Valdez, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Alaska, is the gateway to a truly breathtaking adventure – the 6-hour Columbia Glacier cruise. This guided tour promises a journey like no other, as participants enjoy the grandeur of the Prince William Sound and witness the awe-inspiring retreat of the mighty Columbia Glacier. From spotting diverse marine life to learning about the region’s rich history, this experience offers something for all. With complimentary beverages and a light lunch, the stage is set for an unforgettable day on the water. But the true magic lies in the captivating scenery that awaits, leaving you…
Key Points
- 6-hour guided cruise in Prince William Sound to witness the retreat of Columbia Glacier and observe local marine wildlife.
- Scenic views of Port Valdez, cascading waterfalls, and educational insights into the region’s history and commercial fishing.
- Includes a light lunch with complimentary beverages, as well as an onboard guide and map available in multiple languages.
- Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, making it a convenient and inclusive option.
- Highly rated by previous customers for the knowledgeable staff, cleanliness of the boat, and overall memorable experience.
Activity Overview
The Valdez: Columbia Glacier Cruise is a 6-hour guided tour that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Prince William Sound and the receding Columbia Glacier.
This popular activity is likely to sell out, with prices starting from $167.00 per person.
The tour features a live guide who provides commentary in English, Dutch, German, and Korean.
Notably, it’s wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.
Whether you’re seeking to witness the glacier’s retreat, observe marine wildlife, or learn about the region’s history, this immersive cruise promises an unforgettable experience.
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Experience Highlights
Visitors can witness the retreat of the majestic Columbia Glacier and observe the surrounding ice in the bay during this captivating cruise.
Sightings of diverse marine wildlife, including seals, otters, sea lions, porpoise, Orca, and Humpback Whales, as well as bald eagles, are common occurrences.
Cruisers also have the opportunity to explore the stunning Prince William Sound, taking in the breathtaking views of Port Valdez and the cascading waterfalls.
The tour further provides insight into the local history, covering topics such as early explorers, oil shipping, and commercial fishing.
To fuel this adventure, guests can enjoy a hot soup lunch served during the cruise.
Inclusions and Amenities
Complimentary coffee, tea, lemonade, and water are provided throughout the cruise, ensuring guests stay hydrated and refreshed.
Plus, a light lunch of soup, bagels, cream cheese, and cookies is included to fuel the adventure.
Beyond the complimentary offerings, a snack bar and gift shop are available onboard, providing additional refreshment and souvenir options.
The cruise also includes an onboard guide and map in multiple languages, enabling guests to fully appreciate the experience and learn about the history and natural wonders of the region.
To enhance the overall experience, gratuities are included, and transfers to and from RV parks in Valdez, as well as hotel drop-off and pick-up, are provided for added convenience.
Check-in and Meeting Point
Guests typically check in 1 hour prior to the cruise’s scheduled departure, with boarding commencing 30 minutes before the start time. The meeting point for the cruise is the office located behind the Best Western Hotel in Valdez.
| Recommended Items | Prohibited Items | Meeting Point |
|---|---|---|
| Warm clothing | Drones | Office behind Best Western Hotel in Valdez |
| Sunglasses | Alcohol and drugs | – |
| Camera | Alcoholic drinks in vehicles | – |
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point with ample time to check in and board the vessel. The crew is well-equipped to handle any special needs or requirements.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyRecommended Items
To make the most of the Columbia Glacier cruise, travelers should pack a few essential items. These include warm clothing like layers, waterproof jackets, and comfortable shoes, as the weather can be unpredictable on the water.
Sunglasses and a camera are also recommended to capture the stunning natural scenery and potential wildlife sightings.
The recommended items for the cruise include:
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Warm layers (e.g., sweaters, hats, gloves)
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Waterproof jacket or rain gear
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Sturdy, comfortable shoes
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Snacks and water
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Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Dietary Accommodations
The cruise provides a light lunch, including soup, bagels with cream cheese, and cookies, to fuel guests during their excursion.
Special dietary needs are accommodated, though the cruise encourages guests to bring their own snacks and meals if they’ve specific requirements.
While the crew aims to cater to a variety of dietary restrictions, the remote location and limited onboard facilities may make it challenging to fully accommodate all individual needs.
Guests with strict or complex dietary requirements are advised to plan accordingly and pack their own food and beverages.
The crew’s primary focus is on providing a memorable experience, and they’ll do their best to ensure all guests can enjoy the cruise comfortably.
Customer Reviews
According to a wealth of customer reviews, the Columbia Glacier cruise in Valdez earns an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating based on 79 evaluations.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable staff and the cleanliness of the boat, highlighting the incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking scenery. Many recommend experiencing the cruise regardless of weather conditions, noting the accommodating crew and family-friendly facilities.
Key takeaways from the reviews include:
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Knowledgeable and friendly staff
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Immaculately maintained boats
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Abundant wildlife sightings like seals, otters, and whales
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Stunning vistas of the Columbia Glacier and Prince William Sound
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Accommodating and family-oriented experience
Cruise Details
Offered as a 6-hour excursion, the Columbia Glacier cruise in Valdez provides visitors with an opportunity to witness the retreat of the colossal ice formation and observe an array of marine wildlife within the picturesque Prince William Sound.
Guests can expect to see seals, otters, sea lions, porpoises, orcas, and humpback whales, as well as bald eagles soaring overhead.
The cruise also explores the historic Port Valdez and cascading waterfalls, allowing passengers to learn about the region’s past, from early exploration to modern oil shipping and commercial fishing.
Included in the experience is a light lunch of soup, bagels, and cookies, along with complimentary beverages, making for a well-rounded and informative tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Does the Cruise Operate During the Season?
The cruise operates on a regular schedule during the season, typically running daily or several times per week, depending on demand and weather conditions. Exact operating frequency may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date information.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Cruise?
The cruise has no minimum or maximum group size. Guests can book individually or in groups of any size. The cruise operates with enough capacity to accommodate varying party sizes comfortably.
What Is the Policy for Bringing Children on the Cruise?
The cruise is family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages. There are no restrictions or age limits, and the crew aims to accommodate the needs of families travelling with kids. Guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and meals as needed.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Mobility Issues?
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive experience for guests with mobility issues. Transfers to/from RV parks in Valdez are also available to accommodate the needs of all passengers.
Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drinks on Board the Cruise?
Yes, there’s a snack bar and gift shop on board where guests can purchase additional food and drinks during the cruise. Complimentary coffee, tea, lemonade, and water are also provided.
Recap
The Columbia Glacier cruise in Valdez offers a breathtaking opportunity to witness the region’s majestic glaciers and diverse marine wildlife.
With knowledgeable staff, complimentary refreshments, and stunning scenic views, this 6-hour guided tour provides a memorable experience for all ages.
Guests can explore the stunning Prince William Sound while learning about the area’s rich history, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike.
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