Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer- Port of Seward

Experience the Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer in Seward

When your cruise ship docks at Seward, a day of exploring Alaska’s scenic splendors and local flavors awaits you. This Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer offers a full day’s journey from the historic port of Seward to the bustling city of Anchorage, priced at $399 per person. Expect a 9-hour adventure filled with breathtaking mountain views, delicious craft beverages, and a cozy lunch atop Mount Alyeska. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this small-group experience ensures you get plenty of attention—and plenty of authentic Alaskan moments.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with local craft. The aerial tram ride above the Girdwood Valley offers panoramic views that are hard to beat, and the stops at unique breweries, a cidery, and a distillery let you taste some of Alaska’s finest. Plus, the small-group setting means you’re not just another face in a crowd—your guide can tailor the experience to your interests.

A potential consideration is that this is a one-way tour from Seward to Anchorage, so it works best for travelers heading to or arriving in Anchorage afterward. Also, the tour involves walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must. Overall, if you’re a traveler who appreciates scenic drives, local tasting experiences, and a bit of adventure, this tour suits you well.

Who It’s Perfect For

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a combination of sightseeing, cultural tasting, and mountain scenery in a manageable day. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers who want to extend their Alaska experience beyond the ship, or travelers with a day to spare between Seward and Anchorage. If you enjoy small-group tours with personalized commentary, this will hit the mark.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy mountain vistas, lakes, and a scenic drive along the Seward Highway.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample craft beer, cider, and spirits crafted right in Alaska.
• Unique Experiences: Ride the aerial tram to lunch at the top of Mount Alyeska.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, offering more personalized attention.
• Flexible Drop-off: Ends with convenient hotel or airport drop-off in Anchorage.
• Cost-Effective: Combines sightseeing, tastings, and transport in one price.

A Deep Dive into the Alaska Crafted Tour Experience

Starting Point: Seward Cruise Ship Terminal

Your journey kicks off at the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal around 9:00 am. From here, the tour begins with a scenic drive along the 114-mile Seward Highway, widely considered one of the most beautiful routes in Alaska. We loved the way our guide pointed out notable sights along the highway, turning a simple drive into a narrative of Alaska’s stunning geography—pristine lakes, towering mountains, and lush forests framing the road.

Alyeska Resort and the Scenic Drive

The first major stop is at the Alyeska Resort, a hub of outdoor activities and mountain charm. While admission to the resort itself isn’t included, the guided tour takes you through the area, highlighting the rugged beauty of the Kenai Peninsula. The drive itself is a highlight, with panoramic views that make it clear why this route is famed among travelers.

Mount Alyeska and the Tram Ride

Next, you’ll hop aboard the Alyeska Aerial Tram, which takes you from about 2,300 feet above sea level to a stunning lookout point. We found the bird’s-eye view of the Girdwood Valley and Chugach Mountains simply breathtaking. It’s a perfect opportunity to snap photos or just breathe in the crisp mountain air.

At the top, you’ll enjoy a scenic lunch with local ingredients, all while soaking in views that seem to stretch forever. The tram ride is both scenic and peaceful, offering a unique perspective on the landscape that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Craft Beer, Cider, and Spirits Tastings

Post-lunch, the tour takes a cozy turn into Alaska’s local craft scene. The first stop is the Girdwood Brewing Company, where you can sample their hand-crafted beers. As one visitor put it, the brewery staff are “friendly and great,” making the tasting experience enjoyable and personable. The brewery’s intimate setting allows you to learn about their brewing process, adding an educational touch to the fun.

Then, it’s on to the Anchorage Distillery, famed for using Alaska-grown barley, wheat, berries, and glacier water. This stop highlights the importance of local ingredients in Alaska’s spirits scene. You’ll get a chance to taste some of their craft cocktails and spirits, a true reflection of the state’s resourcefulness.

Finally, the Double Shovel Cider Company rounds out the tasting tour. Named after a distinctive caribou antler formation, the cider room is warm and inviting. Here, you’ll sample a variety of ciders, each reflecting the apple orchards and berry patches of Alaska. The reviews praise the friendly staff and the unique atmosphere, making it a delightful end to the tastings.

The Drive Along Turnagain Arm

As your culinary adventures wind down, you’ll follow the Turnagain Arm, a 40-mile stretch renowned for its stunning natural beauty. This drive offers sweeping views of tidal flats, mountains, and water—an absolute highlight for nature lovers. The scenic drive is often noted as one of the most beautiful in Alaska, and you’ll understand why when you see the endless vistas and maybe glimpse a bald eagle or two.

Final Drop-off and Practicalities

The tour wraps up in Anchorage around 5:30 pm, with drop-offs at your hotel, the airport, or downtown. This flexible end-time makes it easy to catch a flight or settle into your accommodations without rushing. Keep in mind, if you’re flying out that evening, plan for at least 1.5 hours for check-in.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

This tour offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s outdoors and local craftsmanship. We loved how the guide’s commentary brought the scenery and local culture to life. Reviewers echo this sentiment, emphasizing knowledgeable guides and spectacular views.

The small group size (max 8 travelers) is a big plus, allowing for more personalized interaction and easier access to viewpoints. It also means you can ask questions and get a more tailored experience, which many reviews highlight as a major win.

In terms of value, at $399, the tour packs a lot into a single day—scenic drives, a tram ride, multiple tastings, and transportation. For travelers interested in a comprehensive snapshot of Alaska’s natural beauty and local flavors, this represents a good investment.

A potential downside is that the cost might seem steep for some, especially since additional tastings aren’t included and alcohol consumption is limited to samples. However, considering the inclusions and the expert guiding, many agree the experience offers good value for a well-rounded day out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates mountain vistas, enjoys local craft beverages, and wants a relaxed, small-group environment, this trip is a great pick. It’s especially ideal for cruise passengers wanting a memorable land experience without the hassle of organizing multiple stops.

Travelers who like to combine sightseeing with tasting local flavors will find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also suitable if you prefer a less hectic pace and want to savor each stop rather than rushing through.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 21 years since alcohol tastings are involved, but families with older teens interested in scenery and local culture might enjoy parts of it.

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket covers the tram ride, lunch, guide, and tastings of beer, cider, spirits, and craft cocktails. Transportation and live commentary are also part of the package.

Can I be dropped off at the airport?
Yes, the tour includes drop-off at the airport or your hotel in Anchorage, making it convenient for travelers with flights later in the day.

How long is the scenic drive?
The drive along the Seward Highway is approximately 114 miles, offering continuous stunning views of mountains and lakes.

Are additional tastings available?
Additional tastings beyond the included samples are not part of the package, so plan accordingly if you want more sampling.

What should I wear?
Closed toe shoes are required, and layers are recommended to adapt to changing weather, especially on the tram and outdoor stops.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tram ride and outdoor sightseeing are weather-dependent. In poor weather, some views might be limited, but guides will do their best to adapt.

Final Thoughts

The Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer offers a thoughtfully curated blend of stunning scenery, local libations, and engaging commentary. Its small-group format allows for a relaxed and personalized experience, making it particularly appealing for travelers who value quality over quantity.

You’ll love the way this tour makes Alaska’s natural beauty approachable, with a touch of local flavor that’s hard to find on larger, more generic excursions. Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or simply someone eager to see more of Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, this day trip provides a memorable slice of Alaskan life without overwhelming your schedule.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience that combines spectacular vistas with authentic tastings—a true taste of what makes Alaska special. If you’re looking for a day to remember, filled with friendly guides and stunning views, this could be your ideal choice.