Discover Ketchikan’s Marine Wildlife, Majestic Scenery and Unforgettable Views
Immerse yourself in Alaska’s coastal wilderness - led by lifelong local families, set against dramatic rainforest coastlines.
Join Ketchikan Sea and Shore Tours for a comfortable 2.5-hour wildlife and sightseeing cruise through the scenic waters surrounding Ketchikan, Alaska. Our locally operated tour offers panoramic views, outdoor deck access and engaging storytelling about life in Southeast Alaska.
Tours are scheduled around cruise ship arrivals and are walkable from most downtown cruise docks, making it easy to enjoy Alaska’s wildlife and coastal scenery during your port visit.
A Local Ketchikan Family Experience
Ketchikan Sea and Shore Excursions is operated operated by two life-long Ketchikan and Prince of Wales (Craig) Families with deep ties to Southeast Alaska’s maritime community.
Our goal is to share the waters, wildlife, and coastal lifestyle that make this region so special. Along the way, guests hear stories about life on the water, nearby island communities, and the unique marine environment surrounding Ketchikan.
Beginning in summer 2027, guests will explore aboard our brand-new custom tour vessel, designed specifically for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and comfort.
Wildlife of Alaska’s Inside Passage
The protected waters surrounding Ketchikan are part of Alaska’s famous Inside Passage and offer excellent opportunities to observe marine wildlife in its natural habitat.
Our crew helps spot wildlife and shares insight about the surrounding ecosystem, including the nearby Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in the world.
While there is no guarantee of seeing each of these, guests often encounter:
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Humpback whales
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Orca (killer whales)
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Steller sea lions
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Harbor seals
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Sea otters
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Dall’s porpoises
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Bald eagles
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Deer
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Black Bear
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Coastal seabirds and shoreline wildlife
The Sightseeing Cruise Experience
Our 2.5-hour wildlife and sightseeing cruise provides a relaxing way to experience Alaska’s coastline.
The vessel’s design allows excellent viewing opportunities whether guests prefer relaxing inside or stepping out on deck to take in the scenery.
Guests Enjoy:
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Large panoramic viewing windows
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Heated indoor cabin seating
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Outdoor viewing deck for photography
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Onboard restroom
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Snacks and water available during the tour
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Comfortable seating for up to 49 passengers
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Convenient onboard outlets for charging phones, cameras, and other devices
Private Charter Options Include:
• Transportation to nearby islands & coastal communities
• Family gatherings & small group outings
• Community events & special occasions
• Scenic cruising for guests & visitors
• Photography & sightseeing trips
We’ll Coordinate:
• Departure & return timing
• Pickup & drop-off locations
• Route planning
• Group size & comfort needs
Private Charters & Water Taxi
Ketchikan Sea and Shore Tours offers private charters tailored to your schedule, destination, and group needs—providing a comfortable and scenic way to travel between Ketchikan and nearby islands or coastal communities.
Every trip is fully customizable, with flexibility in route, timing, and one-way or round-trip transportation. As a locally owned and operated company, our team brings deep knowledge of Southeast Alaska’s waterways, ensuring thoughtful planning and a smooth, seamless journey from start to finish.
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Real Stories from Our Satisfied Customers
Frequently Asked Questions
Our wildlife and sightseeing cruise is approximately 2.5 hours.
Tours depart near the downtown cruise ship docks in Ketchikan. Most guests can walk to the departure location. Transportation is available for guests arriving at Ward Cove.
Multiple times daily - times will be available at checkout.
Yes. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak cruise season, as seating is limited.
Yes! This is very convenient for cruise ship passengers to enjoy Alaska’s wildlife and coastal scenery while returning to their ship with plenty of time to spare.
No Problem! We can’t wait to have you aboard and will have a place for you to meet us, centrally located downtown.
Wildlife sightings vary, but guests often encounter:
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Humpback whales
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Orca (killer whales)
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Steller sea lions
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Harbor seals
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Sea otters
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Dall’s porpoises
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Bald eagles and seabirds
In addition to wildlife, guests enjoy views of:
- Forested islands and shoreline homes
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Working fishing boats and harbors
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Cruise ships and Ketchikan from the water
Each tour is unique, and our crew works to provide the best possible viewing opportunities while respecting wildlife in its natural environment.
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Yes, while not guaranteed, whale sightings are a highlight of many tours, but this is a wildlife and sightseeing cruise, meaning guests may also see a variety of other marine and coastal wildlife.
We observe wildlife responsibly and follow guidelines to ensure animals are not disturbed. While we aim for excellent viewing opportunities, all encounters occur at safe and respectful distances.
We recommend dressing in layers and bringing a light waterproof jacket. Weather in Southeast Alaska can change quickly, even during summer months.
You can check the current, local weather forecast here: https://www.wunderground.com/forecast/us/ak/ketchikan. You will be in a covered, heated vessel but the weather can range from heavy rain, to drizzle, to beautiful sunshine.
We are never in “open water”. Seas should not be very rough where we go. If you are sensitive to motion sickness and medication helps, that is up to you.
Yes. Tours operate in most weather conditions. The vessel has a heated indoor cabin to keep guests comfortable.
In the event of unsafe weather conditions, tours may be canceled. Guests will be notified and offered options for rescheduling or a refund.
Yes. Our vessel has a heated indoor cabin with large viewing windows, as well as an outdoor deck for those who prefer fresh air and unobstructed views.
Yes, there is a restroom onboard for guest convenience.
Yes. The vessel is designed so all guests have comfortable seating and access to excellent viewing areas.
Yes, there will be light snacks.
Yes. There are convenient onboard outlets available for charging phones, cameras, and other devices during the tour.
49 guests.
Our boat is 50 feet long and can hold up to 49 passengers.
Yes. Our tours are specifically scheduled around cruise ship arrival and departure times, allowing guests to return comfortably with time to spare.
Most downtown cruise ship berths are within walking distance of our departure location. For ships docking at Ward Cove, transportation is provided.
If your cruise itinerary changes, please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate schedule adjustments when feasible.
Unfortunately, there is no smoking while on the tour.
It is not an expectation but always welcome if you enjoyed your trip!
Yes! We are available for water taxi or private charter. Please contact us at ktnseashore@gmail.com so we can get you where you need to go!
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No refund if you cancel less than 48 hours prior to the tour date.
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If the tour is cancelled by the operator for any reason, the customer will receive a full refund.
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Booking Fees are non-refundable.
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We’re happy to help. Contact us anytime and we’ll make sure you have everything you need to plan your Ketchikan wildlife tour.
Contact us
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