15 Most Highly Rated Tours & Things To Do In Seward

Seward is a true hub for outdoor enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. With its rugged coastline, abundant wildlife, and proximity to glaciers, it offers an impressive variety of tours and activities that showcase Alaska’s wild side. Whether you’re longing for a boat cruise past towering tidewater glaciers or eager to meet energetic huskies during a dog sled ride, Seward delivers.

I personally love the Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise for its stunning scenery and the chance to spot whales while enjoying fresh onboard lunch—an experience that captures the essence of Alaskan adventure [].

Seward’s variety of tours makes it a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers—families, solo explorers, or couples. For those who want a quick wildlife fix, the half-day Wildlife Cruise offers an intimate look at sea otters, seals, and mountain goats.

Adventure seekers, however, can’t miss the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure for a real glacier trek. Below is a curated list of the 15 best options to help you decide which suits your style best.

1. Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Catamaran Cruise w/Lunch

Rated 4.8/5 with 736 reviews, this 6-hour cruise is one of Seward’s most popular. It combines spectacular scenery with wildlife viewing and a deli-style onboard lunch. The high-speed, stable catamaran glides through Resurrection Bay, giving you sweeping views of fjords, towering glaciers, and rugged mountains. Expect to see whales, sea otters, puffins, and seals in their natural habitat.

The captain’s commentary highlights the area’s geography and wildlife, making it both entertaining and educational. The lunch is simple but satisfying, and local beers are available for purchase.

This tour balances comfort, scenery, and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day on the water.

Bottom Line: A great choice for families or wildlife lovers who want comfort, scenery, and good value in a half-day cruise.

2. Wilderness Dog Sled Ride and Tour in Seward

Rating 5.0/5 with 351 reviews, this 1.5-hour tour is a hit for anyone curious about the Iditarod or just loves dogs. It starts with a visit to a kennel where you can cuddle husky puppies and learn about the life of dog mushing. Then, you’ll hop onto a wheeled sled for a dog sled ride through the wilderness—no snow needed, thanks to specially designed summer sleds.

Guests rave about the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, plus the joy of meeting adorable puppies. It’s a hands-on, heartwarming experience that combines education with fun outdoor activity.

Bottom Line: Perfect for dog lovers, families, and those wanting an authentic glimpse of sled dog training without requiring snow.

3. Kenai Fjords and Resurrection Bay Half-Day Wildlife Cruise

Rated 4.5/5 based on 911 reviews, this 4-hour cruise offers a perfect introduction to Seward’s wildlife and glaciers. Travel along the rugged coastline, passing Bear Glacier—the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords. Keep an eye out for sea lions, otters, whales, and mountain goats as the captain narrates the rich natural history of the area.

The cruise visits Cape Resurrection, famous for seabird rookeries and marine life, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Its moderate length makes it a good option for those who want to see a variety of wildlife and scenery without the full-day commitment.

Bottom Line: An engaging wildlife and glacier tour suitable for most travelers, especially those new to Alaska.

4. Full-Day Kenai Fjords National Park Northwestern Cruise

Rated 5.0/5 with 227 reviews, this 8.5-hour small-vessel cruise explores the remote Northwestern Fjord—a truly special experience. Departing early from Seward, the voyage covers Resurrection Bay, the Alaska Maritime Refuge, Cape Resurrection, and Harris Bay.

It’s perfect for birders, whale-watchers, and photographers, with chances to see humpbacks, orcas, and glaciers calving. The cruise includes a deli lunch, making it a full-day adventure with plenty of wildlife sightings in untouched areas.

Because it’s a small vessel, it offers a more intimate experience, but note that children under 12 aren’t recommended.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a comprehensive, wildlife-rich, and less crowded experience, this cruise hits all the marks.

5. Kenai Fjords National Park Glacier & Wildlife Tour from Seward

Rated 4.5/5 with 856 reviews, this 6-hour cruise offers a chance to see alpine and tidewater glaciers, along with abundant marine wildlife. The onboard lunch and expert commentary make it both relaxing and informative.

The tour visits seabird rookeries at the Alaska Maritime Refuge and cruises past glaciers like Aialik and Holgate, renowned for their massive ice walls and calving activity. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of glacier scenery and wildlife, with options for morning departures.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, value-packed option for wildlife and glacier enthusiasts.

6. Resurrection Bay Kayaking Adventure

Rated 5.0/5, this 3.75-hour guided kayak trip suits both beginners and experienced paddlers. Paddling in Resurrection Bay, you get close to sea otters, harbor seals, eagles, and if timed right, fish spawning at Tonsina Creek.

The small group size and included gear make it accessible and personal. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, especially as you glide past rugged cliffs and lush forests.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for nature lovers who want a quiet, active experience on the water with plenty of wildlife sightings.

7. Exit Glacier Ice Hiking Adventure from Seward

Rated 5.0/5 with 136 reviews, this full-day tour is for hikers who want to get up close and personal with a glacier. It begins with a steep hike off the beaten path to Exit Glacier, where a guide provides all the needed gear. Once on the glacier, you’ll walk among icy formations, crevasses, and blue ice—an awe-inspiring sight.

The trip includes a lunch break with glacier views and hotel pick-up. It’s physically demanding but well worth it for those who love ice, adventure, and scenery.

Bottom Line: For active travelers craving a real glacier experience, this tour offers unforgettable views with expert guidance.

8. From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour

Rated 4.8/5 from 231 reviews, this 4-hour cruise is a solid choice to see whales, otters, sea lions, and more in a shorter timeframe. The tour offers engaging commentary on the ecology and history of the bay, making it both fun and educational. The chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and marine birds makes it a versatile option for wildlife fans.

Bottom Line: An excellent, shorter wildlife cruise for travelers with limited time who still want a good chance to see local marine life.

9. Helicopter Glacier & Dog Sledding Adventure Tour

Rated 5.0/5 with 130 reviews, this combined adventure takes you from Seward to the Godwin Glacier via helicopter. You’ll meet huskies, learn about dog sledding, and then go for a 25-minute sled ride pulled by a team of eager dogs. The helicopter flight provides breathtaking views of the glacier, and the whole experience is suited for active travelers who want a full-day adventure with a unique twist.

Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers and dog lovers, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime blend of flight, land, and sledding.

10. Resurrection Bay Spring Wildlife Cruise

Rated 5.0/5, this 4-hour cruise specializes in watching migrating gray whales from March to May. The onboard commentary explains why whales visit these waters during their migration. Besides whales, you might see bald eagles, sea lions, and glaciers. Binoculars, hot drinks, and naturalist guides enhance the experience.

Bottom Line: A perfect trip for whale-watchers visiting in spring, with a focus on the annual migration.

11. Kenai Fjords Orca Quest Cruise

Rated 5.0/5 with 118 reviews, this 4-hour cruise is dedicated to spotting orcas during mid-May to mid-June. The captain navigates to orca hotspots, with the added thrill of listening to their calls via hydrophone. Expect to see seals, eagles, and possibly humpbacks. It’s ideal for those specifically interested in orca whales.

Bottom Line: A must for whale enthusiasts eager to see orcas in their natural environment.

12. Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park Guided Tour with Lunch

Rated 5.0/5 with 105 reviews, this 6-hour guided tour combines wildlife, glaciers, and local history. Highlights include mushing a sled dog team, visiting Exit Glacier, and a hearty lunch. You’ll also explore Mile 0 of the Iditarod Trail, making this an immersive Alaskan experience. The guides are knowledgeable, and the tour balances physical activity with scenic sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a bit of everything—history, wildlife, glacier views, and hands-on experiences.

13. Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska!

Rated 5.0/5, this full-day adventure mixes hiking to Fort McGilvray and kayaking to Miller’s Landing. It’s perfect for those who want to combine land and water exploration. The guides offer training for kayakers of all skill levels, and wildlife sightings include bald eagles, whales, and more. The historical aspect of the WW2 fort adds an extra layer of interest.

Bottom Line: Geared toward active travelers seeking a diverse experience of history, scenery, and wildlife.

14. Turning Heads Kennel Dogsledding Experience & Tour

Rated 5.0/5, this 75-minute kennel tour and sled ride introduces you to professional sled dogs and mushers. You’ll meet the team, learn commands, and take a training ride pulled by huskies. It’s a shorter, more relaxed option that’s ideal for families or those curious about the Iditarod.

Bottom Line: Suitable for beginners and families wanting a quick, hands-on dog sled experience.

15. Seward Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park Tour

Rated 5.0/5, this 6-hour shore excursion offers a full day exploring glaciers, whales, and seabird rookeries. It’s designed for cruise passengers wanting to see the highlights of Kenai Fjords on either side of their voyage. With lunch onboard and the chance to see migrating whales and glaciers, it provides a seamless way to enjoy Seward’s best sights.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting an organized, comprehensive day with flexible scheduling.

How to Choose The Right Tour

When deciding among Seward’s many options, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For an effortless introduction, the Wildlife Cruise offers wildlife viewing with minimal exertion. Active travelers should look at the Exit Glacier Ice Hiking or the Kayak and Hike to WW2 Fort.

If wildlife is your priority, the Kenai Fjords Orca Quest and Resurrection Bay Spring Wildlife Cruise are excellent choices, especially during seasonal migrations.

For those seeking a mix of activities, the Guided Tour with Lunch combines sightseeing, dog mushing, and glacier views. Book early, especially for the popular boat and glacier tours, as they fill quickly in peak season.

Final Thoughts

Seward is a treasure trove of Alaskan adventures, offering everything from whale watching and glacier hikes to dog sledding and kayaking. Whether you want a quick wildlife cruise or a full-day expedition into the fjords, this list covers the best options for all interests.

If you’re an active traveler, don’t miss the glacier ice hike or the kayaking adventures. Families and wildlife lovers will enjoy the cruises and the dog sled rides.

To make the most of your trip, plan ahead and book early—several tours are highly rated and fill up fast in summer months. Whatever your travel style, Seward promises authentic experiences that will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve returned home.