If you’re heading to Alaska’s Prince William Sound, this 7.5-hour cruise from Valdez offers an unbeatable way to see glaciers, marine wildlife, and rugged coastlines in one day. For $194 per person, you get a full day on the water exploring some of the most spectacular sights the area has to offer, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape to life.
What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with engaging wildlife spotting—you’re likely to see seals, otters, whales, and a host of sea birds, all in their natural environment. Plus, the chance to watch Meares Glacier’s calving activity—ice chunks falling into the ocean—gives a real sense of the glacier’s dynamic presence.
On the flip side, a possible consideration is the weather variability—this tour runs rain or shine, so packing warm, rainproof gear is essential. Also, since it’s a full day on the water, travelers should be comfortable with boat travel and possibly some motion if the seas are choppy.
This cruise suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Alaska’s raw beauty up close. If you’re craving an authentic, hands-on experience of glaciers and marine life with a knowledgeable crew, this trip will hit the spot.
Key Points
- Impressive Glaciers: Get a close-up view of Meares Glacier, with opportunities to witness calving ice.
- Wildlife Galore: Expect to see seals, otters, whales, and a variety of seabirds, including puffins and eagles.
- Expert Guides: Guides share insights into the natural history and ecology of the area, enhancing the experience.
- Scenic Beauty: Cruise past waterfalls, bays, and rugged coastlines, with plenty of photo opportunities.
- All-Day Adventure: With a thoughtfully planned itinerary, it’s a full day of discovery—worth every minute.
- Value for Money: For $194, you get a long, engaging trip with plenty of memorable moments.
If you’re visiting Valdez, this cruise offers an authentic taste of Alaska’s wild heart. The day starts with a meeting at the boat’s departure point behind the Best Western Hotel in Valdez, where you’ll board a vessel equipped for comfort and wildlife viewing. From there, the adventure begins with a gentle cruise through calm waters to observe the natural beauty and wildlife of the Sound.
You can check availability for your dates here:A Window into Valdez’s History and Its Marine Environment
Before leaving port, your crew might share stories about Valdez’s past—how early explorers navigated these waters, the importance of oil shipping, and the role of commercial fishing. These stories set the scene for the natural wonders ahead, grounding you in the area’s significance.
As the boat moves into Prince William Sound, you’ll pass waterfalls cascading down steep mountainsides—a sight that immediately makes you want to reach for your camera. The water is typically calm, making for a smooth ride that’s suitable even for those prone to seasickness. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles soaring overhead and the first signs of marine life in the distance.
Encountering Marine Wildlife
One of the major highlights is the chance to spot marine mammals. Guides are skilled at pointing out sea otters floating on their backs, sea lions resting on rocky haulouts, and perhaps even orcas or humpback whales breaching or spouting nearby. Several reviews praise the guides’ expertise: “Sehr viel Zeit auf dem Wasser und sehr viele Tiere gesehen!” (We saw a lot of animals and spent plenty of time on the water).
You’ll cruise along the shoreline, passing bays and coves where waterfalls dip into the sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Wildlife sightings are often plentiful at these locations, with seabirds like puffins, cormorants, and bald eagles adding to the spectacle.
Visiting Meares Glacier
The star of the trip is the Meares Glacier, a massive, advancing mass of ice that you get to view from close range. The boat typically pauses in front of the glacier, giving you time to marvel at its sheer size and power. You might witness calving activity, where chunks of ice break off and plunge into the ocean with a thunderous sound—a truly awe-inspiring moment that travelers cherish.
Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing glaciers calve: “Es hat alles gepasst! Es hat uns super gefallen!” (Everything was perfect! We really enjoyed it!). It’s a reminder of the glacier’s dynamic nature and the importance of protecting these fragile environments.
Lunch with a View
While soaking in the scenery, you’ll be served a tasty lunch that includes a late lunch, a snack, and a dinner roll. The boat’s large windows and outdoor seating areas allow you to enjoy your meal with breathtaking views of the surrounding ice, water, and mountains. This simple addition makes the experience not just visually stimulating but also comfortably relaxing.
More Great Tours NearbyReturn Journey and Final Wildlife Spotting
After spending quality time with the glacier, the ship heads back along the shoreline, passing a bullhead sea lion haulout, where these creatures lounge around, basking in the sun. The trip concludes around 5:00 PM in Valdez, leaving you with a wealth of memories and photos.
Practical Details and Considerations
While this tour is well-organized and thoughtfully designed, there are a few practical points to keep in mind. The price of $194 is quite reasonable for a full-day tour with such diverse experiences—consider it a good investment in your Alaska adventure. The tour includes coffee, tea, lemonade, and water, plus a snack bar and gift shop, so you can stay comfortable and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
Transportation to the departure point isn’t included, but the meeting spot is convenient—behind the Best Western Hotel or via transfers from RV parks in Valdez. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of mobility needs, but the dock access may involve a steep ramp depending on the tide.
Weather can be unpredictable, so pack warm clothing, rain gear, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A camera and binoculars are highly recommended for wildlife viewing and capturing the stunning scenery. Don’t forget closed-toe shoes and a charged smartphone.
Authentic Experience Backed by Positive Reviews
This cruise consistently receives high marks—4.7 out of 5 based on 53 reviews—with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides, spectacular scenery, and abundant wildlife sightings. Comments like “Highly recommended, it was a really great day trip!” and “Sehr viel Zeit auf dem Wasser und sehr viele Tiere gesehen!” underscore the value and enjoyment of the experience.
Many travelers feel that the guides’ expertise elevates the trip, making it more than just a boat ride but an educational journey into Alaska’s ecosystems.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re eager to see Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife in a relaxed, full-day setting, this cruise will suit you perfectly. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families looking for an engaging outdoor activity. Those with a curiosity for glaciers in motion and marine mammals will find this tour particularly rewarding.
Travelers who enjoy guided excursions that blend scenic beauty with educational commentary will appreciate the attentiveness of the crew. And if you’re comfortable on boats and prepared for the weather, you’ll find this expedition offers excellent value and memorable sights.
The Sum Up
This 7.5-hour cruise from Valdez delivers a well-rounded, engaging experience of Alaska’s glaciers, wildlife, and rugged coastlines. It’s a chance to get up close with Meares Glacier and enjoy the thrill of spotting whales, otters, and seals—all narrated by guides who truly know their stuff. The scenery is breathtaking, and the wildlife sightings are plentiful, making it a highlight for many visitors.
While weather and sea conditions can vary, the tour’s comprehensive nature and positive reviews suggest that most travelers come away with a deep appreciation for this wild part of the world. It offers excellent value for the price, especially when considering the long duration and the diversity of sights and experiences.
If you’re seeking an authentic, memorable, and educational adventure in Prince William Sound, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and storytelling—and who don’t mind spending a good chunk of the day on the water.
FAQ
What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 7.5 hours, starting in the morning and ending around 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is generally suitable for most ages, especially since it is wheelchair accessible. However, guests should be comfortable on a boat for several hours and prepared for possible motion.
What should I bring?
Pack warm clothing, rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, and closed-toe shoes. Weather can change quickly, so layers are best.
Are meals included?
Yes, you’ll be served a late lunch along with a snack and dinner roll. Beverages like coffee, tea, lemonade, and water are complimentary.
Can I see wildlife during this tour?
Absolutely. Expect to see seals, otters, whales, puffins, and more. Guides are experienced at pointing out wildlife and explaining their behavior.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.
What is the best time of year to take this cruise?
While specific seasons aren’t detailed, the reviews from late August and early September suggest that late summer is ideal for wildlife sightings and glacier activity.
Is transportation to the departure point provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is centrally located behind the Best Western Hotel, with options for transfers from RV parks.
This cruise from Valdez is a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s natural wonders in one memorable day. With stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and knowledgeable guides, it’s a trip that will leave you both inspired and eager to tell stories of glaciers and whales in the Last Frontier.
You can check availability for your dates here: