Kenai Fjords boat tour

The feel

The cruise leaves Seward and heads into Kenai Fjords National Park, with captains and crew narrating the whole way. The captain takes the boat as close to a glacier as safely possible, typically between a half mile and a quarter mile, and you will probably see hundreds of harbor seals basking on icebergs. On the Classic tour the boat visits Aialik or Holgate tidewater glacier, where chunks of ice may break off and crash into the ocean.

The boats are 95-foot catamarans with a heated viewing area behind picture windows and large viewing decks. Out in the Chiswell Islands, Steller sea lions share the rock with nesting puffins, murres and cormorants, and whales and sea otters turn up along the way.

What to expect

What it is

A narrated wildlife and glacier cruise from Seward into Kenai Fjords National Park, on boats that hold up to 150 passengers.

Time

The Classic tour runs 5.5 to 6 hours. The Resurrection Bay Express is 3 hours, the Resurrection Bay Tour is 4.5 hours, and the Northwestern Fjords Tour is 8 hours.

Parking

Free parking in a private lot behind the Marina Motel at 1603 Seward Highway, with a free shuttle, starts May 1. Check-in is at the Kenai Fjords Tours Office, 1304 W. Fourth Avenue.

Fees and passes

The Classic tour starts at $211 for adults and $105 for children ages 2 to 11, not including tax and fees. Infants under 2 cruise free, and Alaska residents receive a 20% discount.

Kids

No minimum age is required. Infants under 2 cruise free.

Bathrooms and water

All vessels have accessible restrooms and wheelchair-compatible tables. The Classic tour includes a hot lunch.

Season and access

Tours run March 11 to September 26.

Mingo says

Come in spring, March 11 to May 13, to look for California gray whales on the Spring Resurrection Bay Tour. For three tidewater glaciers instead of one, take the 8-hour cruise between May 29 and August 29.

Before you go

• Arrive 1 hour before your departure time.
• Eat first if you book the Resurrection Bay Express, because there is no meal onboard.
• Know that the Northwestern Fjord cruise needs good weather; if it is canceled, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
• Call (888) 478-3346 with booking questions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.