26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK

If you’re planning a trip to Anchorage and want to see some of Alaska’s iconic scenery, this 26 Glacier Cruise and Coach tour might be on your radar. It promises a full day of breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and a chance to get up close to the famous glaciers in Prince William Sound. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 280 reviews, it’s clear many travelers found it worthwhile — but, like any experience, it has its quirks.

What we love about this tour? First, the beautiful scenic drive along Turnagain Arm Drive offers some truly memorable vistas that set the tone for the day. Second, the up-close glacier cruise in Prince William Sound delivers those jaw-dropping, postcard-worthy moments you come to Alaska for. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long travel time to and from Anchorage, which might feel a bit tiring if you’re short on energy or tight on time.

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day trip that combines scenery, wildlife, and glaciers — especially if you prefer a comfortable, guided experience over self-driving or trying to plan multiple activities on your own. It suits travelers who appreciate good value, as the tour packs in quite a bit for the price, but it’s also a good fit for those with an eye on weather considerations, since conditions can impact what you see.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic drive through Turnagain Arm and the Seward Highway, offering memorable views and photo opportunities.
• Up-close glacier cruise in Prince William Sound, with a chance to see wildlife like seals, otters, and sea birds.
• Narrated journey with knowledgeable guides providing context and story-telling along the way.
• Comfortable catamaran cruise that’s designed for smooth sailing even in calm waters.
• Timing & duration: Full day, approximately 11 hours, with a mix of driving, sightseeing, and cruising.
• Value for money: Includes lunch, wildlife viewing, and the cruise, making it a fairly comprehensive Alaska experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting in Anchorage: Scenic Drive Along Turnagain Arm

Your day begins bright and early at 9:15 am from downtown Anchorage. The first part of the journey — about an hour and a half — takes you along Turnagain Arm Drive. This route is celebrated for its stunning shoreline views and mountain backdrops. Many travelers mention how the drive alone is worth the trip, with one reviewer noting, “Beautiful drive as well!” and others admiring the “stunning views and photo opportunities.”

The drive along the Seward Highway, designated as a Scenic Byway, is packed with dramatic scenery—mountains, ocean, and perhaps even some wildlife. As time allows, you’ll make several photo stops to truly soak in the surroundings and capture those perfect pictures.

Crossing the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

Next, you’ll pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel. This is a unique experience in itself — a one-way tunnel that alternates on the half-hour, offering a bit of engineering wonder and history. The tunnel’s about 1 hour 30 minutes is included in your trip, but note that tickets are not included if you’re driving yourself — this is a part of the guided tour.

The Main Event: Glacier Cruise in Prince William Sound

The highlight of this tour is the 6-hour glacier cruise in Prince William Sound. Board a first-class catamaran that promises smooth sailing, even for those prone to seasickness. The cruise is designed to get you close to glaciers, navigating through narrow fjords and icy fields.

You’ll have the chance to witness massive glaciers calving, with some reviews mentioning the crew stopping the boat at just the right moments to watch glaciers crack and tumble into the water — an awe-inspiring sight. One traveler described it as “being on the front of the ship, with glaciers cracking and falling,” which is exactly the kind of experience that sticks with you.

Apart from glaciers, you’ll spot marine wildlife like seals, sea otters, and possibly even orcas. Several reviews mention sightings of orcas and sea lions, with one reviewer saying, “The crew was very friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw lots of otters, sea lions, and glaciers.” The calm waters of Prince William Sound, along with the presence of a ranger providing narration, make the cruise both scenic and educational.

Return to Whittier and Travel Back to Anchorage

After the cruise, you’ll visit Whittier, a tiny coastal town home to just 200 residents, and then hop back on the coach for the return trip. The drive back is about an hour, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

Additional Details & Comforts

• Lunch onboard includes wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, a salad, cheese, fruit snacks, and a peppermint patty — enough to keep your energy up for a long day.
• The vessels are smoke-free, and the crew provides USB charging stations at every table (though no WiFi). Coffee, hot tea, and water are available throughout.
• For those who want souvenirs or a keepsake, a gift shop is onboard, and there’s a full-service bar offering local ales, wine, spirits, and even specialty drinks like a Glacier Ice Margarita.
• Accessibility: The tour is ADA accessible, but travelers should call in advance regarding specific needs.
• Weather considerations: Some reviews highlight that weather can be unpredictable — rain or cloudy skies don’t ruin the experience, but they might affect your visibility or wildlife sightings. A few reviews mention the importance of dressing warmly and being prepared for variable weather.

The Value of This Tour

At $336 per person, this tour might seem pricey at first glance, but when you consider that it combines transportation, a scenic drive, a wildlife-rich cruise, and a hearty lunch, it starts to look more reasonable. Many travelers comment on the value for money, especially given the quality of the guides, the stunning scenery, and the chance to see glaciers up close.

Some reviews mention that doing the drive and cruise separately — by driving yourself and booking just the cruise — could be cheaper. However, the guided experience takes away the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and ensures you won’t miss any highlights along the way. Plus, the narration and expert commentary add valuable context that you might not get if you went solo.

How It Compares to Other Experience Options

This experience is a good “Alaska sampler” — you get a taste of coastal scenery, glaciers, wildlife, and history in one day. If you’re short on time or prefer a guided tour to maximize your sightseeing, this is a solid pick. For travelers who love stories, wildlife, and nature, it ticks many boxes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive snapshot of Alaska’s wilderness without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It suits those who enjoy a comfortable, guided experience and are okay with a full day of activity. If you’re traveling with family, the tour’s facilities, the friendly staff, and wildlife sightings make it engaging for older kids and teens.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a more flexible, independent approach or has specific weather sensitivities, you might want to consider alternative options or shorter tours. Also, if you’re prone to seasickness, taking precautions is advisable since the boat cruise lasts several hours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers wanting a well-rounded Alaska experience, this tour offers a fantastic way to see glaciers, spot wildlife, and enjoy stunning scenery all in a single day. The combination of a scenic coach ride and a smooth, wildlife-rich cruise makes it a satisfying choice, especially for those who prefer guided logistics over self-drives. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, spectacular vistas, and friendly staff as high points.

While it’s not perfect — long hours and variable weather are considerations — the overall experience tends to leave guests feeling they got good value for their money. Especially if you’re eager to tick off some of Alaska’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail on your own, this tour fits the bill.

In the end, it’s a trip that captures the majesty of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, and it’s likely to be a highlight of your visit — provided you’re prepared for a full, adventurous day.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour is ADA accessible, but it’s best to call ahead so the staff can assist with your specific needs, especially when boarding the coach and cruise vessel.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is approximately 11 hours, starting at 9:15 am and returning to Anchorage afterwards. It includes travel, sightseeing, and the glacier cruise.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, guided narration, wildlife and glacier viewing, a hearty lunch, restroom facilities onboard, and the cruise itself. Some extras like souvenirs or drinks from the bar are extra.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those comfortable with a full day of activity. It’s especially engaging for wildlife lovers and those interested in glaciers.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly, regardless of the forecast — layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes are recommended. A camera or binoculars can enhance wildlife and glacier viewing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing you to plan without stress.

If you’re looking to soak in Alaska’s icy giants and wildlife without the chaos of self-driving or multiple bookings, this tour offers a practical and memorable way to do just that. With its friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and a good mix of activities, it’s worth considering for your Alaska adventure.