Prince William Sound Glacier Tour – Whittier

If you’re heading to Alaska and want a glacier experience that combines stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and comfort, the Prince William Sound Glacier Tour from Whittier is hard to beat. Priced at about $248.20 per person, this full-day adventure lasts roughly 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the natural beauty of one of Alaska’s most iconic regions. With stable catamarans that glide smoothly over calm waters, it’s especially appealing if seasickness has been a concern — no rough rides here.

What we love most is the up-close views of glaciers that the tour offers, along with the chance to see wildlife like sea otters, bears, and eagles in their natural habitat. The delicious Alaska salmon chowder served on board is a highlight, making the whole experience feel like a true taste of Alaska’s bounty. On the flip side, one consideration is the length of the trip, which can feel long if you’re not a fan of boat rides, especially if the narration is hard to hear at times, as some reviews mention.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive and comfortable way to see glaciers and wildlife, or for travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded experience of Prince William Sound without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suitable for most ages and mobility levels, thanks to ADA accessibility and the smooth, nausea-free ride.

Key Points

• Comfortable & Smooth Ride: Catamarans provide a nausea-free experience in calm waters.
• Stunning Glacier Views: Close-up encounters with glaciers, including calving, as some reviews highlight.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chances to spot sea otters, bears, eagles, and more.
• Excellent Narration: Knowledgeable crew and guides enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: Includes a hearty lunch, snacks, and refreshments.
• Ideal for First-timers: Gentle waters and comprehensive experience make it accessible for all.

An In-Depth Look at the Prince William Sound Glacier Tour

Starting Point & Accessibility

Your day begins at 100 W Camp Rd in Whittier, a charming seaside town. The journey from Anchorage takes about 90 minutes, passing through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, an impressive feat of engineering that’s part of the adventure. The tunnel opens on the hour and operates until late evening, so plan your timing accordingly to avoid missing your departure at 12:15 pm. The tour provider does not include the toll fee for the tunnel or parking fees, so budget accordingly.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the vessels are ADA accessible, which is a bonus for travelers with mobility concerns. The vessels are smoke-free and equipped with restrooms, making the long haul more comfortable.

The Cruise Itinerary & Highlights

The main event is the 26 Glacier Cruise through Prince William Sound. Once aboard, you’ll be cruising on a high-speed catamaran, which is a real advantage as it allows you to maximize your time on the water with less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the scenery.

The first major stop is the calm waters of Prince William Sound, where the crew provides professional narration about glaciers, wildlife, and local history. Several reviews praise the informative guides — one reviewer mentions Captain Chris and Forest Ranger Jim, highlighting their super personalities and knowledge. Expect the captain to keep you engaged with stories about the glaciers, the landscape, and the animals.

Wildlife & Glacier Viewing

Many travelers note the quality of wildlife sightings. From bald eagles soaring overhead to sea otters and seals resting on icebergs, the area teems with life. Some reviews mention spotting bears and mountain goats, which is a bonus for nature lovers. The calving glaciers, where chunks of ice break off and crash into the water, are a highlight, though not guaranteed — the timing depends on the season and conditions.

One reviewer raves, “Never thought we’d get so close to glaciers,” emphasizing how the close-up views are truly unforgettable. Others mention the calving being a spectacular sight, with one noting they saw “the results of glacier calving” up close.

Food & Beverage

Included in the ticket is a hearty Alaskan smoked salmon chowder, served with oyster crackers, a julienne vegetable salad, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a peppermint patty. Many find this delicious and satisfying, especially after several hours on the water. Vegetarian options can be requested in advance, which demonstrates the tour’s consideration for dietary needs.

The vessel offers coffee, hot tea, and ice water at self-serve stations. For those wanting to warm up or toast the experience, a full-service bar is available for purchasing Alaskan ales, wine, spirits, and specialty drinks like the Glacier Ice Margarita.

Additional Comfort & Facilities

The boat provides USB charging stations at every table, so you can keep your devices powered to capture photos or listen to the narration. Though Wi-Fi isn’t available, the stunning scenery and wildlife sightings easily make up for that lack of connectivity. Restrooms are onboard, and the vessel is smoke-free.

The Town of Whittier & Optional Exploration

Before or after your cruise, Whittier itself is worth a quick exploration. A quaint seaside town, it offers a harbor boardwalk, local shops, and hiking trails. This is a good chance to stretch your legs and soak in local Alaskan charm.

The Experience & Reviews

The overall feedback is very positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 838 reviews. Travelers praise the scenery, wildlife sightings, and friendly crew. Many reviewers mention how smooth the ride is, emphasizing that they didn’t experience seasickness — a common concern for first-timers, but not an issue here.

One guest called it a “time to remember always” and appreciated the relaxing atmosphere, while another said it was “exhilarating” to see glaciers up close. Several reviewers mention how informative narration made the experience more meaningful.

Possible Drawbacks

Some reviews note that the long duration can be tiring, especially if the sound system isn’t loud enough or if the narration can be hard to hear at times. The length of the trip may not suit everyone, particularly those with limited patience or who prefer shorter tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable way to experience Glaciers and wildlife in Prince William Sound. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a nausea-free ride with a friendly, knowledgeable crew. Families with children, seniors, or anyone with mobility concerns will appreciate the ADA accessibility. If you love wildlife sightings combined with stunning scenery and a hearty lunch, this tour checks many boxes.

However, if you’re very sensitive to long boat rides or want a more focused, shorter experience, you might prefer a different option. Also, those hoping for constant glacier calving might find this a bit unpredictable, as it depends on the season and day’s conditions.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a well-rounded Alaskan adventure that blends nature, wildlife, and glaciers with comfort and great food, this Prince William Sound Glacier Tour offers tremendous value. The smooth ride, educational narration, and intimate wildlife encounters make it a memorable choice, especially for first-timers eager to see Alaska’s rugged beauty without the rough waters.

It’s a day packed with visual splendor and authentic experiences, making it an excellent investment for those who want to connect with nature and enjoy Alaska’s remarkable landscapes in a relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, the vessels are ADA accessible, making it easier for those with mobility concerns to enjoy the cruise comfortably.

How long is the cruise, and what is included?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with the cruise itself being around 6 hours. It includes a hearty smoked salmon chowder lunch, snacks, coffee, tea, and narration.

Are there wildlife sightings during the cruise?
Yes, many travelers see bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and sometimes bears or mountain goats. Wildlife sightings depend on the day, but the tour is praised for its sightings.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for varying weather, a camera, and possibly binoculars for wildlife viewing. The boat has USB charging and restrooms, but bring your own sunglasses or hat for sun protection.

How is the weather in Alaska during the cruise?
Weather can vary. Even if the forecast looks cloudy or rainy, the calm waters and comfortable vessel make for an enjoyable ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

In sum, whether you’re a wildlife lover, a glacier enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing day with astonishing views, this cruise from Whittier offers a robust, authentic Alaskan experience that’s hard to match.