Wilderness Zodiac Quest

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and love the idea of combining scenic boat rides with wildlife spotting, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest might just catch your eye. This tour stands out because it offers a blend of adventure, nature, and a good dose of adrenaline—all led by knowledgeable guides who know where the wildlife hangs out.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it puts you behind the wheel of your own Zodiac boat, giving you a sense of control and fun that’s hard to match on typical sightseeing tours. Plus, the chance to see orcas, seals, eagles, and even deer in their natural habitat makes it a compelling choice.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves driving a boat, so a reasonable level of physical activity and comfort with water is expected. If you’re someone who’s less comfortable on water or prefers more relaxed, less hands-on excursions, this might not be the perfect fit.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving an active, wildlife-focused adventure with an authentic feel—ideal for those who want to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty firsthand.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You get to drive your own Zodiac boat, making the adventure more engaging than typical guided tours.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see orcas, seals, eagles, and more, with the possibility of close-up sightings.
• Beautiful Scenery: The tour includes stops at a historic cannery, Mahoney Falls, and the George Inlet waterway, offering diverse views.
• All-Inclusive: The experience covers private transportation, snacks, beverages, and all necessary gear.
• Ease of Access: Pickup from Ketchikan cruise terminals makes this straightforward to book and join.
• Moderate Physical Fitness Needed: Be prepared for some activity and the need to bundle up.

An In-Depth Look at Wilderness Zodiac Quest

If you’re like us, you probably dream of seeing Alaska’s legendary wildlife in its natural environment. This tour promises that, with a twist—you’re not just watching from a boat, but actively controlling your vessel. We’ll walk through what makes this trip special, what it involves, and who it’s best suited for.

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour begins right at the Ketchikan cruise ship docks, which makes it super convenient if you’re on a cruise. The company offers private transportation, so you won’t have to worry about navigating your way around town. The return trip is included, removing any stress of logistics—just focus on the adventure ahead.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is carefully crafted to balance wildlife viewing with scenic stops. It starts with a visit to one of the last standing canneries in Ketchikan, located in George Inlet. This historic site, once operated by Libby, McNeill and Libby Cannery Co., offers a glimpse into the region’s fishing legacy and adds a local flavor to the experience.

Next, you’ll visit Mahoney Falls, a striking glacial cirque carved by past glaciers, offering some great photo opportunities and an understanding of Alaska’s glacial history. Although brief, the stop is quite scenic and helps break up the tour with a touch of natural wonder.

The highlight comes when you board your Zodiac rigid inflatable boat in George Inlet. Here, you’ll have the chance to drive your own boat (or switch off with your group), guided by an expert wildlife guide who keeps safety and fun in mind. Expect to cruise through lush rainforest scenery and waterway channels teeming with wildlife.

Wildlife and Scenery

Many reviews echo the excitement of wildlife encounters. People frequently mention seeing orcas (also called killer whales), seals, eagles, and sometimes even deer swimming across channels, as one reviewer described. Several users highlighted how close and personal wildlife sightings can be, especially when the guides are experienced and know where to look.

The experience isn’t just about spotting animals. It’s about feeling the raw power of the water, hearing the sounds of the wilderness, and watching the scenery change as you navigate the narrow waterways. The rainforest scenery combined with wildlife sightings creates a memorable, immersive experience.

Guides and Safety

The guides are described as knowledgeable and energetic, providing safety briefings and making everyone feel comfortable on the water. The fact that you’re driving your own boat adds a layer of fun and responsibility, but the guides are there to ensure safety and help you navigate confidently.

A standout review describes a guide named Brandon as “amazing,” noting his positive energy and whale-whispering skills. This personal touch seems to make the experience even more memorable.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including travel to and from the sites, the boat ride, and stops. This length strikes a good balance—it’s enough time to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. The boat ride itself is about an hour and 20 minutes, which many reviewers found to be just right for wildlife viewing and enjoying the scenery.

Cost and Value

At $255 per person, this experience falls into the premium range but offers a good deal considering the personalized aspect (driving your own boat), wildlife encounters, and included snacks and beverages. Many reviewers feel that the thrill and the chance to see orcas and other wildlife make it worth the price, especially since it’s a private activity with only your group.

Practicalities and Considerations

To participate, you should have moderate physical fitness, as you’ll be handling a boat and bundling up in waterproof gear. The tour is suitable for most travelers who are comfortable on water; however, those prone to seasickness or with mobility issues might want to consider other options.

Weather can impact the experience—if the weather turns bad, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled. Fortunately, the company offers full refunds or alternative dates if this happens.

What We Loved From the Reviews

Multiple reviews highlighted the guides’ expertise and positive energy, making the tour feel personal and trustworthy. The excitement of seeing whales and close wildlife encounters is a recurring theme. One reviewer even called it the highlight of their cruise, emphasizing how special the experience was.

A few critical reviews mentioned disappointments with boat capacity or visibility, but these seemed to be exceptions rather than the norm. The guides seem committed to making sure everyone gets a good view when possible.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and wildlife watching. If you’re comfortable on the water and want more than just a sightseeing cruise—if you want to pilot your own boat and get close to wildlife—this trip will hit the mark.

It’s also perfect for those craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, away from crowded tours. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and hassle-free pickup adds to its overall value.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed or leisurely experience, or if you’re uneasy on boats, consider other options. This tour is less suitable for young children or travelers with mobility constraints, but older kids with water comfort should enjoy it.

Final Thoughts

The Wilderness Zodiac Quest offers a thrilling, personalized way to explore Ketchikan’s waterways and wildlife. With access to the wilderness via your own boat and guided by experienced professionals, it blends adventure with a genuine connection to nature.

The chance to see orcas and eagles up close makes this stand out among Alaskan excursions. The inclusion of scenic stops like Mahoney Falls and the historic cannery enriches the experience, giving it a well-rounded feel.

While the price might seem steep, the value of a private, wildlife-focused boat ride with expert guiding makes it worthwhile for those seeking an active, memorable adventure. Just keep in mind the physical demands and weather considerations—being prepared ensures you’ll get the most out of this exciting trip.

In summary, if you’re looking for an authentic, adventure-packed way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free private transportation directly from the Ketchikan cruise terminal.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops, wildlife viewing, and boat time.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Absolutely. You and your group will drive the Zodiac boats, with guides providing safety guidance along the way.

What wildlife might I see?
Most likely you’ll see orcas (killer whales), seals, and eagles. Some have even seen deer swimming across channels.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While no specific mention of children is made, the moderate physical activity and boat operation suggest it’s better suited for older kids or teens comfortable with water.

What should I wear?
Be prepared to bundle up in waterproof gear, as weather can be unpredictable, and you’ll be on the water.

What is included in the price?
The trip includes private transportation, snacks, beverages, and all gear needed for the boat ride.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date.

How many people will be in my boat?
Your boat can seat up to 9 people, but some reviews mention smaller groups or pairs—your experience will be private for your booking.

Can I cancel if needed?
Yes, full cancellation is possible if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

If you’re craving an active, wildlife-rich adventure in Ketchikan, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest offers plenty of excitement and a true taste of Alaska’s wild side.