Ketchikan, Alaska: The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and have a craving to see Alaska’s marine world up close, the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure is a solid choice. For $180 per person, you’ll spend about three hours exploring underwater scenes that most visitors only glimpse from afar. Led by professional PADI guides, this tour promises a safe, engaging, and visually stunning experience that often becomes the highlight of a cruise stop.

What we love about this tour is the chance to wear state-of-the-art 7mm wetsuits, which keep you surprisingly warm in shimmering 65-degree waters—no shivering here. The guides are not only highly qualified but passionate about marine life, bringing energy and insight to each tour. Plus, the small group setting means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of time to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery.

One thing to consider is the physical demands. This isn’t a casual snorkel; it’s rated as “most strenuous,” so it’s best suited for active travelers who are reasonably fit and comfortable in the water. If you’re not confident swimming or have certain medical restrictions, this might not be the ideal choice. But if you’re adventurous and eager to explore Alaska’s underwater world, this tour will suit you perfectly.

This experience is especially suited for nature lovers, curious snorkelers, and cruise passengers who want a memorable, hands-on encounter with Alaska’s marine environment. Families with older children (8 and up) or anyone comfortable with water activities will find it a rewarding addition to their Alaska journey.

Key Points

• Full gear included: High-quality wetsuits, masks, fins, gloves, and optional weight belts for freediving.
• Expert guides: Certified PADI professionals with rescue and first aid training.
• Unique landscape: Shallow tide pools and steep underwater rock walls at Mountain Point.
• Surprising warmth: Water temperatures reach about 65°F in summer, thanks to long days and the absence of glacial chill.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 10 participants ensure personalized attention.
• Accessible info: Pre-tour instructions and secure gear storage make planning easier.

When planning a shore excursion in Ketchikan, the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure offers a fresh perspective on Alaska’s coastal waters. Unlike typical land-based sightseeing, this tour pulls you right into the ocean to see the vibrant marine life and underwater terrain firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Convenient Location and Easy Access

The tour begins at the Liquid Sunshine Gauge, conveniently located on Berth 2 near the downtown cruise docks and the Ketchikan Visitors Center. The proximity means less time spent on transportation and more time in the water. Before heading out, you’ll change into your wetsuit in the heated dressing rooms at the shop, which adds a level of comfort and convenience often overlooked in outdoor excursions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

After a quick safety briefing and gear fitting, the guides will escort you to the boat and then to Mountain Point, just five miles from the cruise terminal. The boat ride itself is short but scenic, giving you a glimpse of the rugged coastline and lush islands that surround Ketchikan.

Once at the site, the adventure begins. You’ll don your 7mm wetsuit, complete with hood, boots, and gloves, making sure you’re prepared for calm and clear waters—an important factor since visibility in Alaska can sometimes be unpredictable. The water surface temperature reaching about 65°F in summer is surprisingly warm, thanks to the long daylight hours and the area’s relative distance from glaciers.

Exploring Mountain Point

Mountain Point is famed for its shallow tide pools teeming with marine creatures like sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. These tide pools are perfect for close-up viewing and gentle exploration, especially for beginning snorkelers or those less comfortable in open water.

For the more adventurous, the steep underwater rock walls beckon for freediving or exploring deeper into the marine forest. The kelp beds sway gently in the current, providing shelter for a variety of fish and invertebrates.

Guided Marine Life Tour

Your one-hour guided tour is led by PADI-certified professionals who are passionate about marine ecology. As one reviewer noted, the guides are “really nice and professional,” making the experience both educational and fun. During this tour, you’ll observe multi-colored sea stars, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers, discovering the diversity of life that thrives in these waters.

They also share stories about the creatures you see, adding context that enriches your understanding of this underwater habitat. One guest mentioned, “The snorkel trip was such fun, and I wasn’t cold whatsoever with the quality wetsuits—they truly make all the difference.”

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Comfort and Safety

The full provision of equipment—prescription masks, fins, gloves, and optional weight belts—means you don’t have to worry about anything other than enjoying yourself. The guides are trained to supervise in the water and make sure everyone stays safe, especially considering the most strenuous rating of the tour.

Participants are advised to bring a towel, swimsuit, socks, and change of clothes, along with a waiver that must be signed before starting. The physical requirements include being between 80 lbs and 260 lbs and reasonably fit, with restrictions for those with certain medical conditions.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The glowing reviews paint a clear picture of a well-organized, professional outfit that prioritizes guest safety and enjoyment. Christine from Canada mentioned, “We had a great time! The guides were so helpful and nice,” emphasizing the friendly atmosphere. Michael from Germany appreciated the professionalism of the staff, while Monique found the wetsuits “so warm” and the experience “really fun.”

Several reviewers highlighted the stunning marine life and the knowledgeable guides. One traveler appreciated the small group size, which allows for more personalized interaction, making the tour feel more like a shared adventure than a mass excursion.

The Value Proposition

At $180, this tour offers excellent value, considering all the gear, guide expertise, and the unique chance to snorkel in Alaska’s waters. You’re not just looking at scenery from a boat or shore—you’re actively engaging with the environment. For anyone who loves outdoor activities, wildlife, and a bit of adventure, the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure is a memorable way to connect with Alaska’s marine world.

This adventure is best suited for active, water-loving travelers who are comfortable in the water and physically fit. It’s ideal for adventurous cruise passengers wanting a unique experience beyond typical sightseeing. Families with children over 8, and anyone eager to explore underwater ecosystems, will find this trip both educational and exhilarating.

However, it’s not suitable for those with certain health conditions or limited mobility. The physically demanding nature and the specific weight and health restrictions mean it’s best to carefully assess your fitness level before booking.

The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure in Ketchikan offers a rare opportunity to see Alaska’s marine life firsthand in a safe, well-organized setting. With quality gear, expert guides, and a stunning locale, the tour delivers a memorable experience for those ready for a bit of a physical challenge. Expect vibrant ecosystems, engaging stories, and a chance to stand among the kelp and sea stars that make Alaska’s coastline so special.

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want an authentic, immersive experience in nature. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate professional guidance and small-group intimacy. If you’re seeking a meaningful connection to Alaska’s underwater world, this snorkeling adventure will not disappoint.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guided tour includes full instructions, and the equipment provided is top-quality, making it accessible for those new to snorkeling.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, socks, change of clothes, and possibly a snack or water bottle. All necessary gear is supplied, and secure storage is available.

How cold will the water be?
Water temperatures reach about 65°F in summer, which is surprisingly warm thanks to long daylight hours and offshore currents.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 8 are not recommended, and the suggested age limit is around 65 depending on physical fitness.

What if I have medical conditions?
Guests with heart, respiratory, seizure, or mobility issues should evaluate their fitness carefully, as the activity is rated as “most strenuous.”

How far in advance should I book?
It’s wise to reserve your spot early, especially during peak cruise season, but you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

If you’re eager to add a truly special chapter to your Alaska trip, the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure might just be the highlight you’re looking for—an exciting, authentic way to connect with the wild and wonderful marine life of Southeast Alaska.

You can check availability for your dates here: