Private Charter Scenic Wildlife Excursion for Cruise Passengers

Exploring Sitka’s Wild Side: A Private Scenic Wildlife Excursion Review

If you’re headed to Sitka and want to see its incredible wildlife and scenery from the water, this private boat tour might be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed info, it’s clear that this experience offers a personalized, intimate way to enjoy Alaska’s rugged beauty.

What really stands out is the fact that it’s a completely private tour, designed around your interests, with a seasoned captain guiding the way. Two things we love are the flexibility of choosing your start time and the chance to see wildlife up close, all on a well-equipped, safe vessel. That said, given the price point — $995 per group — you’ll want to make sure your expectations include top-quality wildlife viewing and personalized service.

This sounds like a solid pick for travelers who prefer a tailored, relaxed adventure off the beaten path. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate nature, photography, or simply want a quiet, scenic escape on the water. If you’re traveling with kids or looking for a family-friendly activity, this could work, but keep in mind the focus on wildlife and boat safety.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You pick your start time between 8 am and 2 pm, and the tour can be shortened or extended.
• Expert guide: A captain with over 30 years on the water ensures safety and insight.
• Wildlife and scenery: Potential visits to Saint Lazaria Islands and Sitka Sound offer opportunities to see seabirds, whales, sea lions, and more.
• Comfort and safety: The tour uses a fully equipped, Coast Guard-approved boat, providing peace of mind.
• Weather-dependent: The itinerary depends on seas and weather, which can influence the destinations visited.
• Price and value: At $995 for a group of up to 5, it’s an investment, but reviews suggest it’s well worth it for the personalized experience and wildlife sightings.

An Honest, In-Depth Look at the Sitka Wildlife Tour

If you’re into wildlife watching or just want a peaceful way to explore the Sitka coast, this private boat tour offers a lot. It’s not a large, crowded cruise — instead, it’s tailored to your group, which means fewer people and more flexibility. You’ll be out with a captain who knows the waters intimately, and who’s committed to making your trip memorable.

The itinerary is dynamic, depending on the day’s weather and sea conditions. The main goal is to find the best wildlife viewing spots — if the conditions are right, you’ll head out to Saint Lazaria Island, a volcanic remnant teeming with over half a million sea birds and a nesting colony. If the seas aren’t cooperating, the captain will take you on a scenic cruise around Sitka Sound, exploring islands and coves that are often inaccessible on larger tours.

What makes this tour stand out is the level of customization. One reviewer mentioned how Captain Chris tailored the experience to their interests, asking what they wanted to see and giving options. It’s a trip designed around what you want to get out of it — whether that’s spotting whales, watching seals, or simply soaking in the scenery.

The boat itself — a Suzy-Q Stabicraft 2500 Ultracab XL — is a double-hulled, aluminum vessel built with safety and comfort in mind. It’s Coast Guard-approved, which means you can feel confident about the safety standards. The boat is fully enclosed, so even if the weather isn’t perfect, you can still enjoy the ride without getting soaked or cold, and you can easily step outside for photos whenever the moment calls for it.

Wildlife sightings are a major highlight. From reviews, it’s clear that Captain Chris has a knack for finding wildlife, whether it’s whales breaching, seals lounging on rocks, or seabirds soaring overhead. One guest called it their “favorite trip of the entire trip to Alaska,” emphasizing how full and vibrant the wildlife encounters were.

The experience includes snacks, sodas, and water, which makes the trip comfortable, especially since it lasts around three hours. You won’t have to worry about packing food or drinks — it’s all taken care of, adding to the ease of your adventure. Alcohol isn’t included, so if you want to toast your trip, you’ll need to bring your own.

Timing is flexible too. You choose when to start, which can be a big plus if you want to beat the cruise ship crowds or catch the best light for photos. The tour runs daily from 8 am to 2 pm from late November through early October, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule.

Price-wise, the cost of $995 per group is on the higher side, but when you consider that it’s a private experience for up to five people, the value becomes clearer. You’re paying for exclusivity, expert guidance, and the chance to see Alaska’s wilderness without the crowds or the noise of larger tours.

One potential downside is the weather dependency. Like all outdoor activities in Alaska, your trip hinges on favorable seas and weather conditions. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the tour might be canceled or rerouted, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling, which is reassuring.

What the Reviews Say

All six reviews rate this tour as a perfect five out of five, which is rare and speaks volumes about the quality. Michelle appreciated the fully enclosed boat, especially with less-than-ideal weather, and loved being able to stop for photos. Lisa highlighted Captain Chris’s personalized approach — asking what they wanted to see and adjusting the trip accordingly. Rachel called it her favorite trip of the entire stay in Alaska, mentioning how they saw whales, sea lions, otters, and eagles, which was more than they expected.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those wanting a private, relaxed outing. It’s perfect if you value personalized attention and want to avoid large, crowded tours. Given the focus on wildlife and scenery, it’s suited for travelers comfortable with boat excursions and with an interest in observing nature in its purest form.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

If you’re after a tailored, scenic wildlife trip in Sitka and value safety, comfort, and expert guidance, this private charter delivers. The ability to customize your route, combined with the high safety standards and knowledgeable captain, makes it a standout among tours in the area.

While the price may seem high at first glance, the exclusivity and the chance to see Sitka’s incredible wildlife up close can justify the cost. It’s not the right choice if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger group settings, but for those craving a more intimate, personalized adventure, it’s a compelling option.

This tour offers the kind of experience that leaves you with lasting memories of Alaska’s wild coast, all while providing comfort and flexibility that larger tours simply can’t match.

FAQ

Can I choose my start time?
Yes, you can select your start time anywhere between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm, giving you flexibility to fit your schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, captain, snacks, sodas, water, and all fees and taxes. It’s a fully equipped, Coast Guard-approved vessel.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is not included, so if you want to bring drinks, you’ll need to do so separately.

What if the weather isn’t good on the day of my trip?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 3 hours, but you can request to shorten or extend it based on your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s a private tour designed for groups of up to five, so it could work for families or small groups, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with boats and wildlife viewing.

Where does the tour start and end?
Starts and ends at 3-28 Harbor Dr, Sitka, AK.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Whether you’re eager to see whales breach or simply want to enjoy Sitka’s stunning coastline in a relaxed, private setting, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated, safe, and memorable adventure.