Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition
Description
Go on an adventure as you explore the deep mysterious waters of island studded sea passages in search of wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. Your experienced captain and expert naturalist will use their considerable local knowledge of the area to unlock the secrets of this biologically rich ecosystem. You will feel the ocean breeze on your face and taste the salty sea air as you skim across the waves. You will indulge your curiosity as you navigate narrow channels, next to rocky coast lines, emerald forested islands, and black sandy beaches. You will become an explorer, a mariner, an adventurer.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Begin your adventure by meeting your Captain & Naturalist at our hospitality space located on historic Thomas Street in downtown Ketchikan where you will be outfitted with rain gear (bibs & jacket), overboots, a dry bag for your belongings, and a USCG approved life jacket. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Our location at 124 Thomas St is about a 10-15 minute walk from Berths 1-3 and a 20 minute walk from Berth 4 and the Ward Cove shuttle drop off. For guests arriving at Ward Cove, we have ship specific instructions regarding transportation. All tours depart from and return to the nearby Thomas Basin Boat Harbor in downtown Ketchikan. Once everyone is outfitted in Alaskan fashion, your Captain will provide a short safety briefing before you climb aboard the Zodiac vessel and head out to sea!
As you escape the cruise ship crowds of downtown, you'll learn about the colorful history of Ketchikan and begin your journey into the Tongass Narrows. Our trips are destination free by design meaning we will explore the waters surrounding the island based on the tides, weather, and wildlife activity. While we frequent the waters south of Ketchikan, the lack of set destination gives us the freedom to truly experience the magic of Southeast Alaska.
During the 2.5 hours on the water, you will have the chance to view a variety of wildlife and breathtaking scenery all from an open Zodiac that allows you to experience Alaska with all of your senses. As we cruise along the rocky shorelines, keep an eye out for Sitka Black-tailed Deer, River Otter, or Mink as they forage on the beach while majestic Bald Eagles watch from the towering evergreens of the Tongass National Forest. At lower tides, we'll have the opportunity to take a look into the vibrant world of the intertidal zone and see creatures like Sea Stars, Giant Green Anemones, Sea Urchins, and much more! Continuing on through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, we will search for marine mammals like Harbor Seals, Steller Sea Lions, Porpoise, Humpback Whales, and Killer Whales (Orca) that call this area home. In addition to marine mammals, we will watch for multiple species of resident and migratory birds that enjoy the nutrient dense waters of our region.
On our return to town, you will have a chance to see the working waterfront of Ketchikan and learn more about the history and culture of this unique island community. Southeast Alaska has an incredibly diverse ecosystem. While we can't guarantee specific wildlife encounters, we believe that with the experience of our crew, and the quiet unobtrusive vessels we have selected as exploration platforms, there is a good chance of experiencing something truly magnificent. Every trip is a little different, and you never quite know what the ocean will provide. Let's go out to sea!
We are year-round locals, so after your tour be sure to ask the crew for recommendations on other activities, shops, restaurants, etc. We love where we live, and we want to help you make the most of your visit to Ketchikan!
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(191)
AMAZING experience, very knowledgeable guides, ethical practices, and a genuine care for the animals and environment they operate in. Would 100% recommend!
Excellent adventure in the water. We learned so much about the animals, plants and birds. I even ate kelp pulled off a rock!!! This is a small family owned business that will give you an excellent experience. Being close to the water in a zodiac is a great way to explore.
Wonderful crew. Customer service was phenomenal. Their team was very welcoming and helpful. The crew was knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the area. Thanks to Eric, Delany & Jenny!!
They are extremely knowledgeable about the area and super friendly! I highly recommend Eric and Jenny.
Highly recommend this excursion . Do yourself a favor and book this small group tour. Great day on the water, informative and fun !
First and foremost, I was very impressed with the precautions that were taken to keep all of us safe on the water! That was obviously of prime concern to the team. Second, our ship had to anchor, and so a van met us at the cruise dock and transported us to the shop. Not having to walk to the shop enabled us to get our full time on the water (and kept us dry) . The waterproof bibs and jacket were in great condition, and we were offered gloves and waterproof booties, so we stayed toasty warm and dry. The hot beverages and fruit bars that were provided were a nice welcome touch. And, despite (or maybe because of?) the drizzly weather Ketchikan is known for, it was a wonderful experience - we saw seals, eagles, even a humpback that showed us some tail. Thanks to all the team - the Science Mom (Jenny) and the boat pilot (I think his name is Eric?) And of course, Delaney. Everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable, and they obviously have a great love for their town and their work! I highly recommend this excursion to anyone wanting an informative, and safe, time on the water.
This was one of the highlights of our trip to Ketchikan! The small-group Zodiac tour made the experience feel personal, exciting, and adventurous from start to finish. Our naturalist guide was knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about the local wildlife and ecosystem. The wildlife viewing was incredible. We were fortunate to see several marine animals and bald eagles in their natural habitat, and the guide did an excellent job spotting wildlife and sharing fascinating information along the way. The small-group setting ensured everyone had great views and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. If you're visiting Ketchikan and want an unforgettable wildlife adventure, I highly recommend this tour. It's the perfect combination of breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and authentic Alaskan exploration.
We are so glad you guys enjoyed the small boat experience, it really is our favorite way to explore the area. Thanks again for joining us!
Eric and Delaney were such great guides and hosts. They clearly know there stuff and during the course of our trip we were able to see so many animals, including humpback whales. They taught us all about the animals and the landscape. Turkey spectacular outing and we will remember it our lifetime. I would recommend you spend some time on the water with this group.
Thank you for joining us!
This was a favorite experience of mine in Ketchikan! Erik and Delaney were wonderful hosts and have a wealth of knowledge about everything wild in Alaska! Before loading into the Zodiac they ensure everyone is comfortable in their gear to keep them dry and warm while on the water. After a quick, but informative safety speech we were on our way! I've done tours on larger boats, but there is something to be said for being at water level while taking in all Alaska has to offer. It offers a completly different perspective of the nature surrounding us. Some of my favorite sightings were the sea lions, sea stars, and of course the WHALES! I would do this trip again in a heartbeat! Thank you for the wonderful experience!
Thank you again for joining us, we are so glad you enjoyed your time on the water! We really got so lucky with the sunshine :) Come back and visit soon!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highlight of Our Alaska Trip What an incredible experience. Delaney and Eric have built something truly special, and you can feel the passion and care they put into every part of the tour. Jenny, our naturalist, was fantastic—friendly, incredibly knowledgeable, and able to answer every question we had. We learned so much while spotting humpback whales, bald eagles, sea lions, seabirds, and other marine life. The small-group zodiac experience made it feel personal and immersive, and by the end it felt like we had spent the morning with friends. One of the highlights of our Alaska trip and a tour we’d book again in a heartbeat. 🐋🦅✨
Thank you! We are so glad your family enjoyed the time on the water and we appreciate you choosing to spend your morning with us :)
