Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour

The Seward Shore Excursion offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park. Whether taken before or after a cruise, this 6-hour sightseeing tour promises an up-close encounter with the region’s diverse marine life. From majestic humpback whales to playful sea otters, the dedicated wildlife guide ensures an informative and comfortable experience aboard the warm and spacious vessel. With a visit to the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and a provided lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into the natural wonders of this Alaskan wilderness. For those seeking to make the most of their time in Seward, this excursion may just hold the key to an unforgettable adventure.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Seward.

Key Points

• This 6-hour sightseeing cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park offers opportunities to spot whales, seabirds, and other marine life.
• The tour includes a visit to the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, known for its diverse wildlife.
• Passengers can experience the tour on a warm and spacious vessel with a dedicated wildlife guide.
• The tour provides a flexible pickup, wheelchair accessibility, and service animal accommodation for a seamless experience.
• Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the calm seas, close wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery of the Kenai Fjords National Park.

Tour Overview

This shore excursion to Kenai Fjords National Park, available either before or after a cruise from Seward, offers a 6-hour sightseeing cruise through the park’s dramatic landscapes.

You’ll visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, home to an abundance of marine life. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to spot migrating humpback, minke, and orca whales, as well as seabird rookeries and other fascinating creatures.

The cruise takes place aboard a warm and spacious vessel equipped with an onboard wildlife guide. Lunch, including a vegetarian option, is provided during the tour.

Conveniently, pickup is available from local hotels or the Seward Port, and the tour operates in all weather conditions, making it accessible to all.

Wildlife Sightings

Whale watchers on the Kenai Fjords National Park tour can expect to see a variety of migrating marine mammals, including humpback, minke, and orca whales. These majestic creatures are known for their impressive size, powerful movements, and captivating behaviors.

Along With whales, the tour also offers opportunities to observe diverse seabird rookeries, where visitors can witness the vibrant, bustling activity of various avian species. The tour’s proximity to the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge further enhances the chances of encountering a wide array of marine life, including:

• Playful sea otters
• Curious harbor seals
• Graceful sea lions
• Colorful puffins and other seabirds

Onboard Experience

Passengers aboard the Kenai Fjords National Park tour can look forward to a warm and spacious vessel that provides an exceptional onboard experience.

The tour’s dedicated wildlife guide is on hand to share insights and point out the diverse array of marine life that may be encountered throughout the journey.

Guests will enjoy a provided lunch, with a vegetarian option available to accommodate dietary preferences.

The boat’s accessibility features, including being wheelchair-friendly and allowing service animals, ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

With the tour operating in all weather conditions, travelers can expect a memorable journey regardless of the day’s meteorological conditions.

Pickup and Logistics

For the Kenai Fjords National Park tour, pickup is available from local hotels or directly from the Seward Port. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the tour operates in all weather conditions to ensure a seamless experience.

The tour is also wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome, making it an inclusive option for travelers.

The logistics of this tour are designed with convenience and accessibility in mind:

• Flexible pickup locations for added convenience
• Confirmation provided at booking for peace of mind
• All-weather operation for a reliable experience
• Wheelchair accessibility and service animal accommodation for inclusive access

Reviews Highlights

The 30 overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Kenai Fjords National Park tour highlight travelers’ enthusiasm for the calm seas, close wildlife encounters, excellent crew, and stunning scenery experienced during the excursion.

Reviewers consistently praise the smooth sailing and serene conditions, which allow for exceptional viewing of migrating whales, seabirds, and other marine life.

Equally lauded is the knowledgeable onboard wildlife guide, whose expertise enhances the experience.

Guests also applaud the warm, spacious vessel and the provided lunch, including a vegetarian option.

Across the board, the Kenai Fjords National Park tour earns glowing reviews for delivering an unforgettable journey through Alaska’s breathtaking coastal wilderness.

Cruise Itinerary

The 6-hour sightseeing cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park showcases Alaska’s dramatic coastal landscapes and diverse marine wildlife.

As the vessel navigates the pristine fjords, passengers have the opportunity to:

• Observe majestic glaciers calving into the sea
• Spot playful sea otters floating on kelp beds
• Witness seabird colonies nesting on towering cliffs
• Encounter whales, seals, and other marine life in their natural habitats

The knowledgeable onboard wildlife guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

Whether it’s a pre- or post-cruise excursion, this tour offers a chance to take in the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park.

What to Bring

Visitors should dress in warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable during the tour’s outdoor activities. The climate in Kenai Fjords National Park can be unpredictable, so being prepared is essential. To ensure a pleasant and memorable experience, the tour company recommends packing the following items:

Item	Recommendation
Footwear	Waterproof boots or shoes with good traction
Outerwear	Waterproof jacket and pants
Accessories	Hat, gloves, and sunglasses
Personal Items	Camera, binoculars, and a small backpack

Following these guidelines will help visitors stay dry, warm, and ready to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park during the shore excursion.

Booking and Availability

Booking the Kenai Fjords National Park shore excursion from Seward can be done through the tour company’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

Availability for this popular tour may be limited, especially during peak travel seasons, so it’s recommended to reserve spots well in advance.

Some key considerations when booking include:

• Tour dates and departure times to fit your schedule
• Whether you require any special accommodations, such as wheelchair accessibility
• The option to add on any pre- or post-cruise activities or packages
• Flexible booking policies in case your plans change

The tour operator strives to accommodate all guests, but early booking ensures the best availability and selection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

Gratuity is not included in the tour price. Customers are expected to tip the crew and guide based on their satisfaction with the service provided during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch is typically provided as part of the tour experience, and there may be restrictions or recommendations regarding outside food and beverages.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee. It’s best to check the specific policy when booking the tour.

How Long Does It Take to Reach the Wildlife Viewing Areas?

The tour’s wildlife viewing areas are typically reached within 1-2 hours of departing Seward. The vessel travels at a moderate pace to give passengers ample time to spot migrating whales, seabird rookeries, and other marine life in the protected waters.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. The standard 6-hour sightseeing cruise can be upgraded to a longer, more comprehensive tour with additional wildlife viewing opportunities and exploration of the Kenai Fjords National Park.

Recap

The Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the natural wonders of Alaska.

Travelers can expect an unforgettable experience, with the chance to spot diverse marine life and explore the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park.

The comfortable vessel, knowledgeable guide, and provided lunch make this tour a well-rounded and enjoyable way to explore this breathtaking region.