Seward stands out as a true gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, with its stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, and rugged shoreline. Unlike many destinations relying on generic scenic views, Seward offers highly specific, well-reviewed tours that put you right into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you’re interested in a full-day cruise watching calving glaciers or a quick wildlife hike, this town’s tours are designed for visitors who want to see active glaciers, orca whales, puffins, and more. With practical options ranging from leisurely boat rides to adrenaline-pumping snowmobiling, Seward’s tours give you a front-row seat to some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery—no matter your budget or fitness level.
If you’re planning your trip, be aware that many of these excursions fill up quickly—booking early is wise. And with options suited for all interests, you might find yourself returning for multiple adventures. Now, let’s explore the best National Park tours in Seward.
1. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
This full-day catamaran cruise offers an immersive experience into Kenai Fjords’ glaciers and wildlife, with a naturalist onboard providing engaging commentary. Starting at 9:30 a.m., this tour covers approximately 130 miles roundtrip through Resurrection Bay into the park. A key highlight is visiting Aialik Bay, where you’ll witness two active tidewater glaciers calving—a thunderous event that’s hard to forget. You’ll also look for Steller sea lions, orcas, humpbacks, and puffins, all from the comfort of a heated cabin. The tour includes a complimentary deli lunch, making it a convenient way to enjoy Alaska’s scenery and animals.
What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on active tidewater glaciers, especially in Aialik Bay, visited only on this tour. The fully narrated experience by the onboard naturalist makes it ideal for those who want both scenery and wildlife info. Reviewers often mention the professional guides and unforgettable wildlife sightings, with many calling it “unmissable.” This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, fully narrated day on the water.
Bottom Line: A detailed, wildlife-rich cruise with glacier calving and expert narration—great for those who want a full, immersive experience.
2. Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise w/Lunch
For around $250, the Kenai Fjords Catamaran Cruise with Lunch offers a smooth ride through Resurrection Bay aboard a stable, high-speed vessel. This tour runs about 6 hours, giving plenty of time to see mountains, fjords, and glaciers. Wildlife sightings are a highlight: look for whales, sea otters, puffins, and seals. The onboard deli lunch is a nice touch, especially since you can also purchase local beers.
Guests consistently praise the crew for their friendliness and the captain’s skill at spotting wildlife, with many saying it was the highlight of their trip. The tour strikes a good balance for travelers seeking a comfortable, well-organized experience without sacrificing scenery or wildlife viewing. Since it’s slightly shorter, it’s ideal for those with limited time or who prefer a less intense day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, comfortable cruise with good wildlife and glacier viewing, good for families or those with limited time.
3. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Tour from Seward
This 6-hour cruise combines glacier viewing with wildlife spotting, offering a well-paced adventure with onboard lunch and expert commentary from your seasoned captain. The cruise passes alpine and tidewater glaciers, with a strong chance of seeing whales, sea lions, and seabirds. It also visits the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, renowned for its seabird rookeries. Multiple departure times make it flexible for different schedules.
Guests comment on the knowledgeable captain and the variety of wildlife seen, including orcas, puffins, and otters. The tour’s strength is its balance of glacier scenery and marine life, making it suitable for travelers interested in both. The visit to seabird rookeries adds a unique chance to see nesting birds up close.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for wildlife lovers and those wanting a mix of glaciers and marine animals, with flexible departure times.
4. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Seward
This 6-hour cruise is a classic, with the captain sharing detailed stories and insider knowledge about the park’s glaciers and animals. It’s known for seeing seals, whales, and birds, and for gliding past Alaska’s iconic glaciers, including Aialik and Holgate, with a chance to witness calving events. The tour visits Cape Ailiak and the seabird-rich Chiswell Islands, providing varied scenery.
Reviewers describe it as “worth every penny,” with many noting the knowledgeable crew and abundant wildlife. It appeals particularly to those who want an in-depth, engaging experience with a good chance of seeing orcas, whales, and puffins. The price offers solid value considering the length and scope of the trip.
Bottom Line: A reliable, wildlife-focused cruise packed with glacier views and expert narration—ideal for serious wildlife and glacier enthusiasts.
5. Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
This 6-hour shore excursion is a convenient choice if you’re arriving or departing on a cruise. It offers a comprehensive wildlife and glacier cruise aboard a spacious vessel, with excellent chances to see humpback, minke, and orca whales. The tour includes a stop at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge to view seabird rookeries and glaciers like Aialik and Holgate.
Many reviewers mention the friendly crew and good narration, praising the opportunity to see seals, otters, and whales in their natural habitat. The inclusion of lunch onboard makes it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery. This tour is especially helpful for travelers wanting a flexible, shorter excursion with a guaranteed wildlife experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with cruise schedules, combining wildlife, glaciers, and great views in a half-day adventure.
6. Captain’s Choice Kenai Fjords National Park Tour from Seward
The Captain’s Choice offers a 7-hour, fully guided and interpretive cruise into Kenai Fjords. This tour is for those who want more time on the water; it increases your chances of spotting whales, puffins, and sea lions and includes visits to Aialik and Holgate glaciers. The boat is an accessible, well-maintained vessel, with knowledgeable crew sharing insights into the wildlife and geology.
Reviews praise the expert guidance and relaxed pace, with some highlighting the potential to see calving glaciers and the rich wildlife. If you’re after a more detailed, hands-on experience, this tour is a top pick.
Bottom Line: An immersive, interpretive cruise suited for those who want to maximize wildlife and glacier encounters.
7. Seward Wilderness Hiking
If you prefer to explore on foot, this guided wilderness hike offers a 4-hour trek through Seward’s scenic backcountry. Your guide will tailor the route to your fitness level, taking in glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, and alpine tundra. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s geology, wildlife, and history, with opportunities to spot bears, moose, and eagles.
Guests appreciate the personalized guidance and spectacular views, often calling it a “memorable” experience. The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and active way to see more of Alaska’s landscapes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a tailored, scenic hike with wildlife viewing opportunities.
8. Snowmobile Classic Tour in Kenai Fjords National Park
This snowmobile tour offers a rare winter glimpse into Kenai Fjords’ snowy landscapes. After a brief orientation, you’ll ride through towering mountains, snow-covered glaciers, and pristine wilderness. The tour includes a stop at Exit Glacier, where you’ll see massive ice formations and enjoy views of mountain peaks and forests. It’s a high-energy, winter-specific adventure, perfect for those seeking snow and ice experiences.
Guests mention the stunning scenery and the thrill of snowmobiling, with some highlighting the hot chocolate and snacks at the glacier as a memorable touch. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with winter activities and looking for an adrenaline rush.
Bottom Line: An exhilarating winter excursion that takes you into Alaska’s snowy realms, great for snowmobiler enthusiasts.
9. From Seward: 4-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
In this 4-hour guided hike, you’ll traverse Seward’s wilderness with an expert guide, focusing on wildlife, rivers, and mountain views. The hike is flexible, based on your preferences, and includes explorations of alpine creeks and waterfalls. Expect to see bears, moose, and eagles along the trail, with plenty of time for photographs and stories about the area.
Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable guide and scenic vistas, with many calling it a “highlight” of their trip. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to combine moderate physical activity with learning about Alaska’s natural environment.
Bottom Line: A short, flexible wilderness hike ideal for outdoor lovers who want a personal, scenic day.
10. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
This 6-hour cruise is a popular choice, with over a thousand reviews praising its glacier and wildlife sightings. It travels about 100 miles, passing Holgate and Aialik glaciers, where you might witness calving. The tour includes a delicious onboard brunch or deli lunch, and trips often visit Chiswell Islands, home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Many reviewers emphasize the friendly staff and knowledgeable captain, who make wildlife sightings like whales, porpoises, and seals more likely. The trip’s inclusive meals and comfortable vessel make it a value for travelers wanting a high-quality experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, wildlife-rich cruise with hearty meals—great for those who want a true Alaskan marine adventure.
11. From Seward: 2-hour Wilderness Hiking Tour
This shorter, 2-hour hike is perfect for travelers with limited time. It includes hotel pickup and focuses on Alaska’s mountain scenery, rivers, and wildlife. Your guide will share stories of local history and wildlife, with opportunities to see eagles, moose, and waterfalls along the trail. The walk is easy enough for most fitness levels but still offers breathtaking views.
Reviewers praise the personalized attention and scenic vistas, making it a good option for those who want a quick outdoor experience without sacrificing quality.
Bottom Line: A brief but scenic hike with a local guide, ideal for a quick nature fix.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Seward
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If wildlife viewing and glaciers top your list, the Full-Day Kenai Fjords Cruise or the Kenai Fjords Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offer immersive experiences. For shorter trips, the pre- or post-cruise tour provides wildlife and glacier sightings without the longer day. If you prefer land-based adventures, the wilderness hiking options are excellent, especially for active travelers.
Consider the season—winter snowmobiling (snowmobile classic) is only available during colder months. If you’re short on time, the 2-hour wilderness hike provides a quick outdoor fix. Booking early is advisable, as tours fill fast during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Seward offers a rich selection of wildlife, glaciers, and wilderness experiences. For those who want a comprehensive day on the water, the Full-Day Kenai Fjords Cruise or the Captain’s Choice tour deliver impressive wildlife and glacier encounters. Conversely, if you prefer land-based exploration, the wilderness hikes are perfect for getting closer to nature on foot.
For travelers seeking a balance between comfort and adventure, the Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is a top choice. Those with limited time should consider the shorter shore excursions.
Whatever your interests, booking your preferred tour well in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences. Seward’s tours promise glaciers breaking off, whales breaching, and eagles soaring—all worthy of the trip to this rugged part of Alaska.