Skagway: Ocean Raft Adventure & Wildlife Sightings Tour

Summary

Fast ocean raft ride in alaska’s lynn canal with local guides

You’ll feel Alaska hit you right away—cold air on your cheeks as you race along Lynn Canal in a real-deal ocean raft with local guides who know every cove. Expect wildlife sightings (if they’re feeling social), moments of total silence near granite cliffs, and gear that keeps you warm even when your heart’s racing.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to second-guess myself before we were suiting up—goggles, gloves, this ninja mask thing that made me laugh out loud. Our guide, Tom (who grew up here), handed me an exposure suit and grinned like he knew something I didn’t. The boat itself looked like it belonged to the Coast Guard—serious business. We straddled these odd shock-absorbing seats and suddenly the dock was behind us, wind biting through the seams but not enough to bother me. The air smelled sharp, a mix of seaweed and cold metal. I remember thinking: this is not your average cruise port day.

We hugged the granite walls along Lynn Canal—the deepest fjord in North America, Tom pointed out between bursts of engine noise. He’d slow down sometimes so we could spot seals or just listen to the slap of water against rock. At one point he cut the engines completely and for a minute it was just quiet except for gulls and that weird echo you get off cliffs. Someone tried to take a photo but honestly, it felt better to just sit there and breathe it in. My hands were cold inside the gloves but I didn’t care—I was too busy watching a bald eagle circle overhead. So yeah, if you’re looking for a day trip from Skagway that isn’t about souvenir shops or crowds, this ocean raft tour is…well, different.

I still think about how small I felt next to those sheer mountain walls—like you could just disappear into all that wild space if you wanted. Tom told us stories about winter storms and how locals read the clouds (I probably misunderstood half of it). When we zipped back toward town, my face hurt from smiling under the mask. It wasn’t perfect—my hair was a disaster and I dropped my phone trying to put on gloves—but somehow that made it better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Adventure boat ride in Lynn Canal

• Board custom-built motorized raft
• Race along sheer mountain walls
• Explore hidden coves and waterfalls
• Stop for photo opportunities
• Spot wildlife along the shoreline
• Experience quiet moments with engines off

Top questions

How long does the Ocean Raft Alaska tour last?

The adventure lasts approximately two hours from start to finish.

Is gear provided for the ocean raft ride?

Yes, goggles, gloves, a ninja mask, and an exposure suit are provided for each guest.

Are there wildlife sightings on this Skagway tour?

The tour often includes stops for wildlife sightings such as seals and eagles along Lynn Canal.

Is this ocean raft tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical demands and motion.

Do I need previous boating experience?

No boating experience is required; guides handle all navigation and safety instructions.

Where does the tour depart from in Skagway?

The tour departs from Skagway; exact meeting details are provided after booking.

What should I wear under the exposure suit?

Wear comfortable clothes; all necessary outer gear is supplied by the operator.

Can people with spinal injuries join this day trip?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries due to bumpy conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes use of goggles, gloves, a ninja mask, and an exposure suit so you’ll stay warm and dry during the fast-paced ride along Lynn Canal—all guided by locals who know every turn of these Alaskan waters before bringing you safely back to Skagway at the end of your adventure.