Skagway: Ocean Raft Adventure Along Scenic Coastline

The Skagway: Ocean Raft Adventure Along Scenic Coastline offers an exciting 2.5-hour experience aboard a RIB boat, providing a close-up view of North America’s longest fjord, Lynn Canal. Priced at $170 per person, this tour combines wildlife spotting, scenic exploration, and an adrenaline-filled ride through rugged Alaskan waters. The tour is suitable for those ready to embrace outdoor adventure, with a focus on safety and comfort, including Mustang survival suits and gear to handle the weather.

While the experience offers remarkable views and wildlife encounters, it’s important to note that children under 10, pregnant women, and travelers with back problems are advised to skip this outing. The tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, so guests should plan accordingly. This activity appeals most to nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts eager to explore Lynn Canal’s untouched beauty.

Key Points

• Duration: 2.5 hours of high-energy sightseeing on a RIB boat
• Price: $170 per person, offering a comprehensive wildlife and scenery experience
• Wildlife Sightings: Expect to see whales, eagles, seals, and sea lions
• Safety Gear: Includes Mustang survival suits, goggles, and gloves
• Stops and Photo Opportunities: Multiple pauses for capturing scenic shots and wildlife
• Meeting Point: South of 1st Ave on Broadway St next to a grassy field with native artwork

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Exploring Lynn Canal on the RIB Boat

The core of this tour takes place in Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. The boat zips along the water, giving travelers a thrilling ride while allowing close access to the shoreline. This proximity means you’ll get a rare chance to see hidden coves, waterfalls, and beaches. Each stop is an opportunity to photograph the pristine wilderness and observe wildlife such as bald eagles, harbor seals, and mountain goats.

The RIB boat is designed for speed and maneuverability, making the experience lively and engaging. The guides, often experienced captains, provide commentary throughout, highlighting the natural features and wildlife behaviors. This focus on education enhances the tour, making it as informative as it is fun.

Safety and Comfort with Mustang Survival Gear

The Mustang survival suits are a notable feature of this tour, supplied to all participants for safety. These insulated jumpsuits are required by the Coast Guard for safety and ensure you remain warm and dry despite the often chilly Alaskan wind and spray. Accompanying goggles and gloves help make the ride comfortable, especially when zipping at high speeds or exploring near waterfalls.

Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear and dress in layers, as weather conditions can change quickly along the fjord. The gear provided allows for an active, outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort, even if the weather turns wet or windy.

Optimal Wildlife Spotting and Photo Opportunities

Multiple stops during the tour are designed for photo opportunities and wildlife viewing. You might see whales, often breaching or spouting, and bald eagles perched high on trees or soaring above the water. The shoreline is home to seals, sea lions, and occasionally mountain goats. The natural scenery includes waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and lush forests, providing stunning backgrounds for photos.

The guides’ colorful narration adds context to each sighting, helping you understand the local ecosystem. Keeping your camera ready is essential, as this tour is packed with moments worth capturing.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

The tour departs from a restroom location south of 1st Ave on Broadway St, next to a grassy field decorated with Native artwork. A guide wearing Ocean Raft Alaska apparel will hold a sign reading “Ocean Raft Wildlife Adventure” for easy identification. Guests should check in at this spot before boarding the bus to the boat dock.

Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so arriving on time is crucial. The tour typically operates in both morning and afternoon slots, allowing flexibility in planning your day.

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The Experience of the RIB Ride

The ride itself is fast-paced, alternating between high-speed zipping and slower stops for sightseeing and photographs. The boat accommodates up to 25 guests, providing an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The naturalist guides and captains are praised for their entertaining and informative approach, making the experience both educational and fun.

Guests love how the guides explain the natural features and wildlife, enriching the tour beyond just scenic views. The suits and gear contribute significantly to comfort, especially during longer stops or colder weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to experience Alaska’s natural beauty from the water. Since it involves fast boat speeds and outdoor exposure, it suits those comfortable with active, open-air excursions.

Not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or individuals with back problems, due to the physical nature and safety gear involved. The tour’s high safety standards and professional guides make it a reliable choice for confident outdoor explorers.

Value and Booking Flexibility

Despite its price of $170, many reviews highlight the value for money, especially given the quality of wildlife sightings and scenery. The tour includes all safety gear and offers multiple stops for photos and wildlife spotting. Guests can reserve without immediate payment, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

The Sum Up: An Exciting Look at Alaska’s Fjord Landscape

The Skagway Ocean Raft Adventure stands out for its combination of speed, scenery, and wildlife encounters. The experience delivers close-up views of waterfalls, coves, and fjord landscapes, along with the chance to spot eagles, seals, and whales. Expert guides and safety gear ensure a smooth, enjoyable journey into the wilderness.

While the cost may seem high, the quality of the wildlife sightings and scenic access justifies the price for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. The tour offers a memorable, active exploration of Lynn Canal, perfect for those wanting to see Alaska from a truly unique perspective.

This tour suits travelers ready for a fast-paced, outdoor adventure and keen to capture stunning photos of Alaska’s rugged coastline. It’s a highlight for anyone wanting an authentic experience of the wilderness, with the added thrill of a speedy boat ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included. Guests need to arrange their own way to the restroom south of 1st Ave on Broadway St.

What should I wear during the tour?
Dress in layers and wear comfortable footwear. The tour provides Mustang survival suits, goggles, and gloves to keep you warm and dry.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 10 years are not permitted to participate due to safety and physical requirements.

Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling options are available depending on availability.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bald eagles, whales, seals, sea lions, and mountain goats, along with numerous seabirds and waterfalls.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back issues.

What makes this tour different from other Skagway excursions?
Its speedy RIB boat ride offers a close-up, exhilarating exploration of Lynn Canal, with multiple photo stops and a focus on wildlife viewing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is 2.5 hours, providing enough time for a lively ride and scenic exploration without being overly long.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby