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Private Sitka Wild Coast Exploration Wildlife Boat Trip

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2.5-Hour Experience
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Private Adventure
Private Boat
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Only Your Group Aboard
Family-Friendly Adventure
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Safe, Educational, and Engaging for All Ages
Wildlife Viewing
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Whales, Bears, Seabirds

Description

This 2.5-hour private wildlife boat tour is a simple, honest way to get out on Sitka Sound and see what’s actually happening on the water that day. We head out in a small boat with just a few guests, which makes the experience feel relaxed and personal from the start.
 
There’s no strict plan to follow. We pay attention to the tides, the weather, and where animals are moving, then adjust as we go.
The boat is easy to get on and comfortable once you’re settled. There’s a heated cabin if you want to stay warm and dry, and an open deck when you’d rather be outside watching the water. With only six guests onboard, everyone gets a clear view and plenty of space to move around, take photos, or just watch quietly.
 
As we travel through island channels, kelp forests, and open water, we keep an eye out for humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, porpoises, and seabirds. Some parts of the trip are slow and peaceful, like spotting otters resting together or eagles along the shoreline. Other moments can be sudden and exciting, such as a whale surfacing nearby or sea lions actively feeding.
 
Your guide explains what you’re seeing in a clear, down-to-earth way. You’ll learn how animals use the tides, why this area is so productive, and what makes Sitka Sound different from other places. Questions are always welcome, and there’s no rush.
 
Snacks, hot drinks, binoculars, and safety gear are provided, so you can stay comfortable and focused on the experience. The return ride is easygoing, with time to look around and catch any last wildlife before heading back to town.

What's Included

Private 6-Hour Boat Tour
Knowledgeable Guide
Lunch, Snacks, Hot Drinks
Binoculars
Rain boots
Safety Equipment
All Permits and Fees
Transportation to Harbor
Guide Gratuity
Personal Camera Gear
Rain Gear

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes. The tour is designed for all ages, with safety equipment provided.

How many people are on the tour?

A maximum of six guests, all from your private group.

What happens in bad weather?

Tours run rain or shine; routes adjust for safety and comfort.


Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour
This is a fully private tour for your group only, with a maximum of 6 guests.
The tour is weather- and tide-dependent; routes, wildlife focus, and shore landings may change for safety and optimal viewing.
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but Sitka Sound offers some of the most consistent viewing opportunities in Southeast Alaska.
Suitable for all ages, though guests should be comfortable stepping on and off a boat and walking on uneven beach terrain.
Cancel up to 72 hours before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 72 hours of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City
Sitka

Duration
2h 30min

Price


Itinerary • 2h 30min • 4 activities

Meet your captain and naturalist near Crescent Harbor, review the flexible plan for the day, receive a safety briefing, and get ready to board.

Duration
15 minutes

Step aboard the small-group vessel and get settled. Your captain and naturalist provide a brief safety overview and introduce the landscape and wildlife of Sitka Sound.

Duration
15 minutes

Cruise through island channels, kelp forests, and open feeding areas while following wildlife activity in real time. Watch for whales, sea otters, sea lions, seabirds, and eagles as routes adjust with conditions.

Duration
1 hour 30 minutes

Begin the relaxed journey back toward Sitka, pausing for any final wildlife sightings or quiet coves along the way. This portion offers time for photos and reflection as the coastline comes back into view.

Duration
30 minutes