Ketchikan Ocean Wilderness Expedition

To ensure everyone's safety and comfort, the Zodiac is limited to 12 passengers.

Zodiac is a popular brand of boat for water activities. The boats are relatively small, heavy duty inflatable rafts equipped with motors. Please browse the tour photos to see images of the Zodiac crafts that are used.

The waters surrounding Ketchikan are considered part of the Inside Passage and are relatively protected from large ocean swells. That being said, sea conditions vary based on wind direction and tide, and can change significantly throughout the day. Our guides strictly monitor weather conditions to ensure the safety of all guests.

Then you'll get wet! Ketchikan receives 261% more rainfall than the national average, making it one of the rainiest cities in the U.S. This tour runs rain or shine. If conditions are unsafe due to severe inclement weather, the tour will be cancelled with a full refund provided.

We provide rain gear, waterproof boots that slip over your shoes, and a life jacket. We would highly suggest wearing a few layers of clothing and close-toed, comfortable shoes. If you get too warm, we will have a dry bag that outerwear can be placed in.

While we cannot guarantee specific encounters, we will look for everything from tiny seabirds to large marine mammals. Along the shoreline we can see Bald Eagles, Mink, Sitka Black-tailed Deer, River Otters, a variety of shorebirds, and intertidal life. On the water, we have a chance of seeing Harbor Seals, Steller Sea Lions, Dall’s or Harbor Porpoise, Humpback Whales, and occasionally, Killer Whales (Orcas). Every day on the ocean is different!

We recommend you bring sunglasses, your camera, a pair of binoculars if you have them (our crew is happy to share theirs if you don't), and any personal items you do not want to be separated from for a few hours. Items can be placed in the dry bag if necessary. For more detailed packing tips for your Alaskan vacation, check out our What to Pack for Your Alaskan Cruise guide.

Locally roasted hot coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and a light snack are provided.

Participants must be at least 5 years of age. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about accessibility.

If your ship docks at Ward Cove, you’ll be arriving at a private facility about 7 miles (11 km) north of downtown Ketchikan.

Ward Cove provides a complimentary shuttle to Berth 4 in downtown Ketchikan. Our meeting point & outfitting space located at 124 Thomas Street is about a 20 minute walk from Berth 4 & the Ward Cove shuttle drop off. Be sure to allow up to 60 minutes for the shuttle transfer & walk and plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time.

Check out other frequently asked questions here!