Ketchikan: Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Boat Tour with Snacks

Summary

Alaska’s wild shoreline, totem legends and lighthouse stories by boat

You’ll glide past Ketchikan’s weathered mills and forested islands by boat, hear legends behind Alaska Native totems at Totem Bight State Historical Park, spot eagles near Guard Island Lighthouse with binoculars in hand, and taste local alder-smoked salmon plus hot chocolate supreme. Expect moments of quiet awe mixed with laughter — it lingers long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this moment as you pull away from the dock at Ward Cove — the old pulp mill skeleton still poking out of the mist behind us — when everything suddenly feels a little quieter. Our captain, who grew up around here (I think he said his uncle worked that mill), pointed out rusted machinery half-swallowed by moss. I could smell salt and cedar even through my mask. It’s funny how fast the town slips away and then it’s just water, forest, and the occasional bald eagle doing its own thing overhead.

We drifted close to Totem Bight State Historical Park. The guide started telling us about clan houses and these towering totems — one story about a raven tricking a whale still sticks with me. I tried repeating one of the Tlingit names; Li laughed when I butchered it but gave me props for trying. There was this weird hush while we listened, except for the slap of water on the hull and someone quietly unwrapping chocolate in the back. I didn’t expect to feel so small in such a good way.

Guard Island Lighthouse showed up next — white against all that green, looking kind of lonely but solid. The captain shared bits about its odd square shape (apparently not many like it) and how supplies used to come by rowboat before radios were even a thing. Binoculars came in handy; we spotted two eagles perched so still it was almost eerie. The Tongass National Forest just kept going — Sitka spruce everywhere, some trees so old you want to touch them just to check if they’re real. We passed homes tucked into impossible places on their own islands, which made me wonder what winter is like out here… probably not for me.

I’m still thinking about that alder-smoked salmon with bull kelp pickles they handed out — salty, smoky, weirdly perfect after all that cold air. Hot chocolate supreme (they really do pile on the whipped cream) warmed my hands while everyone swapped stories about where they’d come from. It felt easy being there, no rush or pressure to see everything at once. Just drifting along with people who love this place enough to share its odd corners.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ketchikan's nature and culture

• Depart from Ward Cove dock
• Learn about old pulp mill history
• View local homes along shoreline
• See Alaska native clan house and totems
• Hear legend of a totem pole
• View Guard Island Lighthouse
• Learn lighthouse architecture and history
• Cruise along Tongass National Forest shoreline
• Observe temperate rainforest from boat

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Ketchikan tour?

No, hotel pickup isn’t included; the tour starts in downtown Ketchikan. For Ward Cove cruise ship pickup, book their specific Ward Cove listing.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the boat tour?

Yes, you get hot chocolate supreme, coffee, tea, soft drinks, alder-smoked salmon snacks with crackers and pickles, plus artisan chocolate.

How long does the Lighthouse Totems & Eagles Excursion last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several hours including time cruising between sites like Guard Island Lighthouse and Totem Bight Park.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Yes; wheelchair service is available to/from the vessel if arranged ahead. Guests must manage 3–4 steps onto/off the boat itself.

What wildlife might I see on this day trip from Ketchikan?

You’ll likely spot bald eagles along the shoreline and possibly other birds or marine life from the tour vessel.

Are restrooms available onboard during the cruise?

Yes; there is a restroom available on board for guest use during the excursion.

Will I learn about Alaska Native culture on this tour?

Yes; guides share legends and history connected to native clans and totem poles at Totem Bight State Historical Park.

Can I use binoculars during the wildlife viewing parts?

Yes; waterproof Bushnell binoculars are provided for guests’ use throughout the trip for spotting wildlife or distant views.

What’s included

Your day includes departure from downtown Ketchikan (or Ward Cove if booked separately), all entry fees along your route by boat past Guard Island Lighthouse and Totem Bight State Historical Park, use of waterproof binoculars for wildlife spotting, a selection of hot drinks like coffee or their signature hot chocolate supreme plus sodas, local alder-smoked salmon snacks with crackers and bull kelp pickles alongside artisan chocolate treats — all while guided by locals who know every twist of shoreline you’ll pass before returning to port.