Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour

Discover the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve with a Guided Float Tour in Haines

The Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour offers a compact yet immersive opportunity to witness Alaska’s remarkable wildlife. Priced at $169.79 per person, this 4-hour adventure combines scenic transportation, an 1.5-hour calm water raft float, and a riverside lunch. The tour departs from Port Chilkoot Dock in Haines and features a small group experience, limited to 8 travelers, which ensures personalized attention.

This tour is especially appealing for those interested in birdwatching, wildlife sightings, and Alaska’s natural beauty. It is designed for most travelers, with most participants able to join, and includes helpful gear such as rain ponchos and rubber boots. While the tour operates in all weather conditions, packing appropriately guarantees a comfortable experience.

While the float itself offers a peaceful way to see bald eagles, bears, wolves, and moose, some may find the short duration limiting if they seek more in-depth wildlife encounters. Still, the combination of scenic drive, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights makes this an engaging choice.

Key Points

• Affordable small-group tour limited to 8 travelers
• Includes scenic drive, raft float, and riverside lunch
• Focuses on birdwatching at the world’s largest bald eagle gathering
• Operates rain or shine with provided gear
• Guides offer informative commentary on local history and wildlife
• Popularity suggests advanced booking around 42 days in advance

Scenic Drive past Fort Seward and Along the National Scenic Byway

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Haines that showcases Alaska’s natural beauty. Guides share stories about Fort Seward, Alaska’s first Army post, and point out historic structures beside Port Chilkoot overlooking the Lynn Canal. This drive takes roughly 40 minutes along the Haines Highway, designated a National Scenic Byway.

During this drive, look out for moose and swans in marshlands, with chances to see bears along the way. The guides’ commentary enriches the experience, blending local history, geology, and Gold Rush tales. This part of the tour sets a tranquil tone and offers excellent photo opportunities of snow-capped peaks and timber forests.

A Calm Water Rafting Adventure on the Chilkat River

The highlight of the tour is a 1.5-hour float on the Chilkat River aboard an 18-foot inflatable raft. Designed for calm water, this segment provides a peaceful setting to observe bald eagles, especially as they hunt for salmon. The world’s largest congregation of resident and migratory eagles gathers here, making this a prime birdwatching spot.

Guides lead the group along three rivers—the Chilkat, Klehini, and Tsirku—each offering different scenery. Besides eagles, the float offers glimpses of bears and wolves, which sometimes visit the feast on salmon. The lush forests, towering mountains, and hanging glaciers add to the visual appeal of this serene floating experience.

Wildlife Viewing and the Significance of the Preserve

The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is renowned for hosting the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. The abundance of salmon runs attracts these majestic birds, making the float an ideal opportunity for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Sightings of moose and bears are also common, adding excitement to the peaceful river cruise.

The preserve’s landscape, with mountains and glaciers, offers a dramatic backdrop to the wildlife spectacle. The float guides are well-trained and knowledgeable, providing insights into the behavior of the eagles and other wildlife, which enhances the viewing experience.

Picnic Lunch on the Riverbank

After the float, the tour concludes with a riverside picnic lunch. The meal offers a relaxed way to unwind and soak in the natural scenery. The lunch included is an appreciated feature, giving travelers a chance to enjoy Alaska’s outdoor setting without the need to find a restaurant.

This component of the tour emphasizes a casual, scenic end to the adventure, perfect for sharing observations and planning the next wildlife sighting.

Visiting the Historic Community of Klukwan

A noteworthy stop during the tour is the village of Klukwan, located 22 miles north of Haines. This community is one of the largest remaining Tlingit settlements, known as “Eternal Village”. The site’s natural environment, especially the salmon runs, played a key role in the community’s history.

While the primary focus remains on wildlife and scenery, this cultural stop offers a glimpse into the indigenous heritage of the region, adding depth to the overall experience.

Practical Details: Logistics, Gear, and Booking

The tour begins at 142 Beach Rd, Haines, with round-trip transportation included from Port Chilkoot Dock. The small group size enhances comfort and allows guides to provide personalized attention.

Participants receive rubber boots, rain ponchos, and a personal flotation device for safety and comfort. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers is recommended. Beverages and vegetarian options are available, and booking typically requires about 42 days in advance due to its popularity.

Cancellation policies are strict, with no refunds within 96 hours of departure, but full refunds are available if canceled more than 14 days beforehand.

Guides and Tour Experience

The guides are praised for their knowledgeable narration and friendly demeanor. They share local history, geology, and wildlife facts, enriching the experience without overwhelming. The guides’ expertise makes it easier to spot eagles and understand their behaviors, particularly during the float and drive segments.

The ratio of guides to guests ensures attention to safety and education, making this tour enjoyable for both wildlife enthusiasts and casual travelers.

Overall Value and Suitability

This half-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Alaska’s wildlife and scenery at a competitive price point. It is particularly suited for travelers interested in birdwatching, wildlife photography, or cultural insights into the Tlingit community.

While it does not include whitewater rafting or extended hikes, the calm float and scenic drive deliver a fulfilling experience. The riverside lunch and small group setting add to the overall value, making it a practical choice for those with limited time in Haines.

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour: Final Thoughts

The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour combines scenic drives, wildlife watching, and cultural stops into a compact, engaging half-day adventure. Its focus on eagle sightings and serene river floats makes it stand out as a peaceful, nature-centric activity.

The tour’s limited group size and professional guides contribute to a quality experience, although some may wish for a longer or more varied wildlife encounter. Overall, it suits travelers seeking a relaxing, educational, and visually stunning excursion in Alaska.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, guide services, raft float, beverages, lunch, rain gear, and rubber boots.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 hours, including travel, the float, and lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves a gentle raft float on calm rivers and a scenic drive, making it suitable for most travelers, but specific accessibility details are not provided.

What wildlife might I see during the float?
The float offers chances to see bald eagles, bears, moose, and wolves in their natural habitat.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything special?
Dress in layers for all weather; gear like rain ponchos and rubber boots are provided. No personal equipment is necessary.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable if canceled within 96 hours of departure. Full refunds are available if canceled more than 14 days prior.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, a vegetarian option can be requested at the time of booking.

What makes this tour unique compared to others?
The focus on birdwatching at the world’s largest bald eagle gathering and the small group size enhance the experience, making it both personable and rich in wildlife.

How far in advance should I book?
Given its popularity, the tour is typically booked 42 days in advance. Early reservation is recommended.

Can I expect good photo opportunities?
Absolutely—scenic landscapes, wildlife sightings, and mountain views offer excellent chances for photography during the drive and float.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates in all weather, with provided rain gear to stay comfortable no matter the forecast.