Ketchikan: Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Zodiac Cruise

Ketchikan, the "Salmon Capital of the World," offers a captivating combination of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can embark on a scenic drive through lush rainforests, marvel at towering totem poles, and embark on an exhilarating Zodiac boat ride through the stunning George Inlet Fjords. With the chance to spot majestic wildlife and enjoy Alaskan traditions, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience in one of the most enchanting destinations in the state.

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Key Points

Explore Ketchikan’s natural wonders with a 3.5-hour tour combining a scenic drive and Zodiac boat cruise through the George Inlet Fjords.
Observe diverse wildlife like humpback whales, orcas, and bald eagles during the tour.
Visit Saxman Totem Park to learn about Tlingit culture and witness traditional totem pole carving.
Embark on an intimate Zodiac cruise to admire towering granite cliffs, a 2,000-foot waterfall, and glacial cirque views.
Tour includes transportation, expert guides, and complimentary rain gear and boots for a comfortable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

The Ketchikan Scenic Drive & Zodiac Cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the George Inlet Fjords.

This 3.5-hour tour combines a scenic drive and an exhilarating Zodiac boat cruise. Guests will marvel at majestic mountains, lush forests, and pristine waters, while keeping an eye out for diverse wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, and bald eagles.

The tour also includes a visit to the Saxman Totem Park, where guests can learn about the rich Tlingit culture.

With complimentary rain gear and boots provided, this tour is an unforgettable adventure.

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Scenic Drive Through Ketchikan

Guests embark on the scenic drive portion of the tour from downtown Ketchikan. They’ll pass by the historic Saxman totem pole park and the Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery, learning about the area’s rich Tlingit heritage and fishing industry. The drive then winds through the lush rainforest, offering glimpses of the region’s natural beauty.

| Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| Saxman Totem Pole Park | Explore Tlingit culture and see towering totem poles |

| Beaver Falls Salmon Cannery | Discover the history of the local fishing industry |

| Rainforest Scenery | Admire the dense, verdant forests and winding roads |

The scenic drive sets the stage for the Zodiac cruise through the George Inlet Fjords, where guests will encounter stunning glacial landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Exploring Saxman Totem Pole Park

As the scenic drive winds its way through the lush rainforest, guests arrive at Saxman Totem Pole Park, a fascinating glimpse into the rich Tlingit heritage of the region.

They’ll learn about the centuries-old tradition of totem pole carving, exploring a collection of towering, intricate poles that depict Tlingit clan crests and stories.

The park also features a clan house, where guests can observe traditional dance performances and gain insight into the Tlingit culture.

It’s an immersive experience that complements the natural beauty of the George Inlet Fjords excursion.

Rainforest Hike to the Zodiac Boat

After exploring the Saxman Totem Pole Park, guests embark on a short but enchanting rainforest hike to reach the waiting Zodiac boat.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the trail winds through lush, mossy greenery, offering glimpses of the fjord below. Guests receive a safety orientation before boarding the sturdy Zodiac.

With life jackets and rain gear provided, they’re ready to set out and discover the dramatic scenery of the George Inlet Fjords up close. The Zodiac’s small size allows for an intimate and maneuverable cruise through the pristine waterways.

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Cruising Through the George Inlet Fjords

With the safety gear donned and the Zodiac launched, the tour group embarks on a captivating cruise through the George Inlet Fjords.

They admire the towering granite cliffs carved by glaciers and the breathtaking 2,000-foot waterfall cascading down.

Throughout the journey, the guide points out diverse wildlife, from humpback whales and orcas to Sitka deer and bald eagles.

The group pauses at the Mahoney Falls Glacial Cirque, marveling at the pristine waters and lush forests.

The Zodiac ride offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the raw beauty of the George Inlet Fjords.

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Highlights of the Fjords

The George Inlet Fjords captivate visitors with their towering granite cliffs, carved by the relentless forces of ancient glaciers. A 2,000-foot waterfall cascades down rugged mountainsides, while lush rainforests line the pristine waters. Wildlife abounds, with the chance to spot humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and even black bears. Explore the fjords on a Zodiac boat, learning about the region’s Tlingit heritage at Saxman totem pole park. This immersive nature experience showcases the raw beauty of southeast Alaska in all its glory.

| Wildlife Sightings | Geological Features | Tlingit Culture |

| — | — | — |

| Humpback whales | Granite cliffs | Saxman totem poles |

| Orcas | 2,000-ft waterfall | Rainforest trails |

| Bald eagles | Glacial cirques | Ketchikan history |

| Black bears | Pristine fjords | |

Wildlife Sightings and Opportunities

What makes the Ketchikan Scenic Drive & Zodiac Cruise so captivating for wildlife enthusiasts? The tour’s prime location within the pristine George Inlet Fjords offers unparalleled opportunities to spot an array of marine and terrestrial species.

Humpback whales and orcas frequently surface in the inlet’s waters, while Sitka deer, black bears, and bald eagles can be seen along the forested shorelines.

The smooth cruise aboard a Zodiac boat allows for close-up views of salmon streams, where visitors may witness the majestic jumping and spawning of these iconic fish.

With an expert guide to share insights, this tour promises an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Inclusions, Requirements, and Meeting Point

To ensure a comfortable and seamless experience, the Ketchikan Scenic Drive & Zodiac Cruise tour includes transportation, an expert guide, opportunities to operate the boat, and necessary rain gear and boots.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users.

The meeting point is the Ketchikan Visitors Center, Berth 2, with a complimentary shuttle available from the Ward Cove Cruise Terminal.

Based on 10 reviews, the tour has a customer rating of 4.6/5, with positive feedback on the guides’ knowledge and wildlife experiences.

Transportation
Expert guide
Boat driving opportunities
Rain gear and rubber boots

Ask Away

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old, but there are no other age restrictions. Participants must be able to get in and out of the Zodiac boat without assistance.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Zodiac Cruise?

Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the zodiac cruise. The tour includes snacks, craft beer, wine, and soda or water after the tour. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Is the Zodiac Boat Wheelchair Accessible?

The zodiac boat is not wheelchair accessible. It states the tour is "not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users." Guests must be able to step in and out of the boat on their own.

Are Restrooms Available During the Tour?

Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available during the tour. The tour focuses on the outdoor experience, with no facilities provided. Guests should plan accordingly before departing on the 3.5-hour excursion.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary or Duration?

No, the tour itinerary and duration can’t be modified. It’s a pre-set 3.5-hour experience from Ketchikan to the George Inlet Fjords. However, the operator does offer flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Words

Ketchikan’s Scenic Drive and George Inlet Fjords Zodiac Cruise offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Witness breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. With expert guides, quality gear, and an exhilarating Zodiac ride, this tour provides an immersive and memorable experience in Ketchikan’s stunning natural beauty. It’s a must-do activity for any visitor looking to truly explore the wonders of this enchanting Alaskan destination.