The 4 Best Full-Day Tours in Seward
Seward is a prime destination for travelers looking to experience Alaska’s stunning natural beauty without spending days on the water or hiking. Its location makes it a natural hub for full-day tours that combine glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives. Whether you’re eager to witness calving tidewater glaciers, see orcas and puffins in their natural habitat, or enjoy a scenic transit to Anchorage, Seward offers options that pack in a lot of adventure and awe. With so many choices, deciding on the right tour can seem overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve broken down four of the best, each with its own unique appeal and value.
Some tours focus on glacier and wildlife experiences, like the Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, which is perfect for those who want to see active glaciers and marine life up close. Others combine scenic transportation and wildlife viewing, like the Full day Northwestern Glacier & Wildlife Tour from Seward, which includes a trip through North America’s stunning fjords. For travelers with limited time or a tighter budget, the Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour offers a condensed but comprehensive experience. Read on to find the perfect full-day Alaska adventure.
1. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
At number 1, the Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise stands out for its immersive glacier and wildlife experience. This 7.5-hour catamaran adventure takes you into Kenai Fjords, visiting two active tidewater glaciers in Aialik Bay—a rarity among cruises. The tour’s highlight is watching for calving glaciers, when chunks of ice break off and crash into the water, a mesmerizing and thunderous sight that makes you feel small in this vast wilderness.
The tour is fully narrated by an onboard naturalist, offering insights into the geology, wildlife, and history of the area. You’ll enjoy a complimentary deli lunch as you cruise past Bear Glacier, the largest in Kenai Fjords, and Holgate Glacier. Keep your binoculars ready for Steller sea lions, orcas, humpbacks, and puffins—these waters are teeming with marine life. Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and the unforgettable wildlife sightings. This cruise is ideal for those who want a deep, educational experience with stunning scenery, but be aware it involves traveling out into the open Gulf of Alaska, which may not suit those prone to motion sickness.
Bottom line: An immersive, wildlife-rich glacier cruise that offers the best chance to see active tidewaters and marine animals, for those comfortable on the water.
2. Full day Northwestern Glacier & Wildlife Tour from Seward
For around $273, the Full day Northwestern Glacier & Wildlife Tour from Seward takes you into the remote Northwestern Fjord, home to three spectacular tidewater glaciers. This tour is the most comprehensive of the three glacier-centric options, providing a full eight hours of exploration through some of North America’s most stunning fjords.
What sets this cruise apart is its focus on geological features, including the Harding Icefield and Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. The voyage is narrated by passionate captains who share stories about the area’s geology and wildlife, including whales, puffins, sea otters, and sea lions. The highlight is the opportunity to see the Northwestern Glacier up close, with ample time for wildlife viewing and photography. Many reviews applaud the expert commentary and the opportunity to observe multiple whale species in one trip.
Given its length and focus on vast, pristine scenery, this tour is best suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, all-day exploration of Alaska’s glaciers and marine life. Its value lies in the extensive time spent in the fjords and the chance to experience multiple glaciers and abundant wildlife.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking a full day of glacier viewing combined with a wealth of wildlife encounters in a less crowded setting.
3. Seward to Anchorage Full Day Transit Tour with Port Pickup
At number 3, the Seward to Anchorage Full Day Transit Tour offers a scenic and informative journey from Seward to Alaska’s largest city. This 8.5-hour tour begins with a visit to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can walk along the glacier’s edge and enjoy views of ice formations and surrounding wilderness.
From there, the tour continues through the Chugach Mountains and along Turnagain Arm, with potential sightings of Beluga whales and Dall Sheep. The highlight is a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll see native animals like bears, moose, and muskoxen in a natural setting. This tour is well-suited for travelers wanting a taste of Alaska’s wild landscapes combined with an easy transfer from Seward to Anchorage, especially if you have flights or accommodation booked there afterward.
While it doesn’t focus on glaciers or marine wildlife as deeply as the other tours, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural beauty and wildlife, all in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the smooth logistics, making it a practical choice for a full-day adventure.
Bottom line: A good option for travelers wanting a scenic transfer with wildlife viewing and glacier highlights en route to Anchorage.
4. Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour
Finally, the Best of Seward Alaska Full Day Tour offers a condensed but well-rounded experience for travelers with limited time. This 5-hour tour combines a historical city tour, lunch, admission to the Alaska SeaLife Center, and a visit to Exit Glacier and Kenai Fjords National Park.
While it doesn’t go as deep into wildlife or glaciers as other options, it’s a great introductory tour that hits the highlights, especially for those arriving or departing Seward and wanting a quick overview. The tour is ideal for travelers interested in local history, wildlife, and glacier viewing without committing to a full day on the water. It’s also perfect for families or travelers on a tighter schedule.
Keep in mind, with just 5 hours, the experience is more streamlined, but it still provides a taste of Seward’s natural beauty and wildlife. It’s a good value for its lower price point and shorter duration, and reviews note smooth logistics and a good mix of activities.
Bottom line: A practical choice for those short on time who want a balanced experience covering the highlights of Seward.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re passionate about glaciers and marine wildlife, the Kenai Fjords Cruise is hard to beat. For a full-day, in-depth glacier and wildlife experience with fewer crowds, the Northwestern Glacier & Wildlife Tour provides a more comprehensive adventure. If you prefer a scenic transfer combined with wildlife spotting and don’t mind skipping the glaciers, the Seward to Anchorage Transit is a practical choice. Lastly, for a quick, highlights-focused experience, the Best of Seward Tour offers good value.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months, to secure your spot and ensure the best experience. Consider your fitness level, especially for tours involving walking or outdoor exploration, and always check the weather forecast to dress appropriately.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after glacier vistas, marine wildlife, or a scenic journey to Anchorage, Seward’s full-day tours deliver memorable Alaska experiences. The Kenai Fjords Cruise is perfect for wildlife and glacier lovers craving an immersive day on the water. The Northwestern Glacier tour suits those seeking the ultimate fjord adventure with a focus on ice and wildlife. For more laid-back travelers or those on a schedule, the Seward to Anchorage transit and Best of Seward options offer flexible, enjoyable ways to explore.
No matter which you choose, book early to secure your spot—and be ready for some of the most stunning scenery Alaska has to offer. These tours make sure you leave Seward with lifelong memories of glaciers, whales, and rugged coastlines.