Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer from Ketchikan

If you’re considering booking the Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer tour out of Ketchikan, you’re probably drawn by the promise of breathtaking scenery and a chance to see one of Alaska’s most impressive natural landmarks. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours and outdoor adventures, I’ll share what this experience offers — and what it might leave you wanting.

On paper, it sounds like a beautiful trip: a boat cruise through towering fjords, spotting eagles, waterfalls, and volcanic formations, all with some local storytelling along the way. The best parts are undeniably the views of Rudyerd Bay, Gods Pocket, and the Owl Cliffs, which are genuinely striking. Plus, the onboard amenities like panoramic windows, heated cabins, and restrooms make the journey more comfortable than some others.

However, there are some notable considerations. The main one? The long transit time — about two hours each way — can make the day feel quite drawn out, especially if you’re not a fan of long boat rides or lengthy travel days. The commentary also seems to fall flat for some, with reviews describing it as “boring” or feeling like “we lost the day.”

If you’re someone who appreciates scenery but prefers a shorter, more engaging experience with lively narration, this tour might not be your top pick. It’s best suited for travelers who are excited by the idea of a scenic cruise and don’t mind the long travel times, especially if the views are worth the ride for you.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with cliffs up to 3,000 feet and volcanic formations
• Comfortable onboard amenities including panoramic windows and heated cabins
• Long travel time—about 2 hours each way—may make it feel lengthy
• Boring commentary reported by some travelers, detracting from the experience
• Limited included features beyond scenery and some snacks and drinks
• Schedule flexibility is limited as the tour is non-refundable and weather-dependent

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The Scenic Cruise Through Misty Fjords

Starting from downtown Ketchikan, you’ll board a purpose-built vessel designed for comfort and sightseeing. The journey itself is part of the experience, as your group heads toward one of Alaska’s most gorgeous natural areas.

The Misty Fjords National Monument is the highlight — an area characterized by towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush greenery. You’ll cruise past Rudyerd Bay, a scene that many travelers find awe-inspiring. The cliffs here reach up to 3,000 feet and create dramatic backdrops for your photos. The guides narrate stories about the natural surroundings and some local history, although some reviews suggest the commentary can be a bit lackluster.

Expect to stop at New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic spire that rises sharply from the sea. It’s a quick visit, but a photo-worthy stop, especially with the surrounding water and possibly some wildlife.

Marine Wildlife and Landmarks

During the cruise, you’ll pass by notable sights like Saxman, where you learn about Alaska’s totem poles, and Annette Island, which is Alaska’s only reserve. The guides also share tales about rum runners, adding a bit of local lore to the adventure.

Keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals and eagles, which are often seen along the route. The boat’s outside viewing deck provides an excellent vantage point, ensuring you won’t miss these natural sightings.

Amenities and Comfort

The vessel is equipped with inside cabin seating, panoramic windows, and heated interiors, making it a comfortable place to relax during the long ride. There are onboard restrooms and a gift shop, which can be handy if you want to browse for souvenirs or grab a snack. Complimentary coffee and tea, along with some sweet and savory snacks, are included, but there’s no mention of binoculars being provided, so bringing your own could enhance wildlife spotting.

The Realities of the Experience

One of the main critiques from previous travelers is the length of the day. The total duration is about 5 hours and 15 minutes, and with roughly two hours spent traveling each way, the time spent actually exploring the fjords is limited to approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you’re not a fan of long boat rides, this could feel like a lot of time spent in transit.

Another common concern is the commentary. Some reviews describe it as “boring,” making the lengthy ride feel even longer. If you’re hoping for lively storytelling or in-depth natural history, this might not deliver.

That said, the scenery makes up a lot of the value. The views of the cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanic formations are genuinely impressive. For many, this sight is the main reason to do the tour, and in that respect, it doesn’t disappoint.

Pricing and Value

At nearly $294 per person, this trip isn’t cheap. When considering the cost, think about what you’re getting: a scenic cruise with some wildlife sightings, basic snacks, and comfortable seating. The experience might seem less worth it if you’re sensitive to long transit times or expecting in-depth narration, but for others, the views alone justify the price.

In comparison, there are other tours and experiences in Ketchikan, like whale-watching or combined wildlife tours, which might offer more engaging storytelling or wildlife encounters. The linked experiences on Viator suggest there are alternatives, but if your priority is the scenic fjord vistas, this may still be appealing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who:

• Want to see stunning natural scenery like cliffs and waterfalls
• Don’t mind long boat rides and are prepared for a lengthy day
• Appreciate a comfortable vessel with amenities like panoramic windows and heated cabins
• Are content with a somewhat relaxed, storytelling approach
• Are okay with limited time in the fjords compared to travel time

It’s less ideal for those expecting lively narration, wildlife photography opportunities, or a shorter, more dynamic experience.

Final Thoughts

If your main goal is to witness Alaska’s incredible landscapes without too much fuss, the Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer can deliver on that front. The views of Rudyerd Bay, Gods Pocket, and Owl Cliffs are genuinely striking, and the onboard comforts make the journey more pleasant than some rougher boat trips.

However, the long duration and reported dull commentary do mean this isn’t a tour for everyone. The value hinges heavily on your appreciation for scenery over storytelling and your willingness to spend a lot of time on a boat with limited exploration time once you’re there.

For travelers who value a peaceful, scenic cruise and are prepared for a slow-paced day, this tour offers a memorable glimpse of Alaska’s natural beauty. But if you’re after a more lively, wildlife-rich experience or shorter outings, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, most travelers of most ages can participate. Just remember the long boat ride might be tiring for very young children, and the experience is primarily scenic.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for varying weather, since even in the heated cabin, outdoor viewing can be chilly. Binoculars aren’t included, so consider bringing your own if wildlife viewing is a priority.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 5 hours and 15 minutes. The actual time exploring the fjords is around an hour and fifteen minutes, with two hours each way for travel.

Is the commentary interesting?
Reviews suggest the narration can be dull or uninspired, which might impact your overall enjoyment if you’re hoping for lively storytelling.

What is included in the price?
You get snacks, coffee or tea, and some written guides in multiple languages. There’s no mention of extras like binoculars or special wildlife encounters.

What happens if the weather is bad?
This experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer offers a chance to see some of Alaska’s most iconic scenery, but it’s a journey that requires patience and a love of calm, scenic views. Carefully weigh your expectations, and this could be a peaceful, beautiful addition to your Alaskan adventure — just maybe not the most electrifying one.