Ketchikan: Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour

A floatplane adventure over Misty Fjords National Monument offers a unique perspective on Alaska’s rugged beauty. For $389 per person, this 2-hour flight from Ketchikan combines breathtaking scenery, insightful narration, and the thrill of flying in a small, intimate group. With a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 17 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable pilots, stunning vistas, and good value—though it’s best suited for those comfortable with small aircraft and some weight restrictions.

Travelers who enjoy scenic flights, wildlife viewing, and learning about the landscape from an expert pilot will find this tour particularly rewarding. The careful organization, limited group size of up to 6 participants, and inclusion of live commentary make for a personalized experience. However, potential participants should be aware of weight surcharges and that food and drinks are not included.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $389, this 2-hour floatplane tour offers a comprehensive flight over Misty Fjords.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Pilot Commentary: Insightful narration accompanies the flight, highlighting landmarks and wildlife.
• Scenic Highlights: Passengers see New Eddystone Rock, waterfalls, cliffs, and dense forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for wolves, bears, deer, and eagles from the air.
• Accessibility & Restrictions: Suitable for most, but not recommended for those over 300 lbs; additional surcharge applies for guests over 250 lbs.

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Starting Point and Logistics in Ketchikan

The tour begins in downtown Ketchikan, with guests meeting by the large bronze statue and rain gauge next to the Visitor’s Bureau on berth 2. A private van transports participants from central locations, contributing to a smooth and relaxed start. This setup helps avoid the hassle of separate pickups or complicated logistics.

The meeting point’s central location makes it easy to find, and the entire process is designed for convenience. The tour usually runs in the morning or afternoon, offering flexibility for different schedules. Travelers should arrive prepared for the weather, as exposed aircraft windows provide little shielding against rain or wind.

The Floatplane and Aircraft Capacity

This 6-passenger floatplane is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate flying experience. The aircraft features guaranteed window seats for everyone, ensuring optimal views. The small size of the plane allows for a closer, more personal connection to the landscape, making it easier to spot features like waterfalls cascading down granite cliffs or the volcanic remnant of New Eddystone Rock.

The aircraft’s design prioritizes scenic viewing and pilot commentary, providing a stable yet exhilarating ride through Alaska’s wilderness. The live pilot narration enhances the experience, pointing out landmarks and explaining the geography of the region.

What Makes the Misty Fjords Flight Special

The core highlight of this tour is soaring over Misty Fjords, a vast wilderness area covered by the Tongass National Forest, which spans over 2 million acres. The flight takes you over lakes, waterfalls, and sheer cliffs, all shrouded in the region’s signature mist that creates a mystical atmosphere.

A particularly notable stop is the view of Rudyard Bay and the impressive New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic remnant that rises from the water, providing impressive photo opportunities. The dense forests of hemlock and spruce cling to the steep slopes, adding to the grandeur of the scenery.

Wildlife Spotting from the Air

One of the most praised features of this tour is the opportunity to spot wildlife from the skies. The pilot’s expertise and the vantage point from the floatplane make it possible to see wolves, bears, deer, and eagles. While not guaranteed, the frequent sightings add an exciting layer to the scenic flight, especially for nature enthusiasts.

The flight path offers a bird’s eye view of the habitat where these animals thrive, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it becomes a chance to observe Alaska’s wilderness in its natural state.

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The Pilot and Commentary Style

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly pilots, who offer live narration during the flight. The pilot explains the significance of landmarks, geological features, and regional history, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Most reviews mention the quality of the commentary and the musical soundtrack that plays through headsets, which adds to the atmosphere. While some note that the soundtrack can occasionally be distracting or poorly synchronized, the included volume controls help mitigate this issue. The pilot’s storytelling style contributes significantly to the tour’s memorable nature.

Weather and Flight Conditions

Because the flight takes place in an Alaska wilderness area, weather conditions can vary. The tour often travels through low-hanging mist, which is part of what gives Misty Fjords its name and adds to the scenic charm. Light rain or cloud cover might limit visibility slightly but typically does not spoil the experience.

The tour’s timing in the morning or afternoon helps maximize good weather conditions, though travelers should be prepared for possible delays or rescheduling if weather conditions are unsafe for flying.

Pricing, Surcharges, and Bookings

The $389 per person fee includes private van transportation from Ketchikan, the 1-hour scenic flight, and live pilot commentary. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Guests weighing 250 lbs (113 kg) or more must pay an additional surcharge of $168 directly to the activity provider, ensuring aircraft balance and safety. The tour is not suitable for people over 300 lbs (136 kg). These restrictions help maintain safety standards while allowing most travelers to enjoy the flight.

Customer Satisfaction and Overall Value

The tour maintains an impressive 4.8-star rating from 17 reviews, with many praising the stunning scenery and expert narration. The small group size and personalized attention from the pilots are frequently highlighted as advantages over larger, more generic tours.

Most reviewers feel the experience offers great value for the price, especially given the quality of views and the chance to learn about the landscape from an experienced pilot. Some minor critiques relate to the sound quality of the soundtrack, but overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Misty Fjords Floatplane Tour: An Unparalleled Aerial Adventure

This floatplane tour from Ketchikan delivers a captivating view of Alaska’s wilderness. The combination of impressive scenery, wildlife spotting opportunities, and knowledgeable narration makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a personalized, scenic flight.

While the weight restrictions and lack of included food might require some planning, the overall experience is both enriching and visually stunning. With high customer satisfaction and a dedicated operator, this tour stands out as a memorable way to connect with Alaska’s iconic landscape.

Whether you’re an avid nature lover or simply looking for a unique perspective, this Misty Fjords floatplane flight offers an authentic taste of the region’s rugged beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The flight itself lasts about 1 hour, with the entire experience including transportation lasting approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start in Ketchikan?
Guests meet by the bronze statue and rain gauge next to the Visitor’s Bureau on berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, so plan accordingly.

What are the weight restrictions?
Guests weighing 250 lbs or more must pay an additional surcharge of $168. The tour is not suitable for guests over 300 lbs.

What landmarks will I see?
Highlights include Misty Fjords, New Eddystone Rock, Rudyard Bay, waterfalls, cliffs, and forests of hemlock and spruce.

Is there live narration?
Yes, the pilot provides live commentary during the flight, explaining landmarks and geography.

Can I see wildlife from the air?
Yes, the flight offers the chance to see wolves, bears, deer, and eagles, though sightings are not guaranteed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, offering a more intimate experience.

Is this tour available in the morning and afternoon?
Yes, the tour is typically available in both morning and afternoon slots, providing flexibility.

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