Valdez is one of Alaska’s most striking ports, with towering glaciers, rugged shoreline, and abundant wildlife. Unlike many cruise ports, Valdez offers active and immersive boat experiences that bring you close to the natural wonders of Prince William Sound.
We particularly love the Columbia Glacier Cruise, which combines stunning scenery with the chance to see the historic glacier retreat — a reminder that nature is always in motion. Watching seals, whales, and otters as you cruise past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks makes for an unforgettable day.
Whether you’re interested in witnessing glaciers calve, spotting wildlife, or paddling through icy waters, Valdez offers a range of boat tours suited to different interests and activity levels. We’ve rounded up the top three options, each with its own unique flavor and highlights, so you can choose what best fits your adventure style.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top boat tours in Valdez: a 6-hour Glacier cruise, a full-day glacier and wildlife cruise, and an adventurous kayak and motor boat combo. Each offers a different way to experience the stunning beauty of Prince William Sound — from large ships with panoramic views to paddling up close to glaciers.
Click to explore each experience: Valdez: 6-Hour Columbia Glacier Cruise, From Valdez: 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise, and Valdez: Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride.
1. Valdez: 6-Hour Columbia Glacier Cruise
At number one on our list, the 6-hour Columbia Glacier Cruise offers an in-depth look at one of Alaska’s most dynamic glaciers. This tour provides a solid mix of glacier viewing, wildlife spotting, and storytelling. You’ll cruise through Prince William Sound, where Columbia Glacier’s ongoing retreat is on full display — watch chunks of ice calve into the bay, creating a spectacular show.
This tour is especially good if you want to see a variety of marine life, including seals, otters, whales, and sea lions. The boat’s large windows and open decks give you plenty of angles for photos. The guide shared that the glacier’s retreat is a living example of climate change, making this a fascinating and educational experience.
You’ll also cruise along the shoreline to view waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides, with plenty of chances to spot sea otters floating on their backs or playful seals resting on ice floes. A hot soup lunch keeps you warm and energized in the chilly air.
Bottom Line: This tour balances stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and history, making it a versatile choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive sound experience.
2. From Valdez: 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise
For around $194, the 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise is our top pick for a full-day adventure focused on glaciers and wildlife. This tour takes you closer to the massive Meares Glacier, which surges into the sound with icy grandeur. The captain and crew share insights into the natural history of the area, including how glaciers shape the landscape and support local ecosystems.
The tour is especially popular among wildlife lovers, with frequent sightings of seals, otters, and whales. The boat’s itinerary includes cruising past waterfalls and bays with breathtaking views, perfect for photography. The lunch, served with scenic backdrops, is a highlight — it’s hearty, tasty, and a chance to relax after a morning of exploration.
Why this ranks high? Because it offers a longer, more immersive experience that balances glacier viewing with wildlife encounters. The captain’s detailed commentary adds depth, making the trip educational as well as scenic.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full day of glacier sights and wildlife without feeling rushed. It’s a great value for the extensive experience.
3. Valdez: Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride
If you’re seeking adventure and a more intimate connection with the landscape, the Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour is perfect. This 8-hour trip begins with a scenic boat ride to Shoup Bay, where you’ll launch your kayaks and paddle through icy waters with towering glaciers overhead.
The guided kayak tour puts you right in the middle of the action, where you can see the glacier’s calving up close and feel the chill of the ice.
The motor boat ride to Shoup Bay is a highlight on its own, offering sweeping views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Once ashore, a short walk on the beach allows for more close-up views of the glacier and the nearby terrain. Lunch is served at a scenic spot with a stunning glacier view, providing a satisfying end to your paddling.
This experience is suited for active travelers comfortable with kayaking and outdoor adventure. It’s a smaller, more personal tour that emphasizes hands-on experience rather than just sightseeing from afar. Keep in mind, the price reflects the specialized equipment and guided instruction.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers and those wanting a hands-on, immersive glacier experience. It promises a day of paddling, scenery, and a sense of discovery.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and activity level. The Columbia Glacier Cruise is a solid all-around choice if you want a comfortable, scenic day with wildlife and glacier views. If you prefer an extended, wildlife-focused expedition, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise hits that sweet spot.
For those craving adventure and an up-close glacier experience, the Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour offers a more physically active and intimate encounter.
Think about your budget, too. The prices range from $174 to $265, with longer or more active tours costing more. If you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed experience, the shorter cruise may suit you best. For active travelers who love paddling and exploring on their own terms, the kayak tour is unmatched.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months when these tours fill up quickly. Also, consider the weather — summer offers the clearest views, but winter trips can be more dramatic with snow-covered peaks and icy waters.
In summary, Valdez offers a range of boat-based adventures that suit different tastes — whether you want a relaxing cruise, a wildlife watching day, or a hands-on paddling experience. For a broad view of the glaciers and wildlife, the Columbia Glacier Cruise is hard to beat.
For a full-day deep dive into glaciers and wildlife, go for the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise. And for an active, immersive experience, the Shoup Glacier kayak trip cannot be missed.
No matter which you choose, you’re sure to come away with stunning memories of Alaska’s wild coast. Book early, dress warmly, and prepare for a truly memorable trip.