major marine or kenai fjords tours

Kenai Fjords Tours Vs Major Marine In Seward

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For anyone visiting Alaska, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-see destination.

It’s one of the best places to take in the stunning scenery and experience beautiful Alaskan wildlife up close.

But here’s the catch: the park is virtually inaccessible by road. Visitors have to take a day tour cruise from Seward. 

Table of Contents

Getting Around Kenai Fjords National Park 

The two main cruise operators in Seward are Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marine. If you’re trying to decide which tour would be best for you, we’ve got you covered.

Travel can be unpredictable; there’s so much that could go wrong. Therefore, getting the right travel insurance is paramount.

A travel insurance plan can help ensure that minor mishaps don’t ruin your Kenai Fjords National Park experience. 

Kenai Fjords Tours

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kenai Fjords Tours (@kenaifjordstours)

If you’re looking for  things to do in Alaska , a Kenai Fjords National Park trip should be on your list. The 600,000+ acres park offers plenty, from exotic wildlife to stunning landscapes.

As most of the park can only be explored by boat, several daily cruises are available. 

Kenai Fjords Tours out of Seward is one of the more popular options for exploring the beautiful, expansive park. Here’s everything you need to know about Kenai Fjords Tours if you book with them. 

Cruise Options and Routes

Like all the other cruise operators in Kenai Fjords National Park, Kenai Fjords Tours offers several cruise options and routes for explorers.

Ultimately, the choice boils down to what you want to see (glaciers, wildlife, or both), how deep you want to go into the park, and the time of the year.

Read later – 4 Best Kenai Fjords Kayaking Tours

The longer you stay on the boat, the deeper you go into Kenai Fjords National Park — and the more you pay.

Here are some of the most popular Kenai Fjords Tours cruise options and their respective prices:

• A 4-hour Gray Whale Watch Tour ($80)
• A 5-hour Resurrection Bay Tour ($108)
• A 5-hour and 30 mins Glacier Dinner Cruise ($162)
• A 6-hour Kenai Fjords National Park Tour ($162)
• A 7-hour Northwestern Fjord Tour ($207)
• An 8 hour-and 30 mins Kenai Fjords National Park with Fox Island Dinner ($189)

The Fox Island Dinner cruise is only six hours long, with the other two and a half hours accounting for dinner.

As you’d expect, some of these cruises may not be available depending on the season. For instance, the Gray Whale Watch Tour is only offered in spring. 

Boats, Crew, and Food

When deciding the best Kenai Fjords National Park cruise, you’ll want to know what to expect regarding boats, crew, and food.

You’ll be happy to know that Kenai Fjords Tours boasts a fleet of modern vessels for all cruises. 

The staff are polite, thoughtful, and highly professional.

It’s Alaska, so it should be expected that someone will get seasick at some point during the boat tour. The crew will check in regularly to ensure everyone is okay. 

One of the best parts about Kenai Fjords Tours is that they offer a hearty and filling lunch, depending on the duration of the cruise.

For the shorter tours, expect sandwiches and premade wraps. For longer trips, you may get a delicious hot lunch.  

The Overall Kenai Fjords Tours Experience

Kenai Fjords National offers an abundance of wildlife and marine life to see.

All cruises from this operator depart from Seward Harbor, which is ideal if you want to see all the animals and marine life. Of course, it all depends on the weather. 

On a good day, you’ll see whales, puffins, sea lions, seabirds, mountain goats, and more. Some routes will be more scenic than others, but you should be able to get some stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and fjords regardless of your route.

Major Marine Tours

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Major Marine Tours (@majormarinetours)

The other major Kenai Fjords National Park tour operator is Major Marine Tours .

The cruise provider offers amazing tours to enjoy the park’s stunning scenery, wildlife, and glaciers.

Here’s everything you need to know about Major Marine Tours if you book with them. 

Major Marine Tours also offers a variety of cruise options to choose from.

Depending on your choice, you’ll spend four to eight hours cruising through Kenai Fjords National Park.

Here are some of the most popular Major Marine Tours cruises: 

• Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise (4 hrs) –$129
• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise (6 hrs) – $199
• Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise (7 hrs and 30 mins) – $229 
• Northwestern Fjord Cruise (8hrs and 30 mins) – $269

All tours start at the Seward Harbor.

The boats depart almost simultaneously, so you need to be sure you get into the right one. You may wait a few minutes in line out on the docks before you can get on board. 

Like most Kenai Fjords National Park tour operators, Major Marine Tours has an impressive fleet of boats to carry passengers on wildlife tours.

All the vessels feature a viewing deck, heated cabins, clean restrooms, and large fog-free picture windows.

The crew is experienced, friendly, and always ready to help. 

Major Marine Tours offers lunch on tours longer than six hours.

Expect nothing fancy in terms of their food, just a bag of chips, a sandwich, a cold beverage, and maybe a snack. Premade wraps are pretty much the standard these days with most cruise operators. 

The Overall Major Marine Tours Experience

Tours start in Seward, offering fantastic views of the harbor town as the boat heads to the open ocean.

Typically, shorter tours will take some time in the Resurrection Bay area, while longer ones take heads deeper into the park to explore the glaciers. 

If there are whale sightings in the area, boats will typically divert toward them while maintaining a safe watching distance.

There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to see glaciers, especially for the longer tours that go further into Kenai Fjords National Park.  

Kenai Fjords Tours Vs Major Marine: Which Is Better? 

Regarding Kenai Fjords Tours vs. Major Marine, both cruise providers do an excellent job at helping travelers explore Kenai Fjords National Park.

They also offer similar sightseeing opportunities. However, there are a few differences between the two companies. 

For instance, Major Marine offers reserved seating, while Kenai Fjords Tours doesn’t.

That said, you won’t have trouble finding your seat on a Kenai Fjords Tours cruise. The Kenai Fjords Tour boats use the captain as the narrator, while Major Marine Tours have a park ranger aboard. 

However, you’ll find that the captain is just as informative as the park ranger, so that’s something you don’t need to worry about if you’re leaning toward Kenai Fjords Tours.

Ultimately, the choice between Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marine is mostly a personal preference.

Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marine are the main cruise operators in Kenai Fjords National Park.

There’s not much to separate them; it boils down to individual preference. If you’d like to explore more of what The Last Frontier offers, this  Alaska five-day itinerary  will be useful. 

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For inquiries or to book by phone, call

1.888.478.3346

• 4 hr. Spring Resurrection Bay Tour
• 5 hr. Resurrection Bay Tour with Fox Island
• 5.5 hr. Glacier Dinner Cruise
• 6 hr. Kenai Fjords National Park Tour
• 8 hr. Northwestern Fjord Tour
• 8.5 hr. National Park Tour with Fox Island
• Fox Island History
• Room with a Cruise

Pick Your Adventure

Alaska’s Best wildlife and glacier cruise.

There’s no telling what magical sights await as you journey up the coast from Seward on one of our unique ocean cruises, fully narrated by our experienced captains and knowledgeable crew. One thing is for certain: the abundant wildlife and incredible landscapes — from tumbling glaciers and lush forests to towering walls of rock — you’ll see on our wildlife and glacier cruises in Kenai Fjords National Park will create memories to last a lifetime.

Lock in the best rate when you book in advance Ages 1 and under cruise free Cancel up to 4 days before your trip for a full refund

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.888.478.3346

2024 Tour Dates: March 14 – September 29, 2024

Kenai Fjords Tours Safety Promise Guest Information & Reservation Policy

The six-hour tour of the Kenai Fjords National Park was dazzling in a whole new way.

Great tour. Crew was amazing, accommodating, and helpful! Saw lots of orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, otters, bald eagles, puffins and big chunks of ice falling off the glacier! Captain was great at pointing things out and very knowledgeable.

Nothing could have prepared me for the sensory stimulation of this six-hour adventure.

We did the Kenai Fjords National Park Tour with Dinner on Fox Island and had a lot of fun! It was exciting to see the glaciers, and a bunch of wildlife. Crew was also extremely helpful and accommodating.

I booked the (Glacier) dinner cruise and am so happy that we did because it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We saw everything from mountain goats to orcas, breaching humpback whales, sea lions, and glaciers. The captain of the tour was awesome.

Book Early And Save

Why choose kenai fjords tours.

We are the original Kenai Fjords wildlife and glacier cruise operator  

All tours include meals and complimentary off-site parking nearby

All tours depart from Seward and are hosted by our experienced captain and on-board guides

Comfortable, modern boats with spacious viewing decks

Exclusive stops at the beautiful and secluded Fox Island    

Countless photo opportunities of the surrounding wildlife and scenery

Cruise & Kayak packages available for an unforgettable adventure

Learn more about the experience

$1 from each ticket supports the Alaska SeaLife Center's marine research, education, and wildlife response and rehabilitation programs.

Kenai Fjords Tours are proud partners of Whale SENSE — promoting responsible whale watching since 2017.

We are certified by Adventure Green Alaska as a tourism business that practices economic, environmental, social and cultural sustainability.

Fox Island Experience

Just 12 miles by boat from Seward, Fox Island and Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge are a world away from all you know. Renowned for jagged cliffs and pristine pebble beaches, they are a must-see for Alaska visitors.

Enjoy skipping rocks or a walk through nature. Then stop at the Fox Island Day Lodge for our signature dining experience.

Save more with these Alaska Travel Deals

SAVE 25% by bundling your stay at Seward Windsong Lodge with a Kenai Fjords Tours glacier and wildlife cruise.

Have fun with the family and receive one FREE kid's ticket for the Spring Resurrection Bay Tour with the purchase of an adult ticket.

SAVE 25% by bundling your stay at Seward Windsong Lodge with a Kenai Fjords Tours glacier and wildlife cruise during the festival.

Local residents save 20% on Kenai Fjords Tours. Proof of residency and consent to receive email offers from Pursuit required.

Get a deal on your next Alaska adventure — book your Kenai Fjords Tour early online and save!

Stories from Kenai Fjords

The #kenaifjordstours experience.

Connect with @KenaiFjordsTours on       

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

The well-being of our guests and staff has always been our top concern. This season we are continuing to take appropriate measures to ensure you can travel with confidence.

Read our full Covid safety promise

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I was hosted by Major Marine Tours on a half-day wildlife cruise in exchange for coverage in this post. All opinions are my own.

The Best Way To Explore Kenai Fjords National Park: Major Marine Tours

Updated January 2024, The Best Way To Explore Kenai Fjords National Park: Major Marine Tours was originally published in August 2020

Alaska  is a huge bucketlist destination for many travelers, home to eight national parks, most of which are difficult to access with the exception of  Denali National Park , Kenai Fjords National Park, and  Wrangell St. Elias National Park . Kenai Fjords gives visitors the opportunity to experience Alaska’s rugged coastline, countless glaciers, and abundant wildlife.

Then there’s us locals. A lot of us forget to explore our own backyard, and I’m totally guilty of this one: despite living a short 2.5 hour drive from Seward, I’ve never gone on a wildlife day cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park.

That’s not to say it’s not been on my radar, it has. I’ve thought about hopping on one for the last several summers, especially after talking with patients (many lifelong and long-time Alaskans) at work I’ve been meaning to take one after hearing nothing but rave reviews.

The summer up here has a tendency to get away from us all, so that had been my excuse for the last few years of not ticking this one off the to-do list. So finally, excuses aside, I made it on a half-day Kenai Fjords National Park cruise after living here for 33 years.

I was hosted by  Major Marine Tours  on a half-day Kenai Fjords National Park cruise, and in this post, you’ll find out a bit more about these trips and why I definitely recommend both visitors to consider adding it to their itinerary and locals to make the jaunt down to  Seward  for.

Start planning: The  Ultimate Alaska Travel Guide

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How To Visit Kenai Fjords National Park

While you can visit Kenai Fjords National Park by car/foot by visiting Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield located just outside  Seward , in my opinion, the best way to experience the park is by taking one of Major Marine’s wildlife day cruises from Seward.

Kenai Fjords is comprised of over 669,000 acres of coastal Alaskan wilderness where mountains and ice meet the sea. Given the coastal nature of these glacially carved fjords, the best way to explore the park is undoubtedly by boat.

Major Marine Tours Wildlife Cruises

3.5 hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise  Adult $94.00 | Child $47.00

6 hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise  Adult $169.00 | Child $84.50

8.5 hour Northwestern Fjord Cruise  Adult $239.00

How To Get To Seward

Getting to Seward is pretty straightforward. The small town is located on Resurrection Bay about 120 miles south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway (check out my  Kenai Peninsula Road Trip post  for ideas on where to stop along the way!).

The drive itself takes about two and a half hours down from Anchorage, but I recommend budgeting in more time to make stops along the way for photos.

Another great option for those that want to take in the scenery between Anchorage and Seward, but don’t want to take on the drive themselves is to book the  Rails to Whales package  offered by Major Marine Tours.

This package takes you on a day trip from Anchorage to Seward by way of the Alaska Railroad, then allows for you to board a 3.5, 5, or 6 hour Kenai Fjords Cruise before you would depart back to Anchorage by train.

Things To Do In Seward

There are plenty of things to do in Seward before and after your Kenai Fjords National Park cruise.

Popular highlights include the  Seward SeaLife Center , eating fresh Alaskan seafood at a number of restaurants and cafes in Seward,  kayaking in Resurrection Bay , hiking to Caine’s Head, taking a  glacier flightseeing tour , taking a hike at nearby  Exit Glacier and Harding Icefield , and so much more.

For a full guide to Seward to see what the small coastal town has to offer, as well as where to stay, eat, and more, check out my  Seward Travel Guide .

If you’re looking to get out of Seward for a couple of nights on your stay, I recommend booking a bed at Kayaker’s Cove and grabbing a water taxi to explore this little gem.

Exploring Kenai Fjords By Ship

As I mentioned before, the best way to explore Kenai Fjords National Park is by way of ship, allowing you to take in the wild sceneries and abundant wildlife the park has to offer.

The fjords range from 600 to 1,000 feet deep, surrounded by towering peaks dotted with hanging glaciers.

You’ll spend your time cruising along the shores of Resurrection Bay keeping an eye out for wildlife as you make your way out toward the Gulf of Alaska, taking in deep green forests, misty coves, and sea rocks covered in hundreds if not thousands of birds.

Wildlife To Look Out For

On my trip with Major Marine Tours, we were able to witness countless orca whales at the mouth of Resurrection Bay as it dumps out into the Gulf of Alaska.

Our crew believed some of the orcas we were seeing to be offshore orca, the rarest to see. Being surrounded by what felt like hundreds of orca watching as they breached and lobtailed was a definite highlight of my Kenai Fjords National Park cruise.

Bald Eagles

Alaska is home to more bald eagles than the 48 other states combines (Hawaii is the only state to not have bald eagles at all).

You’re bound to see bald eagles on a trip to Alaska, but your chances of seeing one here in Resurrection Bay while cruising the coves is highly likely.

The heaviest weasel and the smallest marine mammal, sea otters can range from 2.5 to 4 feet in length and weigh between 35 and 110 pounds.

A sea otter was our first wildlife sighting out of the Seward Harbor as the day began out into Resurrection Bay.

Sadly, otters were hunted extensively in the 18th and 19th centuries for their prized fur.

The numbers dwindled to nearly 1,000 before they were added to the endangered species list and hunting of the sea otter was banned.

These odd, clown-faced, diving birds can be found all along the coastal areas of the Kenai Peninsula.

We had the opportunity to see numerous horned puffins hanging out of cliff faces and diving for fish in the sea.

Puffins are impressive little birds with the ability to dive up to 200 feet to catch fish underwater.

You may be able to spot the tufted puffin on a Kenai Fjords cruise, look out for their yellow “horns”.

Steller Sea Lions

The reddish color fur distinguishes the Steller sea lion from its relative, the California sea lion. Steller sea lions remain on the near-threatened list because of their low numbers.

Males can grow up to 8 feet in length and weigh up to 2,200 pounds, feeding on fish and mollusks.

Mountain Goats

Truth be told, I wasn’t expecting to see mountain goats on my wildlife trip with Major Marine Tours, as I tend to think of mountain goats being inland creatures.

Well, there we were, bobbing in the sea, watching a couple of mountain goats graze on the cliffside above us.

Migratory Birds & Sea Birds

You’d be hard-pressed to come on a wildlife cruise in Resurrection Bay and not see a single sea bird or migratory bird.

Keep your eyes peeled for black-legged kittiwakes, cormorants, common murres, petrels, harlequin ducks, and many more.

A Review Of Major Marine Tours

As most of you who have read my blog for a while know, I don’t do a lot of reviews or sponsored articles unless it’s something that really fits well with the nature of this blog.

I had actually been recommending people go on wildlife day cruises up here in Alaska for years based on the rave reviews I’d heard from both longtime Alaskans and travelers who had gone on one (you wouldn’t believe how often I hear a longtime Alaskan lament that they couldn’t believe they had waited so long to go on one and after having done so take one every year).

So when I had the chance to work with Major Marine Tours I jumped at the opportunity, since I had been recommending them for so long based on others’ experience.

From the ease of booking, checking in, and boarding to the comfortable ship, expert and knowledgable staff, and beyond I can now without a doubt recommend taking a Kenai Fjords National Park wildlife cruise with Major Marine Tours.

I couldn’t think of a single thing that could have been improved on for our Kenai Fjords cruise.

I was onboard the Spirit of Adventure, an 86 foot catamaran with a capacity of 174 passengers, for the 3.5 hour Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife Cruise.

Major Marine is an Alaskan-owned boat tour company that has been in business for nearly 30 years.

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Kenai Fjords Cruise

• Pack Dramamine in the event of seasickness.
• Bring binoculars.
• Dress in layers. Alaska weather is especially erratic so having layers you can easily add or strip off will make your trip that much more enjoyable because if you’re like me, you’ll spend nearly the entirety of the wildlife cruise outside on the deck. Having a waterproof rain jacket and rain pants is a must as the weather can be quite wet in Kenai Fjords. Find out more in my guide to  what to pack for Alaska .
• Don’t forget to pack your camera (and batteries).
• Bring a dry bag for electronics if you prefer to be outside on deck for your trip.
• Snacks, beer, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard all Major Marine Tours cruises. The 3.5 hour cruise is the only departure that does not include a meal. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided.

Have Any Questions About Major Marine Tours Or Kenai Fjords National Park?

Ask in the comments section below.

Disclaimer: I was hosted onboard the Spirit of Adventure on a 3.5 hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise by Major Marine Tours in exchange for review and coverage on The Adventures of Nicole. 

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Major Marine Kenai Fjords Cruises: A Can’t-Miss Alaska Highlight

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

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“Thanks for taking us on this boat trip today, Mom! It’s awesome .” That kind of genuine, unsolicited gratitude is extremely hard to come by in my new reality of tween parenting. But there it was, as we sat across from each other enjoying lunch as we cruised by glacier-capped mountains and lounging sea lions out the window. Without question, our 6 hour Kenai Fjords cruise with our partners at Major Marine was a highlight of our family’s Alaska trip for everyone.

In this article you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your own Major Marine Kenai Fjords boat trip: which cruise to choose, what to bring with you and some highlights to expect along the way.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Alaska:

Alaska Guide

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Alaska? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

Our favorite hotels in Alaska

• Anchorage: Hotel Captain Cook
• Seward: Hotel Edgewater
• Girdwood: Hotel Alyeska or fully-stocked condo
• Soldotna : Kenai River Condo
• Denali: Denali Bluffs Hotel

Getting around Alaska

• RentalCars.com

Our favorite activities and tours in Alaska

• Dog sledding
• Kenai Fjords National Park cruise
• Matanuska Glacier walk
• Denali flightseeing tour
• Book a photo shoot in Alaska

Be sure to buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your vacation expenses! Compare the top companies here to find the right plan for you.

Why you should take a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise from Seward

Nearly everyone comes to Alaska to experience the stunning scenery and one-of-a-kind wildlife. There’s no better place to do that than in Kenai Fjords National Park!

The catch is that nearly all of the park is inaccessible by land. Other than the small area near Exit Glacier, you have to take a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise from Seward or an intense Kenai Fjords National Park kayaking excursion.

I promise that Kenai Fjords won’t disappoint!

Read more: The ultimate 10 day Alaska itinerary

Major Marine Boat Tour Options

Major Marine offers a full menu of Kenai Fjords cruises to meet the needs of every Alaska traveler. The options vary by month, running from early March to mid-October. The vast majority of travelers take either the 3.5 hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise or the 6 hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise .

The biggest difference between these two options is that the longer cruise visits a glacier, while the shorter one doesn’t. The right choice for your trip isn’t cut and dry.

Those who are more prone to sea sickness will do better on the shorter cruise, which stays in the calmer waters of Resurrection Bay. The same goes for travelers who might be really perturbed by the intense wind near the glacier, though that can be avoided by going inside for part of the cruise. The shorter option might also be right right choice for families visiting Alaska with toddlers who lack the stamina to stay pleasant for 6 hours on a boat.

We absolutely loved out 6 hour cruise, and it’s perfect for many visitors to Alaska. The Major Marine 2022 cruise schedule includes two daily departures for the 6 hour cruise, one at 8am and the other at 11:30am. If one is going to be less busy than the other, it’ll be the 8am departure since it’s not an option for Alaska railroad travelers and potentially too early for some cruise ship passengers arrive, disembark, get from the cruise terminal to the small boat harbor and check in an hour before departure.

Early season visitors can also choose from a 4 hour Spring wildlife cruise or Orca Quest , while those ages 12+ who love boats, wildlife and photography can opt for an 8.5 hour cruise that visits three glaciers and searches for alllllll the wildlife. Note that the Kenai Fjords glacier cruise is on a smaller boat and may be a bit of a rougher ride.

Read more: Your complete guide to Alaska with kids

What to bring for a Kenai Fjords boat cruise

As with all Alaska packing, you’ll be most comfortable if you bring layers and layers and layers on your Major Marine cruise! You’ll notice a wide range of outfits in the photos in this article. I was in everything from a short-sleeve t-shirt to multiple layers and a thick winter hat over just a few hours. The details will depend a little on which cruise you choose and a lot on the day’s weather, so look for detailed notes below.

• Thin base layer , short or long sleeve depending on weather in the harbor. We sailed on a gorgeous, sunny day with temperatures in the mid-60s and everyone got toasty on the upper deck waiting for our departure.
• Fleece or sweatshirt
• Lightweight puffer jacket and/or wind-proof rain jacket . I brought my packable puffer jacket and was very comfortable with that, while the rest of the family wore their rain jackets. If you’re doing a Spring or Fall cruise, I recommend bringing both so that you can wear them together!
• Fairly warm pants . I was fine in thick leggings (with a hip-length jacket) and the kids wore long underwear under their sweatpants. Lightweight hiking pants probably won’t be enough on their own! While we didn’t use the rain pants we brought as an extra layer, Spring and Fall cruisers will appreciate them. These rain pants are great for women (and some men as well), while we absolutely love these kids’ rain pants we picked up.
• Warm hat . We were all grateful for hats, sometimes with hoods over them, even on such a sunny day. In addition to warmth, a hat keeps long hair under control when it gets extremely windy!
• Anti-motion sickness medication just in case. This one didn’t make us feel drowsy and worked extremely well. We took it when checking in for our boat (about thirty minutes before departure) and it only wore off for me as we were returning to the harbor six hours later.
• Lip balm with SPF will keep your lips from chapping in the wind and prevent sunburn.
• Gloves weren’t truly necessary in August, but our younger one was happy to have them while the rest of us used our pockets.
• Sunscreen stick just in case. Remember, you can still get burned on an overcast day and you’ll definitely be more exposed thanks to the water’s reflection. It’s extremely unlikely you’d have anything other than your face exposed, so a small stick should suffice without taking up any extra room.
• Camera , ideally one with a long zoom lens to capture wildlife. You can judge for yourself if you think the zoom on that lens (equivalent to 300mm) is sufficient for your needs. It was by no means the biggest glass on the boat, but strikes a nice balance between quality and travel-worthiness. If you’re willing to carry something bigger (and more expensive) this lens offers superior quality and a zoom out to 400mm, while this lens has 600mm of zoom and is much less expensive but not quite as bright. I needed an extra battery during our cruise and having a circular polarizer and UV filter mounted on my lens was very helpful to cut glare from the water.
• Binoculars to see all the wildlife details! We brought two for our family of four and they were almost always in use.
• Water bottle (that’s my new favorite because it keeps water ultra-cold but fits perfectly in cup holders and water bottle sleeves)

Read more: The ultimate Alaska summer packing list

Major Marine insider tips

After our experience on the 6 hour Major Marine cruise , I have some great intel to share with you before your own cruise!

Tip #1: Bring a backpack or duffle bag for your extra layers, binoculars and camera gear. Some people near us boarded the boat wearing everything they brought for the day and immediately regretted not having a safe place to tuck layers. We just got this packable duffel bag for our Alaska trip and I absolutely love it! It fit everyone’s extra jackets and rain pants (which we didn’t end up needed) plus water bottles and more. It’s extremely well-built and I’m confident it’ll hold up for years. You can also find more colors/prices here and here .

Tip #2: Give yourself plenty of time to check in – it’s best to arrive an hour before your tour. It took us a few minutes to track down parking across the street, though eventually we found a bunch of empty spots on the far north end of the lot near the RV parking. You’ll pay for parking at an electronic kiosk near the lot entrance and then return to your car to place the ticket on the windshield. If you have multiple adults in your group, drop one off at the Harbor 360 Hotel to check in while the other parks. Due to some large groups ahead of us, we waited about 15 minutes to check in. You may need to walk a few minutes to get to the correct dock , in total we had about a 10 minute walk from check in to where we boarded our boat.

Tip #3: If you’re going on an afternoon cruise and will have lunch aboard, there’s a bit of a lull in the sightseeing excitement about 90 minutes in (1pm for an 11:30 departure). You’ve left Resurrection Bay and are cruising through the more open waters of the Harding Gateway. There are still wonderful things to see, but fortunately you can watch them go by out the panoramic windows on both sides of the boat.

Tip #4: Unless the weather is truly awful, plan to spend most of your time up on deck. The fresh sea air is lovely and will hopefully keep your lunch where it belongs. Most importantly, you’ll get the best views without crowding. While it may seem packed at the beginning of the cruise and seats will be in short supply, after a little while the less-intrepid travelers will head to the covered deck below or inside. Mid-way through our cruise, there were tons of open seats outside.

Tip #5: The glacier approach is extremely windy. Hold on to your hats and babies! You think I’m joking, but just you wait until you experience it yourself. If you’re bringing an extra layer or three, this is when you’ll need it most. The boat tools around in front of the glacier for about ten to fifteen minutes for guests to enjoy the view and take pictures, and you can expect it to be pretty windy that whole time. For those taking the 8 hour cruise, you’ll be visiting three glaciers and will have even more need for wind-proof layers. Conversely, the shorter 3 hour cruise and Spring wildlife cruise typically remain in the calmer waters of Resurrection Bay and don’t require such extreme clothing.

Tip #6: As with every lengthy excursion we’ve ever taken, by the end of the day most participants are flagging. We saw plenty of passengers snoozing nearby on the return trip to Seward. I’m sure it’s some combination of coming down from the adrenaline rush of the first half of the tour, the smooth motion of the boat on our tour day and seeing the same scenery on the return. It’s not a knock on Major Marine in any way, as we’ve experienced the same thing on many other tours. That said, everyone perked right up when we encountered a Northern Pacific humpback whale on our way back into Resurrection Bay! The fresh-baked brownies distributed on the return ride helped too.

Read more: Alaska travel tips you need to read

Major Marine cruise highlights

And now the moment you’ve been waiting for… our favorite things to see in Kenai Fjords with Major Marine! This gallery is by no means exhaustive, and visitors on every Kenai Fjords cruise will have a unique experience.

Kenai Fjords National Park tour FAQs

While there are no guaranteed Kenai Fjords wildlife sightings, you are very likely to see seals, sea lions, eagles, puffins and more. You may also see various whale species, mountain goats, bears. We saw all of those on our tour!

While a Kenai Fjords boat tour isn’t cheap, I consider it one of the top things to do in Alaska. If you’re trying to visit Alaska on a budget, you can opt for the less expensive 3 hour cruise instead of the longer ones.

Absolutely! A visit to Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the top things to do in Alaska. It’s extremely easy to visit Kenai Fjords from Seward, and some people even do a day trip from Anchorage to Kenai Fjords National Park by train – Major Marine times their 6 hour tour to match up with the train schedule.

Where to stay in Seward

Your Major Marine Kenai Fjords cruise will depart from the Seward small boat harbor, toward the north end of town. After hanging around Seward for a few days as independent travelers, I’d recommend staying on the south end of Seward close to the Alaska Sea Life Center. Especially in a “normal” year with plenty of cruise and rail arrivals, you’ll find it much quieter and the restaurants are better overall.

Be sure to book early – we delayed and wound up staying outside of town, which was fine but a little less convenient and charming.

• Seaside townhouse for 10 people – This townhouse is so beautiful and is in such an incredible location that I actually took a photo of it when we walked by so that I could be sure to recommend it to you! With three bedrooms and four bathrooms, it’s plenty large for a family or even a multi-generational trip to Alaska. Also available here , so be sure to compare prices for your dates.
• Sea Treasures Inn – Small, welcoming b&b that’s an easy walk to shops, restaurants, Sea Life Center and the historic Iditarod Trail that runs along the coast. Rooms available for two or four people.
• Best Western Plus Edgewater Hotel – Great location, generously sized rooms and breakfast is included. We find Best Western to be a reliable brand for traveling families and we appreciate the flexible cancellation policy.

If you’re just coming to Seward for your Kenai Fjords cruise and want the most convenient option, look no further than the Seward Harbor 360 Hotel . It’s owned by the same company as Major Marine and the tour check in is on the ground floor! You won’t have to worry about scrounging for parking across the street and can check in before the lines get long. The hotel offers lovely rooms and stunning views to boot. Check prices here.

We were late to booking and stayed outside of town at Exit Glacier Lodge . It’s conveniently located for those spending a few hours at the Exit Glacier area of Kenai Fjords National Park. It’s basic and affordable, but wouldn’t be my top pick if options in town are available and within your budget.

Planning your unforgettable Alaska trip

Ready to dive deep into your Alaska travel planning? Don’t miss these helpful articles:

• Your Ultimate Alaska Itinerary: 10 Days In Anchorage & The Kenai Peninsula
• Renting A Car In Alaska: 9 Things You NEED To Know
• Your Complete Packing List for Alaska in Summer: Tried and Tested Advice
• Alaska Travel Tips You Should Read Before You Go
• Alaska With Kids: Unforgettable Activities and Must-Read Tips
• Alaska Car Seat Laws You Need to Know

This article was produced in partnership with Major Marine tours. All opinions are my own.

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Kenai Fjords Tours vs. Major Marine Tours in Seward

By MalibuCA , July 30, 2014 in Alaska

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My husband and I will be on the Crystal Symphony in early May 2015, and we would like to take a day tour cruise to the Kenai Fjords National Park when we visit Seward. I am looking at two different tour operators - Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marine Tours. The tours seem to offer similar sightseeing opportunities. Kenai Fjords takes a maximum of 150 while Major Marine taps out at 200. Major Marine guarantees reserved seating whereas Kenai Fjords is first come first served for seating. Major Marine has a National Park Ranger on the tour as compared to the Captain providing information on Kenai Fjords. Both companies are very highly rated on Tripadvisor and both are competitively priced.

Have you taken either of these tours? Can you recommend which company we should use? Is there anything in particular that you did not like about a tour? Please help me to decide between Kenai Fjords Tours and Major Marin Tours in Seward.

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I have taken both companies and they both do a very good job. In my opinion, the choice is merely a matter of personal preference.

Yes, Major Marine has a National Park Ranger --- we have always found the cpt. on Kenai Fjord to be just as informative.

Yes Major Marine has reserved seating --- we have NEVER had a problem finding a seat on Kenai Fjord.

Major Marine has a buffet meal (additional charge) --- Kenai Fjord offers a Chicken Caesar Wrap with carrots and a granola bar (no additional charge).

All of the Kenai Fjords captains have taken a special interpretative naturalist certification program through the National Association of Interpretation. Furthermore, a national park ranger is at Fox Island for those itineraries that include a stop.

Personally, I find the certified captains just as good, if not more experienced, than a seasonal ranger. They also have more options for touring and are the longest running company going into the park. They're also locally owned by the CIRI native corporation.

Major Marine is an excellent company but my preference has always been KFT. http://www.kenaifjords.com/experience/park-rangers-interpretive-guides/

MVPinBoynton

We took Kenai Fjords Tours through Princess because we were staying at their lodge. We were in a brand new boat and had a wonderful time. The captain was very informative and entertaining. You can see lots of photos from our tour in our review on our website www.thepreismans.com .

If you are going in early May, this may limit your choice on tours from either company since some don't start until later in May or early June.

We did the Kenai Fjords Tour on June 8th that included the prime rib & salmon buffet at Fox Island. Knowing what a meal like that would cost on land, I felt our tour was a decent value. In my opinion, dining in the lodge was a little nicer than trying to eat a big meal on the boat (which is how Major Marine serves their buffet.) We did eat a small lunch on the boat as well.

Being able to choose our own seats worked well since we found a table right next to the door on the main level. This made it easier for us to go in and out easier when we wanted to get a photo.

If you decide to go with Kenai Fjords Tours, make sure you sign up for their email newsletter. We were able to take advantage of one of their special discount offers that we received by email.

We were blessed to have beautiful weather the day we took our tour and it was the highlight of our trip. Here is a link to a portion of my cruise review with lots of photos of the Kenai Fjords. Kenai Fjords Tour Review & Photos

Thanks so much for all of the helpful tips. I've read in reviews lots of warnings about seasickness on these tours. While I don't ordinarily suffer from seasickness, it has happened to me once, and it was pretty dreadful. No worries for my iron stomach husband. Did any of you have experiences of seasickness or see lots of people on the tour who did get sick?

Thanks so much for all of the helpful tips. I've read in reviews lots of warnings about seasickness on these tours. While I don't ordinarily suffer from seasickness, it has happened to me once, and it was pretty dreadful. No worries for my iron stomach husband. Did any of you have experiences of seasickness or see lots of people on the tour who did get sick?   Thanks, Shelley

We took our ginger pills and did just fine. Some people weren't as fortunate.

mapleleaves

Whether or not you get sick may depend on the weather..

Even on a good day, there's a short rough patch when the boat leaves Resurrection Bay and enters the Gulf of Alaska. I am prone to motion sickness but managed this part ok because it was a calm day. Fantastic trip !

However on 2 other Kenai cruises, it was rainy and windy so the seas were very rough. After we were out for 15-20 minutes the capt downgraded both trips to tours of the Bay, and even in the Bay was I feeling queasy. It was that rough. (I found the Bay tour boring).

My advice is; if the office staff says there's a chance the boat might not make it out due to rough seas ....take the full refund, otherwise you'll be stuck with the Bay tour.

We always take our Bonine as we don't want to take any chances. We have taken 6 Kenai Fjords tours and every one of them had someone who had gotten seasick.

BubMunkeyBles

We've taken both and are doing Kenai Fjords again next weekend. I prefer Kenai Fjords, especially if the one you're doing stops at Fox Island. For us lunch was included on Kenai Fjords and not Major Marine and Kenai Fjords is cheaper (we got 50% off both companies with a military discount offered). I think the product is pretty comparable honestly.

My family did a 6 hr tour with Kenai Fjords on July 3. Because of the warnings on here about seasickness we all took precautions. We were extremely fortunate and the seas were calm. The captain told us it was as good as it gets, even he took pictures!

The boat was very nice and not at all crowded. We chose Kenai because they had a special, so they were a lot cheaper. If you sign up, Kenai fjords tour will send emails with their specials. My deal was a cyber Monday sale, so I booked over Thanksgiving of 2013. they can't control the weather/seas, but all things they can control were great.

Have a great trip

Literally got off the Kenai Fjords tour 6 hours ago. If you have a tour that stops at Fox Island it is unbeatable.

Northern Aurora

We have always used Major Marine, and have never tried Kenai Fjords since we've been so pleased with Major Marine. The "junior ranger" program offered by the park rangers on MM is excellent and a great plus for anyone traveling with kids.

Budget Queen

I have used both these tour companies total, at least 30 times. I went out on 5 trips this week and 1 about 3 weeks ago. Both are excellent with good narration. they both make frequent stops at wildlife, and have multiple boats which are comfortable. From this week's experience, I will most likely stick with Major Marine. The benefits for me, are the assigned (no nonsense) tables, great meal add on (Kenai Fjords tour "meal" was terrible), Not a deal breaker, but Kenai Fjords tours now charges for all coffee and tea, where Major Marine is still comp. Major Marine now goes out to Northwestern Fjords, which is where I went with Kenai Fjords tour this week. Major Marine also has a tour that goes to both Holgate and Aialik glaciers.

There are coupon and "groupon" type offers more available with Major Marine, along with a standard 20% repeater discount. :)

.....From this week's experience, I will most likely stick with Major Marine. The benefits for me, are the assigned (no nonsense) tables, great meal add on (Kenai Fjords tour "meal" was terrible), Not a deal breaker, but Kenai Fjords tours now charges for all coffee and tea, where Major Marine is still comp. ..... :)

Ouch!! Somehow charging a fee for the coffee and tea seems a little "cheap" to me!

But that way, people will buy a "souvenir" refillable mug or 3!

Do both companies have the same size/type boats? Does Major Marine have trips of various lengths? Thanks.

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Do both companies have the same size/type boats? Does Major Marine have trips of various lengths? Thanks.     Sent from my iPad using Forums

Both companies provide that information on their web sites.

  We did the Kenai Fjords Tour on June 8th that included the prime rib & salmon buffet at Fox Island. Knowing what a meal like that would cost on land, I felt our tour was a decent value. In my opinion, dining in the lodge was a little nicer than trying to eat a big meal on the boat (which is how Major Marine serves their buffet.) We did eat a small lunch on the boat as well.   /QUOTE]   If this is true, I would feel that it was a negative and not a positive. You are taking the boat tour to see stuff and not to sit on an island and eat a buffet lunch. The island lunch time would be just a waste of time to me.   Although you probably can not do it, we were on a DIY trip and we spent the night on Fox Island in one of their cabins as part of one of our Kenai trips. That was neat. The island was really nice once the boat trippers left the island.   The bigger decision would be which tour would give me the longest tour and the most time on the water. If they are the same, it is a wash.   DON

We went with Major Marine last year. We came in via train and I was concerned that we wouldn't get a good table on Kenai Fjords plus my mom is one of those that really likes order so knowing that we had an assigned table for the 5 of us gave the nod to Major Marine. It worked out great for us too - my son had broken his foot 2 weeks before we left for Alaska and was on crutches. We got on the boat and our table (booth) was right by the door and we were able to leave all our belongings in the booth when we got up to go out on deck. We were really lucky and had a bright sunny day with very calm seas.

I was concerned about getting seasick, so I started taking Bonine (the non-drowsy formula which still makes me drowsy) at night a few days prior to our flight to Anchorage and then continued throughout our DIY land tour. It helped me to sleep really good and I had no seasickness. In fact, no one on our excursion got seasick, the seas were that calm. The trip before ours, the seas were rougher and they had to delay the start of the buffet because of it. So just because one excursion is rough, don't assume yours will be, but be prepared just in case.

Don, I too agree with your thinking. I also do not want my "time" spent on a meal and not "distance" seeing wildlife. I have ate at Fox Island and the food is good. But, reason I went there- was a good coupon 2 for 1 deal a few years ago. I also go out more than once every time I am there. For a first timer, single trip- having a wildlife priority, not a good choice.

I too would not be interested in spending time eating while in the fabulous Kenai Fjords National Park. There is just too much beauty and wildlife to waste time on a boat tour eating a big meal. Other than the little bit of time I spent wolfing down the sandwich on the KFT boat, I was outside the whole time. I can eat nice meals anytime; but cruising in Kenai Fjords is very special.

Not sure if our kids would be interested in a chicken Caesar wrap. Any other options on Kenai Fjords boats available for purchase? Can we bring our own food or snacks? We may be going right off the train so I'm not sure if we would have time to purchase anything else...

          Don, I too agree with your thinking. I also do not want my "time" spent on a meal and not "distance" seeing wildlife. I have ate at Fox Island and the food is good. But, reason I went there- was a good coupon 2 for 1 deal a few years ago. I also go out more than once every time I am there. For a first timer, single trip- having a wildlife priority, not a good choice.

While we've cruised Alaska 8 times, we've never had the opportunity to do a Kenai Fjords cruise, so it is now one of our priorities! Researching both operators, we see there are several tour options. If we have a whole day, which option offers the greatest potential for wildlife viewing, including birds? (Food is not a consideration for us!)

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Not sure if our kids would be interested in a chicken Caesar wrap. Any other options on Kenai Fjords boats available for purchase? Can we bring our own food or snacks? We may be going right off the train so I'm not sure if we would have time to purchase anything else...     Sent from my iPad using Forums

They also had a vegetarian wrap, I believe it had hummus on it. We had our own snacks. I think they had bags of chips for purchase.

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Major Marine 4-Hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise

President's choice experience the fantastic wildlife and alpine glaciers of resurrection bay., wildlife in resurrection bay.

June 17 – October 6, 2024      Departs: 12:30pm     Returns: 4:30pm

About Major Marine Tours

• Major Marine Tours offers seven cruise options into the pristine waters of Kenai Fjords National Park and two cruise options into the calm, protected waters of Prince William Sound. Departing from Seward and Whittier, our cruises are one of the “can’t miss” sightseeing activities in Alaska. View whales, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, and more! Visit active tidewater glaciers and marvel at Alaska’s magnificent scenery.
• Major Marine Tours is an award-winning, family-owned business that has operated in Alaska since 1990. Major Marine Tours has been recognized as an industry leader for pioneering such innovative programs as bringing National Park Rangers aboard as interpreters and offering passengers reserved indoor seating on every cruise.
• Major Marine Tours is one of the first marine tour operators in Alaska to join Denali Green Tag’s Tour Green program, the first carbon offsetting program offered for Alaskan tourism.
• Over the years, our awards have included “Kenai Fjords National Park Partner of the Year” and “Kenai Peninsula Outstanding Business in Tourism.” We have also received TripAdvisor’s “Award of Excellence” in 2013 and 2014 for our tours in Kenai Fjords National Park and Prince William Sound.

About this Tour

• Watch for whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, puffins, and many other types of marine birds as you cruise the the protected waters of Resurrection Bay on our 4 Hour Kenai Fjords Wildlife Cruise.
• This cruise is fully narrated by our local, experienced captains and naturalist crew members. Experience the cruise that President Obama took on his visit to Alaska in 2015. Beer, wine, beverages, and snacks are available for purchase.
• Cruise the calm, protected waters of Resurrection Bay
• Wildlife: whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, eagles, seabirds
• Complimentary use of binoculars while onboard
• Free parking
• Vessel: Orca Song (70 feet, monohull, seats 60, cruising speed 22 knots, not wheelchair accessible)

Major Marine Bookings

Request to book Major Marine tours. A staff member will reach out to confirm your reservation!

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My 5 Favorite Experiences In Kenai Fjords National Park

E xploring Alaska’s Kenai Fjords National Park is like journeying back in time to when the Ice Age still reigned supreme and ice covered the world.

Today, much of that ancient ice still remains at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula in a lush but harsh terrain where ice, mountains, and ocean meet. This national park in Seward, Alaska, sweeps over a staggering 607,805 acres of unspoiled wilderness along the southeastern coast of Alaska. The Harding Icefield , a remnant of when ice ages carved out this land, is the largest icefield contained within U.S. borders. It stretches out for 700 miles of miles-thick ice. 

During a hosted trip to Seward , I fell in love with this wild, untamed land. Snow-capped soaring peaks of the Seward Peninsula Mountains always loom in the distance, but the glaciers that make this park so special are what really drew me here. From hanging glaciers to receding and surging ice walls, seeing the massive and awe-inspiring power of how ice continues to shape this land makes one feel humbled.

Exploring the outdoor wonders of Kenai Fjords isn’t the only activity you can enjoy here, however. Hiking, ocean tours, and biking are all popular, but eating local, learning about the indigenous culture, and taking in the local vibes are also a lot of fun.

Although I only had a few days in Seward, here are my favorite experiences in Kenai Fjords National Park.

1. Spot Local Wildlife 

I was hosted by Pursuit Collections , which has a variety of adventures in its Alaska Collection. Being a provider of attraction and hospitality experiences, Pursuit owns and operates Kenai Fjords Tours. Even if I wasn’t hosted by Pursuit, I would overwhelmingly recommend the Northwestern Fjord Tour for the simple fact that it goes further and longer than most of the boat tour operators in the area.

This full-day narrated boat tour brings visitors along the Northwestern Fjord to see three tidewater glaciers, to the little islands that dot the fjord, and along seabird rookeries. Most of Kenai Fjords National Park can only be accessed by the water, so taking a boat tour of this gorgeous land is a must.

On our first day trip, the weather was gray and ominous, promising rough crossings, but the skilled and knowledgeable captain and crew handled it with ease. Along the way, they spotted frolicking sea otters, massive colonies of sea lions, whale spouts in the distance, a pod of killer whales, and the delightful little puffins that call this area home.

We cruised through hidden bays with waterfalls that looked as if they came straight out of the Disney movie Ferngully . We were educated on the life span and awesome power of the glaciers we were almost close enough to touch.

A light breakfast and lunch is included on this tour, but if you need a steaming hot chocolate or a glass of the local brews, the bar is open as well. Oh, and the homemade, gooey chocolate chip cookie at the end of the day tour will probably taste like the best cookie you’ve ever had.

Pro Tip: I don’t care how calm the harbor looks or how beautiful the weather seems, take motion sickness pills before the tour. Our bad weather day made our tour especially rough, but even on calm days, a dozen or so folks end up getting sick each trip. Don’t ruin this special experience with seasickness.

2. Take A Glacier Dinner Cruise

Departing from Seward in the afternoon, this Kenai Fjords Tours evening cruise also starts from Resurrection Bay before gliding deeper into Kenai Fjords National Park to see glaciers up close.

A plated meal of crab cakes, roasted corn, salad, and a dinner roll makes for a nice romantic dinner on board while you gaze at the impossibly deep blue of the glaciers, watch whales breach in the water, or see otters playfully float alongside.

Pro Tip: Definitely layer up, even in the summer. The wind is staggeringly cold, so a hat and gloves can definitely make this cruise more comfortable, especially if you spend most of your time out on deck watching the beautiful lush scenery go by.

3. Hike The Exit Glacier

As the only glacier in the park you can hike to, Exit Glacier is one of the 35 glaciers that pour over the Harding Icefield. It earned its name by being the exit point for the first recorded crossing of the Harding Icefield in 1968.

There is a series of trails to access the Exit Glacier. The first is an easy-to-moderate 1-mile hike to the Glacier View Loop or the 1.8-mile path to the Glacier Overlook Trail.

The other option is the challenging and sometimes dangerous 8.2-mile Harding Icefield Trail , which has an elevation gain of 1,000 feet per mile and takes 6–8 hours to complete. This trail is recommended for skilled hikers only.

We did the Glacier Overlook Trail, which rewarded our steps with sweeping vista views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Exit Glacier itself is a marvel to see. Its beauty is breathtaking to witness, but it’s also sobering in the fact that it is retreating at an average rate of 125 feet a year.

Nevertheless, the Glacier Overlook Trail is a well-maintained trail, but it can be moderately strenuous in places as it weaves over the glacially carved inclines.

Pro Tip: While the Exit Glacier area is open year-round, the road to the glacier is usually inaccessible to cars from late-October to mid-November due to snow.

4. Learn About Wildlife

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park are teeming with wildlife. You’re likely to spot a moose along the banks of the Resurrection and Snow Rivers, see a playful sea lion in the Seward Harbor , and view more bird life than you can count.

The Alaska Sealife Center

The easiest way to get up close and personal with the native wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park is a visit to the Alaska Sealife Center . Located in downtown Seward, this public aquarium and permanent marine mammal rehabilitation center features all different kinds of species, including puffins, salmon, seals, octopus, steller sea lions, and more.

It’s also a great place to learn about the Sealife Center’s animal rehabilitation efforts, which were featured on National Geographic’s Alaska Animal Rescue . The aquarium also has a touch tank and a variety of encounters with animals like a sea otter or an octopus.

Ididaride Dog Sled Tours

Believe it or not, dog-sled tours are available during the summer months as well as the winter. Ididaride Dog Sled Tours offers tours just a short flight from the Seward Airport to its dog-sledding camp on a glacier, where you can experience a dog-sled ride through the gorgeous backdrop of glaciers.

Visitors can ride on the runners and help drive the sled or just relax and enjoy the ride. The Summer Wilderness Tour is done on wheeled sleds for an hour and a half tour.

See The Bears 

Kenai Backcountry Adventures offers the only bear-viewing tour from Seward, Alaska. This 12-hour tour includes a full-day bear-viewing experience in Lake Clark National Park and includes all gear, lunch, and airfare.

5. Explore Seward’s Charming Streets

Seward’s historic downtown is a fun place to spend half a day or so. With plenty of little shops , you’ll have a lot of chances to pick up thoughtful souvenirs or hand-crafted gifts. Art lovers will adore the local galleries and all the murals painted around town.

In fact, downtown Seward is considered the “Mural Capital of Alaska” with more than 30 paintings depicting famous events, historical characters, and the landscape of Alaska’s Kenai Fjords Peninsula.

The Seward Community Library & Museum is worth a visit to see the collection and history of Seward throughout the years.

Pro Tip: A great way to explore Seward is with the Seward free shuttle, which runs a 5-mile route that takes about 30 minutes to complete. Seward City Tours offers an informative, 1-hour Historical City Tour , or a 5-hour Seward Deluxe Tour . The History and Glacier Combo is a happy medium for those who can’t do the full 5-hour tour. The tours include luggage storage and shuttle service to any destination in town.

Related Reading:

• 6 Quaint Small Towns To Visit While Exploring Kenai Peninsula In Alaska
• The One Thing You Should Do Every Time You Visit A National Park
• 6 Budget-Friendly Activities In Anchorage To Experience The Best Alaska Has To Offer

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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Reccomendations for 6 hour Kenai Fjord cruise with kids - Alaska Forum

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Reccomendations for 6 hour Kenai Fjord cruise with kids

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1. Is the 6 hours cruise suitable for kids (they are well behaved and love exploring and seeing animals)

2. Is the 4 hours option better? From what I read the 6 hours is much better (more animals and things to see). Is that true?

3. I've seen there are many different companies that have similar offerings. Is there one that you can recommend?

6 replies to this topic

Suggest Major Marines.

https://majormarine.com/

I would suggest taking along lots of snacks, quiet games/activities in case the kids get bored, and maybe a small pillow and blanket in case they'd like to nap for a while. Maybe bring along inexpensive binoculars for each of the kids. If you can't find any locally--it's always best to be able to look through them before purchasing--check Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/kids-binoculars/s?k=kids+binoculars They'll come in handy for the rest of your trip too.

The only possible issue is that in order to get to the tidewater (calving) glacier, the boat has to spend a short time in open ocean while getting around Aialik Cape. That can be choppy. If you have serious seasickness issues, you might prefer to do the 4 hr. wildlife tour which stays in Resurrection Bay. Of course, the 4 hr. tour doesn't spend time near a tidewater glacier....

Be aware that it can be quite cold near the glacier, so bring along coats/gloves/hats so that you can remain outside for a while and be able to hear the incredible sounds the glacier makes as it moves!

Also be aware that *some* adults can be rather rude and shove you or your kids away from the rail so they can get the best view. If you were there first, stand your ground! And even if the other adults were there first, politely ask if your kids can move in front--after all, they're short and adults can easily see over them.

I'm not sure why someone thinks kids have to sit still. Kids (and adults) are certainly welcome to explore the boat and go outdoors for views/wildlife whenever they want to, assuming of course that they don't make a nuisance of themselves to other passengers. In fact, being outside in the fresh air can help prevent seasickness. You can also take precautions prior to boarding the boat: https://www.formulaboats.com/blog/preventing-sea-sickness/ . Note that if you decide on pre- cruise meds, it's best to test that out at home to see how you respond. Not uncommon to see passengers sleeping most of the trip back because of the meds they took.... And if anyone does have to barf, either have a barf bag handy or be sure to get them to an outdoor rail so they can "feed the fish", lol.

The two main companies are Major Marine and Kenai Fjords Tours . Both have very stable catamarans. If you do book with one of them, I'd suggest the 8 a.m. departure since the 11:30 departures are more likely to be crowded.

Thank you so much for the detailed response. That is very helpful (and tips are useful).

And yes, most meds have to be taken *prior* to boarding. If you wait until you start feeling queasy, it's too late.... Discuss the matter with your doctor or pharmacist.

Also, nobody is required to stay seated - you can walk around, move seats and go outside on the deck to enjoy the scenery... Between the glaciers, scenery, animals and birds the time flew by. Take the longer cruise and I'm sure you won't regret!

P.s. Yes, there was a short 20 (or so) min stretch of choppy water crossing and our youngest got sick. The ship provides baggies.... Didn't affect him at all, went back to playing and having lunch afterwards. :-D I'd suggest Sea-bands.

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