Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Make the most of your time in Seward with a pre- or post-cruise shore excursion through Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy a six-hour voyage on Alaska's most popular wildlife and glacier cruise, coasting past alpine and tidewater glaciers amid the fjords of Harding Icefield. You’ll view migratory seabird rookeries in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and keep your eyes out for whales and other wildlife viewing while aboard the boat. Enjoy complimentary lunch and onboard commentary from the captain as you take in the magnificent sights!
Available options
National Park Tour
Duration: 6 hours
What's included
Onboard wildlife guide
6-hour sightseeing cruise
Lunch
Restroom on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
In Kenai Fjords National Park, over half of the landmass is covered by the enormous Harding Icefield, a thousand-foot block of ice that dates back to the last Ice Age. The Harding spills out in all directions in the form of glaciers. Some stretch northwest into rugged hills of the Kenai Peninsula. Others—five of them, to be exact—reach as far as the sea along the craggy coast of the Gulf of Alaska.
2
Stop 2
Pass by
Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is comprised of 2,400 islands, headlands, rocks, islets, spires and reefs and is known for its abundance of seabirds.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Navigate through Resurrection Bay as our captain guides you through to Kenai Fjords National Park.
4
Watch out for seabirds, waterfalls and hanging glaciers in Thumb Cove
5
Visit either one of two spectacular tidewater glaciers, Aialik or Holgate. Aialik Glacier is surrounded by steep cliffs, dense forests and towering mountain peaks. Visitors may see spectacular calving events as ice chunks break and crash into the ocean. Keep an eye for harbor seals.
6
Visit either one of two spectacular tidewater glaciers, Aialik or Holgate. Like Aialik, Holgate Glacier is surrounded by steep cliffs, dense forests and towering mountain peaks. Visitors may see spectacular calving events as ice chunks break and crash into the ocean. Though rare, black bears have been sighted on the beaches in Holgate arm
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
40 reviews
5★
37
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.7
19 reviews
5★
16
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately; layers are recommended
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars and camera recommended
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
This tour is not recommended for travelers that need to board a cruise line before 5:30 pm.
Meeting point
Please call us to schedule a pick-up at an area hotel or Seward Port within 24 hours of check-in please.
Important notes
At the Kenai Fjords Tours check in desk, please provide your Viator voucher to be exchanged for a direct entry ticket. Please arrive at least 45 minutes prior as the boat leaves on time. For your safety, we ask all passengers to complete a waiver before boarding your boat. https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/v/kenaifjords
About Seward
Seward is a charming coastal town in Alaska, known as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. It offers stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a rich history tied to the Alaska Railroad and the Iditarod Trail. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to wildlife viewing and glacier tours.
Top Attractions
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is a stunning national park featuring glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Moderate to expensive (park entry is free, but tours and activities have costs)
Alaska SeaLife Center
The Alaska SeaLife Center is a popular attraction featuring marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs. It's a great place to learn about Alaska's marine ecosystems.
Museum
1 to 2 hours
Moderate
Seward Museum
The Seward Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Seward and the surrounding area, from its early days as a gold rush town to its role in the Alaska Railroad.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Budget
Exit Glacier Nature Center
The Exit Glacier Nature Center offers educational programs and guided hikes to Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. It's a great way to learn about glaciers and their impact on the landscape.
Nature
1 to 3 hours (depending on the hike)
Budget to moderate
Seward Small Boat Harbor
The Seward Small Boat Harbor is a bustling hub of activity, with fishing boats, tour boats, and marine life viewing opportunities. It's a great place to watch the boats come and go and enjoy the scenic waterfront.
Beach
30 minutes to a few hours
Free to explore, costs vary for tours and activities
Must-Try Local Dishes
Alaskan King Crab
Succulent and sweet, Alaskan King Crab is a must-try when in Seward. It's often served steamed or grilled, with butter or drawn butter.
Dinner
Contains shellfish
Salmon
Alaskan salmon is famous for its rich flavor and tender texture. It's often grilled, smoked, or baked, and can be found in many local dishes.
Lunch or Dinner
Contains fish
Reindeer Sausage
A unique Alaskan specialty, reindeer sausage is made from ground reindeer meat and spices. It's often served as a sausage or in dishes like chili or stew.
Lunch or Dinner
Contains meat
Baked Alaska
A classic Alaskan dessert, Baked Alaska features layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and baked until golden.
Dessert
Contains dairy and eggs
Popular Activities
Hiking in Kenai Fjords National Park
Kayaking in Resurrection Bay
Glacier tours and dog sledding
Scenic boat tours
Visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center
Enjoying local seafood at a waterfront restaurant
Visiting the Seward Museum
Exploring downtown shops and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Seward, offering the best weather for outdoor activities. The days are long, with nearly 19 hours of daylight in June, and the wildlife is very active.
10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
50°F to 64°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT, GMT-8) from the first Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, and Alaska Standard Time (AKST, GMT-9) for the rest of the year.
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Seward is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
- • Research tours and activities before booking, and choose reputable companies.
- • Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, and let someone know your plans.
Getting there
By air
- Anchorage International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) northeast of Seward
By train
Seward Train Station
By bus
Seward Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Seward, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi companies can be called directly.
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Seward
Resurrection Bay
Day trips
Whittier
50 miles (80 km) northeast of Seward • Full day recommended
Whittier is a small town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. It's home to the Anton Anderson Tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in North America, and offers stunning views of Prince William Sound.
Girdwood
70 miles (113 km) northeast of Seward • Full day recommended
Girdwood is a charming town known for its stunning mountain views and outdoor activities. It's home to the Alyeska Aerial Tram and the popular hiking trail, the Glacier Trail.
Anchorage
120 miles (193 km) northeast of Seward • Full day or overnight recommended
Anchorage is Alaska's largest city and offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. It's a great place to explore before or after your trip to Seward.
Festivals
Seward Music & Arts Festival • July
Seward Silver Salmon Derby • July and August
Seward Winter Brewfest • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see the animals at their most active.
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during the summer months, as Seward can be busy and popular with tourists.
- Dress in layers, as the weather in Seward can change quickly and be unpredictable, even in the summer.
- Try local seafood specialties, such as salmon, halibut, and crab, at one of Seward's many waterfront restaurants.
- Explore the historic downtown area, with its charming shops, galleries, and museums, for a taste of local culture and history.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
