Prince William Sound Glacier Tour – Whittier

If you’re dreaming of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, the Prince William Sound Glacier Tour offers a well-rounded peek into this rugged landscape. This 10-hour cruise is designed for travelers who want to see icebergs, bears, seals, and whales without the seasickness that sometimes accompanies more turbulent boat rides.

We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and tour info, it’s an experience that’s both accessible and memorable.

What we love about this tour? First, the calm waters and stable catamarans mean even those who are prone to seasickness can enjoy the scenery without worry. Second, the expert narration adds true value, helping you identify wildlife and understand glacial processes.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of the cruise—some travelers find it a bit long when the narration or sights aren’t as engaging as hoped. Still, this tour appears perfect for families, first-timers, and anyone eager for a genuine Alaska adventure.

Who would this tour suit? Anyone with a love for nature, wildlife, and glaciers, especially those seeking a comfortable, informative experience with good food and scenic vistas. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a smooth, nausea-free cruise and don’t mind spending a full day on the water.

This experience made our article of The 13 Best Tours & Things To Do In Whittier.

Key Points

• Smooth, nausea-free experience thanks to stable catamarans and calm waters.
• In-depth narration enhances understanding of glaciers and wildlife.
• Delicious onboard lunch featuring wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder.
• Ideal for first-time cruisers or those wary of seasickness.
• Includes sightseeing of glaciers, wildlife, and scenic views in a manageable 10-hour window.
• Accessible and family-friendly with ADA accommodations and vegetarian meal options.

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

The Prince William Sound Glacier Tour is a well-thought-out day trip that combines comfort with the thrill of Alaska’s icy wilderness. Whether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or just looking for a way to see glaciers without the hassle of rough seas, this cruise offers a good balance. Price-wise, at around $248.20 per person, the trip is an investment that many reviews suggest is worth the cost for the quality of views, food, and expertise included.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a 90-minute drive from Anchorage to Whittier through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a notable feature that opens on the hour, so timing is key. This tunnel is part of the adventure, and while there’s a toll fee not included in the tour price, it’s an integral part of your journey into Alaska’s coastal landscape.

Once in Whittier, the highlight is the 26 Glacier Cruise aboard Phillips Cruises’ high-speed catamarans. These vessels are specially designed for comfort, stability, and a smooth ride, making it ideal for first-time cruisers or those who worry about seasickness. As one reviewer noted, “We did not feel seasick at all,” thanks to the vessel’s design and the calm waters of the Sound.

Onboard Amenities and Food

Food is a highlight on this cruise. The included wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder truly stands out, with many reviewers describing it as delicious. The meal also includes oyster crackers, a vegetable salad, cheese, fruit, and a peppermint candy—an often-overlooked but appreciated detail. Special dietary requests like vegetarian chili or kids’ meals are available if requested 48 hours in advance, making it family-friendly.

Coffee, hot tea, and water are available throughout the day at self-serve stations, keeping travelers refreshed. USB charging stations at each table are a thoughtful touch, especially for those wanting to document the scenery or stay connected, although Wi-Fi isn’t provided.

Wildlife, Glaciers, and Narration

One of the major draws of this tour is the chance to see glaciers in action—some reviews mention witnessing calving events, where chunks of ice dramatically break off into the water. While sightings of whales, bears, otters, seals, and seabirds are common, it’s worth noting that some travelers hoped for more calving or wildlife encounters; weather and seasonal factors can influence what you see.

The onboard narration, provided by the captain and sometimes a forest ranger, is highly valued, with many reviews praising its informativeness. “The narration was super insightful and interesting,” said one traveler, and others appreciated the expert commentary that brought the scenery to life.

Wildlife and Scenery

Expect to spot bald eagles soaring overhead, sea otters lounging on icebergs, and seals resting on floating ice. Some reviews highlight seeing bears and mountain goats—a true Alaska bonus. The scenery overall is described as breathtaking, with towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and pristine waters creating postcard-perfect views.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about 6 hours on the water, plus travel time from Anchorage and the tunnel. The group size can be up to 250 travelers, but reviews suggest that the crew manages the crowds well, making it feel intimate despite the numbers. The cruise departs at 12:15 p.m., giving you plenty of daylight for sightseeing and exploration afterward.

Additional Tips

• Bring layers: Weather in Alaska can change quickly, and even on calm days, temperatures can be cooler on the water.
• Book in advance: The tour is popular, booked an average of 58 days ahead, so plan early.
• Prepare for the cost: While the experience is comprehensive, extras like souvenirs, alcohol, or tunnel tolls are additional.
• Consider your interests: If you’re mostly after glacier calving or whale sightings, remember these are seasonal and weather-dependent.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew who go out of their way to enhance the experience. One reviewer said, “Captain Chris and Forest Ranger Jim have super personalities,” emphasizing the importance of engaging guides. Many travelers also appreciated the delicious lunch—some called it “YUM,” noting the smoked salmon chowder as a standout.

A few comments pointed out the length of the trip could be a downside, especially if the narration isn’t as engaging or if the weather impairs visibility. However, most agree that the overall value outweighs these minor drawbacks, especially if wildlife and glaciers are your main goals.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

The Prince William Sound Glacier Tour offers a compelling blend of comfort, scenic beauty, and wildlife viewing. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or travelers who want to avoid seasickness while still experiencing Alaska’s icy marvels up close. If you value expert narration, good food, and stable vessels, this tour delivers.

It’s a great choice for families, seniors, or anyone with concerns about rough waters. The included amenities, accessible design, and scenic highlights make it a practical, enjoyable way to see some of Alaska’s most iconic glaciers and wildlife without feeling rushed.

For those seeking a well-rounded, stress-free day immersed in wilderness, this cruise offers a memorable and worthwhile adventure—one that captures the majesty of the Alaskan coast, delivered with friendly professionalism and a dash of scenic wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for people prone to seasickness?
Yes. The tour features stable catamarans and calm waters, making seasickness unlikely. Many reviews mention not feeling seasick at all.

What is included in the lunch?
Your meal is wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, oyster crackers, julienne vegetable salad, a cheese stick, a fruit snack, and a peppermint candy. Vegetarian chili or kids’ meals can be requested 48 hours in advance.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise itself lasts approximately 6 hours, with additional travel time from Anchorage and through the tunnel, making the entire experience around 10 hours.

Are there wildlife sightings?
Yes. Expect to see bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and seabirds, with occasional sightings of bears and mountain goats. While wildlife depends on the season and weather, many travelers report excellent sightings.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 250 travelers can join this tour. The crew manages group interactions effectively, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Are there accessibility features?
Yes. The vessels are ADA accessible, providing a safe and comfortable viewing experience for everyone.

This glacier cruise in Whittier balances scenic adventure, wildlife encounters, and comfort, making it a strong pick for anyone wanting to explore Alaska’s icy coastline in style. Whether you’re a first-timer or an Alaska veteran, you’ll likely come away with unforgettable memories of glaciers calving, seabirds soaring, and the rugged beauty of Prince William Sound.