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Major Marine Tours offers world-class wildlife and glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park, departing from the beautiful harbor town of Seward, Alaska. We are a locally-owned, family company with over 30 years of sharing authentic Alaska adventures with our guests.
Tour Kenai Fjords on one of our cruise options ranging from 4 hours to 8.5 hours. Our cruises explore the glacier-carved fjords and abundant wildlife of Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park, offering some of the best glacier viewing and whale watching opportunities in Alaska.
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26 Glaciers Cruise Review – Best Glacier experience in Alaska
Last Updated on February 7, 2024
The 26 Glaciers cruise in Whittier is the best glacier experience you can have in Alaska and one of the best tours overall. I know this is a bold statement, but as a former Alaskan, frequent Alaska traveler and tour guide I have experienced a lot of tours and seen a lot of glaciers. While I’ve never been on a glacier tour that wasn’t incredible, this one is special and should be right at the top of the list for things to do if your trip is bringing you to Anchorage at any point and glaciers are your top priority.
It’s true that Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm in Southeast are more famous and just as beautiful and landing on a glacier in a small plane or helicopter is an experience of a lifetime. Getting onto a glacier on a guided hike like Matanuska or Root Glacier , or visiting an ice cave like Castner Glacier or hiking along Exit Glacier for a few hours are more epic experiences, no doubt.
So, why does this tour rise to the top for me? Because it’s accessible to almost any traveler if Anchorage is on their itinerary (those other locations are not), it’s at a price point that is in most traveler’s budgets and it’s perfect for people of any ability level. Add to that you don’t even need a car to get this amazing experience and you really have it all.
I’ve loved this tour for more than twenty years, so when I had the chance to go on it again in May 2023 after a few years, I wanted to give it a thorough and detailed review! On this day, the weather was very cold, rainy and windy and it was still incredible, affirming that this is a wonderful tour in any weather.
- Who is this tour best for?
- Getting to Whittier – 4 ways
- Wheelchair accessibility
- What to expect on board the boat (restrooms, seating, food and drink, weather, etc)
- What to wear and bring for the cruise
- Cost and booking
Who is the 26 Glaciers cruise best for?
The 26 glaciers cruise is an ideal tour for anyone who really wants to see glaciers as a top priority on their Alaska trip (that’s pretty much everyone!) who will be spending any time in the Anchorage area. There is no better glacier experience in Alaska!
Their no sea sickness guarantee on this cruise through the very protected water of Prince William Sound is ideal for those worried about getting sea sick or unsure about boats in general.
You can also combine this with transportation from a cruise ship to Anchorage if you are traveling on a Holland America or Princess cruise that goes in or out of Whittier and you are staying overnight in Anchorage or flying out on a red eye flight that night.
How to get to Whittier and the 26 Glaciers cruise
Whittier is a unique community in Alaska because it is only accessible by boat and by a tunnel that connects it to the Seward Highway and Anchorage. This means getting to Whittier requires a bit of planning and thought, which is well worth it for this epic glacier experience. You have four options for getting to the 26 glaciers cruise:
#1 – Self drive from Anchorage to Whittier
One way to get to the 26 Glaciers cruise is to drive yourself from Anchorage. In order to do this you will need a rental car and you will need to make sure you have the Anton Anderson Tunnel schedule . The tunnel opens to traffic once an hour in each direction so getting through the tunnel in time is critical so you don’t miss your tour!
Once through the tunnel it’s about a five minute drive to the parking area where you board the boat.
This option gives you the maximum flexibility if you want to make stops along the drive (which is incredibly scenic) or you want to wander around Whittier for a few minutes before or after your tour.
#2 – Take the Motorcoach and 26 glaciers cruise combo
One of the best things about the 26 glaciers cruise is that you can do a day trip from Anchorage without a car. When you book your ticket for the 26 glaciers cruise, book the motorcoach transfer combo.
With this option, you don’t need an expensive rental car, don’t need to worry about where you’re going or the tunnel timing and just show up and take in the scenery. The coach will drop you off near the check in office and pick you up in the same location after you return to the dock.
#3 – Take the Alaska Railroad and 26 glaciers cruise combo
Another fantastic unique car free way to get to the 26 glaciers cruise is to take a day trip on the Alaska Railroad’s glacier discovery train. This has the same benefits as the motorcoach, adding in the food and beverage options available on the train and the uniqueness of a train ride. Who doesn’t love a train ride to a boat ride?
After initially following the highway along Turnagain arm, the train then separates from the highway and travels through a beautiful valley with more glaciers all around you.
Make sure to book your train ticket and boat tour ticket together.
#4 – Add the 26 Glaciers cruise onto your cruise ship transfer
If you’re taking a one way cruise to or from Whittier on Holland America or Princess, you can purchase a transfer between Anchorage and the ship that includes the 26 glaciers cruise. You’ll need an entire day to do this, but I highly recommend it!
If you choose this option, definitely book it through your cruise line to ensure a smooth experience with embarkation and disembarkation and so you don’t need to worry about your luggage!
Is the 26 Glaciers cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, however the details of wheelchair accessibility vary a bit between the different vessels used for this tour. It is extremely important to let them know at the time of booking if you will be using a wheelchair, so they can make sure you have a seamless and comfortable experience. The crew is skilled in helping guests in wheelchairs with boarding and getting around the ship.
There are wheelchair accessible restrooms on board and ramps for embarkation and disembarkation. The second level of the boat is not wheelchair accessible (no elevator and steep stairs) but there is no need to go to the second level, the main level is just as good of an experience.
What to expect on the 26 Glaciers cruise
When you check in at the booth before boarding, you will be assigned a seat, so you never have to worry about saving one, getting a good seat or waiting in line for a better seat. The best “seat” is outside on the deck anyway, so you seat is really a place to enjoy your food, take a break from being outside and connect with family, friends or your fellow travelers. Here are some answers to questions I am often asked by my clients about the tour.
26 Glaciers cruise route and length
The cruise lasts about five and a half hours and takes you through College Fjord and Blackstone Bay, both very protected inlets of Prince William Sound that are filled with glaciers, both those that come down to the water and those that are tucked up in the mountains. The exact route varies based on weather and ice conditions.
Philips Cruises also offers a shorter version of this tour, called the Glacier Quest which is just under four hours if you’re looking for a shorter experience. You will still see lots of glaciers on the shorter tour, but not as many as the longer 26 glaciers cruise.
Will I get seasick?
Probably not! If you do, you can get your money back! Seriously though, the water the 26 glaciers cruise goes through is very protected. On my May 2023 visit there was about a 10 minute amount of time with a bit of motion (it was a very windy and wet day) while we were looking at a humpback whale. I have never experienced any significant waves the many other times I’ve been on this tour.
If you have a history of sea sickness or are worried about it, you can always take a sea sickness prevention medication.
Does the boat have restrooms?
Yes! There are plenty of restrooms and I never waited in line or saw a line for the restroom.
Will I really see 26 glaciers?
Probably! It does depend a bit on the weather. You’ll see lots of glaciers that come right down to the water on the cruise no matter what the weather is doing. Some of the 26 could be shrouded in clouds or fog, but you will not be disappointed no matter the weather.
I have done this tour on a perfectly sunny day, and a super wet and rainy day and both were amazing. I honestly didn’t count the glaciers, I was too busy taking them in.
What wildlife will I see on the 26 glaciers cruise?
Although this tour is focused on glaciers and not on wildlife, I have seen wildlife every time I’ve done it. You are very likely to see sea otters, seals, sea lions and many different shore birds. On my recent tour we saw a humpback whale which was incredible! I’ve also seen orcas (killer whales) on this tour.
Overall, if wildlife is your primary focus I would choose a different tour, but you can still expect to see some wildlife on this trip.
Is there wifi on the 26 glaciers cruise?
No. The boats do not have wifi and you will not have a cell signal either once you depart the dock. I recommend putting your phone in airplane mode so you don’t drain your battery while your phone looks for a signal. Enjoy the disconnection for a few hours!
Are there food and drinks available on board?
Philips Cruises includes a complimentary lunch with your 26 glaciers cruise ticket and it’s really good! They have a vegetarian option, but if you are not a vegetarian definitely get the salmon chowder, it’s really really good. It’s served with a roll and some snacks to round out the meal.
There is also complimentary coffee and water on board as well.
You can also purchase snacks and food from the bar as well as drinks. There are plenty of hot and cold alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks available for purchase.
After you make a stop in one of the iceberg filled bays, the crew will collect some ice from the water in a big net, then clean it and chop it up for margaritas! A glacier ice margarita is a very unique drink so give it a try if you like margaritas. You can also try the glacier ice in a soda instead, or just take a look at it once the crew sets it out.
What if it rains?
Don’t worry about the weather! This tour is fantastic even in rainy weather (I’ve been on it in VERY rainy weather so trust me on this). Rain is frequent in this area and also comes and goes, so a day that starts out sunny could bring rain and a rainy day could give way to bright sunshine.
Make sure you’re prepared for both (see below) and know that glaciers and wildlife are not impacted by the weather.
What to wear and bring
The most important thing to bring on this tour is layers for every imaginable kind of weather! The best glacier viewing experience always happens when you’re outside on deck so make sure you have the clothes to enjoy spending time on deck (even if it’s raining).
A rain jacket is critical. Umbrellas are not super helpful on boats because the boat creates wind as it travels across the water. Make sure the rain jacket has a hood. Rain jackets are also great for protection from wind.
I also recommend a warm layer (even on a sunny warm day) as well as a hat.
You’ll also need sun protection, especially sunglasses, even if it’s overcast. Keep in mind that the weather often changes throughout the day, so be prepared for rain and sun.
Make sure to bring your phone charger, they are have charging stations at every seat, but you’ll need your charging cable to plug in.
If you have binoculars, bringing those along is a great idea. You can also rent binoculars from the bartender for $5 for the day on board.
Related : What to pack for Alaska
Cost and Booking Information
The 26 Glaciers cruise is easy to book online and operates from early May through the end of October and costs $189 for adults (anyone 12 and over) plus tax. Children age 2-11 are $125 plus tax. Little ones under two travel free (but still need a reservation).
The shorter Glacier Quest Cruise operates from mid May through early September and costs $149 for adults (anyone 12 and older) plus tax and children age 2-11 are $89 plus tax.
If you want to add on transportation from Anchorage, do that when you buy your ticket. The motorcoach transportation costs an additional $89 per person round trip for adults and $59 for children. The Alaska Railroad option costs and additional $125 for adults and $63 for children, round trip.
Final thoughts
Overall I believe this to be the best glacier experience in Alaska that’s accessible to pretty much everyone, as long as they are spending at least a full day in Anchorage.
The 26 glaciers tour is affordable for most travelers, is fun no matter what the weather is doing and gives you the opportunity to be surrounded by glaciers all day. Add in some delicious food and unique drinks and it is almost impossible to not love the 26 glaciers tour!
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26 Glacier Cruise
Review Highlights
“ I chose the Whittier location because its boats visit more glaciers in Prince William Sound . ” in 8 reviews
“ We also got to see a lot of wildlife and never felt cramped on the cruise, which was great. ” in 12 reviews
“ The crew is great, narration was very informative and they pulled the boat right up to the cliffs and glaciers. ” in 13 reviews
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Whittier, AK 99693
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This is a very stable boat making it really, really hard to get sea sick on. Unlike other boats, this one is fast! As such, one is not looking at the same view for long periods of time. New glaciers and things to see quickly come into view throughout the tour. The clam chowder is good. The rest of the meal that accompanies it is okay. The onboard full bar is solid and not over priced! The staff are very positive, helpful and knowledgeable - a retired ranger even provides commentary throughout the tour! Strongly recommend bringing jacket, hat & gloves even on a good weather day if one wants to be on deck when the ship is traveling at 30+ mph. Boat does stop at glaciers for photo ops and to watch calving. Animals seen: Bear, otter, eagle, seals and fish a jumpin.
26 Glacier Tour Cruise is the #1 reason why tourists visit Whittier, Alaska. I took the cruise the other day, July 28, 2022. Overall, I had a good time except for one aspect...and that being when outside on the decks for viewing the glaciers, people hog the railings to take their pictures. Then they rotate family members without time for other passengers to get their memorable moments. I actually reached out to the tour hosts...Phillips Cruises, about this matter. I asked if maybe they can make a few announcements and reminders about tourists being courteous to each other, but Phillips declined to do this. I guess maybe they don't want to cause a stir. I don't know specifically why, but all I'd suggest is that for future passengers...BE AGGRESSIVE AND ASSERTIVE when you want your pictures and time at the best stops along the cruise tour! With that being said, let me give details about 26 Glacier Tour Cruise... It cost $203.95 all-in including taxes and fees for the trip. It departs out of Whittier, Alaska which is located 60 miles east of Anchorage. Plus, you must pay $13 to take the mandatory tunnel to arrive in Whittier and $10 for daily parking. If possible, when determining your plans, try and pick a day when it'll be sunny out because that'll obviously totally enhance the picturesque perspectives of all the glaciers. I must give the hosts, Phillips Cruises, credit in terms of providing all extras for taking the cruise. In multiple emails, they explained everything! Quick rundown of times... - Take the 10:30am ferry into Whittier. - Check-in at 11:30am. - Board at 12pm. - Boat doors close at 12:30 pm. - Depart Whittier at 12:45pm. - 5 hours' worth of exploring Prince William Sound getting to see 26 glaciers including wildlife, like whales, otters and sealions. - Arrive back in Whittier at 6pm. - Exit the cruise ship - 6:15pm. The time flies by when onboard and navigating. There's much to see and do. Phillips provides lunch, which you'll eat within the 1st hour of cruising so then you can enjoy the sights and surroundings for the next 4 hours. I chose the seafood soup. It was delicious including a coleslaw side salad, piece of cheese, roll, chocolate candy, and some gummy fruit snack. Then, on the return trip back to Whittier, they provide fresh baked chocolate chip cookies. Phillips does pick your seat, which you'll use your as a "home base" to leave your stuff while hanging on the upper and middle decks for viewing. They offer 4 and 6 person tables. For myself traveling alone, I shared a table with another couple and got to know them and become friendly. So...although they say "26 glaciers"...a lot of the glaciers you'll just pass by while cruising. You can take photos of them in the distance, but they won't stop and offer up-close angles of those glaciers. In the end, Phillips will afford passengers time at maybe 5 - 6 glaciers...where they'll stop the boat and slowly rotate it around so passengers can have their family photos. But beware, depending on which side of the boat the views are on, other passengers will hover and breathe on top of you with disregard to your personal space. I HATED THIS! People have no respect for giving others a chance! The best highlight was SURPRISE GLACIER! Stunning! It's hard to describe...but with the sun in full force, it was so colorful and positioned perfectly along with a couple of small charter boats floating around making for wonderful picture taking moments. Also, CASCADE GLACIER was terrific. Cascade Glacier was situated next to 2 other glaciers, so ultimately you get 3 glaciers for the price of one! Again, the captain will slow the boat down for passengers to snap pics. We did stop and spend 20 minutes watching whales swim in the distance. People appreciated this. I found it boring and unphotographable. Another great point about the cruise, they had a Park Ranger onboard to do a lot of the talking and explaining over the loudspeaker. The cruise features unlimited water, coffee and hot tea. There's a gift shop on the lower level to buy souvenirs. You can pay to have alcoholic drinks and snacks/candies/extras. Btw, at Cascade Glacier, the tour crew handed out signs including Christmas Signs for those wanting to capture family photos from their experience. This was a creative idea. All the passengers were taking turns grabbing signs and asking crew members to snap their photos. Lastly, within the 5 hours of cruising, I'd say 1 hour each way (2 hours in total) you'll be spending just hanging out and appreciating the fresh ocean air. It's only until you arrive in the heart of Prince William Sound that the real action begins. Overall, I liked the 26 Glacier Cruise. Other than the same passengers hogging the rail times over and over and over again, I'd give it 5 stars. And...for being so closely situated to Anchorage, Seward, Girdwood and many other worthwhile Alaskan attractions, make sure to keep this cruise tour on your To-Do List.
See all photos from Seth A. for 26 Glacier Cruise
Peaceful and educational/ glad we took the time to stop by. Great spot for pictures. Alaska at its finest for sure.
Excellent glacier viewing experience but a rather long day. The tour we booked includes both the train ride (from Anchorage to Whittier and back) and the cruise itself. The train ride was fun and full of beautiful views and plenty of humor from our guide, a precocious young lady who has yet to graduate high school. The cruise itself was of course the highlight of the day and included lots of narrations from both the ranger and the captain, who had a keen eye for spotting whales and made every effort to stop to let us film. The cruise also includes a delicious lunch (clam chowder or chili) and free coffee, which I sorely needed after a long day of walking yesterday. Overall, this was an excellent experience but a rather long day if you ride the train. You can save at least 2 hours if you drive a car but we chose to experience the train ride that I've heard so much about. I highly recommend this company for its professionalism and great overall experience!
See all photos from Tim L. for 26 Glacier Cruise
A bucket list item fulfilled in a magnificent way. The glaciars should be seen by everyone, andbthis is a very comfortable way to do so. Captain knowledgable but not overwhelming with chatter. Crew helpful and kind. Boat ride calm even at higher speeds, and interiors clean, including the facilities
See all photos from David K. for 26 Glacier Cruise
This cruise was really beautiful. Saw a lot of sea otters and seals and even a seal on the ice.
Horrible company. 80 year old lady couldn't walk unassisted during boarding and had to goto hospital. The company refused to refund the family. Offered to refund 75% for one person to transfer to a hospital and expected the rest of the family to go on the cruise. Go to Seward. Family oriented companies out there.
Only had one free day so tried this out. Fun and easy one day event. Got lucky and had perfect weather , salmon boats and a few whales. Great pics that I could not get from road.
Great cruise! We were disappointed that we didn't see any whales but saw a lot of otters and sea lions along the way. No seasickness as advertised. Bring your binoculars! Staff was wonderful!
Beautiful glacier
This cruise is a must! We drove about an hour from Anchorage and parked directly by where you load on the ship ($15 for parking). We got there a little early and got some coffee at the café close by. The small town Whittier is so so cool! The boat was so spacious and comfortable with large tables to sit at. We ended up sitting on the upper level with our own access to the decks. Beautiful scenery with so many glaciers. We were able to spot a black bear and sea lions & otters.
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Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise from Anchorage
Travel by bus or train from anchorage to whittier to embark on a cruise providing up-close glacier viewing..
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Home » City-Based Day Tours » Prince William Sound 26 Glacier Cruise from Anchorage
Day Tour Details
What's included:.
- Roundtrip transportation from Anchorage to Whittier
- Prince William Sound glacier cruise with lunch
- All taxes and fees
Dates & Rates
Prince William Sound / 26 Glacier Cruise with roundtrip Motorcoach Depart Anchorage via Motorcoach: approx. 9:30H / Arrive Whittier: 11:30H Depart Whittier via Motorcoach: 18:45H / Arrive Anchorage: 20:30H Overall tour duration: 11 hours (cruise itself is 5.5 hours long)
Prince William Sound / 26 Glacier Cruise with roundtrip Alaska Railroad Depart Anchorage via Alaska Railroad: 9:45H / Arrive Whittier: 12:05H Depart Whittier via Alaska Railroad: 18:45H / Arrive Anchorage: 21:00H Overall tour duration : 11.5 hours (cruise itself is 5.5 hours long)
Contact us to book this Tour.
Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.
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This was the best vacation we have ever had and I just wanted to say thank you so much! The only problem is that we are ready to come back already! Thanks again for everything!
Elizabeth | Texas
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See 26 Glaciers in Five Hours: the Alaskan Fjord Near Anchorage You Need to Visit
A laska has no shortage of beautiful places that look like fjords straight out of Norway, but two tend to get the most attention: Glacier Bay National Park near Juneau , and Kenai Fjords National Park , near Seward.
Unfortunately for visitors to Anchorage, Alaska, both of those places are really far away. It’s a two-hour flight to reach Juneau from Anchorage, followed by a four-to-six-hour ferry to Glacier Bay. Kenai Fjords is a bit closer, requiring a three-hour drive to Seward, followed by a ferry along the park’s coast.
But travelers with only one day to spare — or even half a day — have an equally beautiful and far less crowded alternative to the coastal parks: the Prince William Sound.
Photo: Troutnut /Shutterstock
The body of water is named for English King Charles III’s son Prince William IV, who later became king in the mid-1800. Travelers access the Sound from the town of Whittier, just over an hour from Anchorage (or from Valdez, about five hours north of Anchorage).
With multiple options for wildlife cruises and more than 150 named glaciers along its 3,800 miles of coastline, the Prince William Sound is a stunning alternative to Alaska’s more oft-photographed coastlines. Here’s everything to know to plan your trip.
Where is the Prince William Sound?
The closest commercial airport is Anchorage, though there are small airports in Valdez and further south in Cordova. Visitors without cars can take the Alaska Railroad’ s 2.5-hour Glacier Discovery route from Anchorage to Whittier (daily in summer), but there are no public transportation option for getting to Valdez.
Using the Whittier train tunnel
Photo: Suzie Dundas
Whittier sits at the shoreline surrounded by mountains (or water) on all sides, which means it’s impossible to build new auto roads into town. The only way to reach Whittier is through a 2.5-mile long railroad tunnel. But since cars do need to reach Whittier, there’s only one solution: share the tunnel.
It’s actually safer than it sounds. Cars headed to or from Whittier line up on either side of the tunnel. The tunnel opens to cars going to Whittier on the half-hour (10:30, 11:30, and so on) and open to cars leaving Whittier on the hour. Drivers have about a 10-minute window to make the tunnel, so if you plan to drive to Whittier through the tunnel at 10:30 AM, you’ll lose your chance by 10:40 AM. So it’s best to plan to arrive a little early.
Depending on the season, traffic is allowed through the tunnel from 5:30 or 7:30 AM to 10 or 11 PM. There’s a $13 fee to drive through the tunnel, which is open only to trains during all other times.
History of the Prince William Sound
A 19th-century photo of the Prince William Sound’s Washington Glacier. Photo: Library of Congress /Public Domain
The Prince William Sound was formed by the very same thing that draws visitors to the area today: glaciers. Eons ago, the glaciers once topped these mountains, which mostly lacked valleys between them. Over time, their movement — and the accompanied movement of rocks, water, and earth — slowly eroded the mountains, forming the Sound as we know it today.
Several European expeditions entered the Sound between the 1700s and early 1900s, but it’s probably most famous for the 1964 tsunami that flooded the town of Whittier (as well as most of the US and Canadian West Coast). Now, all residents of Whittier live in one apartment building in the center of town.
Today, the Prince William Sound is one of the most stunning day trips to take from Anchorage and home to an amazing array of wildlife (including seal and bird rookeries), as well as world-class fishing opportunities. And the Lazy Otter Cafe makes pretty tasty pastries.
Prince William Sound boat tours
Three major companies offer boat tours of the Prince William Sound from Whittier: Phillips Cruises , Lazy Otter Charters , Saltwater Excursions (primarily fishing tours, but they’ll do custom sightseeing cruises), and Alaska Sea Kayakers (kayaking tours).
By a long shot, the cruises from Phillips Cruises are the most popular. The company’s multi-level boats are large and stable, complete with an on-board bar, comfortable bathrooms, and indoor and outdoor viewing areas.. The company’s aptly named “ 26 Glaciers ” cruise is a five-hour tour passing the glaciers closest to Whittier in the Sound, while the “Glacier Quest” cruise is a shorter 3.75-hour version. Both include lunch (including a shockingly tasting seafood chowder) and narration from an on-board naturalist. The boats can hold 200 people each, though with assigned seats at the indoor dining tables, it rarely feels like you’re competing for space.
Lazy Otter and Saltwater Excursions offer smaller custom charters on boats that usually hold no more than 20 people. The boats are much smaller and far more subject to swells and rough water, though the Sound is fairly well-protected by their inland location. Operating out of the Lazy Otter Cafe, Lazy Otter Charters offers semi-regular trips, several boats available for charter, and guided summer kayak tours, complete with gear, guides, and lunch and snacks.
From Valdez, visitors can tour the northern parts of the Sound, including the Port of Valdez, with Stephen’s Cruises to the Columbia or Meares glaciers (similar to Phillips Cruises), or take combination kayak, glacier, and hiking day tours with Anadyr Adventures , though they don’t go as far into the actual Sound.
The Prince William Sound is teeming with wildlife. But since it’s a heck of a huge body of water, covering 10,000 square miles, there’s still no guarantee that you’ll see anything.
There’s a chance of spitting orcas year-round in the water as several pods live in the Sound. But more common are humpback whales, which pass through the Sound while migrating in May, June, and July. Harbor seals and stellar sea lions like to hang out on the Sound’s iceberg floats and rocky islands, respectively, and sightings of otters floating around the shorelines are quite common.
Alaska’s Prince William Sound is also home to more than 220 species of birds, including arctic terms, bald eagles, and puffins. And species visitors may see traveling along the shorelines include black bears, moose, or dall sheep.
Glaciers and mountains
The Chugach Mountains surround the Prince William Sound to the north and East and the Kenai Mountains to the west. And Mount Marcus Baker is the highest point in the Chugach Mountains at more than 13,000 feet above sea level, just north of the Harvard Glacier. As the Prince William Sound sits at sea level, that’s a pretty significant vertical drop to see from the deck of a relatively tiny boat.
The Prince William Sound has more than 150 named glaciers, 17 of which are tidewater glaciers, which means they touch the water. These tidewater glaciers, which are the ones the boat tours can get closest to, are generally the most exciting for travelers as they offer the chance to see calving : huge pieces of ice falling from the glacier into the water, usually accompanied by an extremely loud cracking sound just a second or two before.
The Harriman Glacier in Alaska’s Prince William Sound. Photo: Suzie Dundas
The Prince William Sound has more glaciers than any other region of Alaska, and the largest is the Columbia Glacier at roughly 32 miles long and 1800 feet thick. Glaciers may expand or retreat annually based on snowfall and temperatures, but climate change hasn’t spared any of the Prince William Sound glaciers, and the Columbia Glacier has shrunk by 400 to 1000 feet on both ends. Interestingly, the Sound’s Meares Glacier is advancing. However, that means it’s shifting, not growing.
On most boat tours from Whittier, the highlight of the trip is a visit to the College Fjord, home to five tidewater glaciers and many more alpine glaciers. The Harvard Glacier is one of the largest, but all the fjord’s glaciers are named for colleges. That’s because the Harriman Expedition that first explored the region (co-led by naturalist John Muir) was funded by a collection of East Coast colleges. Now, the massive glaciers bear names like “Yale” and “Smith.” Cruisers into the College Fjord will likely see seals and otters drifting on small pieces of ice as they near the shoreline.
It’s also possible to reach the College Fjord from Valdez, though it’s a slightly longer trip. However, Valdez is closest to the Columbia and Meares glaciers, as well as the Valdez Glacier.
Weather and seasonality
Expect extremely cold temperatures and wind on the water year-round, but especially in winter. Photo: Jim Schwabel /Shutterstock
As with most places in Alaska, the main tourist season is summer, and it’s rather short. However, because Whittier is a relatively easy drive from Anchorage, even in poor weather, the season in Whittier is a bit longer. Rather than closing in mid-Sept, many businesses in Whittier are open until very early October, including Phillips Cruises. Most tours and businesses around the Prince William Sound open in late May.
Whittier is a year-round town, but with a population of just 300, it doesn’t offer much to do in the winter, when many businesses have shortened hours. However, Lazy Otter does offer shorter cruises in March, April, and May.
In Valdez, Valdez Outfitters offers winter sightseeing and fishing tours, with schedules based on demand. Even on summer tours, guests will want insulated jackets and beanies, so be sure to bring multiple warm layers on winter boat tours.
Lodging and dining
Because of its proximity to Anchorage and Girdwood (home of Alyeska Resort), the lodging options for people visiting the Prince William Sound aren’t limited to just Whittier. But travelers staying in Whittier will be able to walk everywhere they need to go.
Camping in Whittier
There are two campgrounds in Whittier: Whittier Parking and Camping (no reservations, open mid-May to early October) and the City of Whittier Campground (no reservations, with a maximum stay of seven nights).
The Inn at Whittier
The Inn at Whittier is the only hotel option in Whittier, the rest of the options are home/cabin rentals or bed and breakfasts. The hotel isn’t akin to a five-star experience, but it’s comfortable and has a great waterfront location. There’s an on-site restaurant and tavern and staff can help arrange any type of area activity for guests.
Camping in Valdez
Photo: Discover Valdez /Jiyeon Juno Kim
There are plenty of places to pitch a tent or park an RV in Valdez, though most will be closed outside of the tourist season. Eagle’s Rest RV Park and Cabins is the closest to downtown and offers rental cabins and basic safari-style glamping tents, plus a first-come, first-served area for tent campers.
Hotels in Valdez
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Seward Dog Sledding on Glacier & Helicopter Tour
$599 / person
Experience the beauty of winter during the summer on this 90-minute helicopter and dog sledding tour out of Seward, Alaska. Helicopter into a professional dog camp on top of the ancient Godwin Glacier and ride along on an eas READ MORE...
Seward Glacier Landing
$279 / person
Go on a beautiful 15 minutes helicopter tour over the Godwin Glacier and landing at the toe of one of the three Glaciers, Porcupine Glacier, Snake Tongue Glacier, and Hawk's Glacier! This is a perfect introduction to the incr READ MORE...
Seward Scenic Flight to Bear Glacier
$379 / person
Take a scenic flight tour to the largest glacier coming off the Harding field, Bear Glacier. You are bound to be amazed by the gorgeous views of snow-covered peaks, cascading waterfalls, old-growth forests, and more on this e READ MORE...
Seward Scenic Flight to Aialik Glacier
$479 / person
This 45-minute scenic tour visits the beautiful Aialik Glacier located in the Kenai Fjords National Park. Fly over the expansive Bear Glacier to view the lagoon on the way to the Aialik Glacier to view its impressive ice wall READ MORE...
Seward Scenic Flight over Kenai Fjords and Chugach National Forest
This tour brings you through the incredible scenery surrounding Seward, Alaska. You will have the choice between going to the Kenai Fjords and Harding Icefield or taking the land-based route over Chugach National Forest and t READ MORE...
Seward Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure
$199 / person
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. This tour will take you hiking on Exit Glacier, located within the Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy the views as you explore the ancient glacier ice. Blue ice and large glacier creva READ MORE...
Seward Harding Icefield Trail Hiking Tour
$179 / person
Take in the pristine, scenic beauty of the Alaskan backcountry on this 8.2 mile hike. You'll pass through the forested pathways, lush meadows, and massive glaciers of Kenai Fjords National Park. If you're active and enjoy spe READ MORE...
Seward Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise Tour
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Our 6-hour cruise explores the world of whales, wildlife, and glaciers found in Kenai Fjords National Park. Learn information about the area's ecology, history, and geology. This cruise is the best option for those traveling READ MORE...
Seward Kenai Fjords 7.5 Hour National Park Cruise
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This thrilling 7.5-hour cruise explores Kenai Fjords National Park, where wildlife is abundant and tidewater glaciers are massive. Providing a full narration of your journey, your captain will guide you to the many spectacula READ MORE...
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Seward offers some of Alaska's best glacier tours . From Seward, you can access Aialik Glacier, Bear Glacier, Exit Glacier, Godwin Glacier, Porcupine Glacier, Snake Tongue Glacier, Hawk's Glacier, and more.
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Phillips Cruises and Tours – 26 Glacier Cruise
Phillips Cruises and Tours has been operating glacier and wildlife cruises since 1958. Cruises depart from Whittier and Seward on first-class, high-speed catamarans. Explore Prince William Sound – Whittier Alaska.26 Glacier Cruise – Our most popular choice!A journey into Prince William Sound is unforgettable. Explore the serenity of Esther Passage, view majestic alpine and tidewater glaciers in College Fjord and Blackstone Bay while traveling in luxurious comfort aboard the Klondike Express, the fastest catamaran in Alaska. Watch for sea otters, whales, mountain goats, black bears, and migratory birds. 12:45 pm – 6:15 pm, $159Adult, $80Child, plus $19.95 tax/fees Glacier Quest Cruise – Great choice for families!Cruise into magnificent Blackstone Bay, home to seven glaciers and glistening waterfalls. Watch for playful sea otters, harbor seals, kittiwakes.1:00 pm to 4:45 pm, $109 Adult, $55 Child, plus taxes/fees. See Kenai Fjords National Park – Seward, AlaskaOur 5-hr Kenai Fjords Cruise maximizes your time in Kenai Fjords National Park while cruising in luxurious comfort on our high-speed catamaran, Bravest. Watch for graceful whales and colorful puffins and view Holgate and Aialik glaciers up close. 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, $159 Adult, $80 Child, plus taxes/fees. All cruises include a delicious hot lunch, narration by the captain reserved indoor seating, on non-smoking, restroom equipped vessels. Whittier cruises offer a no seasickness guarantee and depart from the Cliffside Marina at 100 West Camp Rd. Plan travel time to use the 10:30 AM or 11:30 AM tunnel entrance time to access Whittier. Seward Cruises offer free parking at the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, 913 Port Ave.
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The 26 Glacier Cruise operates daily May through September and the Glacier Quest Cruise operates daily from May 15 through September 15. Rail & Cruise Combo: Climb aboard the famous Alaska Railroad for a trip you'll never forget through Anchorage, along scenic Turnagain Arm and through the glacier studded Portage Valley.
Address About What to Bring Getting There Dates and Prices Videos Photos Contact Phillips 26 Glacier Cruise (1:58) Cruise the calm, protected waters of Prince William Sound and come face to face with tidewater glaciers plus an amazing array of wildlife on Phillips Cruises & Tours.
26 Glacier Cruise Whittier Alaska - Phillips Cruises Alaska Glacier Tours Whittier Prince William Sound Discover the glaciers of Prince William Sound on an easy day trip from Anchorage. Our Alaska Glacier Cruises depart from Whittier, Alaska.
See spectacular glaciers and wildlife up close on high-speed catamarans from Whittier and Seward, Alaska with Phillips Cruises and Tours.
The 26 Glacier Cruise with Phillips Cruises & Tours Available May 11 - September 15, 2024 Explore Prince William Sound aboard the fastest catamaran in Alaska.
First thing first. As I previously mentioned, the 26 Glacier Cruise leaves from the town of Whittier, Alaska. There are a few ways to get to Whittier: You can take the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage. The ride takes about 2 hours and costs around $60 per person. You can take the Whittier Shuttle for only $42. Lastly, you can of course drive from ...
Explore Kenai Fjords National Park on a full or half day wildlife and glacier cruise with Major Marine Tours, departing from Seward, Alaska.
The 26 glaciers cruise is an ideal tour for anyone who really wants to see glaciers as a top priority on their Alaska trip (that's pretty much everyone!) who will be spending any time in the Anchorage area. There is no better glacier experience in Alaska!
Drive the scenic Seward Highway to Whittier and travel through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier to meet your 26 glacier cruise.
Phillips Cruises & Tours operates the 26 Glacier Cruise and Glacier Quest Cruise from Whittier, Alaska. View dynamic glaciers and curious wildlife up close while enjoying the spectacular beauty of Prince William Sound. Depending on the cruise you choose, you can explore the serenity of Esther Passage, view majestic glaciers in College Fjord, or ...
4.4 (46 reviews) Unclaimed Boat Charters See all 99 photos Add photo Prince William Sound wildlife and never felt cramped on the cruise, which was great. crew is great, narration was very informative and they pulled the boat right up to the cliffs and glaciers. " Whittier, AK 99693 4 other reviews that are not currently recommended
This is where Phillips 26 Glacier Cruise can be the perfect option; as the name suggests, it's a cruise focused on seeing the many glaciers visible in Alaska's Prince William Sound. In this post, I'll share my Phillips 26 Glacier Cruise review from our 2021 trip to Alaska.
49 reviews Recommended by 91% of travelers See all photos About from $225.84 per adult Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay later Free cancellation Ages 0-120, max of 14 per group Duration: 5h Start time: Check availability Mobile ticket Live guide: English Written guide: English What's included
Child: $215. Book Now. Prince William Sound / 26 Glacier Cruise with roundtrip Motorcoach. Depart Anchorage via Motorcoach: approx. 9:30H / Arrive Whittier: 11:30H. Depart Whittier via Motorcoach: 18:45H / Arrive Anchorage: 20:30H. Overall tour duration: 11 hours (cruise itself is 5.5 hours long)
26 Glacier Cruise and Coach from Anchorage, AK By Phillips Cruises and Tours 69 reviews See all photos About from $317.12 per adult Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay later Free cancellation Ages 0-120, max of 250 per group Duration: 11h Start time: Check availability Mobile ticket Live guide: English More What's included
The company's multi-level boats are large and stable, complete with an on-board bar, comfortable bathrooms, and indoor and outdoor viewing areas.. The company's aptly named "26 Glaciers" cruise is a five-hour tour passing the glaciers closest to Whittier in the Sound, while the "Glacier Quest" cruise is a shorter 3.75-hour version ...
The 26 Glacier Cruise departs from Whittier and travels through the pristine passageways and fjords found in Alaska's Prince William Sound. Upon leaving Whittier, the vessel heads east out Passage Canal towards Egg Rocks or Perry Island in search of migratory Steller sea lions. From there it proceeds to the very scenic area called Esther ...
May 13 - Sept. 17, 2023 | Daily after May 27th. Step aboard the Alaska Railroad for an unforgettable journey of breathtaking scenery as you ride the rails along spectacular Turnagain Arm. Restroom equipped. Anchorage Girdwood Whittier Return Anchorage 9:45 am 11:00 am 6:45 pm 9:15 pm. RAIL | In Anchorage, please arrive 1-hour early with photo I.D.
6 hrs $219 / person Our 6-hour cruise explores the world of whales, wildlife, and glaciers found in Kenai Fjords National Park. Learn information about the area's ecology, history, and geology.
Phillips Cruises and Tours has been operating glacier and wildlife cruises since 1958. Cruises depart from Whittier and Seward on first-class, high-speed catamarans. Explore Prince William Sound - Whittier Alaska.26 Glacier Cruise - Our most popular choice!A journey into Prince William Sound is unforgettable. Explore the serenity of Esther Passage, view majestic alpine and tidewater […]
It is located at the head of Passage Canal in Prince William Sound, roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage. You can reach Whittier by train in roughly two hours on the Alaska Railroad, or drive from Anchorage in about 90 minutes.
Map Take a day cruise from Seward, and from the comfort of your boat, you can get close to whales, sea lion colonies, otter rafts, and colorful puffins. Climb aboard and let experienced captains narrate your voyage, identify a massive tidewater glacier, and explore the history, geology, and diverse wildlife that make up the area.
5 Map Website Season: May 1 - 3rd week of September $199+ 3-10 hrs Take a boutique, small-group kayaking trip with experienced guides at Liquid Adventures and get close to glaciers in kayaks or paddleboards while looking for whales and other marine mammals.