Ocean Raft Alaska

Trying out a boat ride like Ocean Raft Alaska is sure to be a highlight of any Skagway visit. This high-speed, 2-hour adventure promises a unique way to see the pristine southeastern Alaskan coast, combining exhilarating rides with chances to observe local wildlife and enjoy spectacular scenery. From the moment you strap into the supplied waterproof gear to the last photos snapped at a waterfall, this tour offers a memorable mix of fun and nature.

What sets this experience apart are three key elements: the adrenaline-pumping speed of the custom-built RIB boats, the intimate opportunities to see wildlife up close, and the knowledgeable guides who make every stop informative and engaging. However, a consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is weather-dependent; safety always comes first, and sometimes, if conditions aren’t ideal, the trip might be canceled or altered. This adventure suits those looking for an active, outdoor experience packed with natural beauty and wildlife encounters — perfect for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• High-Speed Adventure: Races along fjords and mountain walls in a boat styled like those used by coast guard and Navy rescue teams.
• Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to see bald eagles, seals, mountain goats, sea lions, and more, often up close during stops.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable crew including naturalists who point out wildlife and share insights about the area.
• Comfort & Safety: Weatherproof suits, goggles, and gloves provided, and the deep hull design ensures a comfortable ride even in choppy waters.
• Flexible and Personalized: The tour includes multiple stops for photos and wildlife viewing, turning a simple boat ride into an engaging adventure.
• Cautious with Weather: Sometimes weather conditions cause cancellations for safety, but the team handles rescheduling and refunds professionally.

Exploring the Details of the Ocean Raft Alaska Experience

The Itinerary: A Mix of Speed, Scenery, and Wildlife

The tour begins conveniently from 100 Broadway in Skagway, a spot close to town and accessible by public transportation. From there, you’ll board one of Ocean Raft’s signature RIB boats, styled similarly to those used by rescue teams, which immediately signals a sense of safety combined with sportiness. The boats are equipped with deep hulls and inflatable tubes, designed to offer a smooth, stable ride, even when racing through rougher water.

Over the course of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, your captain will take you along the Lynn Canal, the deepest fjord in North America. The route is carefully planned to hug the shoreline, where you’ll explore hidden coves, rocky beaches, waterfalls, and mountain walls. The boat will make several stops—the highlight for many—where engines are turned off to allow guests to listen to the sounds of nature and snap photos without engine noise.

Stops for Wildlife and Photo Opportunities

Fine-tuned for wildlife spotting, the guides and naturalists are experts at finding eagles, seals, mountain goats, and sea lions. One reviewer shared, “We saw multiple members of wildlife on our journey—bald eagles, sea lions, mountain goats, harbor seals,” highlighting the tour’s success in wildlife encounters. The naturalist aboard, Ms. Harp, is praised for her knowledge, offering interesting facts and pointing out animals and waterfalls, making each stop both fun and educational.

The Thrills: Speed and Unique Features

This is no sedate boat ride. The custom-made shock-absorbing seats and deep hull construction promise a safe yet exhilarating experience. Guests often mention the thrill of racing along the fjord with moments of full throttle, doing donuts, and feeling the wind in their hair. One visitor described it as “an exhilarating experience,” with the added bonus of seeing waterfalls up close during the ride.

The Gear: Comfort and Safety

The tour includes weatherproof suits, goggles, gloves, and ninja masks, allowing you to stay warm and dry despite the chilly Alaskan air and water spray. The gear is described as essential and appreciated, especially on days with rain or wind. Several reviews mention how the provided gear contributed to the comfort, making the adventure more enjoyable despite less-than-perfect weather conditions.

The Naturalist and Crew: Guides Who Know Their Stuff

Guests consistently praise the crew, noting that they are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Naturalist guides like Angie and Hannah are celebrated for their ability to identify wildlife, share interesting stories, and keep everyone safe and engaged. The crew’s enthusiasm and expertise shine through in their ability to balance excitement with safety, especially important given the high-speed nature of the tour.

Group Size and Meeting Point

The tour takes a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and plenty of opportunities for questions and photos. Meeting at the town’s central spot makes it easy for travelers to find their way, and the tour ends right back at the starting point, simplifying logistics.

The Real Value of This Adventure

Why It’s Worth the Price

At $189.99 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of unique experiences. The combination of adrenaline, wildlife sightings, and scenic stops makes it stand out from typical sightseeing cruises. Considering the personalized stops and expert guides, many reviewers feel it’s a good value, especially since wildlife sightings like eagles and seals are often rare and memorable.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who love high-energy outings. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to see iconic Alaskan wildlife up close, while those interested in photography will appreciate the multiple stops for capturing waterfalls and mountain scenery. It’s suitable for travelers aged 10 and older, but not for pregnant guests or those with back or neck injuries. The moderate physical fitness required means it’s accessible to most, provided you’re comfortable getting on and off the boat and prepared for some bouncing along the shoreline.

Weather Considerations

Weather plays a critical role in whether this tour runs smoothly. The crew is upfront about cancellations due to poor conditions, which is reassuring. One reviewer noted that even with rain, the scenery was stunning, indicating that the experience can still be worthwhile in less-than-perfect weather. Flexible rescheduling and prompt refunds reflect the professionalism of Ocean Raft Alaska.

Highlights and Notable Aspects

• Wildlife sightings are frequent and often close enough for photos, especially during stops. The naturalist’s expertise really enhances this part.
• Fast-paced rides and donuts deliver a burst of adrenaline, appealing to thrill-seekers.
• The gear provided is well-received and critical for comfort, especially in chilly or rainy weather.
• Multiple stops allow for plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife viewing, breaking up the high-speed sections.
• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• The professional crew and naturalist guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for adventure lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike—people who want more than just a scenic cruise. If you enjoy high-speed boat rides and don’t mind a splash or two, you’ll love racing through the fjords and spotting eagles and seals. It’s suitable for families with older children or teenagers, especially since the minimum age is 10.

Those with a moderate fitness level will find the activity manageable, but it’s not suited for anyone with significant back or neck injuries. Travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and thrill rides will leave with plenty of stories and photos to share. Keep in mind that weather can impact the experience, so some flexibility and patience are advisable.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including multiple stops for wildlife viewing and photos.

What is included in the price?
You’ll receive use of a weatherproof suit, goggles, gloves, and a ninja mask to stay warm and dry during the ride.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, participants must be at least 10 years old to join, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back or neck injuries.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bald eagles, harbor seals, sea lions, mountain goats, and potentially otters during the tour.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Do I need physical fitness to enjoy this?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended; you should be comfortable on a bouncing boat and able to handle short transfers.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The tour departs from 100 Broadway in Skagway, AK, a central and accessible location.

The Bottom Line

Ocean Raft Alaska offers a lively, up-close look at the rugged beauty of southeastern Alaska. With high-speed rides, expert guides, and plentiful wildlife sightings, this tour delivers a perfect mix of adventure and natural wonder. It’s a fantastic choice for those who crave an active experience and enjoy spending time on the water.

While weather can be unpredictable, the team’s professionalism in handling cancellations and refunds makes booking with confidence easy. The provided gear ensures comfort regardless of the conditions, and the small group size keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

If you’re after a memorable, adrenaline-filled day with a focus on wildlife and stunning scenery, this tour is a smart pick. Its high ratings and glowing reviews speak to its consistent quality, and many travelers say it’s a highlight of their trip — highly recommended for adventure lovers and nature fans alike.

To sum it up, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a wildlife enthusiast, Ocean Raft Alaska offers a genuine taste of the wild coast of Alaska. Prepare for speed, spectacular views, and unforgettable encounters with nature, all wrapped into a fun, professionally run adventure that’s worth every penny.