Ketchikan Whale Watching Tours

What to Expect

A Ketchikan whale watching tour offers an intimate and memorable encounter with Alaska’s magnificent marine wildlife. Your adventure begins just a short walk from the cruise ship docks, where you’ll meet your guide and board a vessel designed for wildlife viewing. Most local operators use smaller boats, such as 22 or 44-passenger catamarans, which provide a less-crowded experience compared to the larger boats often used for ship-sponsored tours.

The tour typically lasts between 2.5 and 3 hours. Once underway, your captain will navigate through the scenic Tongass Narrows and into the broader waters of Clarence Strait or Nichols Passage. These areas are prime feeding grounds for humpback whales during their summer migration from May to September.

While humpback whales are the primary focus, you have a good chance of spotting other incredible wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for pods of orcas (killer whales), Dall’s porpoise playing in the boat’s wake, Steller sea lions hauled out on rocky shores, and curious harbor seals. The skies above often feature bald eagles soaring overhead. The tour boats feature heated indoor cabins with large windows and open-air decks, allowing you to stay comfortable while enjoying unobstructed views. The crew provides expert narration, sharing their knowledge of the local ecosystem and the behavior of the animals you encounter. Many tours include complimentary snacks and drinks to enhance your experience.

Who This Is For

This excursion is ideal for families, couples, and any cruise passenger with an interest in wildlife and natural beauty. It is a low-impact activity suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with minimal walking required. If you dream of seeing whales breach and bubble-net feed in their natural habitat, this tour is an excellent choice.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer a more personal, small-group experience. Unlike the often-crowded tours in Juneau, Ketchikan offers a chance to view wildlife without vying for a spot at the railing. This excursion is also a strong option for visitors who may have other priorities in more whale-dense ports like Juneau or Icy Strait Point, but still want a high-quality opportunity to see marine life. However, travelers with significant mobility challenges should take note. While collapsible wheelchairs can often be stored, motorized scooters are generally not permitted, and the onboard restrooms are not wheelchair accessible.

Ship vs. Independent Booking

For a whale watching tour in Ketchikan, booking with an independent, local operator is highly recommended. The primary advantages are significant cost savings and a superior experience. Independent tours are often 20-40% cheaper than the excursions sold through the cruise lines.

Local companies specialize in small-group tours, ensuring that every passenger gets a great view and personalized attention from the captain and crew. This contrasts with some larger, more impersonal cruise ship tours. These local operators build their schedules around the cruise ships’ port times and guarantee they will get you back to the dock well before your ship’s departure.

While cruise lines offer the convenience of a single booking point, the trade-off is a higher price and a potentially more crowded boat. By booking directly, you support the local Ketchikan economy and are more likely to have a memorable and authentic Alaskan experience.

What to Bring

Packing correctly will ensure your comfort throughout the excursion. The weather in Ketchikan can change rapidly, and it is always cooler on the water.

• Layered Clothing: Dress in layers that you can easily add or remove. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm mid-layer like fleece or wool, and top it with a waterproof and windproof jacket.
• Waterproof Pants: Rain is common in Ketchikan, so waterproof pants are a wise addition to keep you dry.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction, as decks can be wet.
• Hat and Gloves: A warm hat or beanie and a pair of gloves will keep you comfortable when standing on the outer decks.
• Camera: Don’t forget your camera with a zoom lens to capture stunning photos of the wildlife.
• Binoculars: While most tours provide them, having your own pair can be beneficial.
• Motion Sickness Medication: If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication before the tour. While the Inside Passage waters are often calm, Clarence Strait can have some swell.

How to Book

Booking your Ketchikan whale watching tour independently is straightforward. It is best to book well in advance, especially for travel during the peak summer months, as these popular small-group tours fill up quickly.

Several reputable local companies offer excellent tours. Look for operators with strong reviews that have been in business for several years. Two highly-regarded options are:

• Eagle One Tours: A family-run business that operates two vessels, the 22-passenger Eagle One and the 44-passenger Eagle One Express. They offer a 2 to 2.5-hour “Wildlife & Whale Watching Quest” and have a 24-hour cancellation policy. You can book directly through their website: eagleonetours.com.
• Ketchikan Wildlife Tours: This operator focuses on luxury, small-group experiences on charter-style boats. They offer a 1.5-hour “Express” tour and a 2.5-hour tour that includes a wilderness dining experience. Their cancellation policy typically requires at least 10 days’ notice for a full refund. Bookings can be made at: ketchikanwildlifetours.com.

Most independent tours meet at the centrally located Ketchikan Visitors Bureau at Berth 2 (131 Front Street). Look for the large liquid sunshine gauge or “The Rock,” a bronze statue depicting historical local figures. Your tour operator will provide specific meeting instructions upon booking.