Planning to leave Alaska after your cruise? This guided craft beverage tour from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage offers a unique way to wind down your trip while soaking in the stunning scenery. For just $369 per person, you’ll enjoy a mix of sightseeing, local flavors, and mountain vistas—all with the convenience of hotel or cruise terminal pickup.
What really catches our eye is the small-group setting, which promises personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. The highlight? A tram ride and lunch atop Mt. Alyeska, combined with behind-the-scenes tastings at breweries, cidery, and distilleries. It’s a great way to sample Alaska’s craft beverage scene while enjoying breathtaking views.
However, it’s worth noting that the tour is a one-way transfer, so it’s not a full-day exploration. Travelers who want a laid-back, taste-focused experience with convenient transportation from their cruise terminal or hotel will find this especially appealing. If you’re curious about local brewing culture and scenic mountain drives, this tour is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized guidance
- Includes tram ride and lunch at Mt. Alyeska with panoramic views
- Tour covers multiple craft stops including breweries, a cidery, and a distillery
- One-way transfer, ideal for travelers ending their cruise in Seward or Whittier
- Cost of $369 offers a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and convenient transportation
- Booking flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
An In-Depth Look at the Guided Craft Tour and Transfer
This tour is designed for travelers wanting to combine a scenic drive with a taste of Alaska’s burgeoning craft beverage scene. It’s perfect for those winding down after their cruise and looking for a relaxed introduction to local flavors without sacrificing comfort or scenery. Let’s break down what you can expect.
Looking for more options in United States? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Transportation
The experience begins either from the Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal or your Whittier hotel, with pickup clearly marked in a black Big Swig Tours van. From there, you’ll hop into an 8-passenger vehicle, making the journey intimate and flexible. The drive covers approximately 114 miles along the Seward Highway, offering striking views of mountains, lakes, and lush forests.
Travel time from Whittier or Seward to Anchorage is about 1.5 hours — a comfortable duration that balances sightseeing with travel. The small-group format—limited to 8 participants—means you’re not lost in a crowd and can ask questions or get personalized recommendations.
Scenic Drive and Key Stops
The route along the Kenai Peninsula is a highlight itself. The drive along the National Scenic Byway means you’ll get stunning views of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and sweeping valleys. Reviewers often mention how the scenery alone makes this trip worthwhile, with one noting, “The views from the bus were incredible and made the drive fly by.”
Mt. Alyeska Tram Ride and Lunch
The first major stop is Alyeska Resort, where a tram ride to the summit offers panoramic views of Alaska’s mountains and glaciers. The tram ride is smooth and provides ample time to take photos. At the top, a lunch with spectacular vistas awaits—an ideal moment to relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.
Guests frequently mention the “breathtaking views from the tram,” and that the lunch atop Mt. Alyeska is a memorable experience, combining delicious food with jaw-dropping scenery. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the natural beauty surrounding you.
More Great Tours NearbyCraft Beverage Tastings and Behind-the-Scenes Tours
The core of this experience lies in the visits to local craft producers:
- Girdwood Brewing Co. offers behind-the-scenes tours and tastings, where you might learn about the brewing process and enjoy samples of their craft beer.
- Anchorage Distillery provides insights into local distillation techniques, with tastings of spirits and craft cocktails.
- Double Shovel Cider Co. introduces you to Alaska-grown apples and cider-making, with opportunities for tasting and learning.
From reviews, we know that guests valued the informative guides who shared stories about the craft scene, saying, “Our guide was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even better.” The tastings are included, but additional samples might be available for purchase if you want to explore further.
Why the Experience Offers Good Value
At $369, this tour packs a lot into a half-day. You’re not just riding from point A to B—you’re experiencing scenery, local culture, and craft beverages, all with expert guidance. The inclusion of lunch and tram ride enhances the value, making it more than just a transfer.
It’s a chance to see the mountains from a different perspective while sampling some of Alaska’s best brews and spirits. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd.
What Travelers Say
Many reviewers appreciate the convenience of the pickup and drop-off, especially after potentially long days on a cruise. One traveler mentioned, “It was nice to be able to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving,” highlighting the tour’s stress-free nature.
Others enjoyed the personalized service—the guides often share local stories and brewing insights—making the experience engaging and memorable. The scenic drive and mountain vistas consistently come up as a favorite part of the trip.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Wear closed-toe shoes—they’re required for safety during the tram ride.
- Bring your camera – the views from the tram and scenic stops are photo-worthy.
- Adjust your expectations – this is a scenic transfer with tastings, not a full brewery tour.
- Book in advance—availability can vary, and the tour is popular due to its small size.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This experience suits cruise passengers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful end to their trip. It’s also great for food and drink enthusiasts eager to explore Alaska’s craft scene without the hassle of planning multiple stops. Travelers who prefer small groups and personalized guides will find this especially appealing.
If you’re seeking a combination of mountain vistas, local culture, and craft beverages in a comfortable and efficient package, this tour hits the mark. It’s less about intense sightseeing and more about savoring the moment—perfect for those wanting a taste of Alaska’s natural and artisanal offerings.
The Sum Up
This guided craft tour and ship transfer from Seward or Whittier delivers a well-rounded experience combining scenic mountain views with a taste of Alaska’s craft beverage culture. The small-group setting, the inclusion of a tram ride, and the variety of tastings make it an engaging, relaxing way to conclude a cruise.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an easy, guided experience that balances sightseeing with local flavors. While it isn’t a full-day adventure, it offers excellent value for those who appreciate scenic drives, small-group intimacy, and local craft beverages.
This tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see some of Alaska’s best scenery and sample its artisanal products with minimal fuss and maximum comfort. Whether you’re a beverage enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable way to end your trip, this experience provides a flavorful insight into Alaska’s craft scene amid stunning mountain landscapes.
FAQ
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $369 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, tram ride, guide, and transportation.
Where does the tour start?
It begins with pickup at your Whittier hotel or the Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal.
How long does the tour last?
The transfer itself lasts about 1.5 hours, but the experience includes scenic stops, tastings, and lunch, making it a relaxed half-day activity.
What’s included in the tour?
Includes beer, cider, spirit, and craft cocktail samples, lunch, a tram ride, guided commentary, and hotel or airport drop-off (if applicable).
Are there any additional costs?
Additional tastings beyond what’s included may be available for purchase. Entry fees to stops like Girdwood are included, but some extras may cost extra.
Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a small group tour limited to 8 participants, promoting a more personalized experience.
What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety during the tram ride. We recommend bringing a camera and layers for varying weather.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on craft beverages suggests it’s best suited for adults.
Will I be able to enjoy scenic views during the drive?
Absolutely—guests regularly mention the stunning vistas along the Kenai Peninsula and from the tram.
In summary, this tour is a practical, well-organized way to combine scenic beauty with local flavors, perfect for cruise travelers ending their Alaska journey on a flavorful and scenic note.
You can check availability for your dates here: