Ketchikan, Alaska: The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure

Setting out on a snorkeling trip in Alaska might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure proves it’s a surprisingly doable and rewarding experience.

This 3-hour tour offers a chance to see Alaska’s marine life up close, often overlooked in favor of glaciers and rugged landscapes. If you’re craving a blend of adventure, education, and a splash of the extraordinary, this trip is worth considering.

What we love about this experience is how it combines professional guidance with a notable focus on authentic underwater encounters.

Plus, the fact that you get to wear a top-notch 7mm wetsuit means the cold isn’t much of a concern—who knew the water could reach 65 degrees in summer? However, it’s also important to recognize that this activity is rated as most strenuous, so it’s not for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or mobility issues.

This tour is especially suitable for active travelers who are comfortable in the water and eager to see a different side of Alaska. Families with older children, adventurous cruise passengers, and anyone looking for a unique, hands-on experience will find this snorkeling adventure both exciting and memorable.

Key Points

• Professional guides ensure safety and provide insightful marine life information.
• High-quality gear, including 7mm wetsuits, hood, gloves, and fins, keeps you warm and comfortable.
• Accessible for beginners with thorough instructions and supervision, but physically demanding.
• Surprisingly warm waters in summer, with temperatures reaching up to 65°F.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) offers a more personalized experience.
• Convenient meeting point at the Liquid Sunshine Gauge in downtown Ketchikan, with transport included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure

The Location and Its Appeal

Less than five miles from the cruise dock, Mountain Point offers a perfect balance of accessibility and natural beauty. It’s renowned as Southeast Alaska’s premier snorkeling spot, featuring a mix of shallow tide pools teeming with marine life and steep, dramatic underwater rock walls ideal for more experienced freedivers. This diversity means you’ll encounter everything from colorful sea stars and sea urchins to curious fish and invertebrates nestled among kelp forests.

How the Tour Is Structured

Your adventure begins at the Ketchikan Liquid Sunshine shop, conveniently positioned on downtown Berth 2, just a short walk from your cruise ship. Here, you’ll change into your full 7mm wetsuit in heated dressing rooms—an essential for staying warm in the cool waters. Once geared up, you’ll hop onto the provided transport, heading out to Mountain Point with your small group.

The first part of the tour involves full instruction from certified PADI professionals, ensuring everyone understands how to snorkel safely and comfortably. These guides are CPR and First Aid certified, and some are divemasters or SCUBA instructors, adding an extra layer of safety and expertise.

The Snorkeling Experience

After a brief orientation, you’re off to explore. The calm waters, especially in summer, can reach 65°F, which isn’t much colder than many temperate swimming spots—plus, the thick wetsuits do an excellent job of insulating you. You’ll float over lush kelp forests, observe multi-colored sea stars, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins, and marvel at the variety of fish and invertebrates.

A typical one-hour guided marine life tour is included, where guides point out and describe the creatures you’re viewing. As one reviewer, Christine from Canada, noted, “We had a great time! Water was a bit rough and it is definitely a strenuous activity, but we were with a great group and the guides were so helpful and nice.”

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The Value of the Equipment and Guidance

Using top-quality gear such as Scubapro fins, prescription masks, and optional weight belts for freediving enhances comfort and safety. The guides, all experienced PADI professionals, make a point of engaging with everyone, sharing interesting facts, and making sure no one feels left out or overwhelmed.

What to Expect in Terms Physical Effort

While the tour is suitable for beginners, it’s important to note that it is rated as most strenuous. The activity demands a reasonable level of physical fitness, and some reviews highlight how helpful it was to have guides that were patient and attentive. For example, Michael from Germany appreciated the professionalism, stating, “Everything was as described in advance and I can recommend it without reservation.”

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About three hours, primarily in the water, with transportation and preparation time included.
• Price: $180 per person, which includes gear, instruction, transportation, water, hot chocolate, and a marine life tour.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, providing a more intimate experience.
• Age & Fitness Limitations: Best suited for those over 8, with a weight range of 80 to 260 lbs. The activity is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility.
• What to Bring: Change of clothes, towel, swimsuit, socks for under wetsuits, and a sense of adventure.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. Monique from the US, for example, called it “such a fun snorkel trip,” and noted that “I was not cold whatsoever with the quality wetsuits that they provide.” Others appreciated the organization, with one traveler from Germany remarking, “Everything was really well organized and the team was super friendly.”

The Overall Value

Though $180 might seem a bit steep, when you consider the inclusive gear, professional guidance, and a guaranteed memorable experience, it’s quite fair. Plus, snorkeling in Alaska isn’t common, and the opportunity to see its underwater life firsthand is a rare treat. The tour’s small-group setting and personalized attention add to its appeal; you won’t be lost among crowds or left feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This snorkeling trip is perfect for adventurous cruise passengers, families with kids over 8, and nature lovers eager to get a different perspective on Alaska’s coast. It’s suitable for those who are reasonably fit and comfortable in water but not necessarily experienced snorkelers. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, scenic underwater tour, this might not be the best fit. But if you thrive on slight physical challenge and want a hands-on marine encounter, this tour will deliver.

Final Thoughts

The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s underwater world, combining professional instruction, high-quality gear, and a friendly, knowledgeable team. It’s an activity that adds a layer of discovery and fun to any Alaskan itinerary, especially for those eager to try something different from the standard land excursions.

While it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or medical concerns—it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who enjoy physical activity and authentic experiences. You’ll leave with stories of colorful marine life, the thrill of floating in cool waters, and a newfound appreciation for Alaska’s hidden aquatic treasures.

If you’re prepared for the physical effort and the cool waters, this snorkeling adventure promises a memorable, enriching time. It’s a chance to see Alaska’s marine environment in a way few visitors ever do, making it well worth considering for your cruise or land visit.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the Liquid Sunshine Gauge on downtown Berth 2 is provided.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, swimsuit, socks, and a sense of adventure. All gear is provided, but having your own socks for under wetsuits can be helpful.

Can beginners do this?
Yes, the tour is guided by certified PADI professionals and includes full instructions, making it accessible for beginners. However, it is rated as most strenuous, so some physical fitness is needed.

What is the water temperature in summer?
In mid-summer, water temperatures can reach up to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which is surprisingly warm for Alaska.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all necessary equipment, full instruction, guide supervision, transportation, water, hot chocolate, and a one-hour marine life tour.

Is there an age limit?
Participants should be at least 8 years old, with a weight range of 80 to 260 lbs. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 8 or those with certain health issues.

What if I have medical conditions?
Those with heart conditions, respiratory issues, epilepsy, or limited mobility should avoid this activity. Participants must sign a waiver.

How big are the groups?
Groups are limited to 10 people for a more personalized experience.

What if I’m not comfortable in cold water?
The provided 7mm wetsuits are designed to keep you warm, even in relatively cool waters. Most reviews note that with the gear, participants stayed comfortable.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children (over 8) who are physically fit and comfortable in water. It offers an engaging outdoor activity away from typical cruise excursions.

This snorkeling trip at Mountain Point in Ketchikan is a fantastic way to add an adventurous twist to your Alaskan visit. With expert guides, quality gear, and stunning marine life, it’s an experience that truly enriches your understanding of this wild, beautiful corner of the world.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby