26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

Discover the 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

This full-day adventure from Anchorage combines a scenic coach ride along Turnagain Arm with an unforgettable glacier cruise in Prince William Sound. For around $336 per person, you’ll spend about 11 hours exploring some of Alaska’s most iconic sights — glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife. The tour is operated by Phillips Cruises & Tours and is highly rated, with 93% of travelers recommending it.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see stunning scenery from the comfort of a well-maintained coach, and then up close with the glaciers on a smooth catamaran cruise. The narration by guides like William, who shares stories and insights along the way, really adds a personal touch. The wildlife viewing — seals, sea lions, eagles — often exceeds expectations.

One thing to consider is the time commitment and the fact that you’ll be traveling for several hours, including the drive to Whittier and back. Travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility might want to plan accordingly. But if you’re eager to see a broad slice of Alaska’s natural beauty in one day, this tour hits many highlights.

This tour suits those who love nature, wildlife, and glaciers, especially if you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and a small group setting. Families, first-time visitors, and anyone eager for a well-rounded Alaska experience will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Drive: The journey along Turnagain Arm offers breathtaking mountain views and photo opportunities.
• Up-Close Glacier Viewing: The cruise navigates through fjords to see massive glaciers face-to-face.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see seals, sea otters, eagles, and possibly whales and bears.
• Comfort and Narration: The boat is smooth, with professional guides and USB charging stations at every table.
• Good Value for the Experience: Combining transportation, a scenic cruise, and wildlife viewing makes this a worthwhile investment.
• Weather Flexibility: The trip is described as enjoyable even in rain, but weather conditions can affect visibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Scenic Coach Ride along Turnagain Arm Drive

We start the day at 9:15 am in downtown Anchorage, heading south on the Seward Highway, a designated Scenic Byway that traces the shoreline of Turnagain Arm. This route alone makes the trip worthwhile. The drive is filled with spectacular mountain vistas, lush forests, and the possibility of spotting wildlife like mountain goats or eagles.

The driver and guide, such as William in many reviews, share informative stories and historical tidbits — a personal touch that helps us appreciate the scenery even more. During the approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive, several photo stops are made, giving ample opportunity to capture the rugged beauty.

Crossing the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

Next, we travel through North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel. It’s an engineering marvel, and the short 1.5-hour transit adds a little adventure to the day. While the tunnel’s primary purpose is transportation, it’s interesting to note this engineering feat as part of the journey.

The Boat Cruise in Prince William Sound

The highlight for many is the 6-hour cruise aboard a comfortable catamaran. The vessel is praised for its smooth ride and professional narration, with guides pointing out glaciers, marine wildlife, and bird species as we glide through calm waters.

One reviewer described the experience as “unbelievable,” especially when the captain idled the boat so everyone could catch a glimpse of orcas and sea lions. You might see seals lounging on icebergs or get lucky with sightings of whales. The day we visited, the weather was described as variable, but even in rain, the scenery did not disappoint, with glaciers cracking apart and tumbling into the water, creating a thunderous display.

The Glaciers and Wildlife

The Harvard Glacier, among others, looms large in the sound, offering jaw-dropping views. The crew often calls attention to glacier calving events, which are awe-inspiring and make for fantastic photos. Many reviews mention seeing otters, sea lions, puffins, and even a pod of orcas.

The crew and guides are knowledgeable, sharing tidbits about the ecosystems and wildlife, making the experience both visually stunning and educational. As one reviewer noted, the hot chocolate and tasty lunch — including wild Alaskan smoked salmon chowder — add comfort and a taste of local cuisine.

Whittier: The Gateway to Prince William Sound

After the cruise, we stop in Whittier, a tiny town with just about 200 residents. It’s charming and serves as the gateway to the sound. Here, we reboard the coach for the return trip to Anchorage, completing an enriching circle of scenery and stories.

The Practicalities

Transportation is comfortable and efficient, with a well-maintained bus that offers USB charging stations. The trip involves ascending and descending 3-5 steps onto the coach, so travelers with mobility issues should inquire ahead for assistance. The group size can be up to 250 travelers, but the reviews suggest that the experience feels intimate thanks to guided narration and the pace of the tour.

Food onboard includes hot beverages and a generous lunch featuring smoked salmon chowder, salad, fruit, and a candy. Vegetarian options can be arranged with 48 hours’ notice. The restroom is onboard, which is a boon on such a long trip.

Weather can vary—many reviewers mention rain and fog, but the crew assures that the cruise remains enjoyable even in less-than-perfect conditions. The no seasickness guarantee is a big plus, as the vessel is designed for a smooth ride.

Cost and Value: At $336, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending scenic driving, wildlife, and glacier sightings. Many reviewers felt they received good value for the price, especially considering the included lunch, transportation, and the quality of the cruise.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Perspectives

Authentic reviews highlight guides like William and the crew’s friendly, informative approach. One reviewer summed it up as a “perfect taste of Alaska” with “beautiful drive” and “unbelievable boat ride.” Others appreciated the close-up views of glaciers and wildlife, with some mentioning the thrill of seeing ice calving or orcas.

A few travelers noted the weather as a variable factor but emphasized that even in rain, the scenery was stunning. Many found the length of the tour to be just right — enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Some reviews pointed out that if you have a car, you might want to drive directly to Whittier instead of taking the bus, which could save time and money. However, the guided narration and transportation included in the tour are beneficial for those unfamiliar with the area.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives combined with wildlife viewing and a boat cruise, especially if you prefer a guided experience. Families and couples alike find it rewarding, and the emphasis on wildlife sightings and glacier up-close views makes it especially appealing to nature lovers.

Travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation, good food, and informative guides will feel they’ve gotten their money’s worth. However, those seeking a more relaxed pace or with mobility challenges should consider the physical aspects beforehand.

Final Thoughts

The 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage offers a robust introduction to Alaska’s natural beauty in a manageable, well-organized day. Balancing scenic driving, wildlife encounters, and glacier viewing, it delivers a memorable experience that’s worth its price. The opportunity to see massive glaciers, spot wild animals, and learn about the environment makes it a standout choice for visitors eager to get a snapshot of Alaska’s stunning wilderness.

If you’re craving a full day of adventure with expert guides and spectacular scenery, this tour is a solid pick. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic sampler of Alaska without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, the cruise, and return to Anchorage.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the scenic coach ride, the glacier cruise, lunch, and narration on the boat. Gift shop items and alcohol are available for purchase but not included.

Is the boat ride safe and comfortable?
Yes, it’s a smooth, climate-controlled catamaran with professional guides. The tour guarantees no seasickness, even in less favorable weather.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include seals, sea otters, puffins, and sea lions. There’s also a chance to see orcas, whales, and even bears.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian chili and other options can be requested 48 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Layers are recommended since weather can change quickly. Waterproof gear is advisable, especially in rainy conditions.

Can I bring my own camera or binoculars?
Absolutely. The cruise offers plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing, so bring your camera and binoculars for best results.

This trip is a well-rounded way to experience Alaska’s majestic glaciers and abundant wildlife, all with comfortable logistics and knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning scenery, wildlife surprises, and a taste of local marine environments, this tour hits all the right notes.