Seward is one of Alaska’s most accessible gateways to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife. It’s an excellent base to explore Kenai Fjords National Park and surrounding areas through full-day tours that suit a variety of interests and energy levels. Whether you’re eager to witness whales breach, hike alongside glaciers, or simply enjoy a scenic drive, Seward offers options that are both memorable and well worth your time. We especially love tours that combine wildlife sightings with intimate access to remote fjords, like the Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise, which stands out for its small-vessel approach and remote glacier encounters.
For travelers who prefer a more land-based experience, the Seward to Anchorage Full Day Transit Tour with Port Pickup offers a scenic journey through mountains and along Turnagain Arm, with stops at Exit Glacier and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. And if you want a quick but rundown of Seward’s highlights, the Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour combines history, glacier visits, and marine life in just five hours. Below, we explore each carefully selected option in detail to help you decide.
1. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise
This 8.5-hour small-vessel cruise takes you deep into the Northwestern Fjord of Kenai Fjords National Park, an area only accessible by boat. The tour departs from Seward and is perfect for those eager to see glaciers, whales, and seabirds in an intimate setting. The cruise is the only small vessel to explore this remote part of the park, which means fewer crowds and better chances of spotting elusive wildlife. You’ll pass through Resurrection Bay, the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and areas like Cape Resurrection, Granite Pass, and Harris Bay, where stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings abound.
The tour’s highlight is the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, Steller sea lions, and sea otters. Birders will appreciate the variety of seabirds, puffins, and other avian species. The vessel’s size allows closer encounters with glaciers and calving events—when chunks of ice dramatically break off and crash into the water. A deli lunch is included, so you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the scenery. The crew, led by a knowledgeable captain, will narrate the journey and adapt the route based on conditions and wildlife activity. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the crew’s expertise and the spectacular scenery.
Who it’s for: This tour is ideal if you value small-group intimacy, wildlife viewing, and glacial landscapes. Children under 12 are not recommended due to vessel size and cruise length.
Bottom line: If you want an up-close look at glaciers and whales in a manageable size boat, this cruise offers a memorable, wildlife-rich adventure.
2. Seward to Anchorage Full Day Transit Tour with Port Pickup
For those who enjoy scenic drives and want to see a broad slice of Alaska’s wilderness, this 8.5-hour transit tour is a wonderful pick. It begins with a visit to Exit Glacier, part of Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can walk along the glacier’s edge and marvel at ice formations that are over 3,000 years old. The tour then winds through the Chugach Mountains and along Turnagain Arm, a stretch of water famous for its dramatic tides and possible Beluga whale sightings. Your guide, often a local with plenty of stories, will point out wildlife like Dall sheep, mountain goats, and maybe even black bears.
The highlight is a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll see native animals such as moose, elk, and bears, many rescued and rehabbing. The tour offers a chance to learn about Alaska’s wildlife and conservation efforts. The route provides a comfortable way to see both glaciers and mountains in one day, and the driver’s commentary makes it more engaging. At only $249 per person, this tour offers great value, especially considering transportation, stops, and admission fees are included.
Who it’s for: Perfect if you prefer a land-based experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing and glacier viewing without a strenuous hike. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a guided trip with local insight.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive, scenic, and educational journey from Seward to Anchorage, bringing the wild beauty of Alaska right to your window.
3. Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour
If your time in Seward is limited but you still want a well-rounded experience, this 5-hour tour is a solid choice. It combines the Historical City Tour, a visit to Exit Glacier, and admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center. Starting at 11:30 a.m., the tour hits the highlights of Seward’s maritime history and natural beauty. The visit to Exit Glacier is included, giving you an up-close look at ice formations and the chance to walk on trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and water.
The Alaska SeaLife Center offers insight into local marine life, including sea otters, puffins, and seals, providing a family-friendly element to the tour. The tour is timed to match the arrival and departure of the Coastal Classic Train, making it convenient for travelers arriving by train or cruise ship. While it’s shorter than the other options, it offers good value and a taste of Seward’s key attractions.
Who it’s for: Best suited for travelers with limited time who want a rundown of Seward’s history, wildlife, and glaciers.
Bottom line: This tour delivers a concise yet thorough introduction to Seward’s highlights, making it ideal for a quick but meaningful visit.
$149.00 per person
How to Choose Your Seward Full-Day Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If wildlife and glacier encounters top your list, the Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise offers an intimate experience with abundant marine life. For travelers who prefer a scenic drive with wildlife viewing and educational stops, the Seward to Anchorage Transit is excellent. If time is tight but you want a broad overview of Seward’s highlights, the Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour provides a quick yet diverse experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. Think about what excites you most—marine life, glaciers, scenic drives—and pick a tour that aligns with those interests.
Final Thoughts
Seward offers a range of full-day tours that showcase everything from whales and glaciers to wildlife and history. For serious wildlife enthusiasts or those wanting a more immersive experience at sea, the Northwestern Fjord Cruise is hard to beat. If you prefer a scenic, land-based day with wildlife and glacier viewing, the Transit Tour to Anchorage is perfect. And for travelers short on time but eager to see the essentials, the Best of Seward Tour hits all the highlights.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and planning around the best weather days will help you make the most of your Seward adventure. These tours aren’t just a way to see the sights—they’re a chance to experience the raw beauty and wildlife that make Alaska so special.