Are you looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Look no further than Seward, Alaska for some of the best whale watching in the world. Located on the edge of Resurrection Bay, Seward is home to some of the most magnificent marine life including humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, and seals. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the bay and glaciers while observing these awe-inspiring creatures in their natural habitat. Join us as we explore the best whale watching experiences in Seward and discover how you can get up close and personal with these majestic giants.
The 5 Best Whale Watching in Seward
- Kenai Fjords National Park and Chiswell Islands Cruise
- Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half Day Cruise
- Full Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
- Resurrection Bay Cruise With Fox Island
- From Seward Kenai Fjords National Park 6 Hour Cruise
The 5 Best Whale Watching in Seward
1. Kenai Fjords National Park and Chiswell Islands Cruise
Experience the beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park and the Chiswell Islands on this breathtaking cruise. Marvel at the sight of glaciers breaking off and crashing into the water, sail past the majestic Holgate Glacier, and keep your eyes peeled for sea otters, puffins, whales, and mountain goats. Learn about the surrounding geology and wildlife from the knowledgeable naturalist onboard who will provide engaging commentary throughout the trip. Enjoy a complimentary brunch or deli lunch and keep yourself hydrated with water, coffee, and tea all provided onboard. Reserve your seat in the heated cabin and make use of the binoculars to enhance your experience. Don’t miss the chance to see thousands of nesting seabirds as you visit the stunning Chiswell Islands or Cape Resurrection (depending on weather) on this unforgettable cruise.
2. Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half Day Cruise
This half-day tour of Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay departs from Seward Harbor and covers a distance of 55 miles along the rugged coastline. Make sure you bring your camera as you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, including sea lion colonies, seabird rookeries, whales, sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, eagles, and mountain goats. You’ll get to see the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park, Bear Glacier, and Cape Resurrection, which is home to thousands of nesting seabirds and Steller sea lions. Water, coffee, and tea are included in the tour price, along with the use of binoculars. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, or you can go directly to the meeting point in Seward. The tour departs at 12:30 PM and ends at the same location. All taxes and fees are also included in the price.
3. Full Day Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
Discover the breathtaking glaciers and rich wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park on this full-day catamaran cruise. A knowledgeable naturalist guide will provide engaging commentary as you sail toward Aialik Bay, where you’ll have the chance to witness the awe-inspiring calving of tidewater glaciers. Keep your eyes peeled for Steller sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, and puffins as you cruise through the park’s pristine waters. A complimentary deli lunch is provided onboard, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. Binoculars are also provided for your use. The tour departs from the Harbor 360 Hotel on 1412 4th Ave in Seward, AK. Come aboard and experience the wonders of Kenai Fjords National Park for yourself!
4. Resurrection Bay Cruise With Fox Island
Admire the icy blue waters and breathtaking views of Resurrection Bay on a 5-hour cruise that takes you across the Kenai Fjords. Keep an eye out for whales, puffins, otters, and other wildlife with the help of an expert guide, who will offer insight into the area’s natural history.
After soaking up the stunning scenery, step onto the shores of Fox Island for a mouthwatering lunch at a cozy private lodge. You’ll have the opportunity to watch a presentation from a park ranger and spend some free time at the beautiful ‘skipping stone’ beach.
This Resurrection Bay cruise is the perfect way to experience the best of Seward’s whale watching and Alaska’s natural wonders. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert wildlife guide, and lunch. Food and drink beyond what is specified, as well as gratuities, are not included.
5. From Seward Kenai Fjords National Park 6 Hour Cruise
Board a state-of-the-art catamaran in Seward and embark on a 6-hour wildlife-filled cruise through the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park. Admire the majestic mountains and fjords and marvel at the towering tidewater glaciers that surround this area in Alaska. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, porpoises, and seals as you make your way through Resurrection Bay and the Gulf of Alaska. Learn about the region’s history from your knowledgeable captain while enjoying a deli-style lunch aboard the boat. This tour includes binoculars to use onboard, shuttle service from the railroad depot and cruise ship port, coffee, tea, and water, and the option to purchase alcoholic beverages.
Whale Watching in Seward: FAQs
Seward, Alaska, is a hotspot for some of the most magnificent marine creatures in the world – whales. If you are a first-time visitor seeking a memorable whale watching experience, you likely have a bunch of questions in your mind. We’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions and answered them in detail.1. What Kind of Whales Can I See in Seward?
Seward is home to various whale species, but the most common ones you can see during the whale watching tours are humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), and gray whales. Humpback whales are the most frequently sighted on these tours, displaying acrobatic feats such as breaching, tail slaps, and spy-hopping. Orcas are known for their black and white markings, and their pods hunt sea lions, seals, and small whales. The gray whales, the largest winter-feeding population of which travels more than 5000 miles from Baja California, Mexico, to feed on the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska.2. When Is the Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Seward?
The best time for whale watching in Seward is between May and September. This is when the whales migrate to the region to feed, mate, and give birth. The peak season is during late June and early July. During this time, humpback whales feed on small fish that gather in schools, which in turn attracts predators such as orcas and sea lions.3. How Long Do the Whale Watching Tours Last?
The length of whale watching tours in Seward depends on the tour company and the package you choose. Most tours run for about 3 to 5 hours, depending on the weather, the distance traveled, and the kind of whales seen. Some tour operators also offer full-day tours that can last up to 8 hours.4. Is It Safe to Go Whale Watching in Seward?
Yes, it is safe to go whale watching in Seward. Professional whale watching tour companies operate under strict safety guidelines to ensure the safety of passengers and the whales. The tour boats are built to withstand the harsh marine environment, and all passengers are required to wear life jackets. Captains also adhere to a strict code of conduct to ensure that they do not harm the whales or their habitat in any way.5. What Should I Bring on a Whale Watching Tour?
When heading out on a whale watching tour, be sure to wear warm clothes, including a jacket, gloves, and a hat, as it can get chilly on the water. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings. Don’t forget to pack water and snacks, and if you suffer from motion sickness, take medication before the trip.6. Can I Guarantee Seeing Whales?
No, seeing whales is not guaranteed on the whale watching tours as they are wild animals that roam freely in the ocean. However, tour operators have experienced captains who know the best whale-watching spots and leverage the latest in technology to track whales. Many tour companies offer a guarantee that if you do not see whales on the tour, you can come back for free on a subsequent trip.7. How Close Can We Get to the Whales?
The Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 stipulates that all boats must maintain a distance of at least 100 yards from whales. Tour companies comply with this regulation during whale watching tours to ensure the safety of the passengers and the whales. However, whales are curious creatures, and they may come closer to the boat on their own, providing guests with amazing, up-close encounters.8. Can Children Go Whale Watching in Seward?
Yes, children can go whale watching in Seward. Many tour companies welcome families and offer kid-friendly tours, complete with snacks, educational activities, and life jackets in children’s sizes. However, children must be at least 4 years old to go on a tour, and they must wear a life jacket at all times.9. What Happens If the Tour Is Canceled?
Tour companies in Seward may cancel whale watching tours due to extreme weather conditions, mechanical issues, or whale sightings. If the tour is canceled, the tour operator will offer to reschedule the tour for another day or a refund if rescheduling is not possible.10. Do Tour Companies Provide Binoculars?
Yes, most tour companies in Seward provide binoculars for guests to use during the whale watching tour. However, you can bring your own if you’d like. It is also a good idea to bring a tripod for your camera to minimize the shake and capture sharp images of the whales.InHow to Do Whale Watching in Seward, Alaska
If you are looking for a unique wildlife experience, then whale watching in Seward, Alaska is a must-do activity. Seward is well-known for providing ample opportunities for tourists to spot various types of whales throughout the year in their natural habitat. In this guide, we will guide you step-by-step on how to do whale watching in Seward and share some useful tips to make the most of your whale watching trip.Step 1: Choose the Right Time of Year
Whale watching in Seward is possible all year round, as different types of whales can be spotted throughout the year. However, the peak time to spot humpback and orca whales is from May to September when they migrate to the waters of the Kenai Fjords National Park in search of food.Step 2: Book a Tour with a Reputable Company
Booking a tour with a reputable company will enhance your whale watching experience. There are many tour operators in Seward that offer whale watching trips, but choosing the best one can be a daunting task. You can read online reviews or ask for recommendations from your hotel or a visitor center.Step 3: Dress Appropriately
The weather in Seward can be unpredictable, so you need to dress appropriately for whale watching trips. We recommend wearing layered clothing, water-resistant jackets, hats, and gloves. It is also essential to wear comfortable shoes, as you will be on a boat for a few hours.Step 4: Arrive Early and Check-In
Arriving early for your whale watching tour will give you enough time to check-in and prepare for the trip. Ensure that you have all the necessary items such as your camera, binoculars, and sunscreen. Most tour operators provide life jackets, so you do not need to bring your own.Step 5: Listen to Your Guide
During the whale watching trip, you will have a guide who will provide information about the whales and the area. It is essential to listen to their instructions and guidance to maximize your chances of seeing whales.Step 6: Be Respectful of the Whales
Whale watching tours in Seward adhere to strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both the whales and the tourists. It is essential to follow these guidelines and be respectful of the whales’ space. Do not approach them too closely or disturb them in any way.Useful Tips
Here are some tips that will help you make the most of your whale watching trip in Seward:- Bring a pair of binoculars or rent them from the tour operator to get a closer look at the whales.
- Be prepared for the weather conditions by checking the forecast before your trip.
- Keep your camera ready at all times and wait for the whales to surface.
- Choose a tour that offers a guarantee to spot whales or provides a free trip if you don’t see any whales.
- Book your whale watching tour in advance to get the best deals and avoid disappointment.
Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in Seward is a unique experience that you should not miss. By following this guide, you can make the most of your whale watching trip and have a memorable time spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to book a tour with a reputable company, dress appropriately, listen to your guide, and be respectful of the whales.Table of Contents
