Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion (Ketchikan)

Discover the Best of Southeast Alaska with This Ketchikan Tour

The Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion from Ketchikan offers an engaging 3-hour experience priced at $124.00 per person. This tour stands out for its combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and native culture. It departs from Front St/ Berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan, with a group size limited to 36 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Designed for wildlife lovers, history enthusiasts, and lighthouse fans, this excursion combines scenic boat rides with fascinating commentary. The tour includes stops at Ward Cove, Totem Bight State Historical Park, and Guard Island Lighthouse, offering a well-rounded look at Alaska’s coastal environment and cultural heritage. While the tour does not include access from the Ward Cove cruise ship pier, it provides a comprehensive onboard experience with snacks, refreshments, and binoculars for wildlife spotting.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, ideal for a half-day outing
• Price: $124.00 per person, with excellent value considering the highlights
• Stops: Ward Cove, Totem Bight State Historical Park, Guard Island Lighthouse
• Wildlife Viewing: Includes fog-proof binoculars for eagle, whale, and seal sightings
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Alaska native totem poles and local lifestyles
• Scenic Views: Observe temperate rainforests, historic lighthouses, and shoreline wildlife

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at Front St/ Berth 2, located near the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau. The maximum group size is 36 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly and engaging atmosphere. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible for most travelers, including those using public transportation nearby.

Ward Cove: From Pulp Mill to Scenic Spot

The initial stop at Ward Cove is a highlight for history buffs. This site once hosted the largest pulp mill in the United States, and remnants of the mill are visible upon arrival. The boat docks inside Ward Cove, offering a close-up view of the old industrial structures from the water. This stop lasts about 15 minutes and provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the transformation of this area from industry to scenic beauty.

Exploring Totem Bight State Historical Park

At Totem Bight State Historical Park, the water views showcase Alaska native clan houses and totem poles. Guides share stories behind the totem poles, including legends that connect visitors with native cultures. This stop lasts around 10 minutes, with admission included. The water-based perspective offers a unique angle to appreciate the artistry and significance of the totems without stepping ashore.

Lifestyle of Remote Shoreline Homes

Throughout the first part of the boat journey, travelers see homes scattered along the shoreline, some on their own islands. Guides discuss how people live remotely in Alaska, highlighting the unique lifestyles of residents who call these wild shores home. This insight complements the scenic views, adding a layer of understanding about local ways of life.

Guard Island Lighthouse: A Historic Landmark

The tour offers a water view of the historic Guard Island Lighthouse, a notable maritime beacon with panoramic seascape views. The captain provides details about its architecture and history, making this stop about 10 minutes long. The lighthouse’s commanding presence on the water underscores its importance in maritime navigation in southeastern Alaska.

Witnessing Temperate Rainforests from the Water

One of the most striking features of this tour is the chance to see the world’s largest temperate rainforest along the shoreline. The boat cruises along isolated islands filled with sitka spruce, Western Hemlock, Red & Yellow Cedar, and dense vegetation, giving a sense of the untouched wilderness that characterizes this region.

Wildlife Sightings and Binoculars

Wildlife is a major part of this experience. Using fog-proof binoculars, travelers can spot bald eagles, with many nests and juvenile eagles visible. The tour also has the potential to see seals, otters, and even humpback whales—with some reviews noting unplanned whale sightings, including bubble-net feeding, a spectacular behavior in humpbacks. Multiple reviews praise the crew for their expertise in wildlife spotting and sharing stories that enhance the viewing experience.

Scenic Boat Ride and Views

The boat itself is described as comfortable, with both indoor and outdoor seating. The size of the vessel strikes a balance between intimacy and accessibility, allowing travelers to enjoy unobstructed views of the seascape and wildlife. The boat’s design facilitates clear sightlines, making wildlife encounters more likely and enjoyable.

Knowledgeable Guides and Crew

Reviews consistently mention Dylan and other crew members as friendly and helpful, with guides who are excellent storytellers and knowledgeable about local history, culture, and natural features. The crew’s attentiveness ensures a safe and engaging experience, with warm beverages provided during the cruise, especially appreciated on cooler days.

Food, Snacks, and Refreshments

The tour includes snacks and refreshments, making the experience more comfortable. Travelers particularly appreciate the delicious snacks, which are a simple but nice touch during the cruise, allowing guests to relax while taking in the scenery.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. The activity is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather result in either a full refund or a different date. This flexibility is useful for travelers concerned about Alaska’s unpredictable weather.

Overall Value and Suitability

Reviewed as one of the best excursions by many, the Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles tour is praised for excellent value given the rich combination of sights, wildlife, and cultural insights. The tour appeals most to those who enjoy nature, history, and wildlife, and who prefer a relaxed boat-based exploration over strenuous activities.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

This excursion from Ketchikan makes for a well-paced, visually stunning, and culturally informative outing. It balances scenic views, wildlife encounters, and native stories, making it a comprehensive introduction to southeast Alaska’s coastal environment. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable boat create a welcoming atmosphere, while the potential whale sightings add an exciting element of surprise.

While it doesn’t include access from the Ward Cove cruise ship pier, the tour offers a convenient, engaging, and scenic alternative with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking and learning. Ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse of Alaska’s natural and cultural richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for most travelers, including those with public transportation nearby and service animals.

Will I see whales on this tour?
Wildlife sightings are possible, and some reviews mention seeing humpback whales, including bubble-net feeding. However, whale sightings are not guaranteed.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a good option for a half-day activity.

What should I bring?
While snacks and beverages are provided, it’s advisable to dress for outdoor weather and bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Does the tour include access from the Ward Cove cruise ship pier?
No, this tour begins in downtown Ketchikan at Front St/ Berth 2. For pick-up from Ward Cove, see the Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion (Ward Cove) listing.