Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise

Seward , United States

Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise

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(341 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Travel to remote areas in Kenai Fjords National Park on this full-day adventure cruise. Ideal for photographers, birders, and whale-watching enthusiasts, this 8.5 hour cruise explores the untouched area of Northwestern Fjord in Kenai Fjords National Park. This cruise travels with a smaller group for a more intimate cruising experience, providing the best opportunity for up-close views of wildlife and glaciers. A full day on the water allows the captain plenty of time to seek out the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the area, home to humpback whales, orca whales, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and many types of seabirds. You will spend time in front of the impressive Northwestern Glacier, an actively-calving tidewater glacier. A deli lunch is included.

Available options

Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise

What's included

Use of binoculars on board

Narration by knowledgeable, experienced Captain

Restroom on board

Sandwich options are turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian.

All taxes and fees included in price

Water, coffee, and tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

This adventure cruise is the only small-vessel cruise that explores the remote, glacier-carved Northwestern Fjord in Kenai Fjords National Park. Ideal for photographers, birders, and whale-watching enthusiasts, this 8.5 hour cruise departs from the Seward Harbor 360 Hotel dock 8:30 a.m. and returns at 5:00 p.m. The cruise will travel through Resurrection Bay, Kenai Fjords National Park, the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Resurrection, Granite Pass, Harris Bay, and into the spectacular Northwestern Fjord. Due to the vessel size and the cruise length, children under 12 are not suitable on this cruise.

Stop 2 Pass by

Narrated by our knowledgeable, experienced captain and crew, guests have the unique opportunity to explore remote, untouched areas of Kenai Fjords National Park with a small group. Depending on sea conditions and wildlife-viewing opportunities, the captain’s route to Northwestern Fjord can vary from day to day. After cruising through Resurrection Bay, you will explore the Chiswell Islands (part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge) or Cape Resurrection, home to thousands of nesting seabirds, Steller sea lions, and other wildlife.

The cruise will then enter Harris Bay, where you will be greeted with views of beautiful hidden coves, rugged mountains, and possibly feeding whales. Once we enter the virtually untouched and untamed Northwestern Fjord, look for the numerous alpine glaciers nestled high on the cliffs. You will visit Northwestern, Anchor, and Ojive Glaciers at the end of Northwestern Fjord. You will spend time in front of the glacier to watch for glacial calving.

Stop 3 Pass by

Cruise through Resurrection Bay, the Gulf Of Alaska, and Harris Bay in search of wildlife such as humpbacks, killer whales, sea lions, harbor seals, seabirds, and more.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

81 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

260 reviews

5★

256

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Adult pricing applies to all travelers.

Children under 12 not suitable for cruise

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Not recommended for guests with limited mobility

Please arrive 1 hour prior to departure for check-in

Meeting point

Major Marine Tours check-in office at the Harbor 360 Hotel. Please arrive 1 hour prior to departure for check-in.
1412 4th Ave.
Seward, AK 99664

If you are driving from Anchorage the morning of your cruise please allow 4 hours for the drive due to construction and traffic on the Seward Highway.

Important notes

Check-in is required one hour prior to cruise departure at the Major Marine Tours office. For driving directions and a map of the Seward Small Boat Harbor, please visit http://www.majormarine.com/seward-check-in.

Guests are urged to dress in layers, including a warm rain-proof coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable, rubber-soled shoes. Guests are welcome to stay in our heated cabins, but warm clothes are recommended for guests who would like to spend time outside on the viewing decks.

For the comfort of our guests, Major Marine Tours is proud to designate all of our vessels as smoke free to ensure that our guests have the best experience while on the water.

Welcome aboard and thank you for choosing Major Marine Tours!

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.