Embarking on an unforgettable journey, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise departs from Valdez, offering travelers a chance to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Prince William Sound. This 7.5-hour excursion, priced at $190.00 per person, promises a thrilling experience as participants witness the mesmerizing calving of Meares Glacier and encounter diverse marine wildlife, including seals, otters, and whales. With a knowledgeable crew providing insights into the region’s natural history, this wheelchair-accessible cruise invites visitors to savor a delightful lunch while surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes. But the true wonder of this adventure lies in the chance to discover the secrets that Prince William Sound holds, waiting to be unraveled.
Key Points
- 7.5-hour cruise departing from Valdez in Prince William Sound, with prices starting from $190 per person.
- Opportunity to spot diverse marine wildlife, including seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, porpoises, and puffins.
- Exploration of Meares Glacier and Prince William Sound with scenic views of waterfalls and coastal mountains.
- Delicious lunch and complimentary beverages included, along with knowledgeable crew providing insights on natural history.
- Wheelchair accessible with a free cancellation policy up to 3 days in advance, ensuring a worry-free experience.
Cruise Overview and Details
This Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers a 7.5-hour excursion departing from Valdez in Prince William Sound, with prices starting from $190.00 per person.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and features a free cancellation policy up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Pickup is available from local RV parks or the Best Western Hotel in Valdez.
The cruise explores Meares Glacier and the stunning Prince William Sound, with the chance to spot marine wildlife like seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, porpoises, and puffins.
Guests will enjoy scenic views of waterfalls and coastal mountains while learning about the region’s natural history from the knowledgeable captain and crew.
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Experience Highlights
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers visitors the opportunity to explore the stunning Meares Glacier and Prince William Sound, with a chance to spot an array of marine wildlife, including seals, otters, whales, bald eagles, porpoises, and puffins.
Throughout the cruise, passengers can enjoy the scenic views of waterfalls and coastal mountains that surround the area.
The knowledgeable captain and crew provide insightful information about the region’s natural history, allowing guests to learn more about this captivating landscape.
And to top it off, a delicious lunch with breathtaking views is included, making this an unforgettable experience for all who embark on the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise.
Itinerary and Activities
Commencing the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise, guests begin their journey at Port Valdez, where they learn about the area’s rich history, including early explorers, oil shipping, and commercial fishing.
The cruise then proceeds through the calm waters of Prince William Sound, heading towards the serene Unakwik Inlet.
Upon reaching the stunning Meares Glacier, guests have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of calving ice.
Before returning to Valdez by 5:00 PM, the cruise also visits a bullhead sea lion haulout, providing a chance to observe these magnificent marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable captain and crew share insights about the natural history of the region.
Inclusions and Amenities
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers a range of inclusions and amenities to enhance the overall experience for participants.
Morning bagels, a late lunch, and a dinner roll are provided, along with complimentary beverages like coffee, tea, lemonade, and water. Guests can also browse the on-board gift shop and snack bar.
A knowledgeable guide and a multilingual map are available to help passengers learn about the natural history and points of interest along the way.
These thoughtful inclusions ensure travelers can fully enjoy the beauty of Prince William Sound without having to worry about packing their own food and supplies.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRecommended Items for Participants
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise recommends participants bring along several essential items. These include warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, a jacket, rain gear, long pants, cash, a charged smartphone, binoculars, and closed-toe shoes. Plus, participants are encouraged to wear a face mask for their own and others’ safety.
| Item | Why Recommended |
|---|---|
| Warm Clothing | Protect against cool temperatures on the water |
| Sunglasses | Reduce glare and improve visibility |
| Camera | Capture stunning scenery and wildlife |
| Sunscreen | Prevent sunburn during extended time outdoors |
| Binoculars | Enhance wildlife viewing opportunities |
Accessibility and Cancellation Policy
Along With the recommended items, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise also caters to those with accessibility needs and offers a flexible cancellation policy.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, allowing participants with mobility challenges to join in the adventure.
On top of that, the company provides free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, ensuring customers can receive a full refund if their plans change.
This makes the cruise an appealing option for those who may need to adjust their schedules or require additional accessibility accommodations.
The cruise operator’s commitment to inclusivity and customer satisfaction is evident in these thoughtful policies, allowing more people to experience the wonders of Prince William Sound.
Departure Location and Pickup
Departs from the port city of Valdez in Prince William Sound, with pickup available from local RV parks or the Best Western Hotel located at 112 North Harbor Drive. This convenient departure point makes it easy for visitors to access the cruise.
The tour departs directly from Valdez, allowing passengers to simply walk on board and begin their journey through the stunning Prince William Sound.
Whether you’re staying at a local RV park or the Best Western Hotel, the pickup service ensures a seamless start to your Alaskan adventure.
With this accessible departure location and pickup option, travelers can focus on seeing the breathtaking scenery and wildlife during the 7.5-hour cruise.
Customer Ratings and Reviews
Based on feedback from over 30 previous customers, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
Travelers have particularly praised the tour’s transportation, which boasts a 4.7/5 rating, while the value for money received a strong 4.3/5 score.
Reviewers highlight the cruise’s incredible sightseeing opportunities, from the breathtaking views of Meares Glacier to the abundant marine wildlife like seals, otters, and bald eagles.
Many also commend the knowledgeable crew and the delicious complimentary meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Cruise?
The cruise does not have a stated minimum age requirement. Children are welcome on the tour, though parents should consider their child’s ability to safely participate in the 7.5-hour excursion and abide by any onboard rules.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, the tour operator provides complimentary snacks, lunch, and beverages, so bringing your own may not be necessary. Check with the operator for any restrictions.
Are There Restroom Facilities Available on the Boat?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the boat for passengers. The cruise provides the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the duration of the tour.
Can I Take a Pet With Me on the Cruise?
According to the information provided, pets are not allowed on this cruise. The tour operator does not permit bringing pets or animals aboard the vessel for the safety and comfort of all passengers.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
Yes, the cruise operator offers discounts for seniors and students. Seniors aged 65 and over receive a 10% discount, while students with valid ID can receive a 5% discount on the cruise price.
Recap
The Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise from Valdez is a must-do excursion for those seeking breathtaking views of Prince William Sound.
With a wheelchair-accessible design, delicious lunch, and knowledgeable crew, it’s a worry-free adventure that allows you to experience the region’s stunning glaciers, marine wildlife, and natural beauty.
With convenient cancellation policies, it’s an excellent choice for a memorable day on the water.
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