boat tour misty fjords

Misty Fjords Expedition

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 4 hours & 30 minutes
• Users Boat Capacity: 4-passenger min., max. of 6

Minimum : This tour requires a 4-person minimum to operate, we will do our best to fill the remaining seats however, if the tour doesn’t reach the minimum, you will be given the option to pay for the remaining minimum seats or given a full refund.

Intimate Wilderness Voyage to the Misty Fjords

Feel the magnitude of nature while learning the fascinating history of Rudyerd Bay, the fjords, and Punchbowl Cove on our Ketchikan Misty Fjords boat charter.

What makes our Misty Fjords tours unique is that we offer the only customized boat charter to the fjords. You will work in close partnership with the captain to determine the course. You are the captain of your ship! If you decide you would like to stop and enjoy certain areas of the Misty Fjords longer — perhaps New Eddystone Rock, an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea, or the abundant coastal and marine wildlife including bald eagles, black and brown bears, humpback and orca whales, and more — we will do so.

Begin your Misty Fjords Expedition from the Ketchikan Cruise Ship pier. Please call us at (907) 225-9899 or email us at  [email protected]  at least 24 hrs before your scheduled tour for pickup location. Misty Fjords is about 40 miles east of Ketchikan, Alaska, along the Inside Passage coast in southeastern Alaska, and approximately two hours (one way) by boat. Revel in your private Ketchikan Misty Fjords boat tour through this splendid two million-acre wilderness preserve surrounded by 3,000-foot vertical cliffs, glacial fjords, cascading waterfalls, and abundant marine and coastal wildlife.

We prioritize safety, comfort, enjoyment, and exceeding your expectations!

• Chevron down Boat

A 30’ aluminum chambered boat with twin Honda 250 outboards, deluxe seating, oversize windows, generous observation deck, heated cabin, restroom, life jackets, and great visibility for memorable photos.

• Tour duration is 4.5 hours
• Four- person minimum, seating up to 6 passengers
• Chevron down What to Bring

When exploring Alaska, please consider packing clothing items that can be layered including a lightweight shirt, sweater, and jacket allowing you to adapt to varying temperatures. Lightweight raingear, waterproof hiking shoes, hat, and gloves should be considered as well. Binoculars are provided to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.

Check online for current weather conditions:

http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/ketchikan-ak/99901/weather-forecast/331730

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Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer

Quick Details

• Map Marker Location: Ketchikan
• Hour Glass Duration: 5 Hours and 15 mins
• User Ages: All ages

Set sail from Ketchikan and explore Misty Fjords!

Embark on an adventure through the stunning Misty Fjords, one of Alaska’s most beautiful natural wonders. Set out from Ketchikan onboard a purpose-built vessel, equipped with comfortable inside cabin seating, panoramic windows, heated cabin, onboard restrooms, outside viewing deck and an onboard galley gift shop.

Tour Highlights:

• Depart from downtown Ketchikan and set out to explore Misty Fjords!
• Throughout your journey prepared to be wowed by tales of this remote oasis as our lively local guides and Expedition team share fascinating insights into its rich history, both natural and human.
• Enjoy sights such as a Tlingit Pictograph and the towering New Eddystone Rock, a giant volcanic spire rising from the shimmering sea.
• From the open-air viewing deck, take in the incredible sights of Rudyerd Bay and the fjords, with their massive cliffs towering up to 3,000 feet high, creating landmarks like God’s Pocket and the Owl Cliffs.
• Cruise over to a bustling bird hangout, feel the spray from gorgeous waterfalls, and keep an eye out for seals, eagles, and other critters.
• Throughout your journey prepared to be wowed by tales of this as our lively local crew share fascinating insights into its rich history, both natural and human.
• Enjoy some tasty Alaska-inspired seafood chowder or veggie/gluten-free chili
• Complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate. Beer, wine, cocktails, soda, water, and additional snacks are available for purchase.
• Chevron down Meeting Location
• Meeting location can vary based on departure time. Please refer to confirmation email for meeting location.
• Guests should meet 15 minutes prior to departure time.
• Tour duration is 5.25 hours. All tour timing is approximate.
• Chevron down What to Bring
• Keep a rain jacket, hat, and gloves close at hand at all times
• Warm layers
• Camera and/or handheld video equipment
• USD Cash / Credit Cards for onboard purchases
• Chevron down What to Wear
• Dress in layers to enjoy the outside observation deck. Rain jacket, hat and gloves recommended.
• Sturdy footgear is recommended. Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes suggested.
• Chevron down Accessibility

Age Restrictions: We welcome guests of all ages onboard! While there is no charge for children two years old & younger, all guests must have a ticket due to coast guard regulations. Please select an infant ticket when making reservations.

Accessibility: This tour is accessible by standard-width manual wheelchair, but not low-clearance electric scooters.

• Chevron down Vessel Amenities & Inclusions
• Complimentary hot chocolate, coffee, tea and select snacks available.
• Spacious outdoor observation deck
• Climate controlled interior seating with panoramic windows.
• Large outside observation deck
• Enjoy some tasty Alaska-inspired seafood chowder or veggie/gluten-free chili, along with smoked salmon spread.
• Beer, wine, soda, water, and additional snacks available for purchase.
• Chevron down Other Considerations
• Persons sensitive to motion sickness may wish to take medication at least one hour prior to the tour departure time.
• Tips are accepted onboard for a job well done but are in no way required. Crew are able to accept tips via cash or card.
• Chevron down Wildlife on Tour
• Southeast Alaska is teeming with wildlife, including bald eagles, bears, whales, sea lions, otters, and more. Our knowledgeable guides will help you spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats and provide fascinating insights into their behaviors.
• While we cannot guarantee wildlife sightings in the wilds of Alaska, wildlife sightings are likely.
• By respecting wildlife and their natural habitats, we strive to create meaningful and memorable experiences for our guests while safeguarding the delicate balance of Alaska’s ecosystems. While we cannot promise specific sightings, we can assure you that our knowledgeable guides and crew will do everything to maximize your opportunities for wildlife encounters while prioritizing the welfare of the animals and the environment.
• True Alaskan Tours & Allen Marine Tours adhere to all wildlife watching guidelines put forward by Whale SENSE.  Read more about that here!

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Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer

Explore Misty Fjords, one of nature’s most spectacular creations, while cruising in luxury aboard one of the fastest sightseeing vessels in Alaska.  You’ll stop to view an active bald eagle’s nest, a Tlingit pictograph, and New Eddystone Rock; an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea.  Delight in the unhurried exploration of Rudyerd Bay and learn the natural history of the fjords while gliding quietly near 3,000-foot vertical cliffs and glistening waterfalls.

FULL DESCRIPTION

Explore Misty Fjords, one of nature’s most spectacular creations, while cruising in luxury aboard one of the fastest sightseeing vessels in Alaska.  The adventure begins as soon as you leave Ketchikan’s picturesque harbor, passing by colorful float planes and fishing boats.  Enjoy the service and narrative provided by your crew, and watch for marine and coastal wildlife as you “fly” at sea level past the rugged coastlines bordering Revillagigedo Channel.

Voyage into Behm Canal, surrounded by the pristine beauty of Misty Fjords, described by John Muir as the Yosemite of the North.  Along the way you’ll stop to view an active bald eagle’s nest, a Tlingit pictograph, and New Eddystone Rock; an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea.  Delight in the unhurried exploration of Rudyerd Bay, an ice-carved masterpiece deep within the Monument.  Here, you’ll learn the natural history of the fjords, listen to the call of nesting sea birds, and feel the mist of glistening waterfalls while gliding quietly beneath 3000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs.

On the cruise back to Ketchikan, enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages while watching for whales, seals, eagles and other wildlife.  You will also have the opportunity to experience culture and history presented by a Native story-teller and artist, or enjoy a tour-related video presentation.

Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Gallery

• Open Gallery
• Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer

Tour Details

• Port: Ketchikan
• Duration: 4.5 Hours (round-trip cruise from Ketchikan)
• Provided: Snacks; coffee, tea, cocoa
• Accessibility: This tour is accessible by standard-width manual wheelchair, but not low-clearance electric scooters. Depending on location of cruise ship mooring in Ketchikan, participants may have to walk up to 300-yards and negotiate a tide-variable dock ramp to embark the tour vessel.
• The most luxurious way to experience Misty Fjords! The newest & fastest vessel in Alaska. Spacious, climate-controlled, deluxe seating, wrap-around windows, observation deck, galley & restrooms.
• Catamaran reliability! This tour is seldom affected by rain or low clouds. These common conditions, which often cause flightseeing tours to cancel, actually enhance the beauty of Misty Fjords!
• Award-winning tour quality from the friendliest crew in Alaska! Tour operator has over 45-years of experience. Perfect for families, reunions and other groups that span generations and interests.

Special Notes

Bring a warm, rainproof jacket to wear on the topside observation deck, as this tour operates in all weather conditions. Wildlife sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed.

Availability

Allen Marine is committed to the long-standing relationships we have cultivated with our cruise line partners. Booking through your cruise line’s website is the most expedient and effortless way to book a trip, and includes several built-in benefits and guarantees. Because you are booking directly through your ship, your tickets will be ready ahead of time, and often hand-delivered to your stateroom. You are also guaranteed to make it back to your ship before it departs – the ship will stay in port if your shore excursion runs late. If there are any changes to your ship’s schedule, your shore excursions team will ensure that we are contacted on your behalf, and any necessary changes in itinerary will be made. Finally, you will have the added bonus of a dedicated shore excursions team who will be available to help answer questions and make arrangements should your tour be canceled or changed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The value you receive by booking through your cruise line is truly outstanding.

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Misty Fjords

Things to do.

When you close your eyes and picture Alaska, you are in the Misty Fjords National Monument. Icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snowcapped peaks, glacial valleys … literally everywhere you point your camera, it’s a postcard. 

With “the Mistys,” located just 40-miles south, Ketchikan is the jumping off point for exploring the monument.  There are two main ways to experience this gem: from a floatplane, where you get a true eagle’s eye view; and on a cruise tour, where you can actually feel the vibration of nature. Both are jaw-droppingly incredible.

• 4085 Tongass Ave. Ketchikan, AK 99901
• Phone: (907) 225-8800
• Toll Free: (800) 770-8800
• More Information

Taquan Air–Ketchikan’s most trusted name in aviation. Specializing in Misty Fjords flights, remote bear viewing, flightseeing tours, fly-out crab feasts, remote fishing excursions, and more! Ketchikan’s Medallion Shield Carrier!   More...

Classic Alaska Charters

• P.O. Box 6117 Ketchikan, AK 99901
• Phone: (907) 225-0608

Wilderness saltwater-freshwater fishing, crabbing n shrimping, and, cruising-wildlife photo adventures for your friends, business group, or family of 4-6 persons. Outstanding overnight 5 day, 4 night private charters away from the crowds.   More...

Allen Marine Tours, Inc.

• 5 Salmon Landing #215 Ketchikan, AK 99901
• Phone: (907) 225-8100
• Toll Free: (877) 686-8100

Explore Misty Fjords National Monument aboard our luxurious, high-performance catamaran. 4.5 hour fully narrated cruises leave daily from downtown & include tour-use binoculars, a souvenir map and complimentary snacks. Over 45 years of experience!   More...

Island Wings

• P.O. Box 7432 Ketchikan, AK 99901
• Phone: (907) 225-2444
• Toll Free: (888) 854-2444

Pilot and owner Michelle Masden will be your personal guide to the spectacular wilderness of southeast Alaska. We offer trips to Misty Fjords National Monument, coastal glaciers, bear viewing at Anan Creek and Traitors Cove or guided fly-out fishing.

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Misty Fjords Boat Cruise

From $159 per person + $15 tax.

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Save $500 per couple!!

 3 or 4 day cruises with an Alaskan Land Vacation

Misty Fjords Boat Tour: My Explorer Cruise Review

Alaska, known as “The Last Frontier,” boasts some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the planet. Among its many awe-inspiring destinations, the Misty Fjords National Monument in southeast Alaska stands out as a true gem.

Located 40 miles east of the Ketchikan cruise port, most travelers access it on a port day from their cruise ship. Since large cruise ships can’t access the narrow fjord, you have two options to visit; by air or by sea.

While Misty Fjords flightseeing comes with a high-ticket price, families can enjoy the Misty Fjords boat tour at a reasonable cost.

The Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise offers a fantastic way to experience this classic fjord. During the excursion, you’ll learn how nature creates these steep fjords and discover the hidden corners of its mist-shrouded landscapes.

Cruise lines offer this port excursion, or you can book independently. Our tour was operated by Allen Marine, who has 45 years of experience, and we cruised on the St. Aquilina ship.

Misty Fjords Tours

• 🛳️ Misty Fjords Expedition allows you to explore the wilderness on a private charter
• 🛩️ Misty Fjords Flight Tour gets you to the Misty Fjords National Monument faster, in the comfort of a floatplane

The Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Overview

The Misty Fjords boat tour is wheelchair accessible and a good choice for those who can’t walk too far. Guests board the large catamaran 300 yards from the Ketchikan dock.

Our 5-1/4 hr. excursion took all of a port day, so we did not have time to walk around the town of Ketchikan afterward. However, if you love the outdoors and want a nature lovers’ tour, this one’s for you.

Some cruise lines sell shorter excursions. However, the shortened itinerary determines how much time you’ll spend exploring the wilderness area.

The two-tiered watercraft has comfortable seating, much like you find on a luxury coach. The spacious heated cabin provided lots of space to move around. If you get a window seat, you’ll enjoy a front-row view to see marine wildlife.

Our tour boat had two outside viewing decks, and the upper deck opens to guests once the craft arrives in Misty Fjords.

Drinks and snacks were provided throughout the tour, but we could not purchase meals or hot food. Since our tour ran from 2:30 pm to 7:45 pm, we carried some of our favorite snacks.

The tour includes a naturalist who talks about the environment and landscapes. The naturalist points out bald eagle nests, waterfalls, and rock formations.

About Misty Fjords National Monument

More than 15,000 years ago, ice covered this area. As the ice retreated, the glaciers carved deep grooves into the landscape, creating the fjord seen today.

The fjords are home to harbor seals, black bears, brown bears, bald eagles, and pigeon guillemots. Everywhere you look, the landscape is dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls.

The exploration of Misty Fjords traces back to the late 18th century when British explorer George Vancouver navigated these remote waters. In 1793, Vancouver and his crew charted the area and marveled at the breathtaking landscapes.

Before Vancouver’s arrival, the area was home to the indigenous Tlingit people and other native groups who had occupied the lands for countless generations.

The Tlingit people developed a deep spiritual and cultural connection to the land, which is still honored and celebrated today.

The Misty Fjords National Monument is a testament to the enduring legacy of the native people and the explorers who marveled at its splendor.

Covering more than two million acres of the Tongass National Forest, the fjord continues to inspire all who visit. As its name suggests, mist often blankets the fjords, creating an ambiance that adds to the landscape’s allure.

The Boarding Process

We boarded a large catamaran close to our ship, the Quantum of the Seas, and we were thankful we didn’t have a take a bus to reach the touring vessel.

While the boat had two levels with comfortable seating, the top upper level filled up fast. That meant the last few guests needed to sit downstairs. The vessel had a maximum capacity of 149, but we cruised with 77 plus the crew of six.

The lower level contained a washroom and an area to get drinks and snacks.

Cruising To Misty Fjords

It takes a two-hour boat tour to reach Misty Fjords, and if I had known that, I’m not honestly sure I would have booked this tour.

In distance, the tour travels 110 nautical miles or 121 miles (202 km) roundtrip. Now, I see the appeal of the more expensive, shorter flightseeing tour.

When leaving Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island, the vessel cruises slowly to adhere to the marine bylaws. Through the Tongass Narrows, you’ll see Pennock Island to your right and the signs of a vibrant fishing industry to the left.

On the way, our naturalist pointed out the Saxman Native Village, another popular shore excursion. We saw an active bald eagle’s nest and many eagles resting in the trees, which were easy to spot with their white heads.

While Ketchikan experiences 13 feet of rain each year, we were fortunate to visit on one of the few dry days. The wet weather contributes to thick rainforests in the area. However, with clear skies, and calm seas, we enjoyed the rock formations and landscapes from the outdoor deck.

One of the trip’s highlights was the impressive New Eddystone Rock formation. It juts out of the emerald sea like a sore thumb. Located in the Behm Channel, the 237-foot pillar creates quite a majestic image.

The Behm Channel separates Revillagigedo Island from the mainland and offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and emerald-green cliffs that plunge dramatically into the water below.

Keep a keen eye out for wildlife during this part of the journey, as Behm Canal is known to be home to a diverse range of creatures, such as bald eagles, sea lions, and humpback whales.

We took the Misty Fjords excursion during our mid-May Alaska cruise and saw no whales during our 5-1/4-hour journey.

Soon our ship approached Rudyerd Bay, the gateway to Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords

As we entered the fjord, I could understand its appeal and the true magnificence of the Misty Fjords began to unfold. While mist often blankets this area, we enjoyed the sheer cliffs with clear skies.

The monument is characterized by steep granite rock walls that rise dramatically from the tranquil waters below. Some of these measure a staggering 3,000 feet above sea level.

With high cliffs and abundant rainfall come the cascading waterfalls, one of the most iconic features of the Misty Fjords National Monument.

In mid-May, the higher elevations still had snow. With temperatures beginning to rise, the snow meltwater added to the volume of water in nearby waterfalls. If you visit during a dry spell in the peak of summer, you may not see the cascades we enjoyed.

As we cruised into the fjord, multiple waterfalls were on each side of the vessel. Some were thin strands of angel hair; others gave a powerful display.

With both the upper and lower deck open for viewing, there was plenty of space to accommodate all guests to get photos. Misty Fjords is one of those places where you can’t capture a bad image.

Thick forests of spruce, western cedar, and hemlock line the fjords and, along with the abundance of moss, create a striking contrast with the granite.

The occasional sound of nature punctuates the serenity of the fjord—water lapping against the vessel’s hull, the distant cry of a bald eagle, or the sound of a waterfall.

With eyes peeled to capture the beauty, a guest next to me spotted a lone mountain goat on a cliff. During our trip, the crew scanned the waters and coastline with binoculars for signs of wildlife. We carried a compact pair too.

The rugged cliffs of the fjords are a prime landscape for mountain goats, and I was surprised we only saw one.

As we were leaving Misty Fjords, our crew spotted a black bear roaming the shores for food. While we couldn’t get that close, the crew members remarked it was large and healthy for early in the season.

It seemed unconcerned of our presence and went about its business foraging for food.

Food And Drinks Onboard

Guests could enjoy complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate during our tour. The crew also offered chowder and vegetarian chili on the ride back.

Brian tried the chowder and remarked it was good, but I couldn’t try either since they weren’t gluten-free. After the chowder, a sampling of smoked sockeye salmon on a cracker was also offered to the guests.

Brian also took the opportunity to purchase a local stout that came from a brewery in Talkeetna, Alaska.

As with the outgoing journey, returning to Ketchikan took another two hours. Later in the day, it got relatively cool, so make sure you’re dressed appropriately.

Pros And Cons Of The Misty Fjords Explorer

Having done the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour in Ketchikan (which customers rave about), I tend to compare other excursions to that one.

• You can explore an area where larger ships can’t go.
• The tour is accessible to those in wheelchairs or who have limited mobility.
• No transportation is needed to get to the catamaran.
• If you’re lucky, you may enjoy whale-watching and other wildlife sightings.
• At USD 249.99, the tour was over-priced since we spent an hour at Misty Fjords.
• The tour takes 4 hours to go to and from the fjords.
• You may not see any wildlife, depending on when you go.
• If it’s dry, you may not see any waterfalls.

My Thoughts Of The Misty Fjords Boat Tour

Having cruised through Tracy Arm , Endicott Arm, and College Fjord, this tour was a scaled-down version without the glaciers. Although the fjord was picturesque, the travel time to access it was far too long.

While our Ketchikan Misty Fjords tour was over five hours, some cruise lines sell a shortened one of 4-1/2 hours. Should you sail a shortened itinerary, you’ll only spend 30 minutes in the fjord.

We were fortunate to have great weather, although bad weather conditions could make for rough seas and poor visibility.

If you prefer to explore Misty Fjords another way, you can book a Misty Fjords flight with Taquan Air. Floatplane tours are popular in Ketchikan, and with a shortened excursion, you’ll have time to explore picturesque Creek Street, a must-see downtown.

Visitors staying in Ketchikan can arrange kayaking adventures through tour operators. It will include a kayak and drop-off and pick-up in Misty Fjords.

However, taking the Explorer cruise, as we did, was the effortless way to enjoy the Alaskan wilderness.

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Misty Fjords Expedition

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About the operator.

Shore Excursion Benefits

This tour offers the following benefits to cruise passengers: Cruise Friendly Refund Policy Shore Excursions with this benefit will offer a full refund if any of the following occur: - Your cruise ship arrives late, and you miss your Shore Excursion as a result. - Your cruise ship changes its date of arrival and it is not possible to reschedule. - Your cruise ship skips port. - Your cruise is canceled by the cruise line. - You cancel prior to the Cancellation Deadline on your confirmation voucher. In the event of a refund claim for one of these reasons, Project Expedition will verify the cruise ship’s actual itinerary before processing a refund. To be eligible for a refund, you must submit your claim in writing no later than 14 days after the scheduled date of the Shore Excursion. Back to Ship Guarantee Project Expedition guarantees that you will get back to your ship on time, provided that all of the following requirements apply: - The Shore Excursion you booked offers the Back to Ship Guarantee. - Your Shore Excursion is scheduled to end no less than 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure time of your cruise ship. It is your responsibility to confirm your ship’s departure time prior to booking, in addition to re-confirming the ship’s itinerary on the day of the Shore Excursion. - You have not changed or deviated from the original itinerary of the Shore Excursion that you booked on Project Expedition. - The delay in returning to the ship was due to no fault or action of your own. In the event that you are not returned back to your cruise ship before it departs, Project Expedition will cover up to USD $500 per person towards transportation and/or accommodation necessary to travel to the next port of call. Receipts are required for reimbursement.

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boat tour to the misty fjords - Misty Fjords National Monument

• United States    
• Alaska (AK)    
• Ketchikan    
• Ketchikan - Things to Do    
• Misty Fjords National Monument

boat tour to the misty fjords

It was amazing! I went on a tour with Allen Marine. Good tour with great narration of the wildlife and rock formations. I was able to see orcas, humpback whales, seals, and a variety of birds. Would recommend visiting Misty Fjords to anyone!

What can you say about a place that sums it all up in its name. The most is near constant but when the sun does come out it is incredible. Finding Bear scat just outside your cantonment is thrilling in a sort of terrified reality. Didn’t see the bear. Just a steaming pile of leftovers. He’s been eating berries. Not for the weak or faint of heart but such an incredible place. You’ll go back many time in your mind.

One of the most peaceful places we've ever experienced…. So isolated in its utter glacial glory was this spot on the planet that it brought a sacred silence to our ship’s 3000+ passengers as if they’d entered as one into an ancient cathedral. A pause to feel what peace must feel like.

Wild Alaska at its best. Good hiking and kayaking. Virtually untouched by civilization. Best seen on a small boat.

Absolutely spectacular views. Waterfalls, Dall sheep, lakes, muskeg, fjords, landed on a fjord. Would recommend for anyone. $200 per person was well worth it for 2 hours.

We took a catamaran excursion through Misty Fjords. While the scenery was beautiful, it wasn't what I really expected especially after having seen fjords in Norway! These were really just tall, steep mountains. The highlight of our adventure was seeing a pod of Orca whales right off of port side! It was amazing!

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Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer Cruise

Ketchikan, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 5 Hours

Meals Included

Meals included

Explore Misty Fjords National Monument , one of nature's most spectacular creations, while cruising in luxury aboard one of the fastest sightseeing vessels in Alaska. The adventure begins as soon as you leave Ketchikan's picturesque harbor, passing colorful floatplanes and fishing boats. Enjoy the service and narrative provided by your crew, and watch for marine and coastal wildlife as you cruise at sea level past the rugged coastlines bordering Revillagigedo Channel.

Voyage into Behm Canal , surrounded by the pristine beauty of Misty Fjords National Monument, described by John Muir as the Yosemite of the North. Along the way, you'll stop to view an active bald eagle nest, a Tlingit pictograph, and New Eddystone Rock -- an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea. Delight in an unhurried exploration of Rudyerd Bay -- an ice-carved masterpiece deep within the Monument. Here, you'll learn the natural history of the fjords, listen to the call of nesting seabirds, and feel the mist of glistening waterfalls while gliding quietly beneath 3,000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs.

On the cruise back to Ketchikan, enjoy a selection of snacks and beverages while watching for whales, seals, eagles and other wildlife.

You'll also have the opportunity to experience local culture and history presented by a Native storyteller and artist or enjoy a tour-related video presentation.

Depending on the cruise ship's location, participants may be required to walk up to 300 yards and negotiate a ramp (which can be quite steep at low tide) to embark the tour vessel. Cruise time to reach Misty Fjords National Monument is approximately 90 minutes; time spent cruising within Misty Fjords National Monument is approximately 120 minutes. Tour operates in all weather conditions. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. This tour is accessible by standard-width manual wheelchair, but not low-clearance electric scooters. If wildlife is spotted and extra viewing time is needed, the Tlingit pictograph may be omitted.

• Destinations

Misty Fjord Small Boat Cruising

Small boat cruising through stunning Misty Fjords provides many fantastic photo opportunities

Discover Alaskan wilderness at its best – scout for bears, whales, moose, and more

See Tongass National Forest, the largest in the US, covering most of southeast Alaska

Cruising Misty Fjords

Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the US, covering most of southeast Alaska. Join a wildlife safari on its tree-lined waterways. On this unique Misty Fjords cruise, scout for black bears among the tree-lined shore. Whales frequent these fjords and plenty of eagles hunt for fish in the salmon-rich waters. Have your camera ready and prepare for a thrilling experience!

Practical information

Remarks/requirements: Guests to wear appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

Wheelchair accessible: No.

Language:  English.

Expedition cruises offering this activity

See some of the world's most wonderful nature on a cruise with Hurtigruten Expeditions

Inside Passage, Bears & Aleutian Islands | Northbound

Departure Dates

Jul 3, 24, Aug 4, 24

Price from $14,140

MS Roald Amundsen

Wilderness, Glaciers & Culture | Northbound

May 16, 24, Jun 9, 24

Price from $10,085

Inside Passage, Bears & Aleutian Islands | Southbound

Jul 19, 24, Sep 1, 24

Price from $12,029

MS Roald Amundsen +1

MS Roald Amundsen MS Fridtjof Nansen

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Ketchikan Misty Fjords Flightseeing Tour

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Excursion Overview

Soar through the remarkable misty fjords national monument.

Over two million acres of remote, wilderness region awaits you. Board an authentic De Havilland floatplane to visit one of Ketchikan's most notable highlights. The Misty Fjords National Monument is the second largest wilderness region in the United States. Fly over sheer granite cliffs, plunging 1000 foot waterfalls, and crystalline glacial lakes. Keep your eyes peeled from your guaranteed window seat for Alaskan wildlife. Eagles, mountain goats, whales, and sea lions could be among the wildlife spotted from the skies. Equipped with digital sound systems and individual passenger noise-cancelling headsets to hear the narrative and choreographed music. All flight paths are weather dependent. The adventures could you lead you South where you may see New Eddystone Rock and Big Goat Lake or North past Neets Bay and Bell Island Hot Springs. Flights cancelled due to inclement weather are fully refundable.

Please Report Accurate Weights of each Passenger

• Accurate weights are needed to determine the correct size plane for this excursion to fit the balance and weight profile of your aircraft. Reporting inaccurate weights could result in a canceled excursion not eligible for a refund.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation from the Ketchikan Visitor Center (Berth 2 downtown Ketchikan)
• Window seat
• Noise-cancelling headsets to hear the narrative and choreographed music during the flight

Requirements:

• Guests must be comfortable walking short distances and getting on and off the aircraft with minimal assistance. Please advise, the dock can be a steep incline depending on the tide.

Duration: 1.5 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 10 minutes - transportation from the Visitor's Center (Berth 2) to the floatplane dock
• 1 hour - flightseeing in the Misty Fjords
• 10 minutes - transportation from the floatplane dock back to downtown Ketchikan

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the Liquid Sunshine Rain Gauge outside of the Ketchikan Visitor's Center. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers. If your ship docks at Ward Cove, you must take a complimentary shuttle do downtown Ketchikan.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests must be able to get on and off the aircraft with minimal assistance. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. We are unable to accommodate motorized scooters on this tour. Please leave a comment during checkout if you plan to bring accessibility equipment on this excursion.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend suitable waterproof outerwear and comfortable footwear for this excursion. Sunglasses are a must!

If you are particularly prone to motion sickness, taking a precautionary anti-motion sickness medication is a good idea. However, flights are very smooth and turns are slow and gentle. This is a professional scenic tour, not a thrill ride. Most people do not experience motion sickness and do not need anti-motion sickness medication.

Everyone enjoys a (panoramic view) window seat.

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour. However, this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.

Expect the unexpected! We have experienced “typical” summer days ranging from 50 degrees and raining to 85 degrees and sunny. It is always smart to plan for anything in Alaska.

The Tongass National Forest is a 17 million-acre rainforest that makes up much of Southeast Alaska. We Alaskans have learned to appreciate the rain and never let it spoil a good time. If it is otherwise safe and quality flying weather, we will fly in the rain. A little-known fact is that the weather in Ketchikan and Misty Fjords can often be very different. Ketchikan is on an island located very close to the open ocean as Misty Fjords is located on the mainland 40 miles in the opposite direction. Misty Fjords experiences less rain than our coastal area near Ketchikan.

The Seaplane Captains are experts in the decision-making process when it comes to weather. The safety of passengers is the number one priority. The tour will not fly if it is not safe. The second priority is tour quality, and flights will not go out if tour quality is poor. If the flight is cancelled due to weather you will receive a full refund.

As far as the best time of the day for a Misty Fjords tour, you should primarily consider your personal schedule. Most of the summer month, Ketchikan is blessed with beautiful flying weather, and the time of day whether it is in the morning or in the afternoon will make no difference.

Fjords are formed when a glacier cuts a U-shaped valley by abrasion of the surrounding bedrock. Glacial melting is accompanied by rebound of Earth’s crust as the ice load and eroded sediment is removed in some cases this rebound is faster than sea level rise. Most fjords are deeper than the adjacent sea. Fjords generally have a sill or rise at their mouth caused by the previous glacier’s terminal moraine, in many cases causing extreme currents and large saltwater rapids.

There are no road systems that extend to the Misty Fjords. Access is strictly by floatplane or small boat.

A floatplane is an aircraft that utilizes water as its runway with the use of floats or pontoons instead of wheels. This is a popular mode of transportation throughout Southeast Alaska for access to remote locations or communities without a land-based runway.

The DeHavilland Turbine Otter can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Depending on the group size, the DeHavilland Beaver can accommodate up to 6 passengers and the Cessna 185 is the most intimate experience with just 2-3 passengers.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

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Duration: 1.5 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Adult: $ 350.00

Child (2-12): $ 350.00

Infant: $ 0.00

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