OVER THE TOP TOURS city highlights, wildlife and more!

There’s a lot to love about exploring Ketchikan, Alaska, and this Over the Top Tours adventure aims to pack a lot into just about two hours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews, thoughtful itinerary, and enthusiastic local guides paint a pretty inviting picture. Whether you’re after iconic sights, wildlife sightings, or just a friendly local showing you around, this tour seems to tick plenty of boxes.

What stands out? First, travelers rave about the knowledge and passion of the guides, especially Johnny, who’s been described as fun, personable, and full of stories. Next, the wildlife sightings and scenic stops are a major highlight—think eagles, bears (fingers crossed), and seals among beautiful landscapes. Last, the value really shows when you consider the variety of experiences packed into this compact tour for just $100.

But, there’s one thing to keep in mind: wildlife sightings, especially bears, are never guaranteed. You might see plenty, or you might need a little luck. This is true of all wildlife tours, but it’s good to go in with realistic expectations. If you’re someone who appreciates local insight, scenic natural beauty, and a flexible, small-group vibe, you’ll likely find this tour very appealing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized and authentic look at Ketchikan, especially if they value wildlife viewing and local stories. It suits those with limited time but an interest in nature, culture, and scenery, and who prefer traveling in a comfortable, small-group setting.

• Authentic Local Guides: Guides like Johnny make the experience personal and engaging.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see eagles, bears, seals, and more, depending on luck and the season.
• Variety of Stops: From scenic beaches to waterfalls, each location offers something unique.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in a private vehicle with AC and heat, making the tour suitable regardless of the weather.
• Flexible and Small Group: Max 9 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Affordable Value: At $100, you get a comprehensive look at highlights and wildlife without overpaying.

Starting Point: Ketchikan Visitors Bureau

The tour kicks off conveniently at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau near the cruise docks. Meeting here is straightforward and close to the ship, which means minimal hassle before you get your adventure rolling. The guide, often Johnny, quickly sets a friendly tone, sharing a bit about what’s to come. The small group size (up to 9 travelers) ensures that everyone can be part of the conversation and ask questions along the way.

Exploring Ketchikan’s City Highlights

The first part of the tour involves a drive around town to see key points of interest. This isn’t just a quick drive; guides like Johnny are known for their storytelling, seamlessly blending local history, culture, and tips for future exploration. Reviewers mention how Johnny’s passion for Ketchikan is contagious, offering insights that you wouldn’t get from a map or guidebook.

Most importantly, the stops are short but meaningful: a quick look at the city’s scenic spots, with plenty of photo opportunities. The 15-minute stop at Ketchikan Creek is a highlight, especially during the salmon spawning season starting in July. Visitors can watch salmon leap upstream—a vivid and fascinating scene that many reviewers have enjoyed, even if some visited outside prime season.

Wildlife and Nature Stops

The crux of this tour lies in its wildlife viewing opportunities. At Herring Cove, you’re in a prime spot for spotting eagles, harbor seals, crane, and other seabirds. While wildlife is never guaranteed, many guests have been lucky enough to see bears, especially during peak seasons, as one reviewer noted, “Johnny treated us like friends and we saw bears, seals, and a whale!”

The Black Sand Beaches at Rotary Beach are another big draw. Beachcombing here offers a relaxing break to stretch your legs and take in the scenery—depending on the tide, you might find shells, driftwood, or just enjoy the peaceful sound of waves. Reviewers describe it as “magnificent,” and this stop offers a good chance to connect with nature without leaving the island.

The waterfall at the south end of the island is described as breathtaking—an easy 15-minute stop that truly feels like a must-see. It’s a perfect photo-op, and many travelers mention how it adds to the overall “wow” factor of this quick tour.

Wildlife Spotting Tips

While sightings depend on the season and luck, reviewers have shared some insights. One tour guide famously went out of his way, even after the official season, to give a personalized experience, including finding bears in November. Many mention how guides like Johnny are passionate about wildlife and will do their best to locate animals, like eagles flying above or seals lounging on rocks.

The Final Scenic Stop: Waterfall

Seemingly the pièce de résistance, the waterfall at 10 Mile on the south end of the island is described as “a must-see”. It’s a quick stop, but many guests find it leaves a lasting impression. The natural beauty here makes it a perfect wrap-up to your island exploration.

For $100, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and local insights—all in a compact, two-hour window. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this small-group experience feels intimate and tailored. The inclusion of stops at beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife hotspots makes this an efficient way to see diverse facets of Ketchikan without rushing or feeling overwhelmed.

The price also reflects the quality of guides, often highlighted as a standout aspect. Johnny and others bring stories, cultural context, and genuine enthusiasm, transforming the sightseeing into something memorable.

Real Review Insights

A few reviewers highlight that the experience can vary depending on the season. For example, one noted that early May might not be ideal for bear or salmon sightings, but “timing really matters”. Other guests loved how Johnny went the extra mile, showing them around after the official season and still making the day special.

Many reviews express how the guides’ local knowledge, stories, and personalized approach added value beyond just the sights. Guests appreciated being treated more like friends than just travelers, which enhances the overall experience.

• Duration: About 2 hours, perfect for a quick yet meaningful experience.
• Meeting Point: Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, just steps from the cruise docks, making logistics easy.
• Group Size: Max 9 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Transportation: Private vehicle with AC and heat, ensuring comfort no matter the weather.
• Cost: $100 per person, which covers multiple scenic and wildlife stops—good value given the personalized attention.
• Booking in Advance: On average, tours are booked 103 days ahead—definitely popular!
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before, providing peace of mind.

This Over the Top Tours experience offers a balanced blend of scenic highlights, wildlife encounters, and local storytelling, all wrapped in a small-group, comfortable setting. It’s an ideal choice if you’re seeking a personalized, authentic look at Ketchikan with knowledgeable guides who truly love their home.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed—and depend on timing and luck—the effort and enthusiasm of guides like Johnny make it clear that they genuinely want to give guests a memorable day. The stops, from beaches to waterfalls, paint a vibrant picture of what makes Ketchikan special.

If you’re short on time but want a meaningful and fun introduction to this lush, wildlife-rich destination, this tour delivers excellent value and genuine local charm.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be family-friendly, with stops suitable for all ages.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves minimal walking—mostly short stops and beachcombing depending on the tide at Rotary Beach.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
While sightings depend on the season and luck, guests often see eagles, seals, and sometimes bears, especially during peak seasons.

Does the tour guarantee wildlife sightings?
No, wildlife is unpredictable; guides do their best, but sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely, the tour uses a private vehicle with air conditioning and heating, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least 103 days ahead is common, but spots are limited, so early booking is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any additional costs?
All listed stops are free; no extra charges for the sightseeing stops, wildlife viewing, or beaches.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, camera, binoculars (if desired), and a sense of adventure.

This tour from Over the Top Tours offers a warm, personal, and scenic taste of Ketchikan, perfect for travelers wanting more than just a quick drive-by. With knowledgeable guides and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, it promises a memorable glimpse into Alaska’s natural beauty.