Anchorage might not be a port city in the traditional sense, but it offers some truly impressive boat tours and cruises that showcase Alaska’s stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re eager to see glaciers calve, spot orcas and humpbacks, or just enjoy a scenic cruise with a good story, you’ll find options that match your interests. One favorite is the Kenai Fjords National Park cruise with lunch, which gets rave reviews for wildlife viewing and glacier encounters, thanks to its knowledgeable captains and stable high-speed catamarans. The Resurrection Bay Orca Quest cruise is perfect if orcas are your main focus, delivering opportunities to see killer whales alongside other marine mammals. And for those combining city sightseeing with wildlife, the Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Tour offers a well-rounded experience just a short drive from Anchorage.
Anchorage’s boat tours are particularly appealing because they combine nature, wildlife, and geology in one day, often with transportation included. They make it easy to enjoy Alaska’s wild side without a lot of extra planning. Plus, many tours earn high praise on reviews, showing they’re well worth the price for memorable experiences. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these options, so you can decide which best fits your Alaska adventure.
1. From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch
At number 1 on our list, this 7.5-hour Kenai Fjords National Park cruise offers some of the best wildlife and glacier viewing in the area. You’ll set off from Seward aboard a high-speed catamaran designed for stability and comfort. The tour features two stops at active tidewater glaciers, where calving icebergs create spectacular moments. Along the way, you’re likely to see orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and sea lions, with a knowledgeable captain sharing insights into the area’s geology and ecology. Included is a freshly prepared lunch, making it a full-day adventure that balances wildlife, scenery, and comfort. Reviewers love the expert narration and the chance to watch calving glaciers, calling it “the best wildlife viewing” they experienced during their trip.
This tour is perfect for travelers eager for a comprehensive, immersive experience—from glaciers to marine mammals—on one smooth ride. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy wildlife and dramatic scenery, and the reviews consistently praise the lively guides and scenic stops. Expect to pay around $272, which is reasonable given the length and quality of the experience.
Bottom Line: If your main goal is to see mountains, glaciers, and marine wildlife in one trip, this cruise is hard to beat.
2. Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour + Transfer
At number 2, this 7-hour VIP tour transforms a long transfer into an Alaskan adventure. You travel in a luxury Mercedes Sprinter, making your journey from Seward to Anchorage both comfortable and scenic. Key highlights include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Byron Glacier, and Beluga Point—all offering chances to see bears, moose, Dall sheep, and other native wildlife. The tour also features a short guided walk along Byron Glacier Trail, perfect for those wanting a manageable hike with fantastic views. The tour is limited to just 12 travelers, meaning more personalized attention and flexibility.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guide, “born and raised in Alaska,” and the informative stops. One reviewer said, “This was the best tour I did during my Alaskan cruise, with wildlife, scenery, and great commentary.” For about $227, this tour offers a personalized, scenic experience that turns travel time into part of your adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a small-group experience with wildlife, glacier views, and a relaxed pace.
3. Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Explorer Tour
Number 3 on our list is a 5.5-hour tour that combines a cruise to Portage Glacier with wildlife viewing at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The cruise aboard the mv Ptarmigan brings you within 300 feet of Portage Glacier, where you might see icebergs calving into the water. The wildlife center showcases endangered species like brown bears, moose, and wolves, giving you a close-up look at Alaska’s animal residents.
This tour shines for travelers staying in Anchorage who want a shorter, packed experience of glacier and wildlife highlights. Reviewers appreciate the informative guides and the chance to see wild animals and glaciers in one trip. The $239 price includes transportation and entry fees, making it good value for a memorable half-day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a quick, scenic trip that offers both glacier views and wildlife without leaving Anchorage.
4. 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK
Number 4 takes you on a full-day adventure lasting about 11 hours, combining a scenic coach journey with a calm water cruise through Prince William Sound. Starting along the Turnagain Arm Drive, you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain and coastline vistas, with plenty of photo stops. The highlight is a cruise aboard a catamaran, where you glide past massive glaciers and look for wildlife like seals, sea otters, and seabirds.
Guests rave about this tour’s comprehensive itinerary and the expert narration along the way. The cruise is known for its close-up views of glaciers and wildlife, offering “breathtaking scenery and a very informative guide.” Though the price (~$336) is on the higher side, the length and diversity of experiences make it a solid value for those with a full day to spare.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to combine a scenic drive and a glacier cruise with ample wildlife viewing.
5. Seward: Resurrection Bay Orca Quest Cruise
Number 5 is a 4-hour cruise focusing on peak orca season in Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords. The emphasis here is on marine mammal sightings, particularly the killer whales, but there’s also a good chance to see humpbacks, Steller sea lions, and other marine life. The boat is designed for up-close wildlife encounters, and the captain shares insights into the orca behavior.
Rated 4.7/5, guests love the panoramic views and the chance to see orcas in action. It’s an excellent choice if your main interest is marine mammals and you want a shorter, more focused trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect if orcas are a priority and you prefer a more compact cruise rather than a lengthy expedition.
6. Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour + Transfer
Number 6 is a 7-hour small-group tour that combines wildlife, glaciers, and scenic drives before you board your cruise in Seward. Highlights include salmon viewing at Moose Creek, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm. It’s particularly good for those who want to maximize sightseeing without rushing.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the variety of stops. One quoted reviewer said, “We saw wildlife, learned about the area, and enjoyed a very comfortable trip,” emphasizing the trip’s value at $227.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a comprehensive pre-cruise tour packed with wildlife and scenery.
7. Whittier to Anchorage Cruise Transfer and Private Tour
Number 7 offers a private 8-hour tour exploring Whittier’s highlights, including Portage Valley, wildlife centers, and scenic drives. With a maximum of 12 people, it’s perfect for those who want a tailored experience. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and visits to Beluga Point make for memorable stops.
Reviewers mention the expert local guides and the flexibility to customize the itinerary. The private nature makes it ideal for families or small groups wanting a relaxed yet personalized day.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers seeking a private, customizable tour from Whittier to Anchorage.
8. Anchorage to Seward Cruise Transfer and Private Tour
Number 8 features a private transfer from Anchorage to Seward, lasting about 8 hours. It includes optional sightseeing stops like Bird Point and the Alyeska Scenic Tramway, with wildlife sightings along the way. Perfect for those who want privacy and flexibility in their transfer, while still enjoying scenic stops.
Guests highlight the professional drivers and the customizable schedule. It’s ideal if you prefer a private journey rather than a group tour.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want control over their itinerary and a comfortable, private transfer.
9. Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Transfer and Private Tour
Number 9 is another private full-day tour, this time from Anchorage to Whittier, focusing on scenic drives and wildlife. It includes stops at Beluga Point, Portage Lake, and optional wildlife sightings. Customizable and private, it’s tailored to your schedule and interests.
Reviewers say, “Our driver was knowledgeable and friendly,” and appreciate the flexibility for wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to design their day with private, flexible options.
10. Private Transfer Anchorage Airport (ANC) to Whittier Cruise Port
Number 10 offers a simple, private transfer from Anchorage Airport to Whittier, perfect for stress-free arrivals. The vehicles are comfortable, and the drivers are known for their friendly service. It’s a no-fuss option for those arriving in Anchorage and heading straight to their cruise.
Reviewers mention the professionalism and punctuality, making it a reliable choice.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a hassle-free, private ride from the airport to the cruise.
11. Private Transfer, Anchorage to Seward Cruise Ship Terminal
Number 11 is a private transfer with a personalized route between Anchorage and Seward, lasting around 2.5 to 3 hours. It includes stops like Potter Marsh, and wildlife viewing opportunities along the scenic highway. It’s perfect for those wanting an independent, private drive with the option to customize.
Guests love the comfortable vehicles and informative drivers, making it a nice alternative to group tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, flexible transfer with scenic stops.
12. Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal
Number 12 offers a private, flexible ride from Anchorage to Whittier with stops at Portage Lake and wildlife viewing at Beluga Point. Duration is about 1 to 2 hours, perfect for those with tight schedules or wanting a tailored experience.
Reviewers note the friendly drivers and nice stops along the way, making it a good choice for private, short transfers.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a personalized, quick transfer with scenic stops.
13. Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise
This approximate 5-hour tour takes you close to Portage Glacier aboard a boat that travels within 300 feet of the icy face. While it offers spectacular glacier views and the thrill of hearing calving ice, it has a lower review score (2.8/5). Still, it’s a straightforward option for those preferring a short glacier cruise close to Anchorage.
If you’re looking for a more detailed, highly-rated experience, this is less compelling. However, for quick glacier proximity, it still provides a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for a short, close-up glacier view if you accept the mixed reviews.
$239 per person
14. Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage
This private transfer from Whittier to Anchorage takes about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1.5 hours. It’s designed for comfort and convenience, with friendly drivers and potential stops at wildlife and scenic points.
Perfect if you want a smooth, private ride back to Anchorage after your cruise, with the flexibility to stop anywhere along the route.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers needing a private, reliable transfer after a cruise.
$299.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour & Cruise in Anchorage
Choosing among these tours depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want a comprehensive glacier and wildlife experience, the Kenai Fjords cruise stands out. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Resurrection Bay Orca Quest offers a focused marine mammal adventure. Those arriving before their cruise can consider the Pre-Cruise Wildlife Tour for a well-rounded day. Private transfers are ideal if you prefer customized, stress-free logistics.
Factor in your fitness level—some tours include short walks or hikes, while others are primarily boat-based. Also, check the best time to go: summer months (June to August) provide the most wildlife and weather chances, but early fall can be quieter.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment. No matter your choice, these tours promise a memorable way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty from the water.
Anchorage offers an impressive variety of boat excursions that can match nearly any interest. For a full-day adventure with glaciers, the Kenai Fjords cruise is tough to beat. If you’re focused on wildlife, especially orcas, the Resurrection Bay Orca Quest could be your favorite. For those craving scenic drives combined with wildlife and glacier views, the Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer offers a compact, affordable option.
Whether you prefer a private, tailored experience or a group tour with expert narration, this list covers options that come highly recommended. Early booking is always best to lock in your preferred dates, especially during the busy summer months. Whatever your style, these cruises and tours will deepen your appreciation of Alaska’s remarkable natural world.