Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour

If you’re cruising through Alaska and have a stop in Seward, a Kenai Fjords National Park tour is one of the most popular ways to experience the area’s incredible landscapes and wildlife. While I haven’t personally done this exact tour, the reviews paint a picture of a truly memorable adventure that captures the essence of Alaska’s rugged beauty. It’s a solid pick whether you’re arriving before your cruise or wrapping up your trip.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances wildlife viewing with spectacular glacier scenery—all in a comfortable, well-organized six-hour trip. Plus, the fact that they offer lunch on board makes it feel like a full, satisfying adventure rather than just a boat ride. That said, a potential downside to consider is weather dependency; like most outdoor excursions, rain or wind can impact your experience, but the tour operates in all weather conditions.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and dramatic scenery, and who don’t mind being on the water for several hours. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find this trip offers a well-rounded look at Kenai Fjords’ rugged coastlines, glaciers, and abundant animal life.

Key Points

• Wildlife Abundance: Expect sightings of whales, sea lions, otters, and seabirds, with knowledgeable guides on hand.
• Glacier Views: Visit tidewater glaciers like Aialik or Holgate, where calving ice chunks provide unforgettable moments.
• Scenic Voyage: Cruise through Resurrection Bay and experience views of rugged coastline, waterfalls, and hanging glaciers.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious, warm vessel with restrooms, onboard wildlife guides, and included lunch.
• Weather Flexibility: Operates in all weather conditions, but poor weather may affect wildlife sightings or scenery.
• Value for Price: At around $224 per person, many reviews highlight this experience as offering excellent value considering the wildlife, scenery, and included amenities.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point & Duration

The tour kicks off at Kenai Fjords Tours at 1304 4th Ave, Seward. The entire trip lasts about six hours, making it a substantial half-day adventure that fits nicely before or after your cruise. Most travelers book this about 74 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity.

What’s Included

For the $223.85 price tag, you get a 6-hour cruise with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, the comfort of an onboard restroom, and a delicious lunch—a surprisingly nice touch for a boat tour. An onboard wildlife guide adds educational value, helping you identify and understand the creatures and glaciers you’ll see.

What to Expect on the Itinerary

The tour begins with a cruise through Resurrection Bay, which itself offers scenic views and the chance to see harbor seals, waterfalls, and hanging glaciers in Thumb Cove. From there, the boat heads toward the Kenai Fjords National Park, dominated by the enormous Harding Icefield—a remnant of the last Ice Age that spills out into glaciers.

The highlight for many is visiting either Aialik or Holgate tidewater glaciers. These glaciers are incredible—they tower over the water and sometimes calve, sending chunks of ice crashing into the sea. Several reviews mention witnessing these calving events, which are truly awe-inspiring. Keep your eyes peeled for harbor seals lounging on ice or rocks along the coast.

Wildlife Encounters

Expect to see humpback, minke, and orca whales if the season aligns. While some travelers didn’t spot whales during their trip, the majority have seen a variety of marine animals. The reviews mention sea lions, otters, puffins, mountain goats, and seabirds. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, making wildlife sightings even more meaningful.

Glacial Sightseeing & Photography

The glaciers, especially Aialik and Holgate, are stunning. Surrounded by cliffs, forests, and towering peaks, they offer countless photo opportunities. Some reviews mention the experience of hearing the glaciers creak and crack, with the occasional calving event adding a dramatic backdrop. It’s a chance to get close to these icy giants without the need for strenuous hikes or helicopter rides.

Food & Beverage

Lunch onboard is generally well-received. Reviews mention that the meal was “very good,” and some even highlight the warm, freshly baked cookies served during the trip. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, though some found them expensive. Still, the option to enjoy lunch while taking in the scenery is a big plus.

Weather & Seas

Weather can vary, and some reviews mention choppy seas, with a few travelers experiencing motion sickness. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing in layers, wearing sunscreen, and bringing sunglasses or binoculars is recommended. If seasickness is a concern, consider taking preventative measures.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviewers rate this tour close to perfect, praising the knowledgeable crew, beautiful scenery, and abundant wildlife sightings. Travelers love how close they get to glaciers and the variety of animals—“We saw humpbacks, orcas, mountain goats, puffins, and seals,” one reviewer noted.

Many mention that the captain and crew are attentive, helpful, and eager to make the trip enjoyable—even when weather isn’t ideal. For example, one reviewer shared that despite 8-foot seas, the staff went above and beyond to care for those feeling seasick, providing ice packs and ginger chips.

Some highlights include spectacular glacier calving, close encounters with wildlife, and the stunning scenery that makes it easy to forget you’re on a boat. Several mention that the lunch on board was a pleasant surprise, offering good food and a relaxing environment to soak in the views.

However, a few reviews point out that whale sightings are not guaranteed—which is true of all wildlife trips. Also, weather conditions can impact the experience, but the company’s policy is to operate in all weather, offering refunds or rescheduling if conditions are too severe.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a comprehensive view of Kenai Fjords’ glaciers and animals. It suits travelers who are comfortable on boats and don’t mind spending several hours at sea. Families with older children or teens might find it especially engaging—especially if they’re interested in wildlife and glaciers.

If you’re a photographer, the trip offers ample opportunities for stunning images of ice, wildlife, and rugged coastlines. For those who prioritize comfort and convenience, the vessel’s spaciousness, onboard restroom, and included lunch make this a practical choice.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer dry land, this may not be the best fit. Also, if you’re visiting during a time when whale sightings are less likely, be prepared for a scenic, wildlife-rich cruise that might not feature whales every time.

The Sum Up

This Seward shore excursion to Kenai Fjords National Park offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, wildlife, and icy marvels. For around $224, most travelers seem to find it excellent value, especially considering the opportunity to see whales, seals, and glaciers up close—all while enjoying a comfortable boat ride with a good meal. The knowledgeable guides and attentive crew add to the trip’s appeal, making it a trustworthy choice for those wanting a genuine Alaskan adventure.

It’s best suited for curious, active travelers who love wildlife and landscape photography, and who are ready for a full day of exploring by sea. If weather cooperates, it’s hard to beat the breathtaking views and the thrill of witnessing glaciers calve. Just remember to dress warmly and prepare for the possibility of seasickness.

This tour seems to deliver on its promise of awe-inspiring scenery and wildlife encounters, making it a highlight of any Seward visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children and teens who enjoy nature and wildlife will likely find it engaging. Keep in mind the length of the trip and potential seasickness.

What should I bring?
Bring layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, and a camera. If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand. There are also recommended items like hats and water.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Weather might impact wildlife sightings or scenery, but the crew will adapt accordingly.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Whale sightings are common but not guaranteed. The tour often sees humpbacks, minke, and orcas, but wildlife is unpredictable.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a delicious onboard lunch is part of the experience, with options including vegetarian choices if ordered in advance.

How long in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 74 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refund, so plan accordingly.

If you love the idea of glaciers, whales, and wild Alaska scenery, this Kenai Fjords cruise promises a day full of moments you’ll remember long after you leave. It balances adventure with comfort, making it one of the best ways to see Alaska’s natural wonders from Seward.