Bering Sea Crab Fishermans Tour From Ketchikan

We can’t deny the allure of the Bering Sea and its legendary crab fishing industry. The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan promises an immersive experience that lets us explore this captivating world firsthand. From wildlife sightings to hands-on interactions, this 3-hour adventure aboard the renowned Aleutian Ballad seems like a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Alaska’s maritime heritage. With its accessibility and range of amenities, it’s an opportunity worth considering for travelers of all ages. What unique insights might this tour provide into the challenges and thrill of Bering Sea crabbing?

Key Points

• 3-hour adventure aboard the 107-foot vessel Aleutian Ballad, with a maximum capacity of 150 travelers and a 97% recommendation rate.
• Tour features fishing operations, wildlife sightings, and live catch interaction, with a focus on the Bering Sea ecosystem.
• Opportunity to observe the crew preparing and deploying specialized fishing equipment, as well as the vessel’s history on "Deadliest Catch."
• Potential sightings of bald eagles, sea lions, whales, and other marine life during the navigation through the Inside Passage.
• Included amenities such as raincoats, ponchos, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea, with snacks available for purchase and wheelchair accessibility.

Tour Overview

Embarking on the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan, travelers experience a 3-hour adventure aboard the 107-foot ocean-going vessel, the Aleutian Ballad.

With a maximum capacity of 150, this tour offers an immersive look into the life of Bering Sea crab fishermen. Boasting a Badge of Excellence and 97% recommendation rate from 624 reviews, the tour showcases fishing operations, wildlife sightings, and interaction with the live catch.

Accessible for wheelchair users and those with service animals, the experience departs from Berth 3 in downtown Ketchikan.

Fishing Experience

As we navigate the Inside Passage, we’ve the opportunity to watch the skilled crew prepare the long-line barrel pots and the massive 700-pound king crab pots that are the tools of their trade.

These specialized pots are meticulously loaded and secured, ready to be deployed in the Bering Sea. We observe the intricate process, marveling at the crew’s expertise and the sheer size of the equipment used in this dangerous yet thrilling profession.

The Aleutian Ballad’s history as a featured vessel on the hit TV show "Deadliest Catch" adds to the excitement of this unique fishing experience.

Wildlife Observation

What wildlife might we spot during our Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour?

As we navigate the waters, keep your eyes peeled for:

1. Majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, their distinctive white heads and tails easily recognizable.

2. Playful sea lions lounging on rocky outcroppings, their barking calls echoing across the sea.

3. Elusive whales, like humpbacks or orcas, breaching the surface and showcasing their impressive size and power.

With a bit of luck, we may even catch a glimpse of darting porpoises or other marine life as we explore the Bering Sea’s vibrant ecosystem.

Catch Handling

Aboard the Aleutian Ballad, we’ll have the opportunity to observe and even touch the incredible marine creatures that the Bering Sea crew hauls in. The onboard tank allows us to get an up-close look at the catch, including:

Creature	Description
King Crab	Massive, spiny crustaceans with powerful claws
Box Crab	Smaller but no less impressive crab species
Prawns	Delicate shrimp-like decapod crustaceans
Rockfish	Vibrant, colorful finfish with unique features
Eel	Slender, snake-like fish with smooth, slimy skin

Handling this live catch is a thrilling, educational experience that brings the Bering Sea’s bountiful ecosystem to life.

Crew Interaction

The crew of the Aleutian Ballad are eager to share their stories and experiences with us during the tour.

They’ll regale us with tales of life at sea, including:

1. The history of the Aleutian Ballad and its feature on the popular TV show "Deadliest Catch".
2. Firsthand accounts of the challenges and dangers they face as Bering Sea crab fishermen.
3. Insights into the importance of their work in supporting coastal Alaskan communities.

We’ll have the opportunity to interact directly with the crew, asking questions and learning about the realities of this thrilling yet demanding profession.

Amenities and Accessibility

Raincoats, ponchos, hot chocolate, coffee, and tea are all included on this tour, ensuring we stay warm and comfortable during our time on the Aleutian Ballad. Snacks are also available for purchase, perfect for refueling between wildlife sightings and catching a glimpse of the crew at work.

Amenities	Accessibility	Age Restrictions
Raincoats	Wheelchair accessible	Minimum age of 5 years
Ponchos	Service animals allowed	Due to Coast Guard regulations
Hot chocolate	Near public transportation	–
Coffee	–	–
Tea	–	–

The tour is designed to be inclusive, allowing everyone to participate and enjoy the Bering Sea experience.

Booking and Cancellation

With prices starting from $236.00 per person, you can easily book your Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan. The tour confirms your booking upon reservation, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Here’s what you need to know about booking and cancellation:

1. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

2. Transportation is available – take a short walk from downtown Ketchikan hotels or cruise ships, or opt for bus transportation if you’re arriving at Ward Cove.

3. Tour capacity is limited to a maximum of 150 travelers, so reserve your spot early.

Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, the Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour received positive reviews from customers.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable, enthusiastic crew who shared captivating stories about life at sea and the history of the Aleutian Ballad. Guests found the experience educational and entertaining, with many highlighting the thrill of spotting wildlife like eagles, whales, and porpoises.

The interactive catch handling, where visitors could touch live king crab and other marine creatures, was a highlight.

While some complained about weather conditions affecting comfort, the tour’s safety and operational policies were acknowledged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Motion Sickness?

While the tour involves navigating the open ocean, the Aleutian Ballad is a sturdy vessel designed for these waters. We’d recommend talking to the crew about motion sickness remedies and finding a comfortable spot on the ship.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

While the tour provides some snacks and beverages, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks onboard. However, we recommend checking the tour’s policies beforehand to ensure they allow outside items.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?

There is no minimum group size for this tour. We can book individually or in any size group, as the maximum capacity is 150 travelers. The tour operates with full groups or partial bookings.

Can I Take Photographs of the Crew and Catch During the Tour?

Yes, we’re allowed to take photographs of the crew and catch during the tour. The crew encourages guests to capture photos of the interactive experience and wildlife sightings throughout the 3-hour adventure.

Are There Any Age-Specific Activities or Accommodations on the Tour?

The tour offers age-appropriate activities and accommodations. Children 5 and up can participate, with the crew providing interactive experiences tailored to different age groups. Raincoats, ponchos, and hot beverages ensure comfort for all guests on the 3-hour excursion.

The Sum Up

The Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad offers an immersive and thrilling experience for all ages. Witness the realities of commercial fishing, spot stunning wildlife, and interact with the crew. With its various amenities and accessibility, this tour provides an unforgettable journey into the vibrant ecosystem of the Bering Sea. It’s an opportunity not to be missed for those seeking an authentic glimpse into the life of a crab fisherman.