Whittier is a gem for boat tours and cruises, thanks to its prime location near Prince William Sound and the surrounding wilderness. The town’s small size and deep-water port make it an ideal departure point for some of the best wilderness viewing in Alaska.
Whether you’re after glacier encounters, marine wildlife, or scenic drives, Whittier offers a variety of options that appeal to different interests and travel styles.
For example, the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise stands out for its close-up glacier views and marine encounters, perfect for nature lovers craving a full day on the water.
Meanwhile, the Whittier to Anchorage Post Cruise Wildlife Glacier Tour offers a more relaxed day with wildlife, hikes, and scenic stops, ideal if you want a blend of adventure and comfort.
In this list, you’ll find multi-stop tours, private eco-transfers, and guided excursions—each with unique features, prices, and itineraries. Whether you’re seeking an all-day glacier adventure, a family-friendly wildlife tour, or a personalized private trip, the choices are impressive. Let’s explore what each option offers and help you find the best fit.
- 1. From Whittier/Anchorage: Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise
- 2. Whittier Cruise Shuttle Tour with Multiple Stops
- 3. Whittier to Anchorage Post Cruise Wildlife Glacier Tour
- 4. Private Whittier Cruise Transfer & Scenic Tour for Large Groups
- 5. Private Guided Tour Whittier Cruise pick up
- 6. Private Whittier Cruise Transit Tour With AWCC
- How to Choose Your Perfect Whittier Boat Tour
- Final Thoughts
1. From Whittier/Anchorage: Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise
This 26 Glacier Cruise promises an unforgettable day exploring the stunning Prince William Sound, with visits to Harriman and College Fjord for some of the most dynamic tidewater glaciers in Alaska. The tour includes viewing marine wildlife, such as whales, sea otters, and seabirds, in their natural habitat, making it a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts.
Unique to this cruise is the NO Seasickness guarantee, which reassures even the most seasensitive travelers that they can enjoy the ride.
The cruise lasts between 5.5 and 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in breathtaking scenery and learn about the glaciers’ fascinating formations. The price of $248 per person reflects its comprehensive nature, including expert narration and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Reviewers particularly appreciate the personalized glacier encounters, with many noting the chance to get “up close and personal” with these ancient ice giants. Plus, the trip is tailored for comfort and safety, making it suitable for families and solo travelers alike.
Bottom Line: For a full-day, in-depth exploration of glaciers with wildlife viewing, this cruise is top-tier. Book early, as it’s highly rated and popular.
2. Whittier Cruise Shuttle Tour with Multiple Stops
At number 2, the Whittier Cruise Shuttle Tour with Multiple Stops offers a well-rounded day exploring some of the area’s most scenic and wildlife-rich spots. This 6 to 8-hour tour is a perfect way to see Alaska’s natural beauty without the full-day commitment of a long cruise.
The tour kicks off with Portage Lake Overlook, providing a sweeping view of the mountains and glaciers, followed by a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see bears, moose, bison, and more in naturalistic enclosures.
The tour includes stops at Beluga Point, where late summer and fall bring opportunities to spot beluga whales, and the Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary, a haven for birdwatchers and casual nature lovers.
This tour’s highlight is the personalized experience, with professional photography included, making it ideal for travelers who want great photos and a mixture of wildlife, scenery, and history. Reviewers praise the flexibility and knowledgeable guides like Dan, who “knew the area and took us to beautiful spots.”
Value for money is excellent at $229, especially considering the multiple stops and private photography. It’s well suited for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive taste of Alaska’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: A flexible and engaging way to see Alaska’s highlights in a single day, perfect for those wanting variety without a full cruise.
3. Whittier to Anchorage Post Cruise Wildlife Glacier Tour
If you prefer a more intimate and relaxed experience, the Whittier to Anchorage Post Cruise Wildlife Glacier Tour offers a 6-hour journey focusing on wildlife viewing and glacier hikes. The tour starts with a visit to Portage Glacier — a classic sight for anyone coming from the cruise. The highlight is the hike to Byron Glacier, providing a close-up view of a real glacier on a flat, accessible trail.
This tour is renowned for its personalized approach, limited to 11 travelers, which ensures plenty of time for questions and tailored recommendations. The tour also includes a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can observe animals like bears, moose, and eagles.
The tour’s value lies in its relaxed pace, detailed explanations of wildlife and geology, and the option to get personalized dinner suggestions for Anchorage afterward.
Reviewers note the expert narration and the comfort of riding in a small group. For $197, it offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and glacier experience with a more personal touch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a smaller group, more in-depth wildlife encounters, and glacier hikes in a half-day trip.
4. Private Whittier Cruise Transfer & Scenic Tour for Large Groups
For travelers who prefer private, customized experiences, this Private Whittier Cruise Transfer & Scenic Tour is perfect. Costing $1,350 for groups up to 9, it offers exclusive access to the region’s top sights, with the flexibility to tailor the stops. Highlights include Portage Lake, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Beluga Point, and Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary.
The tour emphasizes personalized attention and allows you to focus on your interests, whether wildlife viewing, photography, or scenic landscapes.
The guide is well-rated for knowledge, and the itinerary includes stopping at Earthquake Park—a bonus for those interested in regional history and geology. This tour is recommended for families, groups, or travelers wanting a luxury experience with a private guide.
At 6-8 hours, the tour strikes a nice balance between depth and comfort, and the customization makes it stand out. Reviewers mention the efficient, friendly guide and the flexibility to explore.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups wanting a private, tailored day exploring Alaska’s highlights without the rush.
5. Private Guided Tour Whittier Cruise pick up
This private Whittier Cruise pick-up offers a personalized way to experience Alaska’s scenery, especially if you want a semi-private transfer combined with sightseeing. For around $1,250 (up to 6 people), you’ll enjoy scenic stops at Portage Lake, the Wildlife Conservation Center, and Beluga Point, along with insights from your dedicated guide.
The tour is praised for its flexibility and personalized service, with the guide sharing stories and facts about the region. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who prefer to customize their day and avoid large-group tours. The inclusion of stops like Earthquake Park and Girdwood makes this a well-rounded trip.
If you want a luxury, private experience that can be tailored to your preferences, this is a smart choice. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and ease of travel.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups seeking a private, flexible Alaska experience with customized stops.
6. Private Whittier Cruise Transit Tour With AWCC
Finally, the Private Whittier Cruise Transit Tour With AWCC combines scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and glacier views in a 6-7 hour private outing for groups up to 4. It starts with a Portage Lake overlook, continues through the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and includes stops at Beluga Point, Potter Marsh, and Earthquake Park.
This tour emphasizes learning about Alaska’s ecology and geology with a flexible schedule and personalized attention. It’s ideal for families or small groups who want a more intimate experience with the option to customize the day’s stops.
The high ratings and the tailored itinerary make it a strong choice for those who want a private, comprehensive day exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: For a small group wanting a custom, private tour with in-depth wildlife and glacier experiences, this is a great pick.
How to Choose Your Perfect Whittier Boat Tour
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a full-day glacier experience and don’t mind splurging, the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise offers unmatched glacier viewing and wildlife encounters. For a half-day with a variety of stops, the Whittier Cruise Shuttle Tour provides excellent value and flexibility.
If you prefer a more personal, intimate experience, the private tours are ideal, especially if traveling with family or friends.
Think about activity level too — if you’re up for a short glacier hike, the Wildlife Glacier Tour is perfect. For those seeking customization and privacy, the private options will deliver the best experience.
Booking early is advisable as these tours tend to fill quickly, especially during peak season from late spring to early fall. Each offers a different perspective on Alaska’s stunning scenery, so pick what’s most aligned with your interests and style.
Final Thoughts
Whittier’s boat tours cover everything from massive tidewater glaciers to elusive wildlife and scenic drives. If you’re after an all-day glacier adventure, the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise is hard to beat. For a shorter, multi-stop tour mixing wildlife, scenery, and history, the Whittier Cruise Shuttle is a top choice.
For those wanting a personalized private experience, the private tours offer tailored routes and intimate encounters with Alaska’s wilderness.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early will ensure you get your preferred date and time. Prepare to be amazed by Alaska’s natural wonders—these tours will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.