Sitka: Sea it All Combo Land & Sea Tour w/Bear Tour & Meal

If you’re planning a trip to Sitka and want a comprehensive adventure that packs in the best of what this Alaskan town has to offer, the Sea it All Combo Land & Sea Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a full day with no need to pick and choose, combining wildlife sightings, scenic stops, and a close-up look at bears, topped off with a tasty meal. It’s designed to give you an easy, hassle-free experience—especially appealing if you want to maximize your limited time ashore.

What we really like about this tour is its personalized approach—a private guide and small group setup mean you get tailored attention and more flexibility. Plus, the combination of boat and land adventures offers a well-rounded taste of Sitka’s natural beauty. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point, which might seem steep to some travelers, but the all-inclusive nature and expert guides do add value. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a VIP, immersive experience without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines whale watching, bear encounters, scenic stops, and a meal.
• Private, personalized tour: Up to 6 guests with a dedicated guide for tailored experiences.
• Wildlife and scenery: See whales, sea lions, otters, and brown bears, plus stunning views at multiple stops.
• Hassle-free logistics: Starts directly from the cruise dock, with transportation, meals, and activities included.
• Flexible meal options: Pre-ordered from a locally inspired menu, with the freedom to eat before, during, or after the tour.
• Seasonal & accessible: Routes are customized to current conditions and abilities, including wheelchair accessibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Sitka Sea It All Experience

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, memorable day in Sitka, this tour is built for you. We’ll walk through what it involves, what makes each part special, and how it might fit your travel style.

Starting with the Boat Ride: Up Close with Nature

Your adventure kicks off with a two-hour private boat trip through Sitka Sound. This is where the magic begins. The vessel is heated, which is a thoughtful touch for Alaska’s chill, and offers an intimate setting for wildlife viewing. You’re likely to see whales, otters, sea lions, and possibly other marine animals weaving between islands. The reviews mention that guides are extremely knowledgeable, so expect plenty of insights along the way.

This boat ride is especially appealing because it offers priority access—the tour is one of the few permitted to operate in this area, and there’s no long shuttle lines or crowds. It’s a relaxed, scenic voyage that gives you a chance to see Alaska’s marine life in their natural habitat.

From the Water to the Land: Exploring Sitka’s Landscape

After your boat adventure, the tour transitions smoothly to land-based exploration in downtown Sitka. Here, you’ll switch to your private mini-van, which allows a personalized route tailored to your group’s interests and abilities. The guides are permitted to explore trails throughout the community, including local trails, waterfalls, and estuaries—some of the highlights include Thimbleberry Lake, where you get a short hike to a waterfall and lake.

This land portion lasts about two hours, giving you a chance to see Sitka’s varied landscapes up close. The routes are carefully timed to avoid crowds and ensure you experience the sights at their best. For example, the Fortress of the Bears visit is a highlight, where you can see brown bears up close with your private guide. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the wildlife encounters both educational and memorable.

The Fortress of the Bears: A Closer Look at Alaska’s Bears

This part of the tour is especially well-reviewed. Visiting Fortress of the Bears with a private guide during less-busy times allows for a more personal and relaxed experience. You get to witness these majestic creatures in a setting that feels safe yet authentic. The guides’ expertise enhances the experience—they can answer questions, point out behaviors, and make it more engaging than just viewing from a distance.

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Scenic Stops: Whale Park, Silver Bay & Thimbleberry Lake

The tour also includes stops at Whale Park & Silver Bay Scenic spots. These are great for snapping photos and taking in the vistas of Sitka’s rugged coastlines. The reviews note that these stops offer great opportunities for photos and a chance to stretch your legs after the boat ride.

Thimbleberry Lake offers a short, accessible hike to a waterfall and lake, perfect for those who enjoy a little outdoor activity without committing to a full-day trek. It’s a nice way to connect with Sitka’s natural environment more intimately.

Meal: Flexibility and Local Flavors

One of the tour’s most praised features is the pre-ordered meal from the Misfit Island Cafe. You can choose to eat before, during, or after your activities—whichever suits your schedule best. The menu features locally caught salmon, sandwiches, and options for vegetarians and gluten-free diets. Many reviewers appreciated the Alaskan ingredients and flavors, making the meal not just convenient but also a tasty part of the experience.

End of the Day: Downtown Sitka & Flexibility

After your land exploration, you’re dropped off in downtown Sitka. From there, you can continue exploring shops and attractions on your own or relax with your included meal at the harbor or at Sitka National Historical Park. The tour guarantees return to your ship on time, which is crucial for cruise travelers.

What We Think Works Well

The combination of a private boat ride and land exploration makes for a well-rounded day. It balances marine wildlife viewing with terrestrial encounters, offering a comprehensive look at Sitka’s ecosystems. The personalized guide service adds a layer of expertise and flexibility that larger group tours often lack. Plus, the all-inclusive setup means no stress over extra bookings or logistics—just show up and enjoy.

Wildlife lovers will appreciate the chance to see whales, bears, and other animals in natural settings, while scenery enthusiasts will love the variety of stops that showcase Sitka’s rugged landscapes.

Things That Could Be Better

The main consideration is the price point—$2,700 for a group of up to six might seem steep for some. However, when you factor in private guides, the boat and land activities, meals, and admission fees, it starts to make sense. For travelers seeking a premium, all-inclusive experience, it offers solid value.

Another point is that some activities might not be suitable for everyone—the tour is not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions, mainly because of the physical nature of some stops and boat rides. Also, while wheelchair accessibility is available to an extent, those with mobility impairments should be prepared to transfer themselves into vehicles and boats.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a comprehensive, VIP-style day with personalized attention, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who prefer a worry-free experience. The inclusion of a meal and private transportation makes it a convenient choice, particularly if you want to avoid the hassle of arranging multiple activities separately.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible DIY approach, you might find this experience on the pricier side. It’s also less ideal if you have mobility limitations that prevent easy transfer into boats and vehicles.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is designed for small groups and is generally suitable for travelers comfortable with boat rides and short hikes. Kids who can handle the physical aspects and are okay with boat trips will enjoy it, but parents should consider the physical demands and age restrictions, especially around boat transitions.

Does the tour include transportation from the cruise dock?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from the cruise dock or nearby locations. The exact pickup point and timing will be communicated beforehand.

Can I choose my meal?
You can pre-select your meal from the Misfit Island Cafe Menu when booking. Meals can be eaten before, during, or after the tour, depending on your preference.

Is there an option for wheelchair users?
Wheelchair users who can transfer themselves into the boat and vehicle are welcome. The tour is accessible to some extent, but most electric scooters cannot be accommodated.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed window to observe wildlife and enjoy Sitka’s waters.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see whales, sea otters, sea lions, and brown bears. Guides are well-versed and can provide a lot of insights during the encounters.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Weapons and sharp objects are not allowed. Mobility scooters are generally not accommodated, and small children must be in car seats or boosters as per Alaska law.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $2,700 per group of up to six people, which covers the private guides, boat and land activities, meals, and admissions.

Final Thoughts

The Sitka Sea it All Combo Land & Sea Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience, combining marine wildlife viewing, land exploration, and up-close bear encounters in a way that feels both luxurious and authentic. With private guides and all-inclusive logistics, it’s an excellent pick for travelers who want to relax and focus on enjoying Alaska’s stunning scenery.

If you’re after an educational, intimate, and scenic day in Sitka, and don’t mind the price tag for the added convenience, this tour will likely deliver more than you expect. It’s especially great for those who appreciate guided experiences and want to see both marine and terrestrial wildlife with expert insight.

In the end, it’s about making your time in Sitka as memorable and stress-free as possible. This tour checks those boxes, offering a well-rounded taste of what makes Alaska so special.

Ready to experience Sitka with a personal touch? This all-in-one adventure could be just the ticket for a day full of wildlife, scenery, and seamless exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: