Ketchikan is a true water lover’s haven. With its breathtaking fjords, abundant marine life, and rugged coastline, this southeastern Alaskan town is perfect for cruise and boat tours that put you right on the water. Whether you’re eager to see humpback whales, spot towering bald eagles, or cruise past dramatic glaciers, Ketchikan offers a variety of options that showcase its wild beauty and local charm. These boat tours aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about experiencing Alaska’s nature firsthand, often with expert guides and unique access that land-based adventures can’t match.
What makes Ketchikan stand out is its proximity to prime wildlife habitat and pristine wilderness. Many tours focus on wildlife spotting, including opportunities to see bears, whales, seals, and eagles. Some excursions offer the chance to drive your own boat or enjoy private charters, making your experience more interactive and personalized. With all this in mind, here’s a list of the nine best cruises and boat tours in Ketchikan, designed to fit a range of interests, budgets, and activity levels.
Quick Overview
This list covers wildlife-focused trips, private expeditions, cultural cruises, and adventure-packed tours. Whether you want to drive a fast zodiac boat to see seals and eagles, spot black bears in their natural habitat, or explore Misty Fjords in a private boat, there’s an option for you. Below, each tour is reviewed with an eye on what makes it special, so you can pick the right water adventure for your trip.
1. Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure
At number one, the Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure is a high-octane experience that combines the thrill of speed with incredible wildlife sightings. You hop into a military-grade inflatable boat, and with a guide leading the way, you’ll explore the waters around Ketchikan in search of seals, sea lions, bald eagle nests, and humpback whales. The real kicker? You can drive your own boat if you want to get hands-on with navigation—an experience that adventure-seekers love.
This 4-hour tour is packed with opportunities to get off the usual tourist trail. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, and the wet-weather gear keeps you warm and dry no matter what the skies throw at you. Several reviewers mention how fun it was to zoom along coastlines and explore in small groups—sometimes just a couple of people getting a private ride. The price of $189 per person is reasonable for the adrenaline rush and wildlife access it offers.
For those craving an intense, interactive water adventure with plenty of wildlife, this tour is hard to beat. Expect a mix of thrill, discovery, and a chance to operate your own boat, making it ideal for active travelers. Bottom line: It’s a fun, small-group outing that offers a true sense of freedom on the water.
2. Expedition Black Bear – 6 Passenger Boat
At number two, the Expedition Black Bear tour focuses on one of Alaska’s most iconic sights: bears catching salmon at Margaret Creek in Traitor’s Cove. This 4.5-hour adventure takes you in a small, intimate boat to the prime bear-viewing spots between mid-summer and early fall, when black bears flock to fish during spawning season.
What makes this trip stand out is its timing and proximity. The tour is timed perfectly to see these animals in action, and your guide shares expert insights into the local flora and fauna along the way. The boat ride itself is scenic, with stops at sanctuaries and inlets teeming with marine life, including whales and seals. The price of $426 per person reflects the exclusivity and specialized nature of the experience—it’s more than just sightseeing; it’s a wildlife expedition.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides like Keith and Alex, who make the spotting and storytelling engaging. Even if bears aren’t always visible, the boat ride and scenery get high marks. This tour is best suited for serious wildlife enthusiasts willing to invest a bit more for the chance to see Alaska’s black bears in their natural setting.
Bottom line: If bears and native wilderness top your list, this tour delivers a memorable, close-up experience with expert guides in a small group.
3. Misty Fjords Expedition
Number three on our list is the Misty Fjords Expedition, which takes you on a private 4.5-hour cruise through one of Alaska’s most striking landscapes. Departing directly from Ketchikan, this tour offers an intimate look at the rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and glacial fjords far from large crowds.
The highlight is the ability to set your own pace on a private vessel, making it a great choice for couples or small groups seeking a personalized experience. You’ll see Rudyerd Bay, New Eddystone Rock, and Punchbowl Cove, with chances to spot mountain goats, whales, and sea lions along the way. The guide’s commentary enriches the trip with insights into the area’s geology and wildlife, with reviews praising Captain Lance for his knowledge.
This tour’s value lies in its exclusivity and flexibility. The boat’s smaller size allows it to access more remote spots than larger vessels. The cost of $400 per person is premium but reflects the private, customizable nature of the trip. Ideal for travelers who prefer quiet, scenic exploration with plenty of wildlife viewing.
Bottom line: If a personalized, scenic expedition through Misty Fjords sounds appealing, this private boat tour offers excellent value for a special day on the water.
4. Tales & Tides: Alaskan Lore & Wildlife Cruise
Number four features Tales & Tides, a 2.5-hour cruise that combines storytelling with wildlife viewing from Clover Pass Resort. This tour is distinctive because it integrates local legends and stories with a relaxed cruise, making it suitable for history and story lovers.
Onboard, you’ll listen to recorded stories of Alaskan adventures, bear encounters, and local life as you explore Clover Passage and nearby islands. The tour is ideal for those who enjoy cultural context and a more laid-back pace, with the chance to see eagles and seals along the way. It’s a shorter, more mellow outing priced at $189 per person, offering a good value for a combination of entertainment and wildlife exposure.
Reviewers mention the friendly guides and the scenic, peaceful waters. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a gentle introduction to Alaska’s stories and wildlife, particularly if they’re traveling with kids or prefer a less intense experience.
Bottom line: For a relaxed, story-rich cruise that blends wildlife with local legends, this tour hits the mark.
5. Ketchikan: Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Number five is the Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching, a 2.5-hour tour designed for whale lovers. Starting from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, this trip aims to see humpback and killer whales in their natural habitat. Outdoor and covered seating allow you to stay comfortable, no matter the weather.
This tour stands out for its focus on whale watching, but it also offers opportunities to see eagles, seals, and sea lions. The itinerary includes multiple sightseeing cruise segments and wildlife viewing times, increasing your chances of sightings. At $199 per person, it’s a mid-range option with a good balance of duration and depth.
Reviews praise crew members like Captain Jesse and Evan for their wildlife spotting skills and helpfulness. Many reviewers remark on how the crew found whales despite rain and weather challenges, making it a reliable choice for whale enthusiasts.
Bottom line: If seeing whales in Alaska’s waters is your priority, this tour offers a reliable, well-reviewed option.
6. Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch
Number six combines wilderness exploration with culinary fun. The Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast takes you through George Inlet and the Tongass National Forest, with a 4-hour adventure that ends with a Dungeness crab feast at a remote lodge.
It’s a great pick for those who want to see the forest, learn about local life, and enjoy fresh Alaskan crab. The trip includes helping pull up crab pots—adding a hands-on element—plus scenic views of glaciers, former canneries, and coastal basins. The $216 price includes the crab lunch, which is a highlight, though some reviews note the lunch can feel rushed.
Ideal for food lovers and those keen on seeing Alaska’s coastal industry up close, this tour offers a satisfying mix of nature, culture, and cuisine. It’s a bit pricier but includes a hearty crab meal that’s worth the splurge.
Bottom line: For a combination of wildlife, scenery, and a memorable seafood feast, this tour is a solid choice.
7. Ketchikan Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure
Number seven offers a taste of both sea and forest on the Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure. It’s a 4-hour trip that starts with a fast boat cruise through Clover Passage, where you might see sea lions, bald eagles, and whales. Afterward, you land on a remote island for a guided walk through the Tongass National Forest.
This tour shines for its combination of marine and terrestrial wildlife. The walk through old-growth forest is about a mile long on a well-maintained boardwalk, and the guide shares insights into native plants and trees. Reviewers appreciate the personable crew and the opportunity to explore Alaska’s wild coast and forest in one trip.
The tour costs $199 per person, which provides an active, diverse experience suitable for families or nature lovers who want the full coastal wilderness. The main drawback is the weather, which can impact the forest walk, but that’s part of the Alaska experience.
Bottom line: If you seek a mix of sea and forest, with a bit of adventure, this tour offers excellent value.
8. Saltwater Expedition Sightseeing & Wildlife
Number eight is the Saltwater Expedition, a 3-hour private cruise focusing on coastal and marine wildlife. It’s tailored for small groups with the use of binoculars and stops at Orchard Lake and Revillagigedo Island for wildlife viewing.
This tour’s strength is its flexibility and focus on marine life. The guide takes you to spots where you’re likely to see a variety of animals, from eagles soaring above to seals and possibly whales. The intimate size of the boat allows for personalized attention and numerous photo opportunities. Priced at $275 per person, it’s a premium experience for wildlife aficionados.
Reviewers love the personable captain Keith and the small-group feel, which allows for a more relaxed and immersive experience. The trip’s shorter duration makes it ideal for travelers with limited time but wanting a high-quality wildlife encounter.
Bottom line: For a tailored, wildlife-focused experience with great photo options, this private boat tour offers excellent value.
9. Alaska Historical Tour with Cruise Hike and Cultural Immersion
Number nine offers a different flavor with the Alaska Historical Tour. It combines a cruise to Metlakatla—Alaska’s only native reserve—with a hike to Yellow Hill, where petroglyphs and panoramic views await. The tour also features a Tsimshian dance and a visit to the Artists Village.
This 4-hour trip is for travelers interested in cultural experiences as well as scenery. You’ll learn about native traditions, see ancient carvings, and enjoy local food, including sockeye salmon. It’s a more immersive trip that ends with wildlife watching from the boat as you return. The $259.95 price is competitive considering the diverse activities involved.
While there are no reviews provided, its focus on cultural and scenic immersion makes it ideal for those wanting a meaningful, offbeat experience. It’s suited for travelers interested in native culture as much as wildlife.
Bottom line: For a well-rounded experience that combines culture, scenery, and wildlife, this trip offers a unique perspective on Alaska.
How to Choose Your Ketchikan Boat Tour
When selecting the right boat trip, consider your budget, time limits, and interests. For adrenaline and wildlife action, the Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure is unmatched. Looking to see bears in the wild? The Black Bear Expedition provides an intimate wildlife experience. If privacy and customized scenery appeal, the Misty Fjords private expedition is ideal.
For those interested in cultural storytelling, Tales & Tides offers a relaxed, narrative-rich cruise. Whale watchers will find the Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching to be a reliable option, while seafood lovers can’t miss the Crab Feast Lunch. Active travelers seeking both land and sea should consider the Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure.
Booking early maximizes your chances of securing the tour you want, especially in peak months. Check the seasonality of certain experiences, such as the bear tour, and be prepared for variable weather—Alaska’s waters can be unpredictable but always stunning.
Final Thoughts
Ketchikan’s diverse water-based tours provide experiences suitable for adventure junkies, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike. If you’re after high-speed thrills, the Zodiac Fast Boat Adventure delivers. For a more relaxed, intimate exploration, the private Misty Fjords trip is fantastic. And for the cultural side, the Alaska Native-focused cruise offers meaningful insights.
No matter your preference, you’re encouraged to book early—these tours fill up fast when the sun’s out. Each experience offers a window into Alaska’s wild soul and local life, making your trip to Ketchikan unforgettable.