Ketchikan: Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafood Boil Cruise

Summary

Wildlife boat ride Tongass Forest walk & fresh seafood feast

You’ll cruise Ketchikan’s waters spotting eagles and seals from a heated boat with local crew, wander through Tongass Forest on raised boardwalks beneath ancient red cedars, then dig into a messy seafood boil packed with Dungeness crab and shrimp back at the lodge. Expect laughter, salty air, and a taste of real Alaska all in one day.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped onto the Miss Cindy at Clover Pass, still shaking off the early chill, and our captain gave us this quick grin before firing up the jet boat. The water was glassy but you could smell salt and cedar in the air. Our guide—can’t remember if his name was Jeff or Jesse—started pointing out eagles almost immediately. I’d seen photos of Ketchikan before, but seeing those birds just hanging out on driftwood? It’s different when you’re there, bundled up, watching mist curl around the islands. We passed seals lounging like they owned the place. Someone spotted a whale spout in the distance—everyone rushed to that side of the boat and nearly tipped it (not really, but it felt like it).

The boat pulled up to this narrow dock and we traded waves with a couple locals fishing nearby—one guy had a laugh that echoed over the water. Walking into Tongass Forest felt like stepping into another world; everything was green on green, moss so thick you kind of wanted to touch it just to check if it was real. Our guide showed us “Old Man’s Beard” lichen hanging from branches and explained how these nursery trees work—honestly, I zoned out for a second just listening to how quiet it was except for our footsteps on the boardwalk. There’s this giant red cedar at the end of the trail; I took a photo but it doesn’t do justice to how massive it feels standing under it.

Back at the lodge, they handed us bibs (very necessary) and set down this steaming pot full of Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams, mussels—all tangled up with corn, potatoes, onions, garlic. My hands still smelled like butter hours later. Someone tried to teach me how to crack crab “the right way”—I failed spectacularly but nobody cared. It was loud and messy and honestly one of my favorite meals in Alaska so far. If you’re looking for a day trip from Ketchikan that mixes boats, forest walks, and actual Alaskan seafood (not just pictures), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boat tour, rainforest walk, seafood feast

• Meet captain and first mate at Clover Pass
• Board enclosed jet boat Miss Cindy
• Enjoy wildlife viewing from boat
• Walk Silverking’s elevated rainforest boardwalk
• See largest red cedar in Tongass Forest
• Return to lodge for seafood boil feast

Top questions

How long does the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast take?

The experience typically lasts half a day including cruising time, rainforest walk, and lunch.

Is pickup included from Ketchikan port?

Yes, pickup is included at Port of Ketchikan for tour guests.

What wildlife can you see on this tour?

You may see eagles, seals, porpoises—and whales are often spotted between May and September.

What food is served during the seafeast?

The meal includes Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams, mussels with corn, potatoes, pearl onions and garlic plus French bread.

Is this tour suitable for young children or infants?

Infants can join if seated on an adult's lap or in a stroller; small children are welcome.

Is there much walking involved in Tongass Forest?

The forest walk is along an elevated boardwalk trail; moderate fitness is recommended.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted throughout the experience.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with limited mobility?

A steep ramp at low tide makes access challenging; not recommended for limited mobility guests.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Port of Ketchikan before boarding an enclosed heated jet boat with local captain and crew for wildlife viewing; guided walk along Silverking’s exclusive raised boardwalk through Tongass Forest; then back at the lodge you’ll sit down to a full seafood boil feast with Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams and mussels plus drinks like soda or bottled water—all taken care of before heading back into town.