Kenai Fjords Tours has been exploring Alaska’s Resurrection Bay and its namesake, Kenai Fjords National Park, since 1978. As Seward's original glacier and wildlife cruise operator, the team offers time-tested coastal Alaska adventures, complete with expert guidance, rich historical insights and tour options you won't find anywhere else.
Every Kenai Fjords Tours cruise is incredible in its own way, but which one is right for you? Here’s our guide to every tour offered throughout the March-to-September cruising season, plus who we recommend each one for.
Duration: 4 Hours
Departs: 12 PM
Best for: Early Season Adventurers & Alaska Locals
First departing in March, this early-season cruise is the perfect opportunity to get out on the water and welcome wildlife back following the long Alaska winter. The mid-day adventure spotlights signature Resurrection Bay scenery, including the dramatic Spire Cove, with chances to spot eagles, sea lions and even gray whales returning from their annual migration.
As one of the shortest tour options (often with wildlife spotting stops) this is also an ideal option for those worried they may feel motion sick on a longer tour, as well as Alaskans ready to celebrate “breakup season” in April or early May with a healthy dose of fresh ocean air.
Duration: 4.5 Hours
Departs: 12:30 PM
Best for: Families & Afternoon Explorers
Late sleepers, families and visitors arriving via Alaska Rail, private coach or cruise ship — this tour is for you.
Spend the afternoon on a half-day cruise around Resurrection Bay. Starting in Seward, this adventure will take you to see all the coastal Alaska classics, like waterfalls, glaciers and rugged cliffs. You’ll also have excellent opportunities to spot marine wildlife, including adorable sea otters and soaring seabirds.
Most Popular
Duration: 6 Hours
Departs: 8 AM; 11:30 AM
Best for: Scenery Seekers & National Park Aficionados
Departing twice throughout the day, this six-hour adventure is perfect for those seeking a little more time on the water. It’s also a great option for families with older kids, especially if they happen to be nature lovers.
This cruise is Kenai Fjords Tours’ most popular option for a reason. While glaciers are still part of your journey, the tour adds coastal rainforests and remote islands, plus more opportunities to spot wildlife like seals, whales and puffins. It’s the perfect middle ground between a short tour and a full day expedition, featuring plenty of chances to learn a little more about the incredible national park along the way.
Duration: 6 Hours
Departs: 3 PM
Best for: Couples & Foodies
While other tours are calling it a day and returning to Seward, the Glacier Dinner Cruise is just getting started, making it one of the most unique experiences offered by Kenai Fjords Tours.
The late departure is perfect for couples and foodies seeking unique dining experiences on their adventure. See the best of Resurrection Bay, then enjoy a plated dinner en route to the stunning Holgate Glacier or towering Aialik Glacier — you’ve never enjoyed dinner with a view quite like this.
Duration: 7 Hours
Departs: 9 AM
Best for: Multi-Day Visitors & Guests Looking to See It All
As one of two full-day cruise experiences, this tour is the perfect option for those looking to see as much of the stunning coastal beauty as possible. If you’re staying in or near Seward for a few days, you'll want to select this cruise to avoid feeling like you missed any part of the national park.
This cruise is named Captain’s Choice because of its interpretive nature. Your host will make sure you see the most — and best — of Kenai Fjords National Park based on when you’re visiting and wildlife activity reports. Take this opportunity to learn about the tidewater glaciers and shoreline scenery, as well as the creatures that call the fjords home.
Duration: 8 Hours
Departs: 8:30 AM
Best for: Early Birds & Extra-Mile Explorers
This tour is a team favorite, and for good reason. If you’re an early riser (or willing to set an alarm to make sure you truly see everything), this cruise is right for you.
Kenai Fjords Tours' longest adventure will take you to the namesake Northwestern Fjord, aptly described by many as “unlike anywhere else on Earth.” The tour's duration also gives you the advantage of time in spotting rare birds coming from the seabird rookeries that dot the islands along the route. Find yourself truly immersed in the beauty of the glaciers and rest easy knowing you've seen it all during your cruise.
Ready for your perfect Kenai Fjords experience? Make sure to book this once-in-a-lifetime experience in advance!
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