Whittier , United States

Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Drive the Seward Highway along the scenic Turnagain Arm to Whittier. The Glacier Quest Cruise takes you from the quaint seaside town of Whittier 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.

Available options

Glacier Quest Cruise Self Drive

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, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a Peppermint Pattie. Request Vegetarian Chili or Kids’ Meal 48 hours prior

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

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

Restroom on board

Coffee, hot tea, and ice water are available.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Add travel time from Anchorage to Whittier at 90 minutes each way. From Girdwood to Whittier, allow 45 minutes.

We recommend taking the 11:30 AM tunnel entrance at the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to access Whittier in time for the Glacier Quest Cruise. The tunnel is open thirty minutes past the hour for access to Whittier. After your cruise, the tunnel opens on the hour to depart Whittier until 11:00 PM.

Stop 2

The Glacier Quest Cruise travels 45 miles into Blackstone Bay where seven glaciers and glistening waters provide a spectacular panoramic view from the mountain peaks above to the turquoise saltwater sea below.

Please check-in one hour before cruise departure time.

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

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

10:00 AM Drive Anchorage to Whittier, allowing 1.5 hours travel time.
11:30 AM Travel through North America's longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel.
12:00 PM Arrive, Whittier. Check-in and board cruise by 12:55 PM.

Important notes

Present your mobile ticket and photo I.D. at check-in.

10:00 AM DRIVE ANCHORAGE TO WHITTIER - All cruises depart from the Cliffside Marina, 100 West Camp Rd, Whittier, AK. We suggest departing Anchorage at 10:00 AM and allowing 1.5 hours to reach the Whittier tunnel entrance at 11:30 AM. The drive to Whittier along the Seward Highway is a spectacular route designated a National Scenic Byway. Plan extra travel time for photo stops and summer road construction delays.

To reach Whittier, all guests will travel through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, North America’s longest shared rail and vehicle tunnel. The one-way tunnel operates on a rotating schedule, and everyone must be in line by 30-minutes past the hour to enter the tunnel going to Whittier. The fee for the tunnel ($13) and parking ($10-$12) is not included. In Whittier, public parking is available on Whittier Street, a short walk from our office.

12:00 PM GLACIER QUEST CRUISE - To receive your boarding cards for the cruise, proceed to Phillips Cruise "Express Check-In" located on the observation deck near the boarding zone in the Cliffside Marina. Present your photo I.D. and a mobile ticket 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 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!

5:00 PM DRIVE WHITTIER TO ANCHORAGE - After exploring Whittier and Prince William Sound by boat, enjoy Whittier. The tunnel opens every hour for 15 minutes to allow traffic to depart Whittier. The last tunnel closes at 11:00 PM.

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

About Whittier

Whittier is a unique and picturesque town in Alaska, known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and charming small-town atmosphere. It's a gateway to stunning natural wonders and offers a blend of history, adventure, and tranquility.

Top Attractions

Begich Boggs Visitor Center

This visitor center offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It's a great starting point for hiking and nature trails.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Portage Glacier

A stunning glacier that can be viewed from the Begich Boggs Visitor Center or by boat tour.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on activity Free to view, boat tours cost extra

Whittier Tunnel

The Anton Anderson Tunnel is a unique tunnel that connects Whittier to the Seward Highway. It's a marvel of engineering and offers a scenic drive.

Historical 20-30 minutes for the drive through Toll fee applies

Whittier Museum

This small museum offers a glimpse into the town's history, including its role during World War II and its unique geography.

Historical 30-60 minutes Moderate

Blackstone Bay

A beautiful bay offering opportunities for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and scenic photography.

Nature Half-day to full-day Free to explore, kayak rentals cost extra

Must-Try Local Dishes

Alaskan Salmon

Freshly caught salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try in Whittier.

Dinner Contains fish

King Crab

Alaskan king crab is a delicacy, often served steamed or in crab legs.

Dinner Contains shellfish

Reindeer Sausage

A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as a sausage.

Snack Contains meat

Baked Alaska

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

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Wildlife viewing Dog sledding Scenic drives Coffee shop visits Museum tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Whittier for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is relatively mild, and the days are long, providing ample time to explore the natural beauty.

10°C to 15°C 50°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
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

Whittier is a small, safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should always take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious when driving in winter conditions

Getting there

By air

Anchorage International Airport • 90 miles (145 km)

By train

Whittier Station

By bus

Anchorage

Getting around

Public transport

The town is small, and most attractions are within walking distance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Limited availability of ride-sharing apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Whittier Portage Valley

Day trips

Anchorage

90 miles (145 km) • Half day to full day

Alaska's largest city offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

Seward

30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day

A charming coastal town known for its fishing industry, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.

Girdwood

20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day

A picturesque mountain town offering year-round outdoor activities and stunning scenery.

Festivals

Whittier Summer Festival • July Northern Lights Festival • Winter months

Pro tips

Visit the Begich Boggs Visitor Center for stunning views and educational exhibits
Take a boat tour to see Portage Glacier up close
Explore the Anton Anderson Tunnel for a unique driving experience
Check out local art galleries and museums for a taste of Alaskan culture
Try local seafood dishes, especially salmon and king crab