Kenai Fjords Tours Wildlife and Glacier Cruise Review
If you’re planning an unforgettable family adventure in Alaska, the Kenai Fjords Tours Wildlife and Glacier Cruise is a must-do experience that delivers glacier views, wildlife sightings, and kid-friendly fun in one incredible day. I’ve actually been on three separate tours with them—including both full-day and half-day cruises—and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Yes, it’s that good.
Located just outside of Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park is a land of icy fjords, humpback whales, puffins, and sea otters. This cruise makes exploring the park easy and exciting, with plenty of room to move around, engaging narration from naturalists, and nonstop photo ops.
Whether you have young kids or curious teens, it’s one of the most accessible and memorable ways to experience Alaska’s wild beauty together.
Related: 15 Can’t Miss Stops on an Anchorage to Valdez Road Trip
Why Choose a Glacier and Wildlife Cruise from Seward?
A glacier and wildlife cruise from Seward is one of the best ways to experience Kenai Fjords National Park. You’ll get an up-close look at dramatic tidewater glaciers like Holgate or Aialik, with the chance to witness dramatic calving events.
These cruises are also prime for wildlife viewing, including whales, sea otters, puffins, and more. The experienced captains and naturalists share fun facts and insights that make the scenery come alive. With heated cabins, outdoor viewing decks, and several cruise lengths available, it’s an adventure that fits nearly any itinerary.
Kenai Fjords National Park: A Quick Overview
Towering glaciers, rugged fjords, and thriving marine life make Kenai Fjords National Park one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Just outside Seward on the Kenai Peninsula, this park features over 40 glaciers flowing from the Harding Icefield and offers incredible opportunities to spot Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, and more.
How These Cruises Brings the Park to Life
Whether you’re hiking to Exit Glacier or cruising through Resurrection Bay or Aialik Bay, Kenai Fjords stuns at every turn. These cruises give you a front-row seat to its dramatic landscapes—soaring cliffs, icy fjords, active glaciers, and abundant wildlife—while staying warm and comfortable on board. It’s a stress-free, immersive way to experience the heart of the park.
Related: The Best Way to Experience Matanuska Glacier
Who This Cruise Is Great For?
This cruise is an excellent option for a wide variety of travelers.
The tour options with Kenai Fjords Tours are great if you’re traveling with young kids, craving close encounters with wildlife, or experiencing Alaska for the very first time, Kenai Fjords Tours checks all the boxes.
👨👩👧 Families:
These cruises are incredibly family-friendly. The boats are spacious, stable, and equipped with heated indoor seating, clean restrooms, and snack bars—essentials for traveling with kids. The naturalist narration keeps kids engaged, and there’s always excitement when puffins or whales show up. Shorter cruises (like the 4- to 6-hour options) are especially good for younger kids.
🌿 Nature-Lovers:
If you’re into wildlife, glaciers, and rugged natural beauty, this cruise is a dream. You’ll sail deep into Kenai Fjords National Park where orcas, humpbacks, puffins, and sea lions are all possible sightings. The crew does a great job pointing things out, so you don’t miss a thing.
🌍 First-Time Visitors to Alaska:
If this is your first trip to Alaska, this cruise is the perfect introduction. It offers a little bit of everything—glaciers, wildlife, and stunning scenery—with no hiking, driving, or gear needed. Just board and enjoy.
What It’s Like on the Kenai Fjords Tours Glacier Cruise
As you leave the Seward harbor and cruise into Resurrection Bay, the views change quickly—from boats and buildings to towering cliffs and remote coastline. You’ll pass dramatic rock walls, cruise beneath nesting seabird rookeries, and keep an eye out for sea otters bobbing in the waves.
Further out, the highlight comes when you approach an active tidewater glacier. If you’re lucky, you’ll see it calve—massive chunks of blue ice crashing into the sea.
Departure Location & Check-In Process
Address
Kenai Fjords Tours Dock Office
1304 4th Avenue, Seward, AK 99664
Kenai Fjords Tours Location
(Located at the Seward Small Boat Harbor)
Landmarks
Look for the green-and-white Kenai Fjords Tours building near the harbor boardwalk, across from the Breeze Inn and next to the harbor parking lot
Parking
Paid public parking is available near the harbor. Allow time to find a spot in peak season (especially June–August).
Check-In Process
- Arrive Early: You should arrive at least 1 hour before departure time. This gives you time to check in, receive your boarding pass, use the restroom, and get in line to board.
- What to Bring to Check-In:
- A government-issued photo ID
- Your confirmation email or booking number (digital or printed)
- Any gear or medication you might need for a 6–8.5 hour tour
- Boarding: After checking in, you’ll receive your boarding pass and instructions. Guests begin boarding 30 minutes before departure, and seating is first-come, first-served.
Amenities & Comforts Aboard Kenai Fjords Tours Cruises
🌡 Heated Indoor Seating:
- Every vessel is equipped with warm, enclosed cabins—perfect for staying cozy even on chilly or rainy days.
- Large windows ensure you don’t miss a single view, even if you’re inside.
🪑 Spacious Outdoor Decks:
- Multiple viewing decks give guests room to spread out, take photos, and enjoy the fresh ocean air.
- Great for wildlife viewing, especially when whales or glaciers are spotted.
🧻 Clean Restrooms:
- Onboard bathrooms are available on all tours—clean, well-stocked, and easily accessible.
🍽 Complimentary Deli Lunch (on most tours):
- Most mid-length and full-day cruises include a complimentary deli-style lunch, often with vegetarian or gluten-free options upon request.
- Drinks and snacks may also be available for purchase at the snack bar.
📣 Naturalist Narration & Educational Content:
- Every cruise features an experienced naturalist or knowledgeable captains offering informative and engaging narration about the geology, wildlife, and history of the area.
- Some longer tours may include a National Park Ranger on board.
📷 Wildlife & Glacier Viewing:
- Vessels are designed with sightseeing in mind—frequent slowdowns and 360° turns give guests the best possible look at marine wildlife and glaciers.
🎧 Speaker System:
- High-quality onboard PA system ensures you can hear the narration clearly whether you’re inside or outside.
👨⚕️ Staff Support & Safety:
- Trained crew members are available to assist with questions, help guests with mobility needs, and ensure passenger safety.
♿ Accessibility Notes:
- While vessels are not fully ADA-compliant, staff do their best to accommodate guests with limited mobility. Boarding ramps and interior layouts are manageable for many with assistance.
Related: Wrangell-St. Elias 3-day Itinerary
Wildlife You May See (Whales, Sea Otters, Puffins)
One of the biggest highlights of a Kenai Fjords Tours Wildlife and Glacier Cruise is the incredible variety of wildlife you might encounter along the way. The nutrient-rich waters and rugged coastline of Kenai Fjords National Park support an abundance of marine mammals, from playful sea otters bobbing in the waves to groups of harbor seals lounging on floating ice.
Orca whales (also known as killer whales) are frequently spotted in these fjords, along with humpback whales, gray whales, and the elusive minke whales. Keep your eyes on the shoreline too—mountain goats can sometimes be seen scaling steep cliffs high above the water. You’ll also pass near bustling seabird colonies, where puffins, murres, and kittiwakes nest in noisy rookeries. Every cruise is different, but the chances for unforgettable wildlife sightings are always high.
Glaciers You’ll Visit (e.g., Holgate Glacier, Aialik Glacier)
One of the most thrilling parts of any Kenai Fjords Tours Wildlife and Glacier Cruise is getting up close to a massive, calving glacier. On most tours, you’ll visit Aialik Glacier or Holgate Glacier—both active tidewater glaciers known for their icy blue walls and dramatic calving events. The longer tours may also venture to Northwestern Glacier, tucked deep in a quiet fjord and surrounded by rugged wilderness.
As you cruise past towering cliffs and floating icebergs, your guide will often point out Bear Glacier in the distance, which is the park’s largest glacier by length. While not visible from the boat, Exit Glacier is also part of the park and worth exploring on foot if you’re spending extra time in Seward.
Review: Our Personal Cruise Experiences
I’ve actually done three different tours with Kenai Fjords Tours over the years—and each one offered something a little different.
🧭 Kenai Fjords National Park Tour (2004)
This was our first experience—my husband and I did the 6-hour National Park Tour over Labor Day weekend. Even though it was years ago, it left a huge impression. We saw a glacier calving, orcas swimming beside the boat, and the sea cliffs near Cape Resurrection were simply breathtaking.
A crazy thing happened on that trip: our boat was part of a sea rescue. We spotted people in the water from a capsized boat and helped pull them aboard. It was tragic—some had already succumbed to the cold—but also deeply moving. I used my Army training to help care for one of the victims. It’s a story I’ll never forget.
🌄 Resurrection Bay Cruise (2016)
his was a shorter, wildlife-focused cruise I did in May, and the weather was surprisingly beautiful. You don’t get close to a glacier on this one, but the views and wildlife were spectacular. I’d definitely recommend this one for travelers short on time or visiting in shoulder season.
I particularly loved getting close to the sea lions. But the stars of the show really were the islands and rock cliffs at Cape Resurrection. The views were spectacular!
🍽 Fox Island Dinner Cruise (2022)
Unfortunately, this cruise isn’t running as of 2025, but it was one of my favorites. We visited in July with our daughter, and it hit the sweet spot—great wildlife, a glacier visit, and then a stop at Fox Island for a hot buffet dinner. The crew even pulled up chunks of glacial ice so we could hold them. Our daughter loved it, and it felt just the right length for a family day.
We saw plenty of wildlife too, to include a whale, sea otters, bald eagles, steller sea lions, and puffins.
Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Cruise
- 📅 Book early—especially in summer.
- 🧥 Dress in layers and bring a warm hat, gloves, and rain gear.
- 👟 Wear shoes with good grip—the deck can get slippery.
- 🤢 If you’re prone to seasickness, take Dramamine or wear patches about an hour before departure.
- 🍽 If your cruise ends before dinner, book a table with a view in Seward—you’ll be glad you did.
Best Time of Year to Go
So, this is a relatively easy question to answer because the cruises typically run from May-September. I have personally been on one of these cruises in May, July, and September… and they were all spectacular. The weather was the worst in July but that is just Alaska for you. Typically July is the drier month. But rain happens.
I will say that the views in May were crisp, clear, and utterly spectacular. Also, May and September are shoulder seasons for tourism. So, you might have a less crowded cruise during the shoulder season. Honestly though, I wouldn’t bank on that. These tours are some of the most popular and accessible adventures for Alaska travelers. I believe they all reach capacity throughout the season.
Taking the Alaska Railroad to Seward for Your Cruise
The Coastal Classic Train from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most scenic rail journeys in Alaska. It leaves Anchorage around 6:45 AM and arrives in Seward by 11:00 AM—perfect timing for most cruises.
You can return to Anchorage the same day (around 6 PM) or spend the night and catch the train back the next day. The train station is only a 15 minute walk or quick shuttle from the harbor. If you can, upgrade to GoldStar Service—it’s worth it for the views and meal service.
Pro Tips:
- Book in advance—train and cruise combos fill quickly in peak summer.
- Consider upgrading to GoldStar Service for a glass-domed car, outdoor viewing platform, and meal service.
- Pack a small day bag if you’re not staying overnight—large suitcases are checked.
Is the Kenai Fjords Cruise Worth It?
Absolutely. If you want to see glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic Alaskan scenery without doing a multi-day trip or rugged backcountry adventure, this cruise is for you. It’s comfortable, well-organized, and truly unforgettable.
Who This Cruise Is Best For
This cruise is great for families, nature lovers, first-time visitors, couples, and even solo travelers. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to soak in the views without hiking or kayaking, it’s an easy, low-stress way to explore Kenai Fjords National Park.
✅ Pros of Kenai Fjords Tours
- Incredible glacier and wildlife viewing
- Comfortable boats with indoor and outdoor seating
- Educational narration from naturalists
- Family-friendly amenities
- Multiple tour lengths to choose from
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- Weather can be unpredictable
- Seasickness is possible (especially in open waters)
- Tours can get crowded in peak season
- Not fully ADA-accessible
- Full-day tours can be pricey for large families
Cruise Comparison Table (Which is better: Kenai Fjords Tours or Major Marine Tours?)
| Cruise Option | Duration | Glacier Views | Wildlife Focus | Meals Included | Best For |
| Classic Kenai Fjords Tours National Park Tour (6 hr) | 6 hours | Holgate Glacier or Aialik Glacier | High | Yes (hot lunch) | Families, nature-lovers |
| Captain’s Choise National Park Kenai Fjords Tours (7 hr) | 7 hours | Aialik Glacier, Holgate | Extensive | Yes (hot lunch) | Adventure seekers |
| Major Marine Tours (7.5 hr) | 7.5 hours | Aialik Glacier, Holgate | High | Deli lunch | Families, nature-lovers |
| Major Marine Northwestern Fjord (8.5 hr) | 8.5 hours | Northwestern, Anchor, Ogive Glaciers | Extensive | Deli lunch | Adults, photographers, birders |
| Major Marine Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise (6 hr) | 6 hours | Holgate Glacier or Aialik Glacier | High | Deli lunch | Families, nature-lovers |
| Northwestern Fjords Tour (8 hours) | 8 hours | Norhwestern Glacier | High | Light breakfast and hot lunch | Educational experience, adventure seekers |
| Kenai Fjords Resurrection Bay Tour | 4 or 4.5 hours | only in the distance | Extensive | Yes (hot lunch) | Families, nature-lovers |
FAQs About Kenai Fjords Glacier and Wildlife Tours
The best glacier cruise depends on your schedule and interests, but many travelers recommend the Kenai Fjords Tours 6-Hour Wildlife and Glacier Cruise or the 8.5-Hour Northwestern Fjord Tour for the most comprehensive experience. These tours balance stunning glacier views—like Aialik, Holgate, or Northwestern Glacier—with exceptional wildlife sightings and expert narration. If you’re short on time, the 4-hour Resurrection Bay cruise still offers amazing views and wildlife without going as far into the fjords.
Kenai Fjords Tours offers a few cruise lengths, but the Wildlife and Glacier Cruise typically lasts 6 hours. It departs from Seward and ventures deep into Kenai Fjords National Park, offering glacier viewing, marine wildlife sightings, and a complimentary lunch on board. Longer 8.5-hour options are available for travelers who want to explore farther into remote fjords.
Yes—this cruise is a great option for families! Boats are spacious, heated, and have restrooms and snack bars, making them very kid-friendly. The 6-hour cruise is a sweet spot for families, offering plenty of excitement without being too long. Kids love spotting whales, puffins, and sea otters, and the narration from onboard naturalists makes it an educational adventure, too.
Wildlife sightings vary, but it’s common to see humpback whales, orca whales (killer whales), gray whales, minke whales, harbor seals, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins, and other seabirds. Occasionally, you may even spot mountain goats high on the cliffs. The waters around Kenai Fjords are rich with marine mammals and birdlife, making every trip a unique experience.
Some passengers may experience seasickness, especially on windier days or in open water. The cruises are generally smooth in protected bays, but once you’re farther into the fjords, motion sickness can be a factor. If you’re prone to it, it’s a good idea to take non-drowsy medication like Bonine or Dramamine before boarding. Crew members are helpful and used to assisting passengers who feel unwell.
Both companies are excellent and highly rated, and you can’t go wrong with either. Kenai Fjords Tours is known for its larger boats, included lunches, and occasional National Park Ranger narration. Major Marine Tours offers smaller vessels and the option to upgrade to Gold Star seating with reserved spots and full-service meals. If you prefer more space and family-friendly amenities, Kenai Fjords Tours may be the better fit. If you’re after a slightly more intimate or upgraded experience, Major Marine might be your pick.
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