Prince William Sound Tour with Glacier Landing from Girdwood

Stunning Aerial Views of Alaska’s Glaciers and Mountains for $787

The Prince William Sound Tour with Glacier Landing from Girdwood offers an unforgettable way to see the wild beauty of Alaska. For $787 per person, travelers enjoy about 1 hour and 30 minutes of adventure, which includes a flight of over 1 hour and 10 minutes and a landing on a glacier. The tour departs from Girdwood, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers and photographers eager to capture the sweeping vistas of the Chugach Mountains, Prince William Sound, and massive tidewater glaciers. The experience is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 54 reviews, and 98% of participants recommend it. The tour is most suitable for individuals up to 290 pounds, with a minimum group size of two people.

Key Points

• Price of $787 per person includes helicopter flight, glacier landing, and transportation
• Approximate duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes, with over 1 hour 10 minutes of flight time
• Landing on a glacier allows for on-foot exploration of ice-covered terrain
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Girdwood for added convenience
• Great for photography, wildlife spotting, and adventure seekers
• Weather-dependent activity; cancellations are fully refundable or reschedulable

Start at the Alpine Air Alaska Hangar in Girdwood

The tour begins at Alpine Air Alaska’s hangar at Girdwood airport. Upon arrival, travelers receive a brief safety orientation before boarding the helicopter. The meeting point at 599 Mt Hood Dr is easy to access, and arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start.

The shared round-trip transfer from Girdwood hotels and B&Bs adds ease, removing the stress of transportation planning. The small group size, with a maximum of nine travelers, helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Fly Over the Glacier-Filled Mountains of the Chugach Range

Once airborne, the helicopter soars over the mountains of Alaska’s Chugach range, famed for their glaciers and rugged peaks. During the flight, the pilot points out interesting features of the glaciers and mountains, enhancing the scenic experience with commentary. The aerial views reveal the expansiveness of the ice and the diversity of the landscape.

The flight provides ample opportunities to spot wildlife, such as seals and otters, especially as the helicopter glides over the vast Prince William Sound. The glacier-filled landscape is a photographer’s dream, offering crystalline ice formations and sweeping mountain vistas.

Landing on a Remote Glacier for On-Foot Exploration

The highlight of this tour is the landing on a glacier, where travelers can step out of the helicopter onto the ice. This rare opportunity allows for close-up exploration of the glacier’s surface, creating memorable photo moments. The ice-covered terrain offers a feeling of stepping into a remote, untouched world.

Guides are present to ensure safety and provide insights into the geology and features of the glacier. The terrain can be uneven, so good footwear and appropriate clothing are recommended, but the experience of standing on a glacier is truly special.

Glide Over Prince William Sound’s Tidewater Glaciers

After the glacier stop, the helicopter continues to fly over Prince William Sound, showcasing its massive tidewater glaciers. Travelers see gleaming glacier faces and may catch glimpses of seals and otters swimming in the water below. The aerial perspective emphasizes how vast and powerful these glaciers are.

This part of the flight underscores why this region is considered one of the most glaciated places in North America. The views of icebergs calving and towering ice walls are striking, providing excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Flexibility with Weather and Cancellations

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions; in case of poor weather, it may be canceled or rescheduled. If canceled due to weather, travelers are offered full refunds or alternative dates. The operator emphasizes good communication, calling guests 45 minutes before a reschedule if necessary.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This policy provides peace of mind in case of sudden weather changes, common in Alaska’s rugged climate.

Experienced Pilots and Positive Feedback

The tour features experienced pilots who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. Reviews highlight outstanding pilots who tell stories, share jokes, and provide excellent photography tips during the flight. One review mentions a pilot named Martin, describing him as “one of the finest people” they’ve met.

Guests appreciate the personalized service, especially those who land on glaciers or have specific needs, like accommodating elderly passengers. The small group size creates a relaxed atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

What to Expect During the Tour’s Stops

The first stop is at the Girdwood hangar, where safety briefing and boarding occur. The flight over the glacier-filled mountains offers spectacular scenery and wildlife spotting. The glacier landing allows for foot exploration of the icy terrain, with guides explaining the geological features.

The second stop involves flying over Prince William Sound, where the focus is on massive tidewater glaciers. Passengers can take photos, observe ice cliffs, and enjoy the immense scale of the glaciers from the air and ground.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

To make the most of the tour, arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point. Dress warmly in layers suitable for the cold environment, especially for the glacier landing. The weight limit of 290 pounds ensures comfort and safety aboard the helicopter.

Since the tour is small group, travelers should book well in advance—average bookings are made about 61 days ahead—to secure a spot. The most important aspect is favorable weather, so flexibility is recommended if traveling during unpredictable seasons.

Unique Aspects that Set This Tour Apart

What distinguishes this experience is the combination of aerial views and a glacier landing in one tour. The scenic flight over glaciers, mountains, and Prince William Sound offers perspectives that are impossible from the ground. Landing on a glacier is a rare opportunity that adds a tangible adventure element.

The professional pilots and personalized service, along with hotel pickup, make this tour both convenient and immersive. Reviews consistently praise the picturesque scenery and the excellent guidance throughout the trip.

Final Thoughts on the Prince William Sound Glacier Landing Tour

This helicopter tour provides a combination of breathtaking views and hands-on glacier exploration at a price that reflects its exclusivity and quality. The 1 hour and 30-minute duration balances scenic flight with a glacier stop, making it suitable for those seeking a fuller, more engaging Alaska adventure.

The high rating and positive guest feedback affirm its value for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure lovers. While weather can impact plans, the flexible cancellation policy and expert pilot team help ensure a reliable, safe experience.

Travelers who want to see Alaska from its most dramatic angles and step onto a glacier will find this tour offers incredible value and memories that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the helicopter flight?
The total flight time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with the entire tour lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes including stops.

What is included in the price?
The round-trip shared transfer from Girdwood hotels, helicopter flight, glacier landing, and exploration time are all included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate, provided they meet the weight limit of 290 pounds.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be prepared for standing on uneven glacier terrain and should dress warmly. The tour is designed to accommodate most individuals, but safety guidelines must be followed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 61 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.