Sitka Scenic Marine Life & Seabirds Private Charter Eco-Tour

Sitka , United States

Sitka Scenic Marine Life & Seabirds Private Charter Eco-Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You select your start-time, any time between: 8:00am - 2:00pm.
3 hours are included, however you can shorten or extend your private tour you'd like.

Your captain is a Merchant Marine Captain with 30+ years on the water, will tour you around Sitka Sound, the Saint Lazaria Islands and Mt. Edgecumbe Volcano for active seabird sightings.

We are based out of Sitka on the western side of Baranof Island, in beautiful Southeast Alaska. We are owned and operated by a year round resident and adventure outfitter. He states, "There's no place I'd rather be or explore than Southeast Alaska. Here we have the bounty of the Pacific Ocean at our doorstep with over 18,000 miles of coastline encompassing the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rain forest in the northern hemisphere. Our mission is to provide our guests with the greatest sea and coastal adventures out there, while providing an element of added safety as we explore one of the most beautiful places on the edges of the earth."

Available options

Sitka Scenic Marine Life & Seabirds Private Charter Eco-Tour

What's included

Private, Fully Equipped, Coast Guard Approved Captained Boat, Snacks, Sodas, Water, all Fees+Taxes

Detailed itinerary

We provide a private, small group seabird and boat tour. Our custom adventures all benefit from the comfort and safety of our Suzy-Q Stabicraft. Built in New Zealand, Suzy-Q is a double-hulled aluminum Stabicraft 2500 Ultracab XL safety boat. Each tour is custom designed depending on the weather and seas, and where wildlife might best be seen each day. If seas allow it, we will travel to the Saint Lazaira Islands. Alternatively, we will cruise Sitka Sound and its endless array of islands and coves to provide your party with the best adventure possible. Your private charter will focus on the best locations for scenic and wildlife and photography focusing on Eagles, Puffins, assorted Seabirds, as well as amazing Volcano, Mountain and Ocean Views.

St. Lazaria Island is a nesting bird colony located twenty miles (32 km) west of Sitka, Alaska. Its is a part of the Gulf of Alaska unit of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and as additional protections as the Saint Lazaria Wilderness.
St. Lazaria is a very rugged island with land access only for research. Its isolation and direct exposure to the Pacific Ocean makes it an ideal seabird habitat.

Wildlife on St. Lazaria is most exclusively limited to birds.
On the island there are:
250,000 breeding pairs of fork-tailed storm-petrels and Leach's storm-petrels.
4-5,000 common and thick-billed murres.
1,500-2,000 breeding pairs of tufted puffins.
1,000 breeding pairs of rhinoceros auklets.
Nesting bird density reaches 7000 birds per acre.
Other less populous species include: pigeon guillemots, glaucous-winged gulls, ancient murrelets, Cassin's auklets, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and black oystercatchers.

What's not included

Gratuities

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for toddlers/infants/frailty.

Meeting point

At cruise terminal, take free shuttle to town. After you exit the bus, walk towards the water/Crescent Harbor. Take the blue covered gangway down to the harbor/boats. Walk main row to end, then take a right(Row 6, Slip 27). Suzy-Q sits close to the end of Row 6. A 5 to 10 minute walk.

About Sitka

Sitka, nestled on the west side of Baranof Island, is a picturesque city known for its lush landscapes, rich Tlingit and Russian history, and abundant wildlife. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination in Alaska.

Top Attractions

Sitka National Historical Park

This park preserves the site of the 1804 Battle of Sitka and offers scenic trails, totem poles, and rich Tlingit and Russian history.

Historical/Nature 2-3 hours Free

St. Michael's Cathedral

A historic Russian Orthodox cathedral built in 1848, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Historical/Religious 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Sitka Sound Science Center

A center dedicated to marine science and education, featuring interactive exhibits and research programs.

Educational 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Freshly caught salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a staple of Alaskan cuisine.

Main Course Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can be prepared in various ways

King Crab

Alaskan king crab is a delicacy, known for its sweet and tender meat.

Main Course High in protein and cholesterol, best enjoyed in moderation

Bannock

A traditional Tlingit bread, often served with jam or honey.

Snack Can be made with various ingredients, including gluten-free options

Popular Activities

Hiking Fishing Kayaking Wildlife viewing Scenic drives Spa treatments Visiting historical sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Sitka for warm weather, long daylight hours, and vibrant wildlife. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

8°C to 16°C 46°F to 61°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Russian, Tlingit
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sitka is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of wildlife and weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of wildlife
• Check weather conditions
• Carry bear spray when hiking

Getting there

By air

Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport • 3 miles from city center

Getting around

Public transport

Public transit is available but limited. Most visitors rely on rental cars or taxis.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Sitka Harbor Mountain Area

Day trips

Kruzof Island

10 miles from Sitka • Full day

Kruzof Island offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Fortress of the Bear

5 miles from Sitka • Half day

A wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of brown bears.

Festivals

Sitka Summer Music Festival • June Alaska Day Festival • October 18

Pro tips

Visit the Sitka National Historical Park for a deep dive into the city's history.
Try local seafood dishes, particularly salmon and king crab.
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Pack layers and waterproof clothing for changing weather conditions.
Explore the local coffee and tea scene for a cozy experience.