Ketchikan: Private '67 VW Van Tour with Beach & Waterfall

Vintage van ride through Ketchikan’s wild beaches, rainforest trails, and local stories

You’ll ride in a classic ‘67 VW van through Ketchikan’s winding roads with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect salty air at Rotary Beach, wildlife spotting at Herring Cove (if luck’s on your side), and rainforest mist by a hidden waterfall: all with flexible stops tailored to your pace.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Ketchikan and nearby nature

• Meet at dock near Rock Statue
• Drive through historical Ketchikan
• Explore Rotary Beach and tide pools
• Visit scenic Herring Cove for wildlife
• See waterfall and rainforest
• Drive along Tongass Narrows with fishing stories
• Final photo stop at Nichols Passage

The Experience

You know that feeling when you step off the ship and the air just smells different? That was Ketchikan for me: salty, sharp, a bit like wet cedar. Our guide, Matt (he looked like he belonged in that old turquoise Volkswagen van), waved us over by the Rock Statue at Berth 2. The van itself rattled in this comforting way as we pulled away from the port: felt like being inside someone’s memory. Matt told us about how his grandmother used to fish right here along the Tongass Narrows. I kept looking out at the water, half-expecting to spot her.

First stop was Rotary Beach. It wasn’t crowded. Just us and a few locals walking their dogs. The sand was darker than I expected, almost silty, and Matt knelt down to show us these tiny crabs scuttling under kelp. He handed me a piece of sea lettuce (I tried it, salty as heck). The tide was low enough that we poked around tide pools for starfish. My shoes got soaked but honestly, I didn’t care. It felt good to just stand there and listen to the water slapping against rocks. We took photos over Nichols Passage. The clouds hung so low it felt like you could touch them.

We rolled on to Herring Cove next: no bears this time, but an eagle swooped so close overhead I actually ducked (Matt laughed at me). He told this story about sneaking into the hatchery as a kid. I’m not sure if he was supposed to admit that but it made me grin. There’s something about hearing local stories right where they happened that sticks with you more than any plaque ever could.

The waterfall stop was quick but kind of magic: the air went cold all of a sudden, moss everywhere, water roaring just out of sight until you turned the corner. If you come in salmon berry season, apparently you can pick them right off the trail. We missed them by a week or two (of course), but I still think about that green hush in the trees. On our way back along Tongass Narrows, Matt pointed out fishing boats heading home and said sometimes he forgets how beautiful it is until he sees it through someone else’s eyes. So yeah. I get that now.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation in a classic ‘67 VW van with seat belts, pickup from Berth 2 at Ketchikan port, bottled water throughout the trip, plus all guiding from a local who’ll share stories and adjust stops based on tides or your preferences before returning you comfortably to town.

Days and timesDaily · 07:00, 10:00, 13:00 and 16:00 · season until 31 Oct

Meeting point and pickupPickup optional · ends where it starts3 pickup points to choose from.Meeting point, per the operator: “We will be parked at Berth 2 between the Visitors Bureau and the Tongass Trading Dock Store. We will meet you at the bronze statue called "The Rock" with a sign…”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Sundew Tours

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

Is pickup included for this private Ketchikan tour?

Yes, pickup is included at Berth 2 near the Rock Statue in Ketchikan port.

Can we customize our stops during the tour?

Yes, your guide can adjust stops based on your interests or conditions like tides or weather.

What kind of vehicle is used for this Ketchikan day trip?

The tour uses a 1967 Volkswagen van equipped with seat belts for private transportation.

Are children or infants allowed on this private Ketchikan tour?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome. They can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult's lap.

Will we definitely see wildlife at Herring Cove?

No wildlife sightings are guaranteed. It depends on timing and luck during your visit.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water is included for all guests during the tour.

How long does each stop last on this Ketchikan day trip?

The timing varies depending on group interest and conditions. Your guide will adjust as needed.

Can we substitute Saxman Totem Park or add a short hike?

Yes, you can request to visit Saxman Totem Park or take a short hike instead of some regular stops.