Ketchikan: Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour

Ketchikan: Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour Review

If you’re considering a scenic adventure in Alaska, a floatplane tour over Misty Fjords might just be one of the most memorable ways to see the area’s rugged beauty. We haven’t personally flown with this company, but from what travelers share, it seems to strike a wonderful balance between breathtaking scenery and insightful guidance.

What we really like about this experience is the chance to soar above untouched wilderness—lakes, waterfalls, cliffs—and get a bird’s eye view of a landscape that’s otherwise hard to access. Plus, the small group size and guaranteed window seats promise a more intimate, less crowded experience. On the flip side, a potential downside is the price point—at $389 per person, it’s not cheap, but many feel it’s justified by the quality and exclusivity.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers who appreciate a combination of adventure, beauty, and learning. If you’re comfortable in small aircraft and craving a unique way to explore Alaska’s wilderness, this floatplane trip is likely to be right up your alley.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning views of Misty Fjords, fjords, waterfalls, and volcanic formations.
• Expert pilot commentary enhances understanding of the landscape.
• Wildlife spotting from the air, including eagles, bears, wolves, and deer.
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience with guaranteed window seats.
• Two-hour experience balances flight time with comfort and perspective.
• Price reflects quality, exclusivity, and detailed aerial views of this remote wilderness.

What to Expect from the Floatplane Tour

When you book this floatplane adventure from Ketchikan, you’re signing up for an approximately two-hour journey that takes you high above some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery. The tour is operated by Taquan Air and is designed for a small group—limited to six participants—which means you’ll probably have plenty of space to see everything clearly and ask questions.

The experience begins with a private van transfer from downtown Ketchikan, making it easy to meet your pilot at the designated meeting point next to the visitor’s bureau. From there, you’ll board a six-passenger floatplane—a classic, open-window style aircraft that offers unobstructed views—guaranteeing you a window seat.

During the flight, the pilot provides live commentary, sharing insights about the landscape, geological features, and local wildlife. Many travelers note that the pilot is both knowledgeable and friendly, adding a layer of connection to the experience. The headset also streams a musical soundtrack, which some find enhances the mood, though a few mention that the audio can sometimes be slightly off or distracting.

The Scenic Itinerary: What You’ll See

Once airborne, you’ll ascend over the Tongass Narrows, a narrow stretch of water, and fly past Ketchikan itself, offering a quick glimpse of the town’s colorful buildings and harbor. The real highlight is when the plane heads eastward towards the Misty Fjords.

About 40 miles from Ketchikan, you’ll begin to see the towering cliffs, dense forests, and serene lakes that define Misty Fjords. As the name suggests, you’ll likely encounter a gentle mist draping the landscape, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The views of fjords, waterfalls, and rock formations are truly spectacular.

The flight over Rudyard Bay is particularly noteworthy, where you’ll observe New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic remnant that rises dramatically from the water. From the air, you’ll appreciate the vertical granite walls and narrow passages that make the fjords so dramatic. Many reviews emphasize how close the plane gets to these geological features, making the scenery feel incredibly immersive.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—bald eagles soaring overhead are common, and some travelers report spotting bears, wolves, or deer from the air. Though spotting animals is never guaranteed, the chances seem good given the region’s rich ecosystems.

The Value of the Experience

At a cost of $389 per person, this isn’t the most budget-friendly activity in Ketchikan, but many travelers find the price justified. You’re paying for a small-group, personalized experience, the chance to see remote wilderness from a safe vantage point, and a knowledgeable pilot who enhances the journey with commentary.

According to reviews, the quality of the pilot’s narration is a highlight, with many describing him as “fun,” “informative,” and “very knowledgeable.” A common theme in reviews is how much participants appreciated the insightful commentary and the opportunity to learn about the landscape and wildlife.

Some travelers mention that the musical soundtrack can be a bit distracting or poorly synchronized, but most still recommend the tour, feeling the overall experience outweighs this minor quirk. The inclusion of guaranteed window seats and private transportation adds convenience and comfort, contributing to a stress-free trip.

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Practical Considerations

While this tour offers incredible views and a personal touch, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, the weight restrictions are quite strict: guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) may need to pay an additional surcharge, and those over 300 lbs (136 kg) are generally not able to fly. Be sure to check your weight if you’re concerned about this.

Secondly, the tour is typically available in the morning or afternoon, so plan your day accordingly. The two-hour duration includes transportation, flight time, and any waiting or loading, so you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for potentially changing weather conditions—layers are always a good idea in Alaska.

Since food and drinks are not included, consider bringing a snack if you want to stay energized, especially if you have a long day of sightseeing ahead.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This floatplane tour is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those eager to see Alaska’s wilderness from a unique perspective. If you’re someone who appreciates detailed commentary about geology, wildlife, and landscapes, you’ll find the pilot’s narration particularly engaging.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who like small, intimate groups, as the limited size makes for a more personal experience. If you’re traveling with someone who loves photography, the guaranteed window seats and close-up views will be a real bonus.

People comfortable with small aircraft and open-air experiences will enjoy the thrill of flying over remote fjords. On the other hand, if you’re prone to motion sickness or don’t like flying, this may not be the best choice.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

All in all, this Misty Fjords floatplane tour offers a compelling way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty from the sky. The combination of stunning scenery, insightful narration, and a small, personal group makes it stand out. Many reviewers say it was a “worthwhile” and “memorable” part of their trip, and the high ratings speak to its overall quality.

While the price might seem steep to some, many agree it’s a worthy splurge if you want an authentic, up-close view of Misty Fjords that’s unlike anything you can see from the ground. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a unique, aerial perspective of Alaska’s wilderness, combined with a touch of education and a dash of adventure.

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized, and breathtaking experience, this floatplane tour could very well be one of the highlights of your Alaskan visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 2 and older need a ticket, and the experience is generally suitable for those comfortable with flying in a small aircraft. Children under 2 are considered lap children.

What’s included in the tour?
Included are private van transportation from Ketchikan, a one-hour flight over Misty Fjords, live pilot commentary, and guaranteed window seats.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including transportation, flight time, and any related briefings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

What should I wear?
Layers are recommended, as weather can change quickly in Alaska. Bring comfortable clothing and possibly a light jacket.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) must pay an additional surcharge of $168, and those over 300 lbs (136 kg) are generally not able to participate.

Is the musical soundtrack distracting?
Some travelers find the soundtrack a bit distracting or poorly synchronized, but most find it manageable with volume controls on the headsets.

Where do I meet the tour?
Meet by the large bronze statue and rain gauge next to the Visitor’s Bureau on berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan. Look for a driver holding a sign with your tour name.

If you’re after an unforgettable way to see Misty Fjords and want to combine adventure with expert insights, this floatplane tour offers a truly special perspective on Alaska’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: