Exploring the rugged landscape of Alaska’s Prince William Sound is a captivating experience, and the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Valdez offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s natural beauty. Spanning 7.5 hours, this excursion promises abundant wildlife sightings, from seals and otters to the elusive orca. Guests will also marvel at towering waterfalls and the magnificent Meares Glacier, all while enjoying onboard meals and educational commentary. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our article of 2 Exceptional Cruises And Boat Tours In Valdez.
Key Points
- 7.5-hour excursion through Prince William Sound, departing from Valdez with free cancellation up to 3 days in advance.
- Opportunity to view abundant marine life like seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, and orcas in the calm waters.
- Scenic highlights include towering waterfalls, beautiful bays, and the captivating Meares Glacier with glacial calving.
- Educational commentary on the natural history, geology, and cultural heritage of the region throughout the cruise.
- Onboard dining with a morning bagel snack, late lunch, and dinner roll, along with complimentary beverages.
Overview of the Cruise
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is a 7.5-hour excursion that takes participants on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Prince William Sound near Valdez.
Priced from $190.25 per person, the cruise departs from the area’s RV parks or Best Western Hotel, with free cancellation up to 3 days in advance.
From $190.25 per person, the cruise departs from RV parks or the Best Western Hotel, with free cancellation up to 3 days prior.
Featuring wildlife viewing, scenic vistas, and educational commentary, the experience includes a meal served onboard.
Guests can expect to spot seals, otters, whales, and more while cruising past waterfalls, bays, and the advancing Meares Glacier.
The tour operates rain or shine, with certain restrictions in place.
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Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
One of the highlights of the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is the abundance of marine life that can be spotted along the journey.
Guests may see seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, orcas, and diverse seabirds like puffins. The calm waters of Prince William Sound provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the knowledgeable crew is on hand to help identify the various species.
With their expert guidance, cruisers can gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s rich ecosystem. From playful otters to majestic orcas, the wildlife sightings make this a truly memorable excursion.
Scenic Highlights
As the cruise navigates the calm waters of Prince William Sound, guests are treated to a stunning panorama of natural beauty.
Passing by towering waterfalls, the boat cruises along beautiful bays and inlets. The crowning jewel is the advancing Meares Glacier, a majestic sight as it calves icy chunks into the inlet. Guests can relax and witness this awe-inspiring glacial activity up close.
Throughout the journey, the captain and crew share insights about the area’s natural history, enriching the visual experience. The scenic vistas and educational commentary combine to create an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
Educational Elements
Throughout the 7.5-hour cruise, the captain and knowledgeable crew share insightful commentary about the area’s natural history, enriching the visual experience for guests.
Passengers learn about:
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The geological forces that shaped the dramatic landscape, including the advancing Meares Glacier.
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The diverse marine wildlife, from the social habits of playful sea otters to the hunting behaviors of majestic orcas.
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The cultural history of the region, from the Indigenous Chugach people to the early explorers who navigated these waters.
This educational component elevates the cruise from a scenic tour to an immersive journey of discovery.
More Great Tours NearbyDining Experiences
While on board, guests can enjoy a delightful dining experience. The cruise offers a morning bagel snack, a late lunch, and a dinner roll, all served with stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness.
Complimentary coffee, tea, lemonade, and water are also provided to keep guests refreshed throughout the journey.
The vessel’s snack bar is available for additional purchases, ensuring guests have access to a variety of food and beverage options during the 7.5-hour cruise.
This dining experience allows guests to fuel up and stay energized as they explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Prince William Sound.
What to Bring and Expect
Guests should bring a variety of clothing and accessories to ensure they’re prepared for the variable weather conditions during the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise. The tour operates rain or shine, so it’s important to dress appropriately.
Guests should bring a variety of clothing and accessories to be prepared for the variable weather during the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise.
Key items to bring include:
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Warm clothing, such as a hat, gloves, and layers to stay comfortable.
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Waterproof jacket and pants to protect against rain or wind.
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Closed-toe shoes with good traction for walking on the vessel.
Plus, visitors are encouraged to bring a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a charged smartphone to capture the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
Accessibility and Policies
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is wheelchair accessible, and the tour operator provides boarding assistance for guests who need it.
Guests should wear closed-toe shoes and be prepared for variable weather conditions, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Drones are prohibited on the tour. There’s a weather policy in place, so guests can expect the tour to proceed as scheduled, unless there’s a safety concern.
The tour is family-friendly, making it a great option for all ages and abilities to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife of Prince William Sound.
Itinerary Details
The cruise begins with an exploration of Port Valdez, where passengers learn about the area’s early explorers and local industries.
The route then navigates calm waters to the stunning Unakwik Inlet, where wildlife sightings are abundant.
Passengers can:
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Observe seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, orcas, and seabirds like puffins in their natural habitats.
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Witness the awe-inspiring Meares Glacier and its calving activity.
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Pass by a bullhead sea lion haulout before returning to Valdez by 5:00 PM.
Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, the cruise provides a morning snack, lunch, and beverages, so bringing additional items may not be necessary.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
Yes, there are discounts available for seniors and children. Seniors receive a 10% discount, while children under 11 receive a 50% discount on the cruise price. Guests should inquire about these offers when booking their tickets.
How Much Time Is Spent at the Meares Glacier?
The cruise spends approximately 1-2 hours in the vicinity of the Meares Glacier, allowing guests ample time to observe the glacier’s calving activity and take in the scenic views.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities on the Cruise Ship?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the cruise ship. Guests can use the onboard restrooms throughout the 7.5-hour excursion, ensuring their comfort and convenience during the wildlife viewing and glacier observation portions of the cruise.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Cruise?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals onboard for the safety and comfort of all passengers. Only service animals are permitted.
Final Words
This 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Valdez offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of Prince William Sound. With abundant wildlife viewing, breathtaking scenery, and informative commentary, this excursion promises an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Whether you’re seeking a serene wilderness experience or an educational journey, this cruise delivers an exceptional value for the price.
📍 This experience made our list of the 2 best Cruises And Boat Tours in Valdez