Ketchikan: Whale Watching & Wildlife Cruise with Eagle Feeding

Summary

Whale watching in Ketchikan’s misty rainforest with eagles overhead

You’ll cruise through Ketchikan’s lively harbor into Tongass National Forest’s wild waterways, spotting whales, bald eagles diving for fish near Metlakatla Island, and curious harbor seals on Walden Rocks. With snacks and warm drinks included—and local guides sharing stories—it’s less like a tour and more like slipping into Alaska’s daily rhythm for a few hours.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—kind of salty and sharp, mixed with something green that I couldn’t quite name. We’d just stepped onto the boat at Thomas Basin, and our guide (Sarah? Maybe Sharon—I’m bad with names) was already pointing out the fishing boats bobbing nearby. There was this low hum from the docks and people waving at us like we were old friends. It felt casual, not staged at all. I remember my hands were cold even though I’d layered up, but they had blankets and hot coffee ready. That helped.

As we drifted along Revillagigedo Island, Sarah started telling us about the salmon—how locals call them “jumpers” when they leap out of the water. I actually saw one do it, right as she was explaining! She grinned and said it happens more than you’d think. The sky was that classic Ketchikan gray, but it made everything look kind of silvery and soft. At one point a bald eagle swooped so close overhead that someone gasped (okay, it might’ve been me). We passed by these thick forests—Tongass National Forest is huge—and you could hear gulls arguing somewhere behind us.

I didn’t expect to see so many harbor seals just sprawled out on rocks near Walden Rocks. They looked almost fake until one lifted its head and stared right back at us. We stopped for a bit to watch them, listening to Sarah tell some story about how those rocks got their name—honestly I missed part of it because I was too busy trying to get a photo without dropping my phone in the water (almost did). Then came Metlakatla Island where we paused for eagle feeding; seeing those birds dive for fish right beside the boat was wild—like they owned the place.

I guess what stuck with me most wasn’t just spotting humpback whales (we did, by the way—one surfaced off our port side and everyone went quiet), but how normal it all felt to be out there in the rain with strangers who suddenly weren’t strangers anymore. Even if you don’t see every animal on your list, being in that misty Alaskan air does something to you. I still think about that view across the water sometimes when it’s too loud at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife and whale watching tour

• Check in at Berth 2 Visitors Center
• Depart from Thomas Basin harbor
• Cruise along Revillagigedo Island shores
• Travel through Tongass National Forest waterways
• Stop at Metlakatla Island to feed eagles
• Visit Walden Rocks to see harbor seals

Top questions

Where does the whale watching tour in Ketchikan start?

The meeting point is Berth 2 Visitors Center at 131 Front Street in downtown Ketchikan.

Is pickup included if my cruise ship docks at Ward Cove?

Yes, there’s a free shuttle from Ward Cove to downtown; allow an hour for travel time.

What wildlife can I expect to see on this Ketchikan wildlife cruise?

You may spot humpback whales, bald eagles, harbor seals, seabirds, deer or black bears along the shore.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the whale watching trip?

Yes, chips, pastries, coffee, tea, bottled water and flavored sparkling water are included.

Is this whale watching tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes; infants can ride in prams or strollers and must sit on an adult’s lap.

How likely am I to see humpback whales on this day trip?

The operator reports about a 90% success rate for humpback whale sightings but cannot guarantee them.

Will there be indoor seating if it rains during my wildlife cruise?

Yes; both indoor and outdoor seating are available on board each vessel.

How long does it take to walk from downtown cruise berths to the meeting point?

From Berth 2 it’s about 1 minute; from Berths 1/3/4 allow 5–12 minutes depending on pace.

What’s included

Your day includes snacks like chips and pastries plus coffee or tea (or sparkling water if you’re feeling fancy), binoculars for spotting wildlife up close, cozy blankets if you need them—and flexible pickup whether you’re coming from downtown or Ward Cove via shuttle before heading back after your adventure.