Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and craving a mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and a touch of thrill, the Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure might just be what you’re looking for. This tour promises a high-energy ride on military-grade inflatables, with the chance to steer your own boat while exploring the stunning waterways of Alaska. It’s perfect for those who love a dose of adrenaline and want to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

What we find appealing about this experience is the opportunity to drive your own boat—something that really sets it apart from typical wildlife tours. Plus, the reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery as major highlights. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s focus on speed and active participation might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or have small children.

This adventure feels best suited for adventure-seekers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a more hands-on experience in Alaska’s wild waters. If you’re looking for a memorable, interactive outing that gets your heart racing while offering excellent wildlife spotting chances, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Active participation: Drive your own military-grade inflatable boat and navigate the waters with guidance.
• Wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and humpback whales.
• Small group experience: Each boat holds a maximum of 4 people, ensuring a personalized adventure.
• Includes gear and snacks: Weather gear is provided, and there are local snacks, beverages, and alcohol available.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Recommended booking time: Most travelers book about 66 days ahead, indicating high interest.

What the Experience Looks Like

The Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure lasts approximately four hours, combining high-speed fun with wildlife exploration. You’ll be picked up from your location, making logistics straightforward, and then transported to the boat launch. Once there, you’ll receive a briefing on safety and operation—if you choose to drive, that is—and then the real fun begins.

The Ride and Wildlife Stops

The core of this tour is zipping across the waterways in military-grade inflatables. These boats are built for speed and stability, giving you an exhilarating ride through the islands of the Inside Passage. You’ll follow a guide who takes you to some prime wildlife spots, often off the usual tourist routes.

Expect to see bald eagle nests, seals, and sea lions lounging on rocks or swimming nearby. The waters around Ketchikan are teeming with life, and the guides are experienced in locating these creatures. Several reviews mention sightings of seals and eagles, with some lucky groups spotting humpback whales feeding or breaching nearby.

Driving Your Own Boat

One of the biggest draws is the option to operate your own zodiac. For many, this adds a level of freedom and excitement—driving through the waterway, feeling in control of your adventure. Guides are present to assist and ensure safety, but they also give you room to steer and explore at your own pace.

Some guests, like Erika, appreciated the chance to “zoom around” and enjoyed the feeling of being in charge. Others, like Tania, mentioned the sense of freedom it gave in exploring the remote islands and coastline.

Wildlife Encounters

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, the tour is designed to maximize your chances. Many guests report seeing eagles soaring overhead or nesting, seals sunbathing, and even humpback whales feeding. One review even describes sitting quietly watching whales feeding nearby, which was a “highlight” for that traveler.

It’s worth knowing that wildlife is unpredictable, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the experience. As one reviewer pointed out, you can’t control what animals you will see on any given day, but the guides are experienced at finding wildlife and sharing their knowledge.

The Practicalities and Comforts

The tour is priced at $189 per person, which, given the inclusions and the experience, offers good value. You get private transportation to and from your accommodation, and weather gear—rain bibs, jackets, gloves, and boots—are provided, allowing you to stay comfortable, regardless of the weather.

Snacks are included, with local treats like Alaskan smoked salmon, and there’s a complimentary bar offering beer, wine, and bottled water. For those over 21, the availability of alcohol adds to the relaxed, fun vibe of the tour.

The group size is capped at 12 travelers, with a maximum of 4 per boat, ensuring you get plenty of personalized attention and space to move around.

What to Bring

A couple of practical tips: bring a warm hat and sunglasses. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and even on sunny days, wind and spray can be cold and uncomfortable without proper gear.

Duration and Booking

The tour runs for about four hours, which is a good chunk of time to explore without feeling rushed. Most travelers book around 66 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. If you need to cancel, you can do so free of charge up to 24 hours before—a wise move if you’re uncertain about the weather or other plans.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Interactive and engaging: Driving your own boat is not only fun but makes the experience more memorable.
– Wildlife sightings: Many reviews mention seeing eagles, seals, and whales—truly a wildlife lover’s dream.
– Knowledgeable guides: Guests praise guides like Ben, Stan, and Zack for their friendliness and expertise.
– Comfort and safety: Weather gear is provided, and the boats are military-grade, ensuring both safety and comfort at high speeds.
– Small group size: The maximum of 4 per boat creates a more intimate experience.

Cons:
– Unpredictable wildlife sightings: While chances are good, animals are wild and sightings aren’t guaranteed every trip.
– Speed and activity level: If you prefer a slower tour or have mobility issues, this might feel too energetic.
– Weather dependency: Since it’s an outdoor adventure on open water, rain or wind can impact your experience, though gear helps mitigate this.
– Sharing boats: Occasionally, boats may be shared if there aren’t enough bookings for a private ride, which might affect the experience slightly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who don’t mind getting a little wet and windy. If you’re comfortable on the water and seeking a unique, hands-on way to experience Alaska’s wildlife and scenery, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also a great choice if you want to add an adrenaline rush to your trip—driving your own boat and zipping through the islands makes for a memorable day. However, if you prefer a laid-back, sightseeing-focused tour, you might want to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up

The Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure in Ketchikan offers an exhilarating blend of wildlife viewing and high-speed fun. Its biggest selling points are the opportunity to drive your own boat and the chance to spot iconic Alaskan animals like eagles, seals, and whales. The knowledgeable guides and well-maintained gear ensure safety and comfort, making it accessible for most active travelers.

This tour provides excellent value for those who crave a hands-on experience and enjoy being on the water. The small group sizes foster a personalized atmosphere, and the included snacks and drinks add a relaxing touch after the excitement.

If you’re in Ketchikan and want a day filled with adventure, wildlife, and a fair bit of adrenaline, this tour is a solid choice. It’s particularly ideal for adventure-seekers who aren’t shy about getting a little wet or driving a boat in wild Alaska waters.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves high-speed boating and active participation, so it’s better suited for older children and adults comfortable with water activities. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, you have the option to drive your own zodiac if you wish. Guides are there to assist and ensure safety, but you can take the wheel.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include bald eagles, seals, and sea lions. Some tours have also spotted humpback whales, especially feeding or breaching nearby.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 4 hours from start to finish, including pickup, briefing, and the boat ride.

What should I bring?
Bring a warm hat and sunglasses. The weather gear (rain bibs, jackets, gloves, boots) is provided, but dressing in layers is advisable.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the group size?
Maximum of 12 travelers, with up to 4 people per boat, ensuring a small-group feel.

What’s included?
Transport, weather gear, snacks (including Alaskan smoked salmon), bottled water, and alcoholic beverages for those 21+.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a good value?
Given the experienced guides, wildlife opportunities, and the thrill of driving your own boat, many guests find it worth the price of $189 per person.

If you’re after an adventure in Alaska that combines active exploration with wildlife sightings and stunning scenery, the Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure in Ketchikan is worth considering. Just remember to come prepared for the weather, and get ready for a day you won’t forget.