If you’re visiting Skagway and craving an up-close encounter with Alaska’s wilderness, this 2.5-hour ocean raft tour offers just that — a chance to see wildlife, waterfalls, and rugged fjord landscapes from the seat of a powerful RIB boat. Priced at $170 per person, this adventure is a bit of an investment, but from the glowing reviews we’ve seen, it delivers on value and authenticity.
The experience takes you along Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America, in a fast, open-air boat designed to give you both a thrill and a view. You’ll wear a Mustang survival suit for comfort and safety, zip through the water feeling the wind in your hair, and explore hidden coves and waterfalls.
What we love most about this tour is the intimacy of the small group and the knowledgeable guides who make every stop informative and fun. Plus, the chance to see bald eagles, seals, whales, and mountain goats makes this a genuinely memorable wildlife adventure.
One potential drawback? The tour is not suitable for those with back problems, pregnant women, or young children under 10, so it’s best for active, adventurous travelers ready for a bit of splash and speed.
This trip suits anyone who wants a dynamic, wildlife-focused experience that’s more than just a scenic cruise—especially those eager to learn about the area’s natural environment from guides who are both entertaining and informative. If you’re comfortable on a boat and love nature, this adventure is well worth considering.
Key Points
- Intimate & Fast-Paced: The RIB boat offers a quick, exhilarating ride through Lynn Canal.
- Wildlife Galore: Expect sightings of whales, eagles, seals, and mountain goats, with multiple stops for photos.
- Practical Gear Included: You’ll be provided with a Mustang survival suit, goggles, and gloves to stay dry and warm.
- Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their entertaining, informative narration and friendly attitude.
- Scenic & Unique: Explore hidden coves, waterfalls, and beaches away from typical tourist spots.
- Limited Accessibility: Not suited for small children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back issues.
The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
This tour begins with a simple, straightforward check-in process at a designated meeting point south of 1st Ave on Broadway Street. The meeting spot is marked by a building with Native artwork and wood siding, and guides will be wearing Ocean Raft Alaska apparel and holding a sign that says “Ocean Raft Wildlife Adventure.” Expect to check in and be greeted by friendly staff, who will fit you into a Mustang survival suit—a necessary piece of safety gear that ensures warmth and dryness even when the boat splashes through the water.
Once on board, your captain (and often a naturalist or guide) will brief you on safety procedures and what to look for during the tour. The boat itself is a 25-passenger open-air vessel, designed for speed and agility, allowing you to zip across the fjord with ease.
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The Highlights of the Tour
- Exploring Hidden Coves & Waterfalls: The boat skirts close to shoreline features, giving you a sense of the remote wilderness. Expect to see waterfalls cascading into the fjord, often from glaciers or mountain runoff, and to get close enough to snap photos of pristine scenery.
- Wildlife Encounters: Guides will make multiple stops for wildlife viewing, and you’ll learn about the species’ behaviors and habitats. Expect to see bald eagles soaring overhead, seals basking on rocks, and possibly even whales surfacing — the reviews mention sightings of tons of eagles and seals, with some lucky travelers seeing whale breaches.
- Photo Opportunities: The guides are attentive to providing stops at scenic points, so you can capture breathtaking vistas and wildlife in their natural environment. Many reviews praised the guides for their entertaining and colorful narratives, which add context and fun to the experience.
The Experience in Detail
The tour is fast-moving, with periods of high-speed cruising mixed with stops for wildlife and scenery. The Mustang suits are a highlight — not just a safety requirement but also a comfort feature in Alaska’s unpredictable weather. Travelers who have taken similar tours appreciate the suits for keeping them warm and dry, making the ride much more enjoyable.
The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. They provide informative commentary about the local landscape and wildlife, which elevates the experience beyond just a boat ride.
The Sights and Wildlife You’ll Love
- Waterfalls and Beaches: Many reviews mention their excitement at getting close to natural waterfalls and hidden beaches, which feel off the beaten path. The natural beauty here is raw and stunning, providing the perfect backdrop for photos.
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Wildlife Sightings: Expect bald eagles in nests and soaring overhead, harbor seals lounging on rocks, and the possibility of whale sightings — a highlight for many travelers. Guides are skilled at spotting and describing the wildlife, making it a rewarding experience.
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The Fjord: Lynn Canal itself is the star attraction—North America’s longest fjord. Its rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine waters create dramatic scenery that’s hard to match elsewhere.
The Value for Money
While $170 per person might seem steep for a short tour, reviews repeatedly emphasize the quality of the guides, the wildlife sightings, and the unique scenery. Many travelers mention that the experience exceeded their expectations and was worth every penny. The inclusion of safety gear and multiple photo stops adds to the value, especially considering the small group size and personalized service.
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Practical Details and Considerations
- Duration: The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it an accessible choice for most travelers without requiring a full day commitment.
- Timing: Usually available in the morning or afternoon, allowing flexibility in your schedule.
- Meeting Point: The designated meeting point is straightforward to find, and guides will be easily recognizable.
- Transportation: You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point, which is a minor consideration but worth noting for planning.
- Weather: Dress in layers and bring sunglasses for sun protection — even on overcast days, the wind chill can be noticeable.
- Suitability: Not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems due to the boat’s speed and movement.
The Reviews Tell the Real Story
From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that this tour hits the mark for many travelers. Abby from Canada called it “honestly one of our favourite parts of our trip,” citing eagle sightings and scenery. Tammy from the US praised it as “a perfect way to enjoy the area,” highlighting waterfalls, eagles, and seals, and noting how the guides made it all enjoyable. Others appreciated the friendly guides and well-organized service, with one traveler mentioning how Heather worked with her to accommodate her booking, ensuring her group could enjoy the experience.
Many reviewers emphasize the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise, which brings the wilderness to life. The wildlife sightings — especially eagles and seals — consistently rank as highlights. Several noted that the scenery is spectacular and that the tour offers an authentic taste of Alaska’s natural beauty.
If you’re adventurous, love wildlife, and want a personalized, informative outdoor experience, this trip suits you. It’s perfect for nature lovers who enjoy quick, active excursions and want to see Alaska’s rugged coastline from a different perspective. If you’re traveling with kids over 10, or don’t mind getting wet and splashed, this adventure could be a highlight of your Skagway visit.
However, if you’re not comfortable on small boats, or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, those seeking a more relaxed, land-based view might prefer other options.
This Skagway ocean raft adventure delivers a thrilling, wildlife-rich experience with incredible views of Lynn Canal’s dramatic fjord landscape. The expert guides, wildlife sightings, and close-up access to waterfalls and coves make it a standout activity for adventurous travelers wanting an authentic taste of Alaska’s wilderness.
While it’s a bit of a splurge, the value is evident in the quality of the experience and the unforgettable scenery. It’s well suited for nature enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and those eager for an active outdoor adventure. If you’re prepared for some splashes, love a fast boat ride, and want to learn about Alaska’s natural environment from friendly guides, this tour is an excellent choice.
Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 10 due to the boat’s speed and the physical nature of the ride.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers, bring sunglasses, and wear comfortable footwear. The tour provides Mustang survival suits, goggles, and gloves to keep you warm and dry.
Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
Yes, safety is a priority, and tours can be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe. Check with the provider if you have concerns about the forecast.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bald eagles, seals, whales, and possibly mountain goats. Guides will make stops for wildlife viewing and photos.
How long is the tour?
Approximately 2.5 hours, including multiple stops for wildlife and scenery.
Do I need to bring my own transportation?
Yes, you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own. It’s located south of 1st Ave on Broadway Street.
Can I bring my camera or phone?
Absolutely. The guides encourage photo-taking and will stop at scenic spots for pictures.
Are there any special safety measures?
Yes, you’ll be fitted with US Coast Guard-approved survival suits and given safety instructions before boarding.
What if I want to cancel?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.
This adventure offers a genuine slice of Alaska’s wild coastline, perfect for travelers who seek more than just a scenic cruise but an engaging, wildlife-filled journey on the water.
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