Seward is a natural hub for boat tours and cruises thanks to its prime location on Resurrection Bay and proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park. What makes Seward truly special for boat trips is the chance to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife, massive glaciers, and rugged coastline all in one trip. Whether you’re after a quick wildlife spotting cruise or an all-day glacier expedition, Seward offers a diverse selection. For example, the Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise w/Lunch impresses with its stability and scenic views, perfect for whale watching and glacier viewing. Meanwhile, the Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise offers a more remote, in-depth experience for wildlife and glacier enthusiasts.
Quick Overview:
The list below features a variety of cruises and boat tours, from half-day wildlife excursions and orca-focused safaris to full-day explorations of Northwestern Fjord. Some tours include lunch or specialized wildlife focus, while others emphasize glacier calving and majestic ice formations. Keep reading to find the best fit for your style and schedule.
1. Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise w/Lunch
For around $265, this 6-hour cruise combines stunning scenery with a relaxed onboard lunch. The high-speed, stable catamaran glides through Resurrection Bay, giving you excellent views of towering glaciers and mountains. The focus here is wildlife—expect to see whales, sea otters, puffins, seals, and sea lions—plus the chance to witness towering tidewater glaciers calving into the Gulf of Alaska. The onboard deli lunch and optional local beer purchase make this a comfortable, well-rounded option. With a 4.8-star rating from 736 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a reliable, scenic experience with ample wildlife sightings.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a comfortable, longer cruise with lunch, wildlife, and glacier views in a single trip.
2. Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half-Day Wildlife Cruise
At just over 4 hours and $161.65, this wildlife-focused cruise is ideal for those short on time but eager to see Bear Glacier, the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords, and wildlife such as sea otters, whales, and mountain goats. The trip travels 55 miles, cruising past iconic spots like Cape Resurrection, home to Steller sea lions and seabird colonies. The reviews highlight the likelihood of sightings—”You will definitely see other sea life such as otters, seals, puffins, etc.”—making it a favorite for nature lovers. The tour’s shorter duration makes it a good fit for families with tight schedules or those wanting a quick wildlife fix.
Bottom Line: A shorter, wildlife-rich cruise perfect for travelers looking for a quick but memorable experience.
3. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise
This 8.5-hour expedition at $325.15 offers the only small-vessel cruise into the remote Northwestern Fjord. The small boat allows access to areas larger ships can’t reach, providing more intimate wildlife viewing opportunities. Expect to see humpback whales, orcas, Steller sea lions, seabirds, and glaciers calving into the water. The cruise covers Resurrection Bay, Cape Resurrection, Granite Pass, and Harris Bay, with a included deli lunch. The reviews praise the knowledgeable crew and the chance to see glaciers and wildlife up close—a top choice for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For those with time and a love for remote wilderness, this cruise offers unmatched access to glaciers and wildlife in a smaller, more nimble vessel.
4. From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour
This 4-hour tour at $162 is perfect for wildlife lovers wanting a shorter trip. It visits the best whale and wildlife hotspots in Resurrection Bay, with opportunities to see orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and sea lions. Guides provide insights into the area’s ecology, geology, and history, enriching the experience. The reviews note the abundance of marine life seen—”We saw a humpback, porpoises, seals, and eagles.” It’s an easy choice for travelers who want to maximize wildlife sightings in a brief window.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a focused, wildlife-rich cruise without a lengthy commitment.
5. Resurrection Bay Spring Wildlife Cruise
At $220 for about 4 hours during spring, this whale migration cruise is a seasonal highlight. It concentrates on spotting gray whales, which visit from March to May, along with bald eagles, seals, and other whales. The onboard commentary explains why whales come here and the significance of the spring migration. Reviewers mention the thrill of seeing migrating whales and blue glaciers—“It’s an incredible experience.” It’s best for those interested in whale behavior and seasonal wildlife.
Bottom Line: A great pick if your trip coincides with whale migration season and you want a detailed naturalist commentary.
6. Kenai Fjords Orca Quest Cruise
For $161.65, this 4-hour cruise specializes in finding resident orca pods, especially from mid-May to mid-June. The boat navigates to hot spots identified each day, with a focus on orcas, and offers the unique chance to hear their haunting calls through a hydrophone. Reviewers rave about the abundance of orcas and seals seen during the trips—”We saw pods of orcas with babies.” It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts specifically keen on orca sightings.
Bottom Line: The only dedicated orca-focused cruise, best for travelers wanting a targeted whale-watching experience.
7. Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
At $223.85, this 6-hour tour is tailored for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their time in Seward. It combines glacier viewing, wildlife watching, and scenic cruising over a comfortable vessel. The guides offer insights into glaciers, seabird rookeries, and whale sightings, with a highlight on visiting the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. The reviews mention the excellent narration and ability to see animals like sea lions and otters. It’s an excellent option for those with tight schedules but a desire to see the highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without dedicating a full day.
8. Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
This 6-hour cruise at $242 features glacier and wildlife viewing with a focus on spotting whales, sea lions, and seabirds. The delicious onboard lunch and educational commentary on geology and ice fields make it attractive. Reviewers note the chance to see large glaciers and wildlife in one trip. It’s suited for travelers seeking an immersive experience with a balance of comfort and adventure.
Bottom Line: Well-rounded, moderate-priced cruise ideal for those who want scenic glaciers with wildlife in a single day.
9. Seward: Spring Wildlife Guided Cruise
At only $112 for 4 hours, this early-season cruise is designed to maximize wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for viewing snow-capped mountains, orcas, and sea otters during spring. The guided commentary adds depth to the experience, making it suitable for those interested in Alaska’s spring ecosystem. Reviewers mention the seasonal whale sightings, especially the orcas.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, early-season option for wildlife enthusiasts.
10. Seward to Anchorage Cruise Transfer and Private Tour
This 8-hour private transfer at $1,895 for up to 12 people offers more than just transportation. It includes stops at Exit Glacier, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Beluga Point, with flexible sightseeing en route to Anchorage. The reviews highlight the comfortable vehicle and personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers wanting to combine transport and sightseeing without the stress.
Bottom Line: For groups needing a private, flexible transfer with sightseeing, this trip offers a tailored experience.
11. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
With 5-star reviews from 1,352 travelers, this 6-hour cruise at $250.25 showcases Holgate Glacier, wildlife, and seabird colonies. It includes a brunch or deli lunch, along with opportunities to see calving glaciers, whales, puffins, and mountain goats. The reviews praise the informative naturalist onboard and the top-notch staff. This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, all-around glacier and wildlife experience with high praise.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for those seeking an immersive, well-reviewed trip with plentiful wildlife and glacier views.
12. Private Transfer, Seward Cruise ship to Anchorage
For $299, this private transfer is a comfortable way to get from Seward to Anchorage while exploring wildlife centers and scenic stops. It’s best for travelers wanting a relaxed, private drive with optional sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups prioritizing comfort and custom stops over a group tour.
$299.00 per person
13. Private Seward Cruise Transfer & Scenic Tour for Large Groups
At $1,800 for up to 8 people, this 8.5-hour scenic tour offers a customized day of glaciers, wildlife, and coastal vistas. It includes stops at Exit Glacier, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Beluga Point. The reviews are currently unavailable, but its tailored approach suits large groups or families wanting a flexible, private experience.
Bottom Line: For large groups seeking a personalized tour with multiple stops along the way.
$1,800.00 per group (up to 8)
14. Private Seward Cruise Transit Tour with National Park and AWCC
This private transit tour costs $1,200 for up to four people and covers Exit Glacier, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Beluga Point. It’s perfect if you want a personalized, scenic transfer with wildlife and glacier highlights.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or families looking for a flexible, scenic transfer with added wildlife stops.
$1,200.00 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Seward
Picking the perfect boat tour or cruise depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If wildlife is your priority and you want the most comprehensive experience, the Kenai Fjords Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers excellent value with high reviews. For a dedicated orca adventure, the Orca Quest is unmatched. If your time is limited but you still want glacier sights, the Half-Day Wildlife Cruise provides a quick, wildlife-rich trip.
Consider your budget, physical comfort, and interest in specific wildlife or glaciers. Booking early, especially in peak seasons (spring and summer), ensures your spot on these popular tours. Think about combining a cruise with other activities like the Wildlife Conservation Center, which can enrich your experience.
Seward’s boat tours offer a wide array of options—from quick wildlife sightings to full-day glacier explorations—each with its own charm. Whether you’re after a luxurious cruise with lunch, a specialized orca safari, or a private transfer with scenic stops, you’ll find a tour that fits your travel style. Book early, pack your patience and binoculars, and prepare for some of the most memorable Alaskan maritime adventures.