Skagway: Ocean Raft Adventure Along Scenic Coastline

If you’re considering a sea adventure in Skagway, this Ocean Raft Alaska tour might just be a highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it offers a memorable way to see Lynn Canal’s rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife.

Two aspects stand out for us: the close-up wildlife sightings—think eagles, whales, and seals—and the up-close exploration of hidden coves and waterfalls along North America’s longest fjord. One thing to keep in mind is the cost, which is on the higher side at $170 per person, but many reviewers feel the experience justifies the price given the scenery and guides’ expertise.

This tour is best suited for anyone who loves adventure, nature, and wildlife, and who’s comfortable in an open boat environment. It’s not ideal for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with back problems, but if those aren’t concerns, it offers a fantastic glimpse into the wilds of Alaska’s coast.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are a major draw, with eagles, whales, seals, and sea lions often spotted.
• The RIB boat provides a fast, exhilarating ride and gets you closer to shoreline coves and waterfalls.
• The tour includes safety gear like Mustang survival suits, goggles, and gloves, ensuring comfort in the open water.
• Multiple stops allow for photos and wildlife viewing, guided by knowledgeable captains and naturalists.
• The duration is 2.5 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience.
• Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ocean Raft Adventure

When considering a trip like this, the first thing that jumps out is the setting—Lynn Canal is North America’s longest fjord. If you enjoy scenery that’s both dramatic and pristine, this is likely to impress. The tour takes you through this rugged wilderness, with a boat that’s designed to make the most of the landscape and wildlife encounters.

What Makes the Tour Special?

The RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is what sets this experience apart. It’s fast, lively, and perfect for zipping along the coast, feeling the wind in your hair, and experiencing Alaska’s waters in a way that’s both exciting and intimate. The boat’s open design allows you to get up-close to the shoreline, where you’ll explore hidden coves and waterfalls that are barely accessible by land.

Many reviewers mention how this close access enhances the experience. One reviewer, Abby from Canada, described it as “honestly one of our favourite parts of our trip,” specifically mentioning the eagles and scenery. Another, Tammy from the US, appreciated the waterfalls, eagles, seals, and glaciers, noting that the warm weather and clear visibility made it even better.

What to Expect During the Tour

The meeting spot is straightforward: a quaint wooden building with Native artwork, just south of 1st Ave on Broadway, marked by a guide holding a sign. Once you check in, you’ll be outfitted with Mustang survival suits—which are not just safety gear, but also keep you dry and warm, especially if the weather turns wet or chilly. The suits, along with goggles and gloves, help make the ride comfortable despite the open environment.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy several stops for photos and wildlife viewing. Your captain and naturalist will share insightful stories and info about the area—adding context about the environment, wildlife behaviors, and local history. Many reviews praise guides like Captain Alyssa and naturalist Nicolette for their entertaining and informative commentary.

Wildlife and Scenery

The wildlife sightings are often described as abundant. Expect to see bald eagles soaring overhead, harbor seals basking on rocks, or sea lions lounging in the water. Whales are also a possibility, though they aren’t guaranteed. One reviewer, Kathy and Greg, mentioned seeing tons of bald eagles and seals, which highlights just how lively Lynn Canal can be.

The scenery is equally stunning. Waterfalls cascade down cliffs, glaciers loom in the distance, and the fjord’s jagged coastlines create dramatic photo opportunities. Many travelers mention how beautiful and pristine the landscape looks, especially on clear days when the views are unobstructed.

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Is it Worth the Price?

At $170 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the personalized experience, wildlife sightings, and scenic beauty, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment. Guests like Goretti said, “This excursion was probably our favorite of our Alaskan trip,” and others appreciated the value of seeing so much wildlife and scenery in just 2.5 hours.

The small group size (around 25 passengers) means the experience feels intimate. Plus, the stops for photos and wildlife viewing make the tour feel carefully curated rather than just a fast ride.

Booking and Practicalities

You’ll need to reserve in advance, but the option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility. The tour runs in both morning and afternoon slots, so you can fit it into your schedule. Remember, transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly—it’s a short walk from the cruise docks or town.

The tour duration is 2.5 hours, including check-in, outfitting, and the boat ride itself. It’s a manageable time commitment if you’re budgeting your day, and the experience is lively enough to keep you engaged throughout.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts who want an active, up-close experience. If you’re a person who enjoys speedy boat rides, stunning landscapes, and the chance to see eagles and seals, you’ll likely find this tour to be a highlight.

It’s also great for people comfortable with cold weather gear and open water environments. If you’re traveling with children, those over 10 might enjoy it, but it’s not suitable for younger kids or pregnant women.

The Sum Up

The Skagway Ocean Raft Adventure offers a beautifully wild glimpse into Alaska’s coastal wilderness. Its combination of fast-paced boat travel, close wildlife encounters, and breathtaking scenery makes it a unique way to see Lynn Canal. The knowledgeable guides, who are praised for their friendly and engaging manner, really enhance the experience, turning it into more than just a scenic ride.

While the price might seem high, the value comes from the personalized access to nature, the stunning vistas, and the memories created during this wildlife-filled cruise. It’s especially suited for those who love adventure, photography, and wildlife spotting. If that sounds like you, this tour could be well worth adding to your Skagway itinerary.

For travelers seeking a short but impactful outdoor adventure that delivers close encounters with wildlife and untouched landscapes, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be ready for a fun, fast ride and dress in layers—you won’t regret it.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting location, which is a short walk from the cruise docks or downtown Skagway.

What should I wear on the tour?
You should wear comfortable footwear and dress in layers. The tour provides Mustang survival suits, goggles, and gloves to keep you warm and dry in the open boat environment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 10 years old. The open water setting and fast-paced ride might be challenging for younger kids, and it’s aimed more at adults and older children.

How long does the tour last?
The overall experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including check-in, outfitting, and the boat ride with stops.

What wildlife might I see?
Many guests report seeing bald eagles, seals, sea lions, mountain goats, and possibly whales, depending on the day and conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re after an active, wildlife-rich adventure with incredible scenery in Skagway, this Ocean Raft tour seems to hit all the right notes. It’s a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s raw beauty in a short but memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: