Exploring Sitka by boat offers a front-row seat to some of Southeast Alaska’s most stunning sights. Whether you want to chase whales around Tongass National Rainforest, glide quietly in a kayak among seabirds, or enjoy a luxury dinner cruise with mountain views, Sitka’s waterways are packed with possibilities. The variety of tours is impressive, and each offers a different way to connect with the area’s incredible wildlife and rugged scenery.
In this guide, we’ll walk through nine of the best cruises and boat tours in Sitka. Expect to find options like intimate small-group wildlife safaris, private charters tailored to your interests, adventurous kayaking combined with sightseeing, and even a luxurious dinner cruise on a boutique yacht. We’ll share what makes each experience special, who it’s best suited for, and how to decide which one fits your style and budget.
Sitka’s boat tours aren’t just about ticking wildlife sightings off a list—they’re about the stories, the scenery, and the moments you’ll remember long after your trip. Whether your goal is a family-friendly outing, an exclusive private adventure, or indulging in fine dining at sea, this list will help you choose the right cruise or boat tour for your Alaska visit.
Quick Overview
This list includes a mix of small group and private charters, wildlife-focused expeditions, kayaking adventures, and luxury dinner cruises. Some tours prioritize wildlife sightings like whales, eagles, and sea otters, while others combine scenic cruising with active pursuits like kayaking or fishing. Prices range from around $220 for a 2.5-hour wildlife tour to $995 for private excursions, offering options for different budgets and interests.
1. Small Group Boat Tour of Sitka
At $220 per person for roughly 2.5 hours, this small group wildlife tour really shines for its intimacy and local insights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you and up to six guests set out on a water taxi to explore Tongass National Rainforest’s coast. The boat visits waterfalls where salmon leap in a vivid display, and wildlife is the star—bald eagles, sea lions, otters, and even whales are likely sights.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. The captain, Brad, is praised for his friendly, professional attitude and deep knowledge of Sitka’s waters. The logistics are taken care of, so you spend your time watching wildlife rather than worrying about navigation or safety. The tour’s size means plenty of opportunities for close-up photos and meaningful wildlife encounters.
Value-wise, it’s hard to beat. For just over two hours, you get a tailored experience with a small group, which often translates into more flexibility and intimacy. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, authentic adventure with expert guidance. The only potential downside? It’s limited to a small group, so booking early is wise.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a personal, wildlife-rich excursion with a local guide, ideal for nature lovers seeking quality over quantity.
2. Private Charter Scenic Wildlife Excursion for Cruise Passengers
For those who prefer a completely customized experience, this private charter priced at $995 per group (up to 5 people) offers unparalleled flexibility. You can choose your start time between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm, and the 3-hour+ tour can be extended or shortened based on your interests and weather conditions.
Led by a Merchant Marine Captain with over 30 years of experience, this tour explores Sitka Sound, Saint Lazaria Islands, and Mount Edgecumbe, a local volcano. The boat, a Suzy-Q Stabicraft, is a safety-oriented vessel that adapts to the day’s conditions, cruising to wildlife hotspots like the islands or along the coastline for scenic views.
This option is great for families, small groups, or couples seeking an exclusive experience. The focus is on wildlife sightings, including sea lions, whales, and seabirds, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments. The captain’s personal approach ensures your tour is tailored; however, the price point is higher, reflecting its private nature.
Reviewers praise the captain’s attentiveness and the boat’s comfort, making it a worthwhile splurge for those who want a bespoke adventure. Be aware that weather can influence the itinerary, but the flexibility is a plus.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible, and intimate wildlife tour that can be tailored to your preferences and schedule.
3. Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak Adventure
At $249 per person for about 3 hours, this tour combines a sightseeing cruise with a guided kayak experience. The journey starts on a specially designed vessel that takes you to a private island paddle base in the Siginaka Islands. Once there, you’ll launch in a 2-person sea kayak, exploring the pristine waters and shoreline, often spotting eagles, sea otters, and seals.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the mix of boat cruising and active paddling. The guided kayak portion is suitable for beginners and experts alike, offering a chance for closer wildlife encounters and a different perspective of Sitka’s rugged scenery. After paddling, everyone shares a light snack—an opportunity to swap stories and relax before the cruise back.
This trip is ideal for adventurers who want a bit of everything—scenery, wildlife, and physical activity. The private island setting adds a sense of remote wilderness, and the focus on nature photography makes it attractive for enthusiasts.
A drawback? It’s a shorter adventure, so if you’re looking for a full day of activity, this might feel limited. Still, the combination of cruising and kayaking offers excellent value and a memorable outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and paddling in a stunning setting.
4. 4 Course Dinner Cruise plus Eco Tour on Luxury Yacht in Sitka
For a luxurious evening, this dinner cruise on a 90-foot yacht costs $450 per person for about 4 hours. It’s a small-group experience with a focus on comfort and gourmet food. Your local Alaskan crew will serve a 4-course meal while you enjoy views of mountains, wildlife, and the sunset over the ocean.
The tour combines eco-education with fine dining, showcasing Sitka’s natural beauty and its rich marine life. The vessel is well-equipped for a relaxed, unhurried experience, making it perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply indulging in Alaska’s scenic coastlines.
Guests appreciate the personalized service and the chance to see multiple species of whales, sea lions, and seabirds while enjoying a gourmet meal. The small group size enhances the intimate atmosphere, and the vessel’s stability offers a smooth ride.
Potential drawbacks? It’s pricier, but the combination of luxury, scenery, and cuisine offers a unique experience. It’s best suited for those wanting a memorable, upscale night at sea.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for couples or small groups seeking a refined, scenic evening with excellent food and wildlife viewing.
5. Sitka Sea Birds & Marine Life Private Charter Scenic Eco-Tour
At $995 per group (up to 5 people) and around 3 hours, this private tour emphasizes sea bird watching and photography. Led by a seasoned Merchant Marine Captain, the focus is on active seabird sightings like puffins and eagles along with views of Mt. Edgecumbe Volcano and the ocean.
The tour runs on a Stabicraft safety boat, designed for comfort and stability, and is fully customizable. You can choose to explore Sitka Sound or visit the Saint Lazaria Islands, depending on sea conditions and wildlife activity. Your captain will help position the boat for the best shots and sightings, making it perfect for bird enthusiasts and nature photographers.
Reviewers highlight the personalized attention and the opportunity to see rare seabirds. The tour’s private nature makes it a good fit for couples, small families, or groups of friends wanting a tailored experience.
A potential downside is the higher price point, but the focus on focusing your camera on seabirds and exclusive access makes it worth it for dedicated bird lovers.
Bottom Line: A specialized, private trip ideal for birdwatchers wanting expert guidance and a focused wildlife experience.
6. Sitka Boat and Sea Kayaking Adventure
For $219 per person and about 3 hours, this combo tour offers a guided cruise to a floating base camp, followed by sea kayaking. The vessel takes you on a scenic tour of Sitka Sound, where your professional guide points out eagles, whales, and other marine life.
Once at the kayak launch point, you’ll paddle along the shoreline, getting close to harbor seals, sea otters, and possibly bears on shore. The guides emphasize safety and accessibility, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced paddlers. Hot snacks, including clam chowder and cider, await after your adventure.
This tour appeals most to families or active travelers looking for a well-rounded outdoor experience. The ease of the kayak experience and the chance to observe marine wildlife from both boat and water make it a versatile choice.
Potential downsides include the weather—Alaska’s unpredictable nature can affect visibility or paddleability. Still, the combination of boat cruising and kayaking provides excellent value for those wanting a hands-on wildlife encounter.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure-seekers wanting a mix of land, sea, and wildlife, with a relaxed pace and family-friendly vibe.
7. Sitka’s Ultimate Wildlife Boat Tour
At $250 per person for roughly 2 hours, this wildlife-focused boat tour is designed to maximize your chances of seeing otters, sea lions, eagles, and whales. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes snacks and bottled water, making it comfortable and convenient.
The boat is described as comfortable, and the guide is praised for his knowledge and friendliness. The tour’s shorter duration means a focused wildlife experience, often resulting in sightings of gray and humpback whales. Some reviews mention the challenge of seeing a variety of critters, but overall, it’s a solid choice for a quick, wildlife-rich outing.
This tour suits travelers wanting a compact, well-guided experience without a full-day commitment. It’s especially suitable for those with tight schedules or who prefer a more relaxed, smaller group.
Bottom line: A dependable, efficient wildlife tour that offers a good chance of sightings and a friendly guide, ideal for travelers short on time.
8. Private Charter Fishing – Full Port Time for Cruise Ship Guests
If you’re after fishing in Alaska’s legendary waters, this full port-time charter at $575 per person for about 6 hours promises an authentic experience. The crew targets all salmon species available that season—King, Coho, Pink, Sockeye, or Chum—depending on when you visit.
The tour starts right from your cruise ship or dock, making it convenient. The focus is on angling for salmon in scenic settings, with expert guides helping both novices and seasoned anglers. The boat is comfortable and designed for all-day fishing, with plenty of time to learn, fish, and enjoy the Alaskan wilderness.
Reviewers have not yet provided direct feedback, but the full port-time and focused fishing experience make it clear this is for serious anglers or those eager to try. It’s an excellent choice if you want an authentic, hands-on fishing adventure without the crowds.
Bottom line: A practical, immersive fishing tour for those craving a true Alaskan angling experience, best suited for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Sitka Boat Tours: whale watching, hot springs, kayaking
This day-long package, priced at $675 per person, offers a full immersion into Sitka’s nature. Led by Captain Andrew, you’ll explore Goddard Hot Springs, watch for whales and eagles, and enjoy sea kayaking along the coast. The trip combines marine wildlife viewing, hot springs soak, and kayaking, making it a comprehensive experience.
It’s ideal for adventure travelers who want variety and a deep connection with nature. The itinerary includes mountains, wildlife, ocean sunrises and sunsets, and an emphasis on seafood, with the promise of long moments of awe and interesting conversations.
The tour’s length and diversity make it a big commitment but perfect for those wanting a full-day adventure. The mixed activities cater to nature lovers, photographers, and explorers.
A caution: The high price and full-day schedule may not suit everyone, but if you’re looking for a comprehensive, immersive experience, this tour delivers.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking an all-in-one Sitka adventure with wildlife, hot springs, and active pursuits, willing to invest a full day.
How to Choose the Right Sitka Boat Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If wildlife sightings are your priority, the Small Group Boat Tour or Ultimate Wildlife Boat Tour offer great value with focused experiences. For personalized adventures and flexibility, the Private Charters shine, especially if you want to tailor the itinerary or travel with just your group.
Active travelers might prefer a kayaking combo like the Siginaka Islands Cruise and Kayak or the Sea Kayaking Adventure, while those seeking luxury and fine dining should consider the Dinner Cruise. The fishing trips are perfect for anglers eager to try their luck in Alaska’s renowned waters.
Booking early is always wise, especially in the summer months when demand peaks. Confirm the best seasons for your chosen activity—wildlife viewing is typically best from late spring through early fall.
Final Thoughts
Sitka’s boat tours offer a spectrum of memorable experiences, from intimate wildlife encounters and active paddling to luxurious dinners with mountain views. For wildlife fans, the Small Group Boat Tour and Ultimate Wildlife Boat Tour provide reliable chances to see whales, eagles, and otters. If you’re after something more personalized, private charters allow for tailored adventures, while the luxury dinner cruise offers a refined way to enjoy the scenery.
No matter your preference, booking ahead will help secure the best experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Sitka’s waters promise a front-row seat to Alaska’s wild beauty. Dive in early, and get ready for an adventure that’s as authentic as it is unforgettable.