7 Best Tours & Things To Do In Valdez (With Prices)

Valdez is a small town packed with stunning natural beauty, making it a prime spot for outdoor adventures and marine excursions. It’s not just the awe-inspiring glaciers or the chance to spot whales that make Valdez special; it’s the variety of tour options that cater to different interests and activity levels.

Whether you’re after a serene boat cruise, a high-energy whitewater trip, or a peaceful kayak paddle, Valdez offers something memorable.

We especially like the Valdez: 6-Hour Columbia Glacier Cruise for its blend of wildlife viewing and glacier scenery, and the Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour for those who want an up-close glacier experience.

For travelers craving more active pursuits, the Keystone Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trip offers a thrilling ride through dramatic canyon walls, while the Gold Creek Coastal Journey Kayak Tour combines kayaking with a picnic and hike. Whether you prefer wildlife-filled waterways or icy landscapes, Valdez has a diverse lineup of tours that deliver adventure and spectacular views.

1. Valdez: 6-Hour Columbia Glacier Cruise

This 6-hour Columbia Glacier cruise is a top pick for its stunning scenery and wildlife opportunities. Starting in Valdez, the tour takes you along Prince William Sound, showcasing the historic retreat of Columbia Glacier. You’ll enjoy close-up views of massive ice formations that are constantly changing, and learn how the glacier has receded over the years.

The cruise also offers plentiful wildlife sightings—seals, sea otters, whales, and sea lions are common on this route.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of natural beauty and educational narration. The boat crew shares stories about the glacier’s evolution and the sound’s ecosystem, making it a rich experience. Plus, a hot soup lunch keeps you warm amid the chilly surroundings.

At 4.9 out of 5 stars from 140 reviews, many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views. Pricing at $174 per person provides good value, considering the length and inclusiveness.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive boat trip with wildlife viewing and glacier scenery in one smooth package.

2. From Valdez: 7.5-hour Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

For an extended exploration, the Meares Glacier & Wildlife Cruise offers a full-day adventure in Prince William Sound. This trip highlights Meares Glacier, known for its impressive calving displays and towering ice cliffs. Along the way, your crew points out abundant marine wildlife, including seals, otters, and whales, making it a feast for nature lovers.

The route takes you past waterfalls, secluded coves, and scenic bays, giving you plenty of photo opportunities. The boat provides a hearty lunch with panoramic views, adding comfort to the day’s excitement.

The 4.7-star rating from 53 reviews indicates that travelers value the knowledgeable crew and the chance to see the glacier from multiple angles. Price at $194 per person reflects a slightly longer and more in-depth experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an immersive day with glacier sights and marine wildlife, along with comprehensive natural history insights.

3. Valdez: Columbia Glacier Sea Kayak Day Tour

If you’re eager to get close to the ice, the Sea Kayak Day Tour is a fantastic choice. This 9-hour guided trip takes you paddling through Columbia Bay’s floating icebergs, giving you a direct connection with the glacier environment. The tour begins with a boat ride to the glacier, during which wildlife like seals and sea otters are often spotted.

Once on the water, you’ll paddle among icebergs, exploring beaches and viewing the glacier’s front up close. The experience is both serene and exhilarating, with expert guidance ensuring safety and enriching your knowledge of the surrounding landscape.

With a perfect 5-star rating from 12 reviews, paddlers love the intimate, immersive nature of this tour. The $345 price tag reflects the specialized equipment and small group setting.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want to experience the glacier from a personal perspective, with plenty of wildlife and photo opportunities.

4. Valdez: Keystone Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trip

If you’re after a high-energy adventure, the Whitewater Rafting in Keystone Canyon delivers pulse-pounding fun. Navigating the Lowe River’s rapids, you’ll weave through scenic canyon walls and around waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls. The trip lasts just three hours, making it a quick but intense outing.

The guides are experienced and focus on safety, with a quick practice session before hitting the water. You’ll get several rapid sections, interspersed with calmer stretches to soak in the surroundings. The 4.8-star reviews show that thrill-seekers appreciate the combination of adrenaline and stunning scenery. At $110 per person, this tour offers a good balance of excitement and value.

Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure lovers craving a fast-paced, scenic whitewater experience with expert guides.

5. Valdez: Gold Creek Coastal Journey Kayak Tour

For a mix of paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing, the Gold Creek Coastal Journey is hard to beat. This 6-hour trip begins with a guided kayak paddle along the coast toward Gold Creek State Park, followed by a picnic lunch on a remote beach. After lunch, you can hike through ancient rain forests, making this a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Wildlife sightings are common—look for black bears, jumping salmon, seals, sea lions, and otters. The guide shares insights into the area’s flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of this pristine environment.

With a 5-star rating from just 1 review, it’s clear that those who choose this trip love its combination of adventure and tranquility. The price is $129 per person, offering good value for a full day of activity and nature.

Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers wanting a full day of kayaking, wildlife, and forest exploration.

6. Valdez: Duck Flats Sea Kayak Tour

For those looking for a shorter, laid-back adventure, the Duck Flats Sea Kayak Tour is a perfect choice. This 3-hour paddle takes you through calm, protected waters known for nesting bald eagles and resting harbor seals. It’s an easy trip that’s suitable for beginners or anyone wanting a relaxing paddle.

The experienced guide provides rain gear, rubber boots, and gloves, ensuring you stay comfortable. You’ll learn about local birdlife and history while enjoying the serene surroundings. Although reviews are limited (7 reviews, 4.3 stars), the positive feedback highlights the peaceful atmosphere and good gear. The price of $89 makes it accessible for a quick outdoor escape.

Bottom Line: Great for those short on time or with limited paddling experience but still wanting to see local wildlife.

7. Valdez: Shoup Glacier Kayak Tour with Motor Boat Ride

Finally, the Shoup Glacier Kayak & Motor Boat Tour combines a scenic boat ride with a guided kayak adventure. The trip starts with a comfortable motor boat ride to Shoup Bay, where you’ll paddle in front of a majestic glacier. The boat portion gives you sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and ice formations.

The kayaking segment offers a chance to see glaciers, seabirds, and possibly seals up close. The tour includes a walk on the beach and a lunch spot with panoramic glacier views. At 8 hours long and $265 per person, it’s suited for travelers looking for a comprehensive, comfortable experience with multiple activities.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of boat and kayak with incredible glacier scenery in a longer, more relaxed day.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Valdez

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and activity level. For a full-day, wildlife-rich experience, the Meares Glacier cruise offers excellent value. If you’d rather get up close to the glacier itself, the Sea Kayak Day Tour is unmatched for intimacy with icy landscapes.

For adrenaline junkies, the Whitewater Rafting is a hit, while those seeking a relaxing day might prefer the Duck Flats Kayak. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure spots on popular excursions.

Final Thoughts

Valdez offers a broad range of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re after glacier views, wildlife, or adventure sports. For a balanced experience, consider the Columbia Glacier cruise for its stunning scenery and wildlife, or the Meares Glacier cruise if you want a full-day adventure. Active travelers should look at kayaking or whitewater rafting to get their adrenaline fix.

No matter which tour you choose, early booking guarantees your spot on these unforgettable outings. Take your pick, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy exploring one of Alaska’s most striking destinations.