Anchorage , United States

Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package

Active

11h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We make it easy to see it all in one day! Relax on the coach as the driver guide narrates while you enjoy the beauty of Turnagain Arm.

In Whittier, the Glacier Quest Cruise cruises from the quaint seaside town to glacier-filled Blackstone Bay, a dramatic deep-water fjord where two tidewater glaciers and several alpine glaciers await. Keep an eye out for sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, mountain goats, whales, and more!

You will see several glaciers, including Tebenkof Glacier, named for Mikhail Demitrievich Tebenkof, an outstanding surveyor whose maps were the first charts of Alaska’s waters published in 1852. Northland Glacier rests majestically, clinging to the edge of the towering mountain. Blackstone and Beloit are tidewater glaciers that have carved a steep pathway to reach Prince William Sound’s saltwater. Cruise up close to these massive glaciers to watch for telltale signs of movement signaled by the distinct “pop” of glacier ice calving.

Return to Anchorage by coach.

Available options

Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package

What's included

No Seasickness Guarantee - Our smooth cruising catamarans & the calm waters of Prince William Sound.

Wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, oyster crackers, Julienne vegetable salad, roll, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a Peppermint Pattie. Vegetarian Chili (GF) or Kids’ Meal, on request 48 hours before.

ADA Accessibility is limited - Please call regarding your specific needs so we can assist you.

Smoke-free vessels - We do not allow any form of tobacco, marijuana, vape or e-cigarettes.

Restroom on board

A Chugach National Forest Service ranger provide professional narration during the cruise.

Coffee, hot tea, and ice water are available.

Detailed itinerary

Traveling between Anchorage and Whittier is a spectacular journey. The Seward Highway is designated a Scenic Byway that follows the shoreline of Turnagain as it winds its way along the base of mountains revealing one stunning view after the next. As time allows, photo stops will be made along the way.

Stop 2

Travel time from Anchorage to Whittier is 90 minutes. From Girdwood to Whittier, allow 45 minutes.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is open thirty minutes past the hour for access to Whittier. The tunnel opens on the hour to depart Whittier, hourly until 11:00 PM.

Stop 3

Explore Blackstone Bay on the 3.75-hour Glacier Quest Cruise. See glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife up close.

After the cruise, meet the coach at 6:45 PM for your return to Anchorage.

Whittier Alaska is the Gateway to Prince William Sound. This quaint coastal town is home to just 200 residents. Whittier is the place where local Alaskans come to play in Prince William Sound for the weekend.

What's not included

Gift Shop items are available for purchase on board to share with family back home.

Warm your spirits with our signature hot drinks or try our Glacier Ice Margarita. Our full-service bar features Alaskan ales on tap, wine, a full selection of spirits and liquors.

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travelers need to ascend/descend 3-5 steps to board coach. Please call for assistance

Meeting point

At 9:00 AM, present your mobile ticket and photo I.D. to the Phillips Cruises staff outside the Hotel Captain Cook on 5th Avenue to board the coach. The coach departs Anchorage at 9:15 AM. Show I.D. in Whittier at 12:00 PM to receive boarding cards for the Glacier Quest Cruise 1:00 PM - 4:45 PM.

Important notes

Present mobile ticket and photo I.D. to Phillips Cruises & Tours curbside staff when boarding the coach in Anchorage or Girdwood. In Whittier, present photo I.D. to Phillips Cruises & Tours staff to get boarding cards for the cruise.

9:00 AM COACH ANCHORAGE TO WHITTIER - Meet the Phillips Cruises representative outside the Hotel Captain Cook on 5th Avenue at 9:00 AM with photo I.D. to board the coach. The coach will depart at 9:15 AM. The Phillips Cruises Coach Service representative will be holding a red sign with a yellow triangle logo on it.

Sit back and relax to enjoy the scenic byway that connects Anchorage to Whittier while your driver-guide shares stories about Alaska. The travel time is approximately 1.5 hours. The motor coach is restroom-equipped. Photo stops are made as time allows.

12:00 PM GLACIER QUEST CRUISE - In Whittier, proceed directly to Phillips Cruise ticket office "Express Check-In" located on the observation deck behind the ticket office. Present your photo I.D. and mobile ticket in Whittier to receive your cruise boarding pass, meal card for lunch, and a map indicating the location of your reserved seat. All guests must be on the Glacier Quest Cruise to Blackstone Bay by 12:55 PM.

A hot lunch will be served shortly after the cruise departs. Cruise Passage Canal to reach Blackstone Bay, home to seven glaciers and numerous towering waterfalls. Watch for wildlife along the way and learn about Prince William Sound as the Chugach National Forest Service ranger provides professional narration. Every cruise includes our No Seasickness guarantee!

6:45 PM COACH WHITTIER TO ANCHORAGE - Meet the coach at 5:30 PM by the Cliffside Marina for the return to Anchorage. Coach service will drop off at the Hotel Captain Cook at 7:30 PM and the Anchorage Airport by 8:00 PM on request.

If you need assistance, please call us at 907-276-8023.

About Anchorage

Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Anchorage Museum

A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours $20 for adults, discounts available

Chugach State Park

A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.

Nature Half-day to full day Free

Alaska Native Heritage Center

A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.

Cultural 2-3 hours $25 for adults, discounts available

Flattop Mountain

A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.

Adventure 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.

Main Dish Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

King Crab

Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Reindeer Sausage

A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.

Main Dish Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Baked Alaska

A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.

Dessert Contains dairy and gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Wildlife viewing Kayaking Dog sledding Spa treatments Scenic drives Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center

By bus

Downtown Anchorage Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Anchorage South Anchorage West Anchorage Midtown Anchorage

Day trips

Chugach National Forest

20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day

A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Girdwood and Alyeska Resort

40 km from Anchorage • Full day

A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.

Whittier

80 km from Anchorage • Full day

A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.

Festivals

Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February Midnight Sun Festival • June Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September

Pro tips

Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage