View incredible Bull Kelp, which can grow to over 100 ft or 30 m, on the Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition
Search for wildlife aboard our 12-passenger Zodiac
Before we go out to sea, you will be outfitted in quality rain gear & USCG approved life jackets. The epitome of Alaskan fashion!
Depart from Thomas Basin in downtown Ketchikan, and learn about the colorful history of Ketchikan Creek & Creek Street!
Leave the cruise ship crowds behind & experience pristine wilderness minutes from downtown Ketchikan
Find majestic Bald Eagles perched high above in the trees as we cruise along the shoreline
Get a closer look at sea stars & other marine invertebrates
Our fully inflatable Zodiacs allow us to explore closer to shore, giving you a front row seat to the drastic changes that occur with the tides
Discover the abundance of life in the intertidal zone
Experience Southeast Alaska with all of your senses aboard an open Zodiac
Learn about the amazing ecosystem of Southeast Alaska, including vital habitat like kelp beds
Keep an eye out for sea star studded crevices when the tide is low
Enjoy time on the water with the whole family, make unforgettable memories, and discover a different way to see Ketchikan
Harbor Seals are often seen on our Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition
A close up look at a curious Harbor Seal
View a variety of sea birds, and other wildlife from a quiet Zodiac expedition craft
An adult Bald Eagle perched next to an immature Bald Eagle
Due to the quiet nature of our vessels, the Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition is an excellent tour option for birders
Marbled Murrelets and other Alcids can often be seen while out on the water
Friendly Steller Sea Lions aren't shy about checking out the boat
Bubble-net feeding Humpback Whales are a spectacular sight occasionally witnessed on tour
Harbor Seals can be difficult to spot when hauled out, but your Captain & Naturalist are experienced in seeing past their camouflage
Black Turnstones can be seen feeding amongst the rocks in the intertidal zone
We always encourage bringing a good camera (with good zoom capabilities) on tour for a chance encounter with wildlife like this pod of Orcas
Learn more about the commercial fishing industry and the livelihood of many locals
Enjoy fresh, locally roasted coffee, hot chocolate or tea while on tour
While we can’t guarantee an encounter with any wildlife in particular, our quiet and unobtrusive Zodiacs make an excellent platform for searching for whales, seals, and a variety of seabirds
Without the noise of large engines or the barrier of windows, guests can often hear the breath of marine mammals like this Humpback Whale
Playful Steller Sea Lions
While our main focus is marine mammals & birds, Sitka Black-tailed Deer can sometimes be spotted on the beaches & shorelines
Red necked Phalaropes
It might require an Eagle eye to see, but Mustelids such as Mink & River Otter can occasionally be found scurrying across our rocky shorelines or into the water
A farewell fluke from a Humpback Whale. With the use of fluke IDs, we can often discover which individual we have encountered
Begin your adventure at our outfitting space located at 124 Thomas St in historic downtown Ketchikan
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Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition

5 129 reviews
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View incredible Bull Kelp, which can grow to over 100 ft or 30 m, on the Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition Search for wildlife aboard our 12-passenger Zodiac Before we go out to sea, you will be outfitted in quality rain gear & USCG approved life jackets. The epitome of Alaskan fashion! Depart from Thomas Basin in downtown Ketchikan, and learn about the colorful history of Ketchikan Creek & Creek Street!
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Go on an adventure as you explore the deep mysterious waters of island studded sea passages in search of wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. Your experienced captain and expert naturalist will use their considerable local knowledge of the area to unlock the secrets of this biologically rich ecosystem. You will feel the ocean breeze on your face and taste the salty sea air as you skim across the waves. You will indulge your curiosity as you navigate narrow channels, next to rocky coast lines, emerald forested islands, and black sandy beaches. You will become an explorer, a mariner, an adventurer.

About this activity

Free Cancelation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reserve now & pay later

Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

Duration 2.5 hours

Check availability too see starting times.

Guide

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Additional Information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Includes

  • Full Rain Gear, waterproof Overboots, and USCG approved Life Jackets
  • Dry bags for personal items

Itinerary

  • Estimated Time : 150 minutes

    Tongass National Forest : Explore the mysterious waters surrounding the Tongass National Forest as we search for wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. With an experienced captain and expert naturalist as your guide, you will encounter the vibrant ecosystem of Southeast Alaska which is home to a variety of wildlife including Salmon, Harbor Seals, Dall’s Porpoise, Bears, Bald Eagles, Steller Sea Lions, Killer Whales (Orca), and Humpback Whales. While we can’t guarantee any specific wildlife encounters, we believe that with the experience of our crew, and the quiet unobtrusive vessels we have selected as exploration platforms, there is a good chance of experiencing something truly magnificent. Beyond the possibility of wildlife, viewing the breathtaking wilderness of SE Alaska from an open Zodiac is a unique way to explore the area. Let's go out to sea!

    Free Admission

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