Ketchikan’s boat tours deliver authentic Alaskan experiences without the cruise ship crowds. After exploring dozens of options, several stand out for their exceptional value and genuine local flavor. The Expedition Black Bear tour gets you remarkably close to bears in their natural habitat – it’s intimate and well-organized. For seafood lovers, the Wilderness Boat Cruise combines stunning Tongass forest views with the freshest crab feast you’ll find. Wildlife enthusiasts should consider the Marine Wildlife tour, where skilled captains know exactly where to spot whales and seals. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the 2-hour Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching option, which offers great bang for your buck. For those wanting to experience everything – wildlife, rainforest, and local culture – the Rainforest Island Adventure packs it all into one memorable trip. Let’s examine the top boat tours that showcase the best of Southeast Alaska.
Key Points
- Expedition Black Bear offers intimate wildlife viewing of Alaskan black bears catching salmon, with a scenic boat ride and guided tour.
- Ketchikan’s Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch provides a unique exploration of the Tongass National Forest with a crab-focused lunch.
- The Alaska Marine Fast Boat Adventure offers a 4-hour wildlife-spotting tour on military-grade inflatable boats, with opportunities to see seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and humpback whales.
- The Ketchikan: Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Boat Tour provides a 2-hour excursion with sightings of humpback and killer whales, bald eagles, and seals.
- The Ketchikan Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure showcases the Tongass National Forest, led by a professional naturalist guide, with opportunities to spot sea lions, bald eagles, and whales.
Expedition Black Bear – 6 Passenger Boat
The Expedition Black Bear – 6 Passenger Boat offers travelers an immersive and intimate glimpse into the natural wonder of Ketchikan’s wildlife.
Departing from the Ketchikan Cruise Ship Docks or Cruise Pier, this tour takes guests on a scenic boat ride to the prime salmon spawning areas of Margaret Creek and Traitor’s Cove.
Here, they’ll have the opportunity to observe Alaskan black bears in their natural habitat, catching the abundant salmon.
Along with the bear sightings, the guided tour provides information on the local flora and fauna.
Binoculars, snacks, and bottled water are included, and the tour is accessible to strollers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour and a 100% traveler recommendation, this is an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Read our full review: Expedition Black Bear – 6 Passenger Boat Review
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Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch
Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Tongass National Forest and indulge in a delectable Dungeness crab feast.
Priced at $215.92 per person, this 4-hour tour includes a wilderness cruise, crab pulling, a visit to a former cannery, and a crab-focused lunch with a complimentary glass of wine or beer.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, a shuttle is available for those unable to climb the 79 steps at the lodge.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5, this tour provides a memorable Alaskan experience.
Read our full review: Ketchikan: Wilderness Boat Cruise and Crab Feast Lunch Review
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Alaska Marine Fast Boat Adventure
For adventure-seekers in Ketchikan, the Alaska Marine Fast Boat Adventure offers an exhilarating wildlife-spotting tour.
This 4-hour excursion on military-grade inflatable boats provides opportunities to see seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and humpback whales. Participants can choose to drive their own boats or ride along, enjoying the adrenaline-pumping experience.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, from rain gear to boots, as well as refreshments like Alaskan smoked salmon and beer for those 21+.
With a 4.8/5 rating and 94% of travelers recommending it, this adventure is perfect for those looking to explore off the beaten path.
Priced from $194 per person, it’s a must-try for anyone visiting Ketchikan.
Read our full review: Alaska Marine Fast Boat Adventure Review
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Ketchikan: Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Exploring Ketchikan’s breathtaking marine wilderness, the Ketchikan: Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Boat Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the region’s abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.
Priced from $198.99 per person for a 2-hour excursion, this tour promises sightings of humpback and killer whales, as well as bald eagles, seals, sea lions, and various bird species.
Featuring a comfortable boat with onboard restrooms, the tour provides complimentary hot drinks, snacks, and blankets, along with an engaging live guide sharing fascinating facts.
With a 4.7/5 rating and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is an exceptional value for those seeking to enjoy Ketchikan’s remarkable marine ecosystem.
Read our full review: Ketchikan: Marine Wildlife and Whale Watching Boat Tour Review
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Ketchikan Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure
Immersing oneself in Ketchikan’s captivating natural wonders, the Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure offers a half-day excursion that showcases the region’s diverse ecosystem.
Departing from Ketchikan on a Seahawk boat, travelers explore the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the U.S. A professional naturalist guide and captain lead the way, sharing insights about Alaska’s trees and native cultures.
Along the gentle boardwalk, guests may spot sea lions, bald eagles, and whales. This small-group tour, limited to 40 travelers, includes snacks, life jackets, and permits, with gratuities covered.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Read our full review: Ketchikan Rainforest Island and Boat Adventure Review
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Ketchikan: Private Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Cruise
Set out on a captivating 3.5-hour private tour that combines a scenic drive through Ketchikan’s stunning landscapes with an unforgettable cruise along the serene George Inlet Fjords.
Admire the mountains, lush forests, and pristine waters while keeping an eye out for wildlife like humpbacks, orcas, and bald eagles.
Learn about Ketchikan’s history and Tlingit culture at Saxman totem pole park.
Marvel at natural wonders like granite cliffs, a 2000-foot waterfall, and Mahoney Falls Glacial Cirque.
With knowledgeable guides, rain gear, and refreshments provided, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience for $240 per person.
Read our full review: Ketchikan: Private Scenic Drive & George Inlet Fjords Cruise Review
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Recap
Ketchikan offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the area’s stunning natural beauty. From small group expeditions to larger group tours, there’s something for every interest and budget. Whether you’re hoping to spot wildlife, enjoy a crab feast, or take in the area’s rugged landscapes, Ketchikan’s boat tours provide an unforgettable way to experience the Alaskan wilderness.