Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer- Port of Seward

Explore Alaska’s Scenic Highway and Craft Beverage Stops for a Memorable Day

This Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer offers a well-rounded way to unwind after a cruise from Seward. Priced at $399 per person and lasting approximately 9 hours, it combines scenic views, adventure, and tastings of locally crafted beers, ciders, and spirits. The tour departs from the Seward cruise port and ends in Anchorage, making it ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back exploration of Alaska’s natural and culinary delights.

What sets this tour apart is the focus on small-group intimacy, with a maximum of 8 travelers, and the inclusion of unique stops like the Alyeska tram ride and visits to renowned alaska-made breweries and distilleries. While it is a one-way transfer, this experience provides an authentic taste of Kenai Peninsula scenery combined with tastings and breathtaking vistas. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided storytelling, local flavors, and stunning landscapes all packed into a single day.

Key Points

• Price of $399 per person for a comprehensive 9-hour tour from Seward to Anchorage
• Includes scenic drive along the National Scenic Byway with mountain vistas and lakes
• Highlights are the Alyeska tram ride, craft beer, cider, and spirit tastings, and lunch atop Mount Alyeska
• Drop-off options include hotels and airport transfer in Anchorage
• Small-group size ensures more personalized attention from the guide

From Seward Cruise Port to the Kenai Peninsula Scenic Drive

The tour begins right at the Seward cruise ship terminal, where a driver-guide picks up guests promptly at 9:00 am. The journey covers 114 miles along the Seward Highway, renowned for its spectacular views. This route offers sweeping mountain vistas and pristine lakes, setting the tone for a day immersed in Alaska’s natural beauty. The guide provides live commentary, sharing insights about the landscape and local history, making the drive both relaxing and informative.

Travelers appreciate this guided scenic route for its comfort and storytelling, as it allows a relaxed pace while taking in some of Alaska’s most striking scenery. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, giving room for questions and personalized commentary. This part of the tour is ideal for anyone wanting a taste of Alaska’s wilderness without the hassle of self-driving.

The Aerial Tram Ride to Mount Alyeska’s Summit

A key highlight is the Alyeska Aerial Tram, which lifts visitors 2,300 feet above the Girdwood Valley. The tram ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Chugach Mountains and the lush Girdwood Valley below. Once at the top, guests enjoy a scenic lunch at a designated restaurant at the summit, offering a chance to relax amid remarkable panoramic scenery.

This tram ride is free of charge and provides a birds-eye perspective on the landscape. The lunch at the summit is a memorable experience, with the mountain vistas serving as a spectacular backdrop. It’s a perfect stop to soak in the Alaskan wilderness, especially for those who enjoy outdoor views paired with good food.

Visiting Girdwood Brewing Company for Local Beers

After descending from Mount Alyeska, the tour makes a stop at the Girdwood Brewing Company. Established in 2017, this craft brewery is known for its handcrafted beers and welcoming atmosphere. Guests get to sample a variety of brews while exploring the brewery’s behind-the-scenes process, gaining insight into Alaska’s brewing culture.

The beer tasting here is often highlighted as a delightful experience, especially for those interested in local brewing styles. While the admission to the brewery is not included in the tour price, the tasting itself is a memorable part of the day, offering a refreshing break before continuing the journey.

The Scenic Turnagain Arm Drive to Anchorage

Continuing from Girdwood, the tour follows the Turnagain Arm, one of Alaska’s most scenic drives. This 40-mile stretch is celebrated for its dramatic coastlines, charming communities, and potential sightings of wildlife like beluga whales. The guide shares details about the geology and history of the area, enriching the scenic experience.

This drive provides a sense of Alaska’s rugged coastlines and natural wonders while maintaining a leisurely pace. It’s appreciated for its visual variety, from mountains to waterways, and offers numerous photo opportunities along the way.

Anchorage Distillery: Crafting with Alaska-Grown Ingredients

The journey continues to the Anchorage Distillery, the largest distillery in Alaska. Here, Alaska-grown barley and wheat, fresh berries, and pristine glacier water are used to produce a range of spirits. This local focus underscores the Alaska-crafted theme of the tour.

Guests taste Alaska-made spirits and learn about the distillation process from the distillery’s experts. The visit is especially interesting for those curious about how local ingredients contribute to distinctive flavors in Alaskan spirits. It’s a chance to sample unique products that reflect Alaska’s natural bounty.

Double Shovel Cider Company: Ending with a Popular Tasting Room

The final stop is at Double Shovel Cider Company, renowned for its high-quality ciders. Named after a caribou antler formation, this tasting room is one of the most popular in Alaska. Guests sample a variety of craft ciders, enjoying the friendly atmosphere and local flavor.

This stop wraps up the Alaska Crafted Tour on a tasty note, with options to try different cider varieties and learn about the cider-making process. The location offers a relaxed ending to a day filled with scenery and craft beverages.

Convenient Drop-off in Anchorage and Flexibility

The tour concludes around 5:30 pm, with drop-off options at hotels, the airport, or downtown Anchorage. This flexibility makes it easy for travelers to plan their evening activities or flight schedules. The tour’s inclusion of hotel and airport transfers adds convenience and simplifies transportation after a full day of sightseeing.

Travelers should plan for a minimum of 1.5 hours for airport check-in if flying out the same evening. The small-group size and guided experience ensure a personalized and relaxed finish to the day.

Practical Details and Booking Recommendations

The tour departs from the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal at 9:00 am and is designed as a one-way experience, heading toward Anchorage. The maximum group size of 8 travelers creates an intimate environment, while the live commentary adds value with local insights.

The tour is booked on average 36 days in advance and is recommended for adults 21 years and older. Proper footwear, specifically closed-toe shoes, is required. Since all sales are final, travelers should confirm their plans before booking, as the experience is non-refundable.

Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer: Who Will Appreciate It

This tour offers an excellent option for those who value scenic drives combined with craft beverage tastings in a small-group setting. It’s best suited for adults interested in Alaska’s natural beauty and local distilleries and breweries. The relaxing pace, spectacular views, and personalized guide make it a great choice for a leisurely day after a cruise.

While it may not suit those seeking adventure or long hikes, it excels at providing relaxing sightseeing with a focus on Alaskan culture and scenery. The lunch at Mount Alyeska and the guided commentary add special touches that elevate the experience beyond typical scenic drives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour requires a minimum age of 21 years due to the craft beverage tastings.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes craft beverage samples, lunch, the tram ride, driver/guide, live commentary, and hotel or airport drop-off in Anchorage.

Can I customize the drop-off location?
Drop-off is available at selected hotels, the airport, or downtown Anchorage, offering flexibility at the conclusion of the tour.

Is advance booking necessary?
Yes, the tour is often booked 36 days in advance. Since it is a small-group experience, early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

What if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met?
The tour may be canceled, in which case an alternative date or full refund will be offered.

This Alaska Crafted Tour and Cruise Transfer delivers an engaging blend of scenic beauty and local craftsmanship, making it a satisfying choice for those wanting a relaxed, yet rich, Alaska experience.