing insights about Alaska’s ecology along the way.
Guests love the chance to see native Alaskan wildlife up close, and many mention how friendly and attentive the guides are. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it suitable for families or those new to kayaking. Plus, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise port make logistics hassle-free. The combination of wildlife sightings and eco-education makes this a top choice for eco-conscious travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal if wildlife and scenic paddling are your priorities. It’s a peaceful way to experience Ketchikan’s waters without needing prior kayaking skills.
3. Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan
If you’re intrigued by Alaska’s famous crab industry, this crab fishing tour on the Aleutian Ballad is a must. It’s a 3-hour ride through the Inside Passage, where you’ll see king crab, prawns, and rockfish hauled from the deep. The crew shares lively tales of their life at sea, much like what you see on the TV show Deadliest Catch.
What makes this tour special is its authenticity: you get to see real crab pots, touch the catch, and hear stories of the unpredictable Bering Sea. The reviews highlight the crew’s passion and knowledge, with many noting eagle sightings and fun photo ops. At $236, it’s a bit pricier but offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at commercial fishing, perfect for those curious about maritime life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers fascinated by fishing, sea lore, and wildlife—this tour combines education with genuine adventure.
4. Wildlife Viewing and Whale Watching Quest
For those with limited time, the Whale Watching Quest provides a 2.5-hour trip focused on spotting humpback whales, eagles, and seals. The boat is cozy, with indoor and outdoor seating, ensuring comfort in all weather. The local, family-run company prides itself on knowing the best whale spots, increasing your chances of a sighting.
Reviews emphasize the friendly crew and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat, even if whales are elusive on a particular day. Snacks and drinks are included, making it a relaxed experience suitable for all ages. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a short, focused wildlife adventure that emphasizes quality sightings over quantity.
Bottom Line: A perfect option for wildlife enthusiasts who want a reliable, well-organized trip with the best chance of whale encounters.
5. Ketchikan Electric Bike and Rain Forest Hike Ecotour
This 4-hour combo tour (around $161) combines electric biking and a walk through the Tongass National Forest. You’ll pedal along the “road to nowhere,” passing lush scenery, active salmon streams, and waterfalls. Afterward, your guide leads you on a trail where you may spot deer, salmon, and other native wildlife.
The electric bikes help with hills, making it accessible for most fitness levels, and guides share insights into the forest’s flora and fauna. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and the chance to see wildlife in a pristine environment. This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers who want a mix of activity and nature.
Bottom Line: Excellent if you want to experience both biking and hiking with a focus on native wildlife and scenery.
6. Mahoney Lake Off-Road UTV Tour
For a more rugged experience, the UTV tour takes you along mountain trails toward Mahoney Lake. The 3-hour and 45-minute adventure involves riding larger, more comfortable UTVs through forests and along fjords, with chances to see eagles, goats, and deer. The tour includes a picnic lunch of smoked reindeer links and hot chocolate.
Guests mention how the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the scenery is exceptional. The tour is a good fit for those wanting off-road excitement and wildlife viewing away from the crowds. The $255 price reflects the private transportation and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a scenic, off-road adventure with a focus on wildlife and Alaska’s rugged landscape.
7. Private Fishing Charter in Ketchikan
If fishing is your priority, the Private Fishing Charter offers a tailored experience for your party. Over about five hours, you’ll fish for salmon and halibut in calm, protected waters, with all equipment provided. It’s an opportunity to relax, bond, and maybe even land the catch of a lifetime.
Reviewers highlight the calm waters and the guides’ adaptability, making it great for families or groups of friends. The price is high at $900, but it includes a personalized, private outing you won’t find elsewhere. It’s perfect if you’re serious about fishing or want a special, intimate day on the water.
Bottom Line: Suited for dedicated anglers seeking private, flexible fishing in some of Alaska’s best waters.
8. Ketchikan salmon and halibut fishing charter
For a more extensive fishing experience, the Salmon and Halibut Charter offers either 4 or 6 hours of focused fishing. This trip provides the chance to catch multiple species, including King Salmon, sockeye, and halibut, with expert guidance along the way. The boat is equipped with all gear, and trips are customizable based on your interests.
Guests rave about the professional captain and the ease of reeling in fish, with some even arranging to ship their catch home. The experience is suited for serious anglers or families wanting a deep-water fishing adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a flexible, multi-hour fishing trip with high success rates and personalized attention.
9. Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Rainforest Canopy Ropes and Zipline Adventure Park
This 3.5-hour outdoor activity combines ziplines, canopy ropes, suspended logs, and rope bridges. It’s designed for thrill-seekers of all levels, with safety gear and instructions provided. You’ll get breathtaking views of the treetops and possibly spot eagles or bears along the way.
Reviewers note the guides’ professionalism and the fun, exhilarating nature of the tour. It’s a good fit for families, adventure lovers, or anyone wanting to experience Alaska’s rainforests from above. The tour’s limited size ensures personalized attention, making it a popular choice for cruise passengers.
Bottom Line: A high-energy outdoor adventure suitable for all ages, with spectacular forest views and wildlife sightings.
10. Orca Cove Sea Kayaking
At $195, the Orca Cove Sea Kayaking tour takes you on a 3-hour paddle to see bears, whales, eagles, and seals. Starting with a short boat ride, you’ll explore shoreline habitats in waters known for their wildlife density. Kayaking is gentle enough for newcomers yet exciting enough for experienced paddlers.
Guests often mention the friendly guides and the chance to hold a starfish or see humpbacks. The tour is especially valued for its small-group setting and the opportunity to enjoy Alaska’s wilderness at a slow pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers who want an active, close-up experience in a peaceful setting.
11. Snorkel Alaska
If you’re curious about underwater life, the Snorkel Alaska trip offers a guided snorkeling adventure right from the cruise dock. Expect to see sea stars, urchins, and possibly whales or seals, all while wearing provided wetsuits and gear. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
The reviews highlight the professional guides and the chance to see Alaska’s marine life up close. The tour is a great value at $209.99 and offers a unique perspective on the region’s underwater ecosystems.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a hands-on, marine-focused experience without needing prior snorkeling experience.
12. Rainforest Canopy & Zipline Adventure in Ketchikan, AK
This zipline tour is all about thrills and forest views. It includes eight ziplines, suspension bridges, and the chance to spot wildlife like eagles and bears. The small group size keeps things personal, and safety gear is provided.
Guests rave about the expert guides and the exhilarating experience flying over the forest canopy. It’s suited for adventure seekers and families alike, with options to incorporate the historic totem park and sawmill.
Bottom Line: A lively, outdoor adventure that combines adrenaline with scenic views and wildlife sightings.
13. Misty Fjords Flight Tour
This 1-hour flight offers stunning aerial views of Misty Fjords National Monument. Flying in a Dehavilland Beaver bush plane, you’ll see waterfalls, mountain peaks, and wild goats. Pilot narration adds depth, sharing insights into the geology and wildlife.
Guests often say the views are breathtaking, and the personal narration makes it a memorable trip. The tour’s compact length and limited seats (six per plane) make it perfect for travelers wanting a quick but spectacular experience.
Bottom Line: Essential for aerial enthusiasts and those wanting a bird’s-eye view of Alaska’s stunning fjords.
14. Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Eagle Island Sea Kayaking
This 3.5-hour guided sea kayaking trip is a fantastic way to see Eagle Island and its abundant wildlife. The calm waters are perfect for novices, and guides share local stories along the way. You’ll be able to see bald eagles, seals, and salmon in their natural environment.
Reviews mention the friendly guides and how the experience surpasses expectations, with some even spotting whales or holding starfish. The inclusion of safety and equipment makes it ideal for families or first-timers.
Bottom Line: Best for wildlife sightings in a relaxed, accessible kayaking environment.
15. Alaskan Cultural, Culinary and Lumberjack Show Experience
This 3-hour tour offers a vibrant mix of culture, food, and entertainment. It includes tickets to the Lumberjack Show, a three-course lunch, and a visit to Saxman Native Village to learn about Tlingit traditions. The guided drive makes it easy to see multiple highlights in one day.
Reviewers love the high-energy lumberjack contests and the opportunity to taste authentic Alaskan fare. It’s a family-friendly option that combines educational insights with fun and engaging performances.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a well-rounded cultural experience with entertainment and local cuisine.
16. Misty Fjords Seaplane Tour
Finally, the Misty Fjords Seaplane offers a 2.5-hour floatplane flight into Misty Fjords. The water landings and takeoffs are a highlight, with every passenger enjoying window views of waterfalls and granite cliffs. Live narration enhances the experience as your pilot points out wildlife and geological features.
Reviews reveal that travelers find this experience breathtaking and a true highlight of their trip. The small seaplanes guarantee everyone a window seat, and the personalized commentary makes it educational as well as scenic.
Bottom Line: Excellent for aviation fans and those wanting a close-up view of Alaska’s wilderness inaccessible by land.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Ketchikan, consider your interests, fitness level, and budget. If wildlife viewing tops your list, wildlife and whale watching or eagle island kayaking offer reliable sightings. For adventure lovers, zipline and UTV tours provide adrenaline and gorgeous scenery, while photo safaris are great for capturing the region’s essence.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter wildlife cruises or cultural shows, whereas serious anglers should consider private fishing charters. Remember to check the tour times and whether transportation from your cruise ship or hotel is included. Booking early is wise, especially for tours with limited availability like flightseeing or seaplane rides.
To sum it up, Ketchikan offers an impressive variety of tours that showcase its wilderness, wildlife, and culture. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful kayak paddle, an adrenaline-pumping zipline, or a scenic flight, this list highlights the best options to match your interests and pace. For families, the outdoor adventures and cultural shows are especially appealing, while wildlife watchers and fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of choices.
No matter what you pick, booking early will ensure you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Now is the time to plan your Alaskan adventure — Ketchikan’s incredible landscapes and genuine encounters are waiting.