Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour

The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve in Haines, Alaska, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the annual gathering of the world’s largest congregation of bald eagles. The half-day float tour provides visitors with a chance to marvel at this natural wonder while immersed in the serene beauty of the Chilkat River. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring sight of these majestic birds or the chance to spot other wildlife, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.

This experience made our article of Which Haines National Park Tours To Choose? We Rank The 6 Best.

Key Points

• A 1.5-hour cruise on the Chilkat River to view the largest gathering of bald eagles in their natural habitat.
• Scenic drive to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve with opportunities to see wildlife such as bears, moose, and wolves.
• Float tour on stable rafts allows for prime wildlife viewing and a riverside lunch in the preserve.
• Round-trip transportation from the Port Chilkoot Dock is included, along with all necessary equipment.
• Tour operates in all weather conditions and has a maximum group size of 8 travelers.

Tour Overview

The half-day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Chilkat Valley in Haines, Alaska.

The tour includes a 1.5-hour cruise along the Chilkat River and a chance to witness the largest gathering of resident and migratory bald eagles.

Guests will enjoy a scenic drive to the preserve, where they’ll board stable rafts for the float. Along the way, they may spot wildlife such as bears, moose, and wolves.

A riverside lunch is included, and round-trip transportation from the Port Chilkoot Dock is provided.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning with a scenic drive past Fort Seward and along the National Scenic Byway, the tour takes guests into the Chilkat Valley.

Upon arrival, participants board stable rafts for a float on the Chilkat River. This provides prime opportunities for wildlife viewing, including:

1. Bald eagles
2. Bears
3. Moose
4. Wolves

The highlight is visiting the largest gathering of resident and migratory bald eagles.

A riverside lunch is included, ensuring a complete and immersive experience in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.

Inclusions

Round-trip transportation from Port Chilkoot Dock in Haines, a professional guide, lunch, beverages, rain ponchos, rubber boots, and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are all included in the tour.

Gratuities are also covered. Vegetarian options are available upon request.

The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group. Appropriate dress is advised as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Cancellation policies vary, with full refunds possible for bookings cancelled 14 or more days prior to the tour date.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is 142 Beach Rd, Haines, AK 99827, USA, which is the Chilkoot Indian Association Dock. Guests are picked up and dropped off at this location. The tour begins and ends at the meeting point.

Some key details about the meeting and pickup:

1. Arrival time: Guests should arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

2. Transportation: Round-trip transportation from the meeting point is included in the tour.

3. Tour duration: The tour, including the 1.5-hour cruise on the Chilkat River, lasts for the advertised half-day duration.

4. End location: The tour ends back at the original meeting point.

Cancellation Policy and Additional Info

According to the information provided, confirmation of the tour booking is subject to availability and is provided within 48 hours of booking. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, as the maximum group size is limited to 8 travelers. The refund policy is as follows:

Days Prior to Tour	Refund Amount
14+ days	100%
4-14 days	50%
Within 96 hours	No refund

The tour operates in all weather conditions, and appropriate dress is advised. All necessary equipment, such as rain ponchos, rubber boots, and personal flotation devices, is included.

Wildlife Viewing

What thrilling wildlife encounters await visitors on the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Tour? The tour offers the chance to spot a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including:

1. Bald eagles, with the preserve hosting the largest gathering of resident and migratory bald eagles.

2. Bears, as they forage along the riverbanks.

3. Moose, roaming the valley.

4. Wolves, if you’re lucky.

This 1.5-hour float on the Chilkat River provides a front-row seat to observe these magnificent creatures in their element.

With the guidance of a professional, visitors can enjoy the serene natural beauty while keeping a watchful eye out for exciting wildlife sightings.

Scenic Drive and Float

As visitors make their way to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, they are treated to a scenic drive past the historic Fort Seward and along the National Scenic Byway through the Chilkat Valley.

Once at the preserve, guests board stable rafts for a gentle float down the river. The float provides opportunities to view the region’s abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, moose, and wolves.

The tranquil river journey allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the preserve and observe the largest gathering of resident and migratory bald eagles.

Riverside Lunch

During the float tour, visitors are treated to a riverside lunch among the stunning scenery of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.

The lunch includes:

1. Fresh local ingredients
2. Vegetarian options
3. Beverages
4. Breathtaking views of the Chilkat River and surrounding mountains.

This midday meal provides a much-needed break to refuel and recharge before continuing the wildlife viewing expedition.

Enjoying a riverside lunch in such a beautiful and serene setting is a highlight of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

While the tour includes a riverside lunch, guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages if desired. However, outside alcohol is not permitted. Snacks and water are recommended to supplement the provided meal.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour includes a 1.5-hour cruise on the Chilkat River. There is no option to extend the tour duration. The itinerary and inclusions are fixed as specified by the tour provider.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear?

The tour provides all necessary equipment, including rain ponchos, rubber boots, and personal flotation devices. Participants are advised to dress appropriately for the weather conditions to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. However, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. The tour is open to participants of all ages, subject to their physical abilities.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour Experience?

Private or customized tour experiences may be available upon request, subject to availability. Travelers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any specialized tour options or modifications to the standard tour itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the largest gathering of bald eagles in Alaska. Guests will embark on a scenic cruise along the Chilkat River, accompanied by a professional guide, and enjoy a riverside lunch amidst the stunning natural beauty of the preserve, creating an unforgettable wildlife experience.