Kenai Fjords: Glacier Cruise, Wildlife & Whale Watching

Summary

Whale watching, glaciers calving and wild Alaska from Seward

You’ll glide past glaciers in Kenai Fjords, watch whales breach and otters float by, drift close to noisy sea lion colonies and seabird cliffs—all with narration from a local guide. There’s lunch onboard and plenty of chances to step outside or warm up inside. It’s less about ticking off sights than feeling Alaska’s wildness surround you.

What’s the experience like?

"Did you hear that?" someone whispered behind me, just as the captain slowed the boat near Bear Glacier. The sound was like distant thunder—then a chunk of ice crashed into the water and everyone on deck kind of gasped at once. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small out there in Kenai Fjords. The air was sharp and salty; even inside the heated cabin you could smell the ocean coming through whenever someone opened the door. Our guide, Jamie (she grew up in Seward), kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed—like how the puffins sort of bob along like little footballs when they’re not flying. I tried to get a photo but mostly got blurry wings.

The cruise started right on time at 9:30 from the Seward terminal—bit of a scramble because I always overpack snacks, but they had coffee and tea ready anyway. Resurrection Bay was calm at first, with those low clouds hanging over everything. We saw sea otters floating on their backs, just drifting along like they owned the place. Later, rounding Cape Aialik into Aialik Bay, it got choppier (heads up if you get seasick—I was fine but one guy spent most of his time outside). When we reached Holgate Glacier, we floated there for a while among these blue-white icebergs that looked almost fake. It’s weirdly quiet except for gulls screeching and every now and then another crack from the glacier.

Lunch was simple—a turkey sandwich for me (vegetarian option too), nothing fancy but warm enough to keep your hands happy after standing outside with binoculars glued to your face half the morning. At Chiswell Islands we drifted close to rocky ledges packed with Steller sea lions barking at each other—one massive bull rolled over and stared right back at us like he knew he was on camera. Jamie told us about their migration habits while someone else pointed out bald eagles perched way up on a snaggy pine. I’m still thinking about that moment where it felt like every creature here just did its own thing whether we were watching or not.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

• Depart Seward at 9:30 a.m.
• Cruise through Resurrection Bay
• View wildlife and scenery
• Cruise by Bear Glacier
• Stop 20 minutes at Holgate Glacier
• Round Cape Aialik into Aialik Bay
• Stop at Aialik Glacier for calving
• Cruise to Chiswell Islands or Cape Resurrection
• Observe seabirds and sea lions
• Return to Seward by 5:00 p.m.

Top questions

How long is the Kenai Fjords glacier cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 7.5 hours, departing at 9:30 a.m. and returning around 5:00 p.m.

What wildlife can I see on this Kenai Fjords tour?

You might spot orca whales, humpback whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins, bald eagles, mountain goats, and many seabirds.

Is lunch included on the Kenai Fjords cruise?

Yes, a complimentary deli lunch is included with turkey, roast beef or vegetarian options available.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Seward Cruise Ship Terminal in Seward, Alaska.

Is this tour suitable if I get seasick?

This cruise goes into open Gulf waters; if prone to motion sickness consider a shorter Resurrection Bay trip instead.

Are restrooms available onboard?

Yes, there are restrooms available on board during the entire cruise.

Is this Kenai Fjords cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, but wheelchair accessibility requests must be submitted ahead due to limited seating capacity.

What’s included

Your day includes reserved indoor seating in a heated cabin with use of binoculars onboard for wildlife spotting; narration by an experienced naturalist; all taxes and fees; complimentary water, coffee and tea; plus your choice of sandwich lunch (turkey, roast beef or vegetarian). Restrooms are available throughout the journey before returning to Seward in the evening.