LeConte Glacier tour Petersburg: Cruise icebergs, Norwegian town

Icebergs drift past you as the glacier carves through the landscape

A seven-hour tour from Petersburg combines a boat cruise through LeConte Bay among sculpted icebergs and the 21-mile LeConte Glacier with time to walk the colorful harbor and Norwegian heritage sites of Petersburg. The small-group format keeps views close and narration focused on the region's geology, wildlife and glacial dynamics, with a heated cabin, restrooms on some vessels, snacks and a knowledgeable local captain guiding in English.

Step-by-step itinerary

Glacier cruise and town exploration

• Cruise through LeConte Bay
• View LeConte Glacier and icebergs
• Watch for seals, eagles, whales
• Explore Petersburg fishing town
• Learn about Norwegian heritage
• Stroll through Petersburg harbor

The experience

The day starts on the water. Your captain navigates LeConte Bay where icebergs calved from the glacier drift beneath cliffs, and the boat slows to let you watch for seals, eagles, and possibly whales as they move through the ice. The glacier itself (21 miles long and a mile wide) flows southwest to the head of the bay, and the narration covers how it carves the landscape and what the ice formations tell you about the region's geology. A heated cabin and comfortable seating mean you stay warm while watching, and restrooms are available on some vessels.

After the glacier, the route turns toward Petersburg, the charming fishing town on Mitkof Island known for its strong Norwegian heritage and vibrant maritime culture. You have time to explore the colorful harbor on foot, walk through the town's authentic Southeast Alaskan streets, and learn about its Norwegian roots firsthand. The town sits surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, so the contrast between the raw glacial wilderness and the settled, welcoming community shapes the whole day.

Bring your own lunch if you prefer, or plan to eat in Petersburg. Water and snacks are included. The seven-hour commitment is built around the boat schedule and the time needed to see both the glacier and the town without rushing either one.

What’s included

• Water and snacks.
• a heated cabin with comfortable seating.
• restrooms on some vessels.
• narration from a knowledgeable local captain and guide in English.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 May 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (3 and older) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h 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 yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Breakaway Adventures Day Tours

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and delivers expert narration about the region's geology, wildlife and glacial dynamics, so anyone comfortable with boat travel and a seven-hour day can follow the whole experience without prior knowledge of Alaska or glaciers.

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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 24 h before the start.

What wildlife might I see on the boat in LeConte Bay?

Seals, eagles, and possibly whales move through the ice as the boat navigates among the icebergs. Sightings depend on the day and season, but the captain watches for them throughout the cruise.

Is there time to walk around Petersburg, or is it just a quick stop?

After the glacier cruise, you have time to explore Petersburg on foot: enough to walk the colorful harbor, stroll through the town, and learn about its Norwegian heritage. It is not a rushed visit, but the exact duration depends on the day's schedule.

What is included in the tour price?

Water, snacks, a heated cabin with comfortable seating, and narration from a knowledgeable local captain and guide in English are included. Restrooms are available on some vessels. Gratuities are not included. You may bring your own lunch if you prefer.

Do I need to be fit or experienced to join this tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Infants must sit on an adult's lap. If you have specific mobility or health concerns, contact the operator before booking.

How do I get to the departure point in Petersburg?

Public transportation options are available nearby. The operator can provide details on where to meet the boat when you book.