Overview
Protected by towering mountains and rugged barrier islands, Resurrection Bay is a thriving marine ecosystem. Because of this it's, also the perfect place to search for all manner of coastal wildlife. This afternoon cruise takes passengers on a 55-mile circuit through this vibrant natural setting.
55-mile circuit through a vibrant natural setting.
Starting in Seward's Small Boat Harbor, the cruise sails a counterclockwise circuit around the bay. Passengers are usually immediately treated to wildlife sightings, often of sea otters near the harbor or porpoises playing in the boat's wake. The best views are from the outside decks as the boat makes its way down the western side of Resurrection Bay. When the weather is clear it's possible to see Bear Glacier, the largest in Kenai Fjords National Park, just past Callisto Head.
At this point, the boat charts a course west around Rugged Island and into Cape Resurrection before turning north back into calm water. The area is teaming with wildlife that the captain slows and maneuvers to view at a safe distance. Depending on the season and even the day, it may be seabirds diving from cliffside nests, sea lions or harbor seals hauled out on rocks, or even whales gliding gracefully just below the water surface. The boat's captain narrates the experience throughout.
More Details
Tour vessels have indoor cabin levels and exterior decks for ample viewing space. No smoking is allowed on the boat. Passengers are assigned seats when boarding, but can move throughout the boat while underway. Children are encouraged to enjoy educational games and activities as part of the Junior Ranger Program.
The optional salmon and prime rib buffet is only served on the five-hour tour. A vegan/vegetarian lunch option is available and must be requested in advance. The lunch buffet also includes warm sourdough bread, rice pilaf, a fresh garden salad, coffee or tea, and desserts. All tours provide complimentary coffee, tea, and water is provided. Additional snacks, hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the snack bar.
What to Bring
To make the most of views and fresh air on the exterior decks, it is important to dress in layers. Bring a rain jacket, hat, and gloves, and wear warm base layers and rubber-soled shoes. Even on a sunny day, the bay air can be quite chilly. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars. Although this trip stays in the protected water of Resurrection Bay, guests should air on the side of caution and take motion sickness medicine if seasickness is a concern.
Special Instructions
Check in at the boat tour office located on the boardwalk at the Seward small boat harbor at 1302 4th Avenue. The tour office provides luggage storage if needed.
Transfers & Meeting Points
Passengers arriving by train can walk the one block from the Seward Depot to the Harbor 360 Hotel. Several local hotels provide shuttle service to the small boat harbor. For self-drivers, parking is available across the street from the Harbor 360 Hotel or one block south of the South Harbor Office on 4th Avenue. There is a $10 charge per vehicle per day.
Rates & Dates
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rates apply to children under the age of 12. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.
| Dates |
Adult |
Child |
Infant |
| 5/15/21 (Sa) to 9/6/21 (M)5/15/21 (Sa) to 9/6/21 (M) |
Adult: $109.00 |
Child: $54.50 |
Infant: $0.00 |
| The rates above do not include taxes/fees of 7% plus $3.50 and are subject to change without notice. |
| Dates |
Adult |
Child |
Infant |
| 6/7/21 (M) to 9/30/21 (Th)6/7/21 (M) to 9/30/21 (Th) |
Adult: $94.00 |
Child: $47.00 |
Infant: $0.00 |
| The rates above do not include taxes/fees of 7% plus $3.50 and are subject to change without notice. |
