Ketchikan: Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Zodiac Cruise

Exploring Ketchikan’s Wilderness: Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Zodiac Cruise

This tour offers a half-day escape into the serene beauty of Alaska’s coastline, starting from the historic town of Ketchikan. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Saxman, home to impressive totem poles, followed by a lively Zodiac boat cruise through the George Inlet Fjords. Guides like Brandon and Emily keep things engaging with their local knowledge, making this experience both educational and fun.

What we love most are the close-up wildlife sightings and the stunning waterfalls—especially the 2,000-foot Mahoney Falls—that make this tour feel like a real adventure. Plus, the mixture of land and sea exploration provides a fuller picture of Alaska’s natural landscape, something few tours manage so well.

A possible consideration is that this experience involves a short but active boat ride, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children. Yet, if you appreciate outdoor scenery and wildlife, this tour will hit the right spot. It’s especially suited for travelers craving a balance of culture, scenery, and adventure without a full day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect mountains, lush forests, granite cliffs, and waterfalls.
• Wildlife sightings: Keep your camera ready for whales, eagles, seals, and even bears.
• Cultural insights: Pass by Saxman to see totem poles and learn about Tlingit culture.
• Nature close-up: The Zodiac cruise offers an up-close view of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
• Expert guides: Guides like Brandon and Emily make the experience engaging and educational.
• Value for time: A well-paced 3.5-hour trip that combines land and water adventures effectively.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Setting Off

The tour begins in downtown Ketchikan, right near the Visitors Center and “The Rock” statue—a recognizable landmark easily reachable from cruise docks. For those arriving at the Ward Cove Cruise Terminal, a dedicated pickup ensures a hassle-free start, avoiding the need to navigate unfamiliar streets.

The small groups or private experience allows for personalized attention, but some reviews highlight that the actual group sizes can vary, and this can influence the atmosphere. We appreciate how the guide, Brandon, or Emily, tailor their commentary to keep everyone involved.

Scenic Drive through Saxman

Your adventure kicks off with a van tour through Saxman, famous for its impressive totem pole park that pays homage to Tlingit traditions. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of local artistry and history. The drive along the Tongass Narrows offers views of mountains, water, and forests, setting the scene for the aquatic part of your tour.

Some travelers mention that this part of the trip, while quick, is a good way to familiarize yourself with the area before heading to the water. It’s an excellent chance to snap photos and get a sense of the landscape’s vastness.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery & Rainforest Hike

Next, you’ll visit the historic Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery. This site connects you to Alaska’s fishing heritage, and the short rainforest trail hike is a great way to breathe in the fresh air and prepare for the boat ride. The trail offers a peaceful woodland atmosphere, which many find calming after the drive.

The Zodiac Boat Cruise: Up Close with Nature

After a safety briefing—where guides like Emily or Brandon explain how to handle the Zodiac boat—you’ll hop into your 4- or 6-seater vessel dressed in rain gear, rubber boots, and life jackets. The Zodiac style boat is designed for agility and maneuverability, so expect some splashes and excitement.

The cruise through the George Inlet Fjords showcases spectacular granite cliffs, carved out by glaciers, and the 2000-foot Mahoney Falls. Many reviews highlight how impressive the waterfall is—“a breathtaking sight”—and how the sound of the water crashing down adds to the wild feeling of the cruise.

Guides actively point out wildlife—humpbacks, orcas, bald eagles, seals, and even bears in the distance. One traveler noted, “We saw eagles swooping to water for hunting, and in the water, you may be able to observe the salmon streams.” The chances of wildlife sightings depend on the season and weather, but most guests report seeing something memorable.

Wildlife & Scenic Highlights

The boat ride isn’t just about scenery—it’s about the chance to see animals in their natural habitat. The waterway is home to salmon streams, and guides often focus on the importance of these ecosystems. You might also spot black bears or Sitka deer on the shoreline, especially if you’re lucky.

Post-Cruise Snacks & Return

Back at the cannery, refreshments like snacks and drinks are available, and some reviews mention that guides pay close attention to guests’ needs—“Emily made it seem like we were her only customers.” This personal touch enhances the overall value of the trip.

The return drive to Ketchikan offers a chance to reflect on the experience, with guides sharing additional insights into the area’s culture and history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The mix of land-based cultural insights and water-based wildlife viewing offers a balanced, rich experience. You get to see Saxman’s totem poles and explore the rainforest, then jump into a Zodiac to get up close with Alaska’s rugged coastlines and wildlife.

Many reviews praise the expert guides—not only for their knowledge but also for their friendly, accommodating attitude. “Brandon was a great guide and he was very informative,” says one traveler, which highlights the importance of a good guide in making the trip memorable.

The scenery is undeniably a highlight. The towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains create a stunning backdrop that many describe as “spectacular”. Several guests mention how peaceful and wild the surroundings feel, offering a genuine taste of Alaska’s wilderness.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s cost is reasonable for the quality of experience—it’s a half-day trip that combines scenic drive, cultural learning, wildlife sightings, and a boat cruise. The price reflects good value, especially considering the small-group setting and personalized guiding.

While it’s not suitable for children under 3 or for those with mobility issues, it fits well for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and wildlife. The 3.5-hour duration makes it manageable even for those on tight cruise schedules.

A Final Word on the Experience

This tour is particularly well-suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and culture seekers. If you want a glimpse into Alaska’s natural beauty without committing to a full-day excursion, this offers a perfect balance. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it a comfortable and engaging experience.

The Sum Up

The Ketchikan: Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Zodiac Cruise is a compact yet rich adventure that combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights into Alaska’s wilderness. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, engaging tour that offers both land-based exploration and water-based excitement.

The experience’s highlights—spectacular waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and storytelling guides—make it a memorable part of any Alaskan visit. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate connection with the landscape, and the knowledgeable guides elevate the experience with their local expertise.

While it may not be perfect for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or young children—it remains a fantastic choice for active, curious travelers eager to see Alaska’s wild side up close. If you value authentic scenery, wildlife, and cultural storytelling, this tour delivers value and a genuine sense of adventure in just a few hours.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity perfect for cruise schedules.

Where does the tour start?
For those in downtown Ketchikan, meet near the Ketchikan Visitors Center and “The Rock” statue. If arriving at Ward Cove, your pickup is arranged at the cruise terminal.

Is the boat ride safe?
Yes, guides provide a safety orientation before boarding, and you’ll be dressed in rain gear and life jackets. The Zodiac boat is designed for safety and agility.

Can I see wildlife on this tour?
While wildlife sightings depend on the season and weather, most guests report seeing whales, eagles, seals, and sometimes bears.

What should I bring?
Bring warm, waterproof clothing, and rubber boots are provided. It’s also good to have a camera for the wildlife and scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 or those with mobility challenges. The boat ride involves some activity and exposure to outdoor elements.

What’s included in the snacks?
Snacks and refreshments are available after the cruise at the cannery. Some reviews mention that drinks are included, but details vary.

How personalized is the tour?
Since it’s a private group, guides can tailor the commentary and pace to your interests, making it a more intimate experience.

What makes this tour special compared to others?
The combination of cultural stops, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery in a small-group setting offers a well-rounded and authentic Alaskan experience.

This tour is an excellent way to see Alaska’s coast in a compact, engaging package. Expect beautiful landscapes, wildlife surprises, and stories from guides passionate about their homeland—an experience you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby