Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package

Explore Alaska’s Glaciers and Wildlife on the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package

The Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package offers a full-day adventure starting from Anchorage, with a price of $309.43 per person. This tour combines a scenic coach drive along Turnagain Arm, a specialized boat cruise into Blackstone Bay, and an easy return to Anchorage. With an 11-hour duration, it’s designed for those eager to see Alaska’s stunning glaciers and abundant wildlife in one seamless day.

One of the most appealing aspects is the combination of land and water experiences—you’ll enjoy sweeping mountain views, wildlife spotting, and close-up encounters with glaciers. The tour is well-suited for visitors who appreciate guided narration and want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore Prince William Sound. Keep in mind, the limited ADA accessibility and the need for most travelers to ascend or descend 3-5 steps might influence participation for some.

Key Points

• Includes coach journey and 3.75-hour cruise into Blackstone Bay
• See tidewater glaciers like Tebenkof, Northland, Blackstone, and Beloit
• Wildlife sightings include sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, whales, and mountain goats
• Tour departs from Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage at 9:00 am
• Most bookings are made 193 days in advance
• Free cancellation available with 24-hour notice

Scenic Turnagain Arm Drive from Anchorage to Whittier

The tour starts with a spectacular drive along Turnagain Arm, designated as a Scenic Byway. This route follows the shoreline of the arm, revealing breathtaking views of mountains, water, and possibly tidal bore waves. The journey sets a perfect tone for the day, offering photo opportunities of Alaska’s wilderness from the comfort of the coach.

Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier, the drive takes about 90 minutes. The route includes a stop at the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is open for 30-minute intervals. This tunnel is a notable feature, providing access between Girdwood and Whittier, and is part of the scenic charm of the trip.

Journey Through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is a unique element of the tour. It’s open thirty minutes past each hour, allowing travelers to pass through a long, historic tunnel connecting the inland Girdwood area with the seaside town of Whittier. This 90-minute transit offers a sense of adventure, as the tunnel is a key passage into the gateway of Prince William Sound.

Traveling through this tunnel, guests experience Alaska’s infrastructure and engineering marvels, enhancing the overall journey. The tunnel’s open access adds a practical yet scenic touch before reaching Whittier, the departure point for the cruise.

Discover Whittier: The Gateway to Prince William Sound

Whittier is a small coastal town with just 200 residents, but it plays a significant role as the gateway to Prince William Sound. The town’s quaint port is where the Glacier Quest Cruise departs at approximately 4 hours into the cruise, after exploring Blackstone Bay.

This town’s charm lies in its quiet, seaside atmosphere and its reputation as a playground for locals and visitors alike. It’s a practical starting point, offering easy access to the glacier-filled waters and beautiful scenery awaiting just offshore.

The 3.75-Hour Glacier Quest Cruise in Blackstone Bay

The central part of the tour is the Glacier Quest Cruise, which lasts 3.75 hours. During this time, guests cruise into Blackstone Bay, a deep-water fjord famous for its glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife.

On the water, expect close-up views of Tebenkof Glacier, named after a notable surveyor from 1852, and Northland Glacier, which clings dramatically to mountain edges. The tidewater glaciers Blackstone and Beloit carve steep pathways to the saltwater of Prince William Sound.

The cruise is equipped for smooth sailing, with no seasickness guarantee, thanks to the calm waters of Prince William Sound. During the cruise, you’ll see signs of glacier movement, such as the pop of calving ice, and perhaps encounter sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, whales, and mountain goats—wildlife that thrives in this pristine environment.

Onboard Amenities and Included Food

The vessel used for the cruise is smoke-free and features restrooms onboard for convenience. The tour includes hot coffee, tea, and ice water, ensuring guests stay refreshed amid the day’s activities.

Lunch is included in the package, with options such as wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, served with oyster crackers, a julienne vegetable salad, a roll, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a Peppermint Pattie. Vegetarian chili, gluten-free, or a kids’ meal can be requested 48 hours in advance.

Return Journey and Optional Bar Service

After the cruise, the group reconvenes at the coach for the return to Anchorage, arriving around 6:45 pm. The tour offers a full-service bar where guests can warm up with hot drinks or indulge in a Glacier Ice Margarita. The bar features Alaskan ales, wine, spirits, and liquors for those wishing to unwind with a drink.

Practical Details: Accessibility, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

The tour is designed for most travelers, though ADA accessibility is limited. Guests are asked to call in advance regarding specific needs. Participants should be prepared to ascend or descend 3-5 steps to board the coach. The tour operates with a maximum of 140 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size.

Booking is flexible with a full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The tour requires good weather for optimal experience; if canceled due to poor weather, guests are offered a reschedule or full refund.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?

This experience suits adventurous-minded visitors who want a comprehensive day exploring glaciers and wildlife without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate walking and steps and interested in guided narration about Alaska’s natural environment.

The combination of scenic drive, historic tunnel, wildlife sightings, and glacier viewing makes this tour a well-rounded choice for nature lovers and curious explorers alike.

The Sum Up: A Solid Choice for Glacier and Wildlife Enthusiasts

The Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package delivers an authentic Alaskan experience, blending scenic land travel with a close-up boat tour into Blackstone Bay. The well-organized itinerary and included amenities, such as lunch and onboard restrooms, enhance the overall value.

While limited ADA accessibility and the physical requirement to manage a few steps** are considerations, the tour’s expert narration and wildlife viewing opportunities make it a dependable choice. It’s especially suited for those seeking a full day of glacier landscapes and ocean wildlife in a single, guided package.

This tour provides a convenient, informative, and visually stunning journey into Alaska’s glacier-rich waters, perfect for nature enthusiasts and curious explorers visiting Anchorage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Glacier Quest Cruise and Coach Package?
The package includes a coach journey from Anchorage to Whittier, the 3.75-hour Glacier Quest Cruise into Blackstone Bay, lunch, and a return coach ride back to Anchorage. It also features professional narration and refreshments onboard.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, departing at 9:00 am and returning around 6:45 pm.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Accessibility is limited, with a need to manage 3-5 steps when boarding the coach. Guests should call ahead if they require assistance.

What wildlife might be seen during the cruise?
Expect to see sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, whales, and mountain goats in their natural habitat during the cruise.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, lunch is included, featuring smoked salmon chowder and other options. Hot drinks and water are available onboard, and a full bar offers alaskan ales, wine, and spirits.