Skagway Shore Excursion: Scenic River Float Tour

If you’re planning a cruise stop in Skagway and looking for an experience that offers a relaxing break from busy sightseeing, this Scenic River Float Tour might just be the perfect choice. Based on numerous traveler reviews, it promises a calming float down the Taiya River combined with spectacular scenery and an insightful guide. While we haven’t done this ourselves, the consistent 5-star ratings and detailed reviews make it clear that many find it well worth the time and money.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances nature, history, and wildlife in a gentle, family-friendly adventure. The scenic coastal drive to Dyea Valley adds a layer of visual delight, and the float itself offers a chance to see eagles and possibly bears—depending on the season—without much effort. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some driving and transit time, which might feel a bit long if you’re short on time.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate nature’s tranquility and a slow-paced exploration of Alaska’s landscape. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a laid-back outing over more physically demanding excursions. Families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those simply craving a peaceful, scenic interlude during their port day seem to find this tour particularly compelling.

Key Points

• Relaxing and scenic float down the Taiya River offers peaceful views and wildlife sightings.
• The coastal drive to Dyea Valley provides plenty of opportunities for photographs and enjoying Alaska’s rugged landscape.
• The tour is family-friendly and suitable for a wide range of ages, with a maximum of 11 travelers per raft.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—adding value to the experience.
• Wildlife sightings are possible but not guaranteed; eagles and bears are common guesses for what might be seen.
• All necessary equipment is provided, making it accessible for most participants.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When we look closely at this tour, what stands out is how it combines several appealing aspects of Alaska’s outdoor charm. The scenic coastal drive to Dyea Valley is more than just transportation—it’s part of the experience. You’ll pass by spectacular views of the Lynn Canal, Nahku Bay, and the surrounding mountains. Many reviews mention how the guides take time to point out scenic overlooks and share insights about local history—making the drive as engaging as the float itself.

Once you arrive at the float launch point, you’ll hop into an inflatable raft that can hold up to 11 people. The calm, approximately 40-minute float down the Taiya River is the core of this tour. The guides, often described as knowledgeable and friendly, will point out wildlife like bald eagles—sometimes bears, depending on the season—and share interesting facts about the area’s past. Several reviews emphasize how relaxing and informative this part of the trip is.

One reviewer, Kimberley_G, sums it up nicely: “Owen and Dom were great guides! They made the trip so informative and relaxing.” The quiet of the river combined with the scenic mountain backdrop makes for a picture-perfect moment—an ideal way to disconnect and appreciate Alaska’s natural beauty.

The float is not overly adventurous but provides enough excitement and tranquility for most people. And because the equipment is provided and the float is suitable for many ages, it’s a good choice for families or those who prefer a gentle outing.

After the float, you’ll typically stop on the riverbank for a quick snack—think granola bars and water—before returning to Skagway. Some tours include a stop at an overlook with 360-degree views of Skagway and the ships in port, adding a nice touch to the overall experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Scenic Coastal Drive to Dyea Valley

The adventure begins with a 10-mile drive from Skagway, taking you along the coast to Dyea Valley. This part is more than just transportation; it’s an opportunity to enjoy views of Lynn Canal, Nahku Bay, and the distant Chilkat Mountains. Many travelers appreciate the stop at Nahku Bay where they get a quick peek at the bay, the canal, and the mountain range in the distance. The drive itself is often highlighted as a scenic highlight of the tour, with guides sharing interesting trivia about the area’s history and geography.

Dyea Valley and the River Launch Point

Dyea Valley is famous for being a key part of Alaska’s Gold Rush history, as it was the starting point of the historic Chilkoot Trail. While the tour doesn’t explore the old townsite directly, you travel through the valley by van and float. It’s a landscape that has retained its wilderness charm, with lush greenery and towering mountains on all sides.

The River Float

Once on the river, the focus is on relaxation, scenery, and wildlife spotting. The guides’ expertise shines here, as they provide commentary and point out eagles soaring overhead or other signs of wildlife. The float itself takes around 40 minutes, making it a manageable but memorable part of your day.

Several reviews highlight how peaceful and calming this experience is. Martha_N mentions, “The whole experience was excellent from the beauty of nature to our wonderful, friendly guide. We’d book it again.” And Susie_M adds, “You learn to respect the river, the skills of your guide, the quiet of nature, and the camaraderie with fellow rafters. So much fun in the ‘boonies’ of Skagway!”

Post-Float and Return

After the float, there’s usually a brief stop for a snack and some downtime, followed by the bus ride back to the port. Some tours include a scenic overlook with panoramic views of Skagway and the ships—an extra bonus for photography lovers.

Practical Aspects

The tour lasts about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, including travel time, the float, and stops. The cost is around $97 per person, which many reviewers say offers good value considering the scenery, wildlife, and guided experience. All necessary gear, such as life jackets and rubber boots, is provided, which is helpful for comfort and safety. The maximum group size is 11 per raft, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of attention from guides.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviews echo the same sentiments: guides are friendly and knowledgeable, the scenery is breathtaking, and the whole experience is peaceful and relaxing. Kimberley_G highlights how guides Owen and Dom made the trip “so informative and relaxing,” and others praise the ease of the entire process, from pickup to return.

A few comments note that there is more driving than floating. Alisonlooney points out that they spent a significant amount of time in transit—driving to multiple cruise ships and back—which may feel like a lot if your main goal is just the float. However, many still appreciate the drive for the scenic views and local insights.

Wildlife sightings are a highlight for many, with eagle sightings being almost guaranteed in season, and bears being a possibility. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides’ expert spotting makes it likely you’ll see some of Alaska’s iconic animals.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price and what’s included, most folks seem to find this tour offers solid value. It’s an easy, scenic, and wildlife-rich activity that’s suitable for a range of ages, especially if you’re seeking a gentle outdoor adventure. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guides add a layer of education and entertainment that many reviews praise.

If you’re someone who enjoys observing nature at a slow pace, appreciates stunning mountain views, and wants a break from more high-energy excursions, this float tour hits the right notes. However, if your schedule is tight and you prefer activities with less transit, you might want to consider the duration and decide if the scenic drive and snack stop are worth the extra time.

Final Thoughts

This Skagway Scenic River Float Tour offers a chance to see Alaska in its quieter, more peaceful form. The combination of a scenic drive, wildlife viewing, and tranquil float makes it a well-rounded experience, especially appreciated for its calm pace and beautiful surroundings. The fact that guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness and knowledge only enhances the value.

For travelers seeking a gentle, scenic, and educational activity that’s suitable for many ages, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly nice for those who enjoy nature, photography, and learning about local history without a strenuous effort. While it’s not the longest or most adrenaline-filled adventure, it captures the essence of Alaska’s wilderness in a relaxed, enjoyable way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. The minimum age is 2, and the tour is described as family-friendly, making it a gentle introduction to Alaska’s outdoors for young kids and families.

How long is the entire tour?
The whole experience lasts about 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, including the drive, float, and stops.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but eagles and other animals are commonly seen, especially seasonally.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for all weather conditions. The tour provides necessary equipment like life jackets and rubber boots, but layering and waterproof gear are recommended.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so be prepared for rain or cold if necessary.

How many people are on each raft?
A maximum of 11 travelers per raft ensures a comfortable, personal experience.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment, professional guides, and port pickup and drop-off are included.

Can I cancel if my ship is delayed?
Yes, this tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. If your ship is delayed and you miss it, a full refund is available.

Is there a lot of transit time involved?
Yes, expect some driving to and from the port, with stops for scenic overlooks and history. Some reviews suggest this makes the experience feel more like a scenic tour with a float, rather than just a river ride.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing way to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty, with the bonus of wildlife spotting and local insights.

In all, this Skagway float tour offers a relaxed, scenic peek into Alaska’s wilderness, guided by friendly experts who enhance the experience with local stories. It’s a lovely way to slow down, connect with nature, and snap some beautiful photos, making it a worthwhile addition to your port day if you’re after a peaceful, picturesque adventure.