Anchorage Glacier & Fjord Tours

View all Anchorage tours & prices

Compare tours, activities, and book with instant confirmation

Compare top-rated glacier & fjord tours in Anchorage. Small-group and guided options with local experts — see prices and availability below.

Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, serves as a prime gateway to some of the most dramatic natural landscapes in the Last Frontier. For those drawn to the raw power of glacial ice and the serene grandeur of coastal fjords, a plethora of excursions depart from this vibrant hub. These tours offer unparalleled opportunities to witness towering tidewater glaciers calving into turquoise waters, navigate through ancient ice fields, and explore the rugged, wildlife-rich coastlines that define Southcentral Alaska. From the breathtaking Prince William Sound to the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park, the options for experiencing Alaska's icy wonders are diverse and captivating. Whether you prefer a scenic boat cruise, an adventurous flightseeing tour, or a more hands-on exploration, these excursions are meticulously designed to showcase the sheer scale and beauty of Alaska's frozen landscapes. Prepare to be mesmerized by the vibrant blues of ancient ice, the calls of seabirds, and perhaps even the sight of whales and sea lions in their natural habitat. These expeditions are not just tours; they are immersive encounters with a wild and powerful environment. The accessibility from Anchorage makes these glacier and fjord excursions a must-do for any visitor. You can easily embark on a journey that takes you far from the city's urban pulse and deep into the heart of Alaska's wilderness. Many tours are conveniently located within a few hours' drive or a short flight, allowing for seamless integration into any Alaska itinerary. Whether you're seeking photographic opportunities of a lifetime or simply want to soak in the profound silence of an untouched landscape, these excursions deliver an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

Glacier & Fjord Tours

Glacier & Fjord Tours in Anchorage

Compare top-rated glacier & fjord tours in Anchorage — guided experiences, local experts, and small-group options. See prices, durations, and availability.

Duration
Weather
Group Size
What's Included
Meeting Point

Looking to book? View all available glacier & fjord tours in Anchorage with live pricing and instant confirmation.

or browse all Anchorage tours

Why Choose Glacier & Fjord Tours in Anchorage?

Unrivaled Scenery

Witness massive glaciers, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife in their natural Alaskan habitat.

Diverse Exploration

Choose from various modes of transport, including boat cruises, kayaking, and flightseeing for different perspectives.

Photographic Opportunities

Capture breathtaking images of ice formations, marine life, and rugged coastal landscapes.

Abundant Wildlife Viewing

Spot whales, sea otters, puffins, seals, and potentially bears along the coastlines.

Gateway to Alaska's Wilderness

Easily accessible from Anchorage, these tours are the perfect starting point for exploring Alaska's natural wonders.

Flexible Budget Options

Tours range in price and duration, catering to various budgets and time constraints.

Types of Glacier & Fjord Tours in Anchorage

Glacier & Fjord Boat Cruises

These are the most popular excursions, taking visitors deep into areas like Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords National Park. Larger vessels offer comfortable amenities, while smaller boats provide a more intimate experience, often getting closer to glaciers and wildlife.

Full-day and half-day optionsWildlife spotting opportunitiesOnboard narration about geology and wildlifeOften include meals or snacksVarious departure points like Whittier or Seward

Flightseeing Tours

For a truly bird's-eye view, flightseeing tours offer an incredible perspective of the vast ice fields, glaciers, and fjords. Some tours may include a glacier landing for a truly unique experience, allowing you to walk on ancient ice.

Spectacular aerial views of glaciers and fjordsPotential for glacier landingsGreat for covering vast distances quicklyCan depart from Anchorage or nearby townsVarious aircraft types available

Kayaking Adventures

For the adventurous, guided kayaking tours allow for a more hands-on and immersive experience. Paddle through calm fjord waters, get close to icebergs, and enjoy the tranquility of remote Alaskan bays.

Up-close encounters with glaciers and icebergsOpportunities for wildlife observationEnvironmentally friendly explorationRequires moderate physical fitnessTypically smaller group sizes

What to Expect on Glacier & Fjord Excursions Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 4 hours for half-day trips to 8-10 hours for full-day expeditions, especially those to Kenai Fjords.

Weather

Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Expect cool temperatures, wind, and potential rain or fog, even in summer. Layering is essential.

Group Size

Boat cruises can range from small, intimate vessels with fewer than 20 passengers to larger ships carrying over 100. Kayak tours are typically limited to 6-10 people.

What's Included

Most boat tours include narration, safety equipment, and sometimes light snacks or lunch. Flightseeing may include a landing fee. Kayak tours provide equipment and guides.

Meeting Point

Tours often depart from ports like Whittier, Seward, or Homer, which are 1-3 hour drives from Anchorage. Some tours offer transportation from Anchorage hotels. Flightseeing tours usually depart from local Anchorage airfields.

Additional Costs

While tours are booked, consider potential extra costs for onboard meals beyond what's included, gratuities for guides and crew, and souvenirs.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially during peak summer months (June-August), as popular glacier and fjord tours sell out quickly.

2

Dress in layers! Even on a sunny day, it can be chilly on the water. Waterproof outer layers are highly recommended.

3

Bring binoculars. They will significantly enhance your wildlife viewing experience, allowing you to spot distant whales, puffins, and other animals.

4

Consider a tour departing from Whittier or Seward. These ports offer direct access to Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords respectively, minimizing driving time from Anchorage.

5

If you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions. Anti-nausea medication is advisable for boat tours, especially in rougher seas.

6

Don't forget your camera and plenty of memory! The scenery is spectacular and constantly changing.

7

Check the specific departure times and locations carefully. Some tours include bus transport from Anchorage, while others require you to arrange your own travel.

8

Be aware of the calving of glaciers. While exciting, it's important to maintain a safe distance as advised by your tour guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What's the best time of year for glacier and fjord tours from Anchorage?

A: The primary season for glacier and fjord tours runs from May through September. June, July, and August offer the warmest weather and the most daylight hours, but also the largest crowds. May and September can offer fewer crowds and beautiful shoulder-season scenery.

Q:Are these tours suitable for children?

A: Many boat tours are suitable for children, offering educational commentary and the excitement of wildlife spotting. Kayaking tours require a certain level of physical capability and are generally better suited for older children or teens. Flightseeing is also an option for families, though young children might not appreciate the duration as much.

Q:What wildlife can I expect to see?

A: You have a good chance of spotting various marine mammals like humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and harbor seals. Seabirds such as puffins, kittiwakes, and gulls are also common. Onshore, you might glimpse bears, mountain goats, or moose depending on the specific location.

Q:Do I need to tip the tour guides or crew?

A: Tipping is customary for good service on tours, similar to other hospitality industries. For boat cruises, it's common to tip the captain and crew. For flightseeing and kayaking tours, tipping your pilot or guide is also appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Q:How far is Seward or Whittier from Anchorage?

A: Seward is about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive south of Anchorage, a scenic journey along the Turnagain Arm. Whittier is slightly closer, about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, accessible via a unique tunnel that accommodates both cars and trains.

Q:Can I see the Northern Lights on these tours?

A: No, glacier and fjord tours operate during daylight hours when the scenery is visible. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are typically seen during darker months (late August through April) and require clear skies and solar activity. These tours are daytime excursions.

Q:What should I bring on a glacier tour?

A: Definitely bring layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket and pants, a warm hat, and gloves. Sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera with extra batteries, binoculars, and perhaps a reusable water bottle are also good ideas.

Glacier & Fjord Tours

Don't miss the perfect glacier & fjord tours experience in Anchorage

Instant confirmation & best price guarantee when you book through TopTours.ai.

Related Travel Guides for Anchorage

Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.

Anchorage Airport Transfers

Arrive in Anchorage with ease by comparing a range of airport transfer options from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). Travelers can find and book various transfer types, including shared shuttles and private cars, to suit their travel needs and budget. Secure your transportation in advance for a smooth journey.

Read Guide