Wilderness Zodiac Quest

If you’re craving a hands-on, adrenaline-pumping way to explore Alaska’s incredible natural beauty, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest in Ketchikan might just be your ideal choice. This tour promises a blend of wildlife encounters, rainforest scenery, and the thrill of piloting your own speedboat, all led by knowledgeable guides who truly love what they do.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is the personalized attention—since it’s a private tour, you won’t be lost in a crowd. The stunning vistas of George Inlet, the chance to drive your own boat, and the expert guidance make it stand out. However, it’s worth noting that the 3.5-hour duration means you’ll want to prepare for a fairly active outing, especially in cooler weather.

Ideal for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or those wanting a unique perspective of Alaska’s wilderness, this tour offers a genuine, memorable experience. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and love being on the water, you’ll find this excursion well worth the price.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private guides and small group size
• Wildlife sightings including eagles, seals, and orcas
• Hands-on fun driving your own Zodiac boat
• Convenient door-to-door transfers from Ketchikan cruise terminal
• Includes snacks and beverages to keep you energized
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Wilderness Zodiac Quest

This tour offers a well-rounded combination of scenic beauty, wildlife observation, and interactive fun that’s perfect for travelers wanting to get off the beaten path in Ketchikan. From start to finish, it’s designed to be engaging while staying accessible for most fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable with moderate activity and outdoor conditions.

How the Tour Begins: A Seamless Pickup and Scenic Drive

The experience kicks off with free transportation directly from the cruise port, which is a huge plus for travelers eager to maximize their limited time ashore. You’ll be picked up and driven to the starting point near George Inlet, an area renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance, thanks to the last-standing canneries.

The first stop involves a quick 40-minute visit to a historic cannery, once owned by Libby, McNeill and Libby. This spot offers a glimpse into Alaska’s fishing industry past, giving context to your adventure. According to reviews, this part is free but provides a surprisingly interesting peek into local history, setting the tone for the outdoor activities ahead.

Exploring Mahoney Falls and the Rainforest

Next, you’ll visit Mahoney Falls Glacial Cirque—an impressive natural bowl carved by glaciers high in the mountains. This 15-minute stop is also free and offers a picture-perfect view of the area’s glacial features. Reviewers have mentioned how these sights elevate the experience beyond just a boat ride, adding a layer of natural wonder.

Following that, a 1 hour and 20-minute cruise along George Inlet lets you marvel at rainforest scenery and the tranquil waterways. It’s this segment where you’ll start spotting wildlife, and it’s clear many guests find this part especially rewarding. Multiple reviews mention close encounters with eagles, seals, and even deer swimming across the channels.

The Heart of the Adventure: Driving Your Zodiac

Once on the water, the highlight emerges—you’re behind the wheel. The boats are described as easy to operate, making this experience accessible even for first-timers, thanks to clear instructions and onboard guidance. Enthusiasts love the feeling of control, and reviewers like Chloe appreciated the opportunity to “stop the motors and just enjoy the quiet serenity,” which makes this more than just a sightseeing tour.

Throughout the cruise, wildlife sightings are abundant. Brandon, a guide featured in a featured review, was praised as “extremely knowledgeable and full of positive energy.” He actively engaged guests, sharing insights about local flora and fauna, and even managed to get guests close enough to observe orcas surfacing—an unforgettable sight.

Snacking and Refreshments

After your water adventure, the tour concludes with a relaxing moment back at the base, where snacks and drinks are available. Guests can enjoy 49th State Brewing craft beers, sodas, and light snacks, as one reviewer gushed about how “the drinks are just a little added bonus to the beauty we get to immerse ourselves in.” This thoughtful touch is a nice way to unwind and reflect on your trip.

The Overall Experience: What Reviewers Love

Most reviews spotlight the expert guides—notably Brandon and Emily—who go above and beyond to make the trip memorable. Reviewers mention how the guides highlight local plants, animals, and the history of the area, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour. Many describe the experience as the “highlight of their cruise,” citing the wildlife sightings and boat-driving fun as major highlights.

A few constructive points were raised, mainly about boat capacity. One review pointed out that six people in a Zodiac made it hard for two guests to see ahead, despite the boat’s nine-seat capacity. This indicates that if you’re traveling in a larger group, requesting a smaller, more comfortable boat might improve your experience.

Pricing and Value

At $255 per person, the tour is priced towards the higher end, but most guests agree it offers good value. The private, small-group setup, combined with the opportunity to drive your own boat, makes it stand out from more conventional wildlife tours. The inclusion of snacks, beverages, and seamless transfers adds to the overall convenience.

Considering the personalized nature of this experience and the potential for wildlife sightings like orcas, seals, and eagles, many guests feel they’ve received a memorable and unique adventure that justifies the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers eager for a more active and engaging way to see Alaska’s wildlife. It suits those who enjoy being on the water, aren’t shy about moderate physical activity, and appreciate knowledgeable guides. It’s especially ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a private, customizable outing.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a thrill-seeker looking to pilot your own boat, this tour delivers on both fronts. It’s also great for visitors who want to combine history, scenery, and adventure into a single, well-organized trip.

Final Thoughts

The Wilderness Zodiac Quest offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s wild side, blending scenery, wildlife, and adventure into a single package. The small-group format, led by passionate guides, ensures an authentic experience that’s both educational and fun.

While it’s priced at a premium, the ability to drive your own Zodiac boat, combined with the chance to see orcas and other wildlife up close, makes it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a memorable, active outing. The tour’s flexibility, stunning vistas, and personal touches, such as snacks and drinks, create a well-rounded adventure that many guests remember long after their trip.

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and want a tour that balances scenery, wildlife, and hands-on fun, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest is a top contender.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, guests are picked up and dropped off directly from the Ketchikan cruise terminal, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and driving time.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Absolutely. The boats are described as easy to operate, and guests are encouraged to take the wheel during the cruise.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include eagles, seals, deer, and potentially orcas, which are a highlight for many guests.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, the tour includes snacks and beverages, such as craft beers from Flight of 49th State Brewing or sodas, to enjoy after the water activity.

What is the minimum fitness level required?
The experience requires a moderate physical fitness level, mainly to handle the outdoor activity and cold-weather gear.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, a full refund is not available unless due to bad weather.

In essence, the Wilderness Zodiac Quest delivers a lively, intimate, and authentic taste of Alaska’s wilderness. It’s perfect for those who want to combine adventure with wildlife viewing, all in a setting that emphasizes safety, comfort, and fun.