Ocean Raft Alaska

Exploring southeastern Alaska from the water offers an unforgettable way to see the region’s untouched landscapes. Ocean Raft Alaska provides a 2-hour 15-minute high-speed boat tour aboard a custom-built RIB, starting in Skagway and priced at $189.99 per person. This adventure is perfect for those seeking wildlife sightings, scenic views, and an adrenaline rush, with a focus on safety and comfort including professional gear and knowledgeable guides. The tour’s high praise, with a 5.0 rating from 264 reviews, highlights its popularity and the consistent quality of the experience.

While the tour is geared toward those aged 10 and older, with a maximum weight limit of 350 pounds, it remains accessible for anyone with moderate physical fitness. It offers a unique opportunity to skirt the shoreline, pause for wildlife and nature photos, and experience the thrill of racing along the fjord walls. Note that weather can impact scheduling, but flexible rescheduling or refunds are available if conditions are unsafe.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $189.99, this 2-hour 15-minute tour provides excellent value, with a mix of high-speed thrills and scenic stops.
• Location and Meeting Point: The tour departs from 100 Broadway, Skagway, AK, making it easy to access, especially near public transportation.
• Wildlife Sightings: Expect to see bald eagles, seals, sea lions, mountain goats, and otters, with multiple stops designed for wildlife viewing.
• Comfort and Safety: Participants are provided with waterproof suits, goggles, gloves, and masks for protection against the weather and water spray.
• Expert Guides and Crew: Guides like Ms. Harp, Hannah, Bevin, and Captain Alyssa are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Activity Suitability: Suitable for ages 10+, with physical activities like quick maneuvers and stops—those with back or neck injuries should exercise caution.

Skagway’s Coastal Wilderness from the Water

The tour starts at 100 Broadway in Skagway, offering a convenient meeting point near town and public transit options. The adventure takes place in the Lynn Canal, renowned for its scenic beauty and wildlife. The vessel used is a custom-built RIB, similar to those used by coast guard or navy rescue teams, with a deep hull and inflatable tubes ensuring a smooth ride even in choppier waters.

This vessel design allows for high speeds and quick turns, adding an exciting element to the trip. The modern shock-absorbing seats keep passengers comfortable during the fast-paced ride. The tour’s focus on safety and comfort makes it accessible even for those unfamiliar with high-speed boat rides.

Forested Fjord and Waterfalls on a Speedy Adventure

The main route follows the stunning Lynn Canal, where the boat hugs the shoreline to explore hidden coves, rocky beaches, waterfalls, and mountain walls. Along the way, the captain makes multiple stops, giving passengers the chance to snap photos and enjoy moments of silence when the engine is cut. The waterfalls and steep granite cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for photos and sightseeing.

The natural beauty of the fjord, combined with the thrilling speed of the boat, creates a balance of serenity and excitement. The stops offer opportunities to observe the environment and learn about the local ecosystem from guides like Ms. Harp and the naturalist.

Wildlife Encounters and Close-Up Viewing

Wildlife sightings are a significant highlight of this tour. Passengers frequently spot bald eagles, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, and otters. The guides are skilled at locating animals and ensure guests get close-up views, often within a few feet of seals resting on rocks or eagles soaring overhead.

Multiple reviews mention the quality of wildlife sightings, with some stops intentionally made for photography and observation. The naturalist guides provide interesting facts about the animals, enriching the experience without diminishing the thrill of the ride.

The Thrill of Racing and Donuts

One of the tour’s standout features is the high-speed maneuvering, including doughnuts and quick turns. This part of the adventure appeals to those craving adrenaline and fun, with many reviews noting the excitement of racing along narrow fjord walls. The guides, including Captain Bevin and Captain Alyssa, are praised for their expert handling and ability to make the ride both exhilarating and safe.

While the speed and sharp turns add a sense of adventure, the suits, goggles, and gloves provided ensure guests remain comfortable and protected, even in the spray of the water.

Stops for Photos and Nature Sounds

Throughout the trip, the captain makes several pauses in scenic spots. These moments allow guests to disembark for photos, listen to the sounds of waterfalls and wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful wilderness. When the engine is off, the silence and natural ambiance provide a contrast to the adrenaline of racing, creating a well-balanced experience.

The natural stops also give naturalists onboard a chance to share insights about local flora and fauna, deepening understanding of the environment.

Weather Considerations and Gear Provided

Weather in southeastern Alaska can be unpredictable, but the tour is well-equipped to handle rain or wind. Waterproof suits, goggles, gloves, and ninja masks are included, ensuring guests stay warm and dry even if the weather turns cloudy or rainy—something that doesn’t seem to spoil the overall experience, based on reviews.

Participants should be aware that the tour requires moderate physical fitness and is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back or neck injuries. The maximum weight limit of 350 pounds is also enforced for safety reasons.

Group Size, Booking, and Accessibility

This tour operates with a maximum of 25 travelers, maintaining an intimate and personalized atmosphere. It’s recommended to book about 70 days in advance, as the popularity is high. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors to Skagway.

While designed for most people with moderate fitness levels, the tour’s quick maneuvers and standing in a small boat may be less suitable for those with mobility issues unless adequately accommodated.

The Experience Guides and Crew

The crew, including Captain Bevin, Angie, and naturalist Shane, are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. From the naturalist sharing facts about wildlife and waterfalls to the captain expertly navigating the fjord, their enthusiasm enhances every aspect of the tour.

Many reviews highlight the helpfulness and engaging nature of the staff, making newcomers comfortable with the high-speed adventure.

Value for Money and Overall Satisfaction

At $189.99 per person, the tour offers a combination of thrilling speed, wildlife encounters, scenic views, and expert guides that many consider well worth the cost. The tour’s strong safety measures and gear add to its value, making it accessible and enjoyable regardless of weather conditions.

With a flawless 5.0 rating from 264 reviews, the tour’s reputation for consistency and quality is clear. The opportunity to see Alaska’s wild beauty from a unique water-based perspective makes this adventure a standout in Skagway.

Final Thoughts on Ocean Raft Alaska’s Wild Coast Tour

This tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and scenery in a compact, well-organized format. The speedy boat ride combined with wildlife stops offers a thrill for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike. The gear and naturalist insights ensure comfort and education along the way.

While weather can influence plans, the tour’s flexible policies and excellent gear mean that many will still enjoy the experience, rain or shine. This activity suits active guests who want an exciting and intimate exploration of Alaska’s coastline, especially those eager to spot wildlife and capture breathtaking photos.

For travelers seeking a high-energy boat ride with scenic and wildlife highlights in Skagway, Ocean Raft Alaska’s adventure remains highly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for guests aged 10 and older.

What should I wear during the tour?
Participants are provided with waterproof suits, goggles, gloves, and ninja masks to stay warm and dry.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Tours canceled due to unsafe weather conditions are fully refunded or rescheduled.

How many people can join the tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of 25 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include bald eagles, seals, sea lions, mountain goats, and otters.

Is this tour physically demanding?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness; quick maneuvers and standing are involved, so it may not suit everyone with mobility issues.