Valdez Meares Glacier Cruise: Wildlife & Lunch on Prince William Sound

Summary

Prince William Sound glacier cruise with wildlife, seals, otters, puffins and lunch

You’ll board in Valdez and set out across Prince William Sound with a local guide who knows every turn of water and sky. Watch sea otters drift by, listen for eagles overhead, and feel that hush as Meares Glacier creaks into view. Snacks, coffee, tea, plus lunch are included—so you can focus on those moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled onto the boat in Valdez just after checking in—still a bit sleepy, coffee in hand, but the air was sharp enough to wake me up fast. I remember the sound of ropes thumping against the dock and someone’s laugh echoing over the water. Our guide, Alex (local guy—knew everyone), pointed out the first bald eagle before we’d even left the harbor. I tried to snap a photo but mostly got my own glove in the shot. The morning light made everything look kind of blue and silver, like the whole place was holding its breath.

The Prince William Sound is bigger than I expected—open but somehow close at the same time. We passed these clusters of sea otters floating on their backs (they really do look like they’re holding hands) and then a bunch of seals sunning themselves on rocks that looked too small for them. Alex kept telling stories about each animal; he could spot a puffin from what felt like miles away. Around 10:30 they handed out bagels—nothing fancy but warm enough to matter when your fingers are cold.

I didn’t realize how long it would take to reach Meares Glacier, but honestly, I didn’t mind. The rhythm of the boat and all that open space does something to your brain—it’s like your thoughts slow down so you can actually hear yourself think. When we finally got close to the glacier face, there was this deep cracking sound—like thunder underwater—and then silence again except for people whispering or just staring. I still think about that blue color; it’s not something you see anywhere else.

Lunch came around 1:30—simple stuff but good after hours outside (I went for the vegetarian option). Some people chatted quietly inside while others just stood out on deck letting their faces go numb in the wind. On the way back we saw a whale spout in the distance—just for a second—and Alex grinned like he’d won a bet with himself. So yeah, if you’re looking for a glacier cruise from Valdez where you actually feel part of Prince William Sound instead of just watching it go by…this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Meares Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Viewing

• Check in at office one hour before
• Cruise Prince William Sound waters
• View Meares Glacier face
• Observe wildlife along journey

Top questions

How long is the Meares Glacier cruise from Valdez?

The excursion lasts between 7.5 to 8 hours.

What wildlife can I see during this Prince William Sound cruise?

You might spot seals, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, eagles, whales, porpoise and more.

Is lunch included on this glacier cruise?

Yes, lunch is served around 1:30 PM along with snacks and drinks throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult; infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers.

Is this Meares Glacier cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

Are vegetarian meal options available?

A vegetarian option is available; travelers with special dietary needs should bring their own food if needed.

Do I need to check in before departure?

Yes, check-in takes place at the office one hour prior to departure.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes check-in at our Valdez office before boarding a comfortable boat for your Prince William Sound glacier cruise with snacks (bagel around 10:30 AM), complimentary coffee, tea and water served all day, plus lunch at about 1:30 PM—with vegetarian options available if you let them know ahead of time.