Whittier Prince William Sound Wildlife & Glacier Cruise

The vessels are not wheelchair accessible but are suitable for guests with limited mobility. The boats have a bow ramp that lowers to the ground for easy walk-on and walk-off access. Walkers and strollers cannot be used on board due to limited deck space, but they can be securely stored at the local office during your tour. Please note that accessing the vessel requires a short walk across a sandy loading area.

This boat can hold up to 27 passengers.

If you are prone to seasickness, we recommend taking motion sickness medication such as Dramamine or Bonine before the cruise.

Weather permitting, the captain may lower the bow ramp at a remote beach for a brief shore landing that allows guests to beachcomb, explore tidepools, or simply relax and take in the wilderness of Prince William Sound.

Cruises operate rain or shine. Trips are only canceled for unsafe sea conditions, in which case guests are notified promptly and receive a full refund. The company also reserves the right to cancel or adjust the route due to weather or other conditions.

Guests are urged to dress in layers, including a warm rain-proof coat, hat, gloves, and comfortable, rubber-soled shoes. Guests are welcome to stay in our heated cabins, but warm clothes are recommended for guests who would like to spend time outside on the viewing decks.

Cameras (tripods are prohibited) and extra batteries.

You are welcome to store your luggage in our office during your cruise.

No. All vessels are non-smoking. There are no designated areas on the vessels for smoking.

Yes, the boat has a restroom.

A boxed lunch including sandwich and snacks is included. Complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water are also available.

Yes, you can bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on this tour.

The distance to the glacier can vary daily depending on floating ice conditions. Typically, the boat gets within about a quarter-mile of the glacier’s face. Thanks to the immense size of the ice walls, they often appear much closer than they really are.

No, walking on the glaciers is not possible. The glaciers we visit are tidewater glaciers that flow directly into the ocean and are highly unstable. This makes them thrilling to watch, and you may even see “calving,” when large chunks of ice break off into the water. For safety, we keep at least a quarter-mile distance and do not allow passengers to step onto the ice.

Guests often spot sea otters, black-legged kittiwakes, bald eagles, and harbor seals. Sea lions are common at certain times of year, and longer tours may encounter black bears or tufted puffins. In summer, humpback whales are sometimes seen, and although rare, orcas are always a memorable highlight. Every day in Prince William Sound is unique, making each wildlife experience special.

Prince William Sound is a temperate rainforest, so rain is common and snow occurs in winter, creating the lush landscapes and massive glaciers. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing rain gear. It is also noticeably colder when the boat is moving or near a glacier, so an extra warm jacket is advised for enjoying the deck comfortably.

Check out other frequently asked questions here!