Top Alaska Bird Watching

Sail the waters of Resurrection Bay in search of Californian gray whales on a half-day cruise from Seward. These huge mammals arrive here every March through May on their annual migration northward into Alaska’s waters. Watch for these incredible beasts and other whale species, as well as other wildlife, and view the luminous blue glaciers crowning the surrounding mountains.

Alaska’s landscapes are ones to be remembered and this photography tour helps you capture its beauty. Meet up with your guide, who is a professional photographer, and learn how to capture panoramic views, reflective ponds, and local wildlife at top locations. No matter what type of camera gear you have—even camera phones are welcome—your guide provides one-on-one attention to help you capture the best photos. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience.

Don’t leave Alaska without witnessing its most incredible creatures: whales, otters, and more. On this 16-person tour—smaller than most local offerings—you’ll grab a seat in the heated cab or out on the deck, following your captain’s search for wildlife. Beyond the wild Alaskan scenery, you might spot humpback whales, orcas, seals, eagles, porpoises, and more.

Escape Skagway with a visit to Chilkoot Lake State Park in Haines. Board a high-speed catamaran in Skagway and fly through the water to Haines, admiring steep fjord walls and unnamed waterfalls along the way. Meet your naturalist guide at the park entrance, and discover a lake rimmed by snowy mountains, a river bursting with salmon, Tlingit cultural sites, and wildlife including bald eagles, brown bears, and harbor seals.

Alaska's dramatic glaciers are best experienced up close, and this full-day tour takes you right to them. Heading out from Juneau on a purpose-built expedition vessel, explore the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area from a vantage point on the water—a perspective many travelers miss. Snap photos of pristine scenery and experience the area's natural wonders from the comfort of the boat during this 8.5-hour adventure.

Auke Bay, with its harbor of whale watching vessels, lies about a half-hour’s ride from Juneau. This whale watching trip saves you the trouble of getting to the harbor and back with a round-trip shuttle directly from your cruise ship dock or a designated meeting point.

Traverse the Alaskan wilderness with a guide to tell you all about the local area’s storied past on this group tour from Homer. Let your guide do the driving and route planning while you sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery. Look out for local wildlife, from bald eagles to harbor seals, and see snow-capped mountains and ocean views you’ll never forget.

This tour is strenuous due to climbing/hiking uphill in elevation, unimproved trails and off-trail hiking. It is designed for the more fit travelers. While still a narrated tour, the interpretive hike covers more ground, and explores the sub-alpine and alpine tundra as well as glacial topology in depth. The extra time on the ground gives the group a chance to see the forested area near the Nenana river, the brushy but wildlife rich sub-alpine tundra, and the gorgeous views and highly adapted vegetation of the taiga. Expect to cover 4-6 miles and climb up 1500-1800' in elevation. *Note, this tour often operates in areas just outside the National Park so we may explore the mountains off-trail and utilize locations that are more remote and have a wider variety of terrain to explore. We can drop you off at the train depot in time for the 12:30pm train departure.

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau’s most impressive natural wonders, stretching over 13 miles (21 kilometers). On this half-day tour, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier from the viewing platforms and walkways, and learn more about the mighty glacier at the Visitor Center. Then, set sail on a thrilling whale-watching cruise along the coast and look out for humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as bald eagles and blue heron.

Set out in search of the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis during your time in Alaska on this nighttime excursion. Depart from Fairbanks after dark and venture deep into the forest in search of locations with little to no light pollution. If you find the colorful, dancing lights, your guide captures photos of your group so you can cherish the moments forever. Hotel pickup from downtown Fairbanks is included for convenience.

Get away from the crowds and experience Alaska’s grandest marine life from an intimate, 20-person vessel. Less disruptive to wildlife, you’ll get a front-row seat to the 49th State’s most beloved creatures—including whales, sea lions, eagles, and more. You’ll also get to scope out ice-blue glaciers, rocky shorelines, and hidden inlets from the comfort of the heated cabin or right from the catamaran's bow.

Learn about the native cultures of Alaska during your time in Ketchikan on this private shore excursion. This tour is completely flexible and can be tailored to your group's interests. Some options include visiting totem parks, a salmon hatchery, beaches, waterfalls, or going on a hike. While you explore, your guide teaches you about Native American culture and traditions.