Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise w/Lunch

Imagine gliding through Resurrection Bay on a spacious, high-speed catamaran, with the chance to spot whales, seals, puffins, and glaciers all around. At $265 per person, this 6-hour adventure offers an up-close look at some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery, with plenty of wildlife sightings and a delicious deli-style lunch onboard.

This trip is led by a knowledgeable captain who, from the glowing reviews, seems genuinely committed to giving you a memorable experience. What we love most? The comfortable boat that handles choppy waters well, and the informative commentary that keeps you engaged and informed. On the downside, the trip can be affected by weather or seasickness, so packing waterproof gear and seasickness remedies might be wise. It’s ideal for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see glaciers calve up close.

If you crave dramatic scenery and marine life with a relaxed pace, this tour hits all the right notes. It suits those who enjoy a good mix of adventure and comfort, with a keen interest in Alaska’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see whales, sea otters, puffins, seals, and more, with expert guides pointing out sightings.
• Spectacular Scenery: Towering tidewater glaciers, fjords, and rugged mountains provide a stunning backdrop.
• Comfort & Stability: The large, stable catamaran handles choppy waters smoothly, making the experience enjoyable even for those prone to seasickness.
• Food & Drinks: A tasty deli-style lunch is included, with options like turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian, plus the option to buy local beers.
• Expert Guides: The crew offers engaging narration and helps spot wildlife, making the trip both fun and educational.
• Flexible & Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation with 24 hours’ notice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

Your journey begins in Seward, at the Harbor 360 Hotel, where you check in about an hour before departure. Parking is available nearby for a fee, and early arrival ensures a smooth start to your day. The boat, operated by Major Marine Tours, is known for its modern, well-maintained condition, which adds to your comfort and safety.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See & Do

Once aboard, the captain guides you through Resurrection Bay, a protected body of water teeming with marine life and scenic vistas. The cruise typically begins with a warm-up—scanning the water for sea otters, seals, and seabirds like puffins—while the captain shares insightful commentary about the area’s ecology and history.

As the boat moves further into the fjords, the highlight is usually the tidewater glaciers. Multiple reviews mention the thrill of witnessing huge chunks calve from glaciers into the water, creating thunderous crashes that echo across the fjord. Several reviewers note that they were lucky enough to see calving events, which are truly awe-inspiring.

Wildlife Watching & Photo Opportunities

Throughout the cruise, the crew makes a concerted effort to locate marine mammals. Reviewers rave about the crew’s dedication, with some describing extended whale watching, including pods of orcas, humpbacks, and even Dall’s porpoises. One traveler remarked, “We spent about 30 minutes with an amazing pod of orcas,” which highlights how some groups enjoy long, close-up wildlife encounters.

Birdwatchers will also appreciate the puffins and other seabirds nesting along the cliffs, providing perfect photo ops. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides who point out animals and share interesting facts, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

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Lunch & Onboard Comfort

The included deli-style lunch is surprisingly well-received, with travelers praising the quality of the sandwiches—turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian options—described as “lots of meat” and “unexpectedly very good.” The onboard bar offers local beers and cocktails for purchase, allowing you to relax with a drink as you soak in the scenery.

The vessel’s stability and spaciousness are frequently highlighted. Reviewers note that the boat handles waves smoothly, and the ample seating arrangements allow everyone a good view either outside or from inside. Whether you prefer to stand on the deck or sit and watch, the boat’s design accommodates a variety of preferences.

Wildlife & Glacier Sightings: The Highlights

Many travelers describe the calving glaciers as a highlight, especially when chunks of ice crash into the water with a thunderous splash. This spectacle, often accompanied by the captain’s commentary, makes the trip a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Wildlife sightings are abundant, but as one reviewer noted, “Whale sightings cannot be guaranteed.” Still, the crew’s consistent effort means most guests leave with impressive stories—whether it’s a breaching humpback or a family of sea otters floating lazily.

Practical Considerations

This tour lasts around six hours, which is a comfortable length to enjoy the region without fatigue. Packing layers is essential—Alaska’s weather can change quickly, and reviewers recommend bringing warm clothing, hats, gloves, and waterproof jackets. Seasickness is a possibility, especially on choppy days, so taking remedies beforehand is a good idea.

There’s limited space for large bags or strollers, and smoking or drones are not permitted on board. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of travelers.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Most reviews agree that this cruise offers great value for the price, considering the amount of wildlife, glacier viewing, and the quality of the crew. Several mention that the experience exceeded expectations, with comments like, “This was the highlight of our trip” and “A once-in-a-lifetime adventure.”

While the trip’s outcome depends partly on weather and luck, the crew’s dedication and expert guiding significantly enhance your chances of a memorable day. It’s perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone eager to see Alaska’s rugged coastal beauty from the water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys close encounters with wildlife, spectacular scenery, and a comfortable, well-run boat ride, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable if you’re visiting Seward and want a full day immersed in nature without feeling rushed. The inclusion of lunch and the high level of guide knowledge make it a smart choice for travelers seeking both adventure and education.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer more flexible, independent exploration, you might want to prepare accordingly. Weather can be unpredictable, so packing the right gear is essential.

FAQs

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for about 6 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy wildlife, scenery, and glacier calving.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, waterproof jacket, binoculars, cash for souvenirs or drinks, and a camera are recommended.

Is food included?
Yes, a deli-style lunch with options like turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian sandwiches is included. You can buy local beers or cocktails onboard.

Can I see whales?
While whale sightings are common—especially orcas and humpbacks—they cannot be guaranteed. Many reviews mention successful whale encounters.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but check in advance if you have specific needs.

What about seasickness?
Choppy waters are possible, so taking seasickness remedies beforehand can make the trip more comfortable for sensitive travelers.

Where do I meet the tour?
Check in at the tour desk inside the Harbor 360 Hotel lobby, about an hour before departure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Kenai Fjords catamaran cruise from Seward offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, glacier sights, and Alaska’s striking natural landscapes. The professional crew, comfortable vessel, and delicious lunch create a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and awe-inspiring.

Ideal for travelers who want to connect with nature in a relaxed setting, it’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good story, stunning photography opportunities, and the thrill of witnessing glaciers calve or orcas breach. The high praise in reviews underscores its reputation as a highlight of any Alaska trip—earning a solid 4.8 out of 5 stars from hundreds of happy travelers.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking adventure, or someone simply eager to see Alaska’s coast from the water, this tour delivers on many fronts. Just remember to dress warmly, bring your camera, and keep your fingers crossed for good weather and wildlife sightings. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: