Anchorage: Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise

The Anchorage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, providing visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife of Alaska. From the calving glacier to the conservation center’s rehabilitated inhabitants, this tour promises to immerse participants in the region’s remarkable ecosystem. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this excursion presents a chance to forge a deep connection with the breathtaking beauty and resilience of the Alaskan wilderness.

This experience made our list of the 18 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Anchorage.

Key Points

• This 5-hour tour combines a glacier cruise on Portage Lake and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Anchorage.
• The glacier cruise offers close-up views of Portage Glacier, while the conservation center allows visitors to observe Alaskan wildlife in natural habitats.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation from downtown Anchorage, as well as knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.
• Highlights of the tour include scheduled bear feeding times and opportunities to capture memorable photographs of the glacier and wildlife.
• The tour is priced at €218.95 per person and has a small group size of up to 14 participants for an intimate experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Anchorage Glacier and Wildlife Cruise is a comprehensive excursion that combines a glacier exploration and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, offering participants an immersive experience in the natural wonders of the region.

Priced at €218.95 per person, the 5-hour tour takes small groups of no more than 14 individuals on a guided journey, with transportation provided from the starting location in downtown Anchorage.

The tour includes a van ride to Portage Glacier, a guided tour, and a cruise on Portage Lake to within 300 feet of the glacier.

Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and observe the feeding of bears.

Itinerary Details

The Anchorage Glacier and Wildlife Cruise incorporates an extensive itinerary, commencing with a 70-minute van transportation from the starting point in downtown Anchorage to Portage Glacier.

Upon arrival, you will embark on a guided tour at Portage Glacier, lasting approximately one hour.

Following this, the group will be transported by van for 20 minutes to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Here, guests will have the opportunity to explore the center through a guided and self-guided tour, lasting a total of one hour.

The excursion concludes with a one-hour van ride back to the starting location in downtown Anchorage, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of Alaska’s natural wonders.

Highlights and Experiences

Embarking on a glacier cruise, you will venture within 300 feet of the majestic Portage Glacier, seeing the serene ambiance and listening intently for the captivating sounds of calving glaciers.

The experience continues at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where visitors can enjoy a guided and self-guided tour to observe Alaska’s diverse wildlife up close.

The highlights of this adventure include:

• Witnessing the bears being fed at the scheduled feeding times

• Exploring the center’s expansive grounds and viewing the resident moose, caribou, and other native species

• Learning about the center’s mission to rehabilitate and protect Alaska’s wildlife

• Appreciating the unique opportunity to get an intimate look at these magnificent animals

• Capturing unforgettable photographs to commemorate the memorable journey.

Inclusions

This tour package includes downtown Anchorage pickup and drop-off, providing convenient transportation to and from the activity locations. Entry to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is also included, allowing participants to explore the center’s grounds and observe the resident wildlife. Glacier cruise tickets on Portage Lake are provided as part of the experience, enabling visitors to venture within close proximity of the majestic Portage Glacier. Plus, knowledgeable guides are on hand throughout the tour to share their expertise and enhance the overall experience.

Inclusions
Downtown Anchorage pickup and drop-off	✓
Entry to Wildlife Conservation Center	✓
Glacier cruise tickets on Portage Lake	✓
Knowledgeable guide	✓

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Booking Information

Booking the Anchorage Glacier and Wildlife Cruise is flexible, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now & pay later option is also available for added convenience.

The meeting point is the Gray Ford Transit vans near the Anchorage Log Cabin Visitor Center, identifiable by the bear photo on the back.

To book your tour:

• Check availability for desired starting times

• Select the number of participants and preferred dates

• Pay securely online or choose the reserve now & pay later option

• Arrive at the designated meeting point on the day of your tour

• Look for the Gray Ford Transit vans with the bear photo

Transportation and Pickup

Beginning with a convenient downtown Anchorage pickup, guests are transported to the cruise departure point in Portage Valley via comfortable, air-conditioned vans.

The 70-minute van ride offers scenic views along the way to the Portage Glacier area. Upon arrival, guests will board the glacier cruise boat to explore Portage Lake and get within 300 feet of the majestic Portage Glacier.

Following the glacier cruise, guests will be transported to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where they can spend an additional hour exploring the facility and observing Alaska’s diverse wildlife up close.

At the end of the tour, guests will be returned to the original downtown Anchorage pickup location.

Glacier Cruise Experience

The glacier cruise on Portage Lake offers visitors a breathtaking opportunity to witness the grandeur of Portage Glacier up close, as the boat navigates within 300 feet of the towering ice mass. Guests can listen for the captivating sounds of the glacier calving, where massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the water.

The cruise also provides stunning views of the glacier’s towering ice walls and intricate blue hues.

Plus, there are chances to spot local wildlife, such as bald eagles and harbor seals.

Insights from the knowledgeable tour guide about the glacier’s formation and history enhance the experience.

Guests will have opportunities to take unforgettable photographs of the glacier and its surrounding landscape, ensuring an immersive experience in the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking glacial wilderness.

Wildlife Conservation Center

After the captivating glacier cruise, the tour proceeds to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where visitors can engage in a guided and self-guided exploration of the facility. The center is home to a diverse range of Alaskan wildlife, including bears, moose, and caribou, among others. Guests have the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitats and learn about the center’s efforts to rehabilitate and conserve these species. The one-hour visit provides ample time to stroll through the various enclosures, taking in the sights and sounds of the Alaskan wilderness.

Animal	Habitat	Activities
Bear	Wooded Enclosure	Feeding Time
Moose	Open Meadow	Grazing Observation
Caribou	Tundra-like Terrain	Antler Shedding
Bald Eagle	Elevated Perch	Aerial Displays
Dall Sheep	Rocky Outcrop	Climbing Demonstrations

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring on the Cruise?

When going on a guided cruise, it is recommended to bring warm, layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and any personal medications or snacks you may need. Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain to ensure a comfortable experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?

The activity appears to have no stated minimum age requirement. As it involves transportation and exposure to wildlife, it may be best suited for children who are able to follow safety instructions and stay with the group. Participants should check with the tour operator for any age guidelines.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?

The tour operator offers accessibility accommodations for guests with mobility needs. Guests are advised to contact the operator in advance to discuss any specific requirements or needs to ensure a comfortable and accessible experience.

Can I Extend My Time at the Wildlife Conservation Center?

Yes, you can extend your time at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The tour includes a one-hour self-guided visit, but you are welcome to spend additional time exploring the center at your own pace, subject to the tour schedule.

How Reliable Is the Transportation to and From the Meeting Point?

The transportation provided for this tour is highly reliable. The tour operator uses dedicated vans to ensure timely and efficient transportation to and from the meeting point. Customer reviews consistently praise the convenience and punctuality of the transportation services.

Recap

The Anchorage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise provides an immersive Alaskan experience, combining a close-up glacier viewing and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

This small-group tour allows participants to witness the awe-inspiring natural wonders of the region and learn about local wildlife rehabilitation efforts.

The tour offers a well-rounded and informative adventure for nature enthusiasts seeking to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Alaska.

You can check if your dates are available here: