From Whittier/Anchorage: Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise

Exploring the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise from Whittier

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Alaska’s iconic glaciers and abundant wildlife, a cruise through Prince William Sound might just be the highlight of your trip. We haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, but after reviewing the details and reading through numerous traveler reviews, it’s clear this cruise offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and comfort.

One thing we really appreciate is the emphasis on safety and comfort—modern high-speed catamarans, restrooms on board, and a NO Seasickness guarantee make it accessible even for those of us who aren’t die-hard boat fans. Plus, the chance to get up close to dynamic tidewater glaciers and observe wildlife like sea otters, whales, and bald eagles is pretty unbeatable. That said, it’s a fairly long tour—up to 11 hours—which might be a lot for some, especially if you’re traveling with little ones or prefer shorter outings.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who love nature, photography, and marine life, and who don’t mind spending a full day on the water. If you’re after a relaxed but immersive experience of Alaska’s wilderness, this cruise could be a perfect choice—and it’s especially appealing for those who value knowledgeable guides and good food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular Glacier Views: Close encounters with tidewater glaciers in Harriman and College Fjord.
• Wildlife Galore: Opportunities to see sea otters, seals, whales, eagles, and more.
• Comfort & Safety: High-speed catamarans with onboard restrooms and a seasickness guarantee.
• Quality Food & Amenities: Hot meals like smoked salmon chowder and coffee included, with USB charging stations.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later.
• Family Friendly: Infants can sit on laps; service animals are allowed.

An In-Depth Look at the 26 Glacier Cruise Experience

The Departure and Journey Begins

Starting from Whittier, this cruise sets the tone for a day among Alaska’s most mesmerizing landscapes. The journey itself is smooth and comfortable thanks to modern high-speed catamarans, which are a big plus—they’re quick, stable, and have multiple restrooms, so you’re not stuck feeling cramped or waiting in line. The meeting points may vary depending on your booking, but you’ll want to arrive prepared with waterproof shoes, warm clothing, and a camera (or phone) ready to snap the scenery.

Glaciers Up Close and Personal

Once in Prince William Sound, you’ll quickly realize why this place is so renowned. The cruise visits Harriman and College Fjord, where glaciers carve their dramatic paths down from towering mountains to the saltwater. These tidewater glaciers are constantly changing—calving of ice chunks is a common and thunderous spectacle that visitors rave about. As one review mentioned, “It was amazing to spend time so close to the glaciers to hear the cracking,” which is honestly one of the coolest sounds in nature.

The cruise navigates through ice-filled waters carefully, allowing you to witness these massive ice formations up close. The fact that the captain keeps a close eye on the glaciers’ movements adds a layer of excitement—you’re always on the lookout for that next big calving event.

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Wildlife Encounters

The chances of seeing more than just glaciers are high here. Wildlife is abundant and often unbothered by humans, so you’ll likely see sea otters lounging on the water, harbor seals, and a variety of seabirds like kittiwakes and bald eagles. The sound of eagles calling overhead or seals barking nearby adds a lively soundtrack to your trip.

Wildlife sightings such as orca whales, humpback whales, sea lions, and even black bears are not uncommon, especially when the salmon are running—another highlight for many travelers. One reviewer noted, “The wildlife was unbelievable,” which sums up how impressive these encounters can be.

Food and Comfort on Board

We’re particularly impressed by the included Alaska smoked salmon chowder—a warm, hearty snack that’s perfect after a chilly day on the water. Coffee, tea, and water are also provided, making it easy to stay refreshed. USB charging stations at every table mean you can keep your devices powered up while capturing every glacier and animal sighting.

The cruise also offers a kid’s meal with hot dog, chips, and snacks, making it family-friendly for those traveling with children aged 2-11. The meals are thoughtfully included, with options that appeal even to picky eaters, and reviews consistently praise the food quality.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts between 5.5 to 11 hours, with most departures in the morning or afternoon. This range gives you flexibility—whether you want a shorter outing or a full-day adventure. The longer trips tend to include more glacier viewing and wildlife spotting, so consider your energy level and schedule when booking.

The ability to cancel up to 24 hours before departure offers peace of mind, and the “reserve now, pay later” option keeps your plans flexible. However, keep in mind that extra costs like the toll for the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel ($13) and parking ($10-15) aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

The Value of the Experience

At $248 per person, this cruise isn’t cheap, but many reviews highlight its good value. People appreciate the quality of guides, the comfort of the vessel, and the sheer amount of scenery and wildlife they see. One reviewer summed it up well: “Great views, informative guides, and a delicious meal!”

The guided aspect adds a lot of value—your guide isn’t just narrating facts but actively helping you spot wildlife and explaining the glacial formations. The onboard naturalists and guides seem eager to enhance your experience, which makes a real difference.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise suits travelers who are passionate about nature and wildlife, enjoy long, scenic boat rides, and value comfort and safety. It’s great for those who want a comprehensive, immersive experience, and are willing to spend several hours exploring.

While families can participate—infants sit on laps, and kids get a kid’s meal—the tour may be a long day for very young children or those who prefer shorter outings. It’s also ideal for photography lovers eager to capture glaciers and whales in a single trip.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides and well-organized logistics, you’ll find this tour meets those needs. And if you love tasting local food, the included chowder and hearty meals are an added bonus.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying the Cruise

• Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof gear if possible, as weather can change quickly.
• Bring a camera, binoculars, and a fully charged phone—the scenery is stunning at every turn.
• Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress, especially if parking costs are involved.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season, and consider the “reserve now, pay later” option.
• Remember that luggage or large bags are not allowed, so travel light with only essentials.
• If you have dietary restrictions, the meal options can accommodate most, but select your meal during booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts between 5.5 to 11 hours, depending on the option you choose. Most trips are available in both morning and afternoon slots, giving you flexibility.

Is there a seasickness guarantee?
Yes, every cruise includes a NO Seasickness guarantee, making it more comfortable for those worried about motion sickness.

What wildlife might I see?
You can expect opportunities to see sea otters, harbor seals, bald eagles, kittiwakes, orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions, among others.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hearty meal like smoked salmon chowder, vegetable chili, or a kid’s hot dog is included with your ticket. You can also bring your own food if desired, but no alcohol is permitted onboard.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, and guides are attentive to passenger needs.

What should I bring?
Bring waterproof shoes, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and your ID or passport. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Are children allowed?
Children are welcome, but keep in mind the tour may be lengthy for very young kids. Infants can sit on laps, and there’s a kid’s meal available.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines Alaska’s stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, and expert guides into one memorable day, this Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise from Whittier hits most marks. The combination of beautiful scenery, up-close glacier views, and wildlife sightings makes it a compelling option for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

While the price point might seem high, many find the experience to be worth every penny—especially given the quality of food, comfort, and the opportunity to witness such dramatic natural phenomena. It’s a long tour, but those hours are filled with jaw-dropping sights that you’ll talk about for years.

If you’re prepared for a full day on the water and eager to see Alaska in all its glory, this cruise offers a well-organized, enjoyable way to do it. Just pack your warm layers, bring a sense of adventure, and get ready for some truly spectacular views that will stay with you long after the cruise ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: