Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 221 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition worth booking?
Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition is a 2.5-hour experience in Ketchikan, United States, from $210 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 221 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (221)
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- From
- $210 per person
Go on an adventure as you explore the deep mysterious waters of island studded sea passages in search of wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. Your experienced captain and expert naturalist will use their con
What you get
About this experience
Go on an adventure as you explore the deep mysterious waters of island studded sea passages in search of wildlife aboard a rugged Zodiac expedition craft. Your experienced captain and expert naturalist will use their considerable local knowledge of the area to unlock the secrets of this biologically rich ecosystem. You will feel the ocean breeze on your face and taste the salty sea air as you skim across the waves. You will indulge your curiosity as you navigate narrow channels, next to rocky coast lines, emerald forested islands, and black sandy beaches. You will become an explorer, a mariner, an adventurer.
What's included
Included
- Full Rain Gear, waterproof Overboots, and USCG approved Life Jackets
- Tea and coffee
- Dry bags for personal items
- Snacks
What you'll see and do
Begin your adventure by meeting your Captain & Naturalist at our hospitality space located on historic Thomas Street in downtown Ketchikan where you will be outfitted with rain gear (bibs & jacket), overboots, a dry bag for your belongings, and a USCG approved life jacket. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Our location at 124 Thomas St is about a 10-15 minute walk from Berths 1-3 and a 20 minute walk from Berth 4 and the Ward Cove shuttle drop off. For guests arriving at Ward Cove, we have ship specific instructions regarding transportation. All tours depart from and return to the nearby Thomas Basin Boat Harbor in downtown Ketchikan. Once everyone is outfitted in Alaskan fashion, your Captain will provide a short safety briefing before you climb aboard the Zodiac vessel and head out to sea!
1 minutes here
Tongass National Forest
As you escape the cruise ship crowds of downtown, you'll learn about the colorful history of Ketchikan and begin your journey into the Tongass Narrows. Our trips are destination free by design meaning we will explore the waters surrounding the island based on the tides, weather, and wildlife activity. While we frequent the waters south of Ketchikan, the lack of set destination gives us the freedom to truly experience the magic of Southeast Alaska.
Pass by without stopping
Inside Passage
During the 2.5 hours on the water, you will have the chance to view a variety of wildlife and breathtaking scenery all from an open Zodiac that allows you to experience Alaska with all of your senses. As we cruise along the rocky shorelines, keep an eye out for Sitka Black-tailed Deer, River Otter, or Mink as they forage on the beach while majestic Bald Eagles watch from the towering evergreens of the Tongass National Forest. At lower tides, we'll have the opportunity to take a look into the vibrant world of the intertidal zone and see creatures like Sea Stars, Giant Green Anemones, Sea Urchins, and much more! Continuing on through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, we will search for marine mammals like Harbor Seals, Steller Sea Lions, Porpoise, Humpback Whales, and Killer Whales (Orca) that call this area home. In addition to marine mammals, we will watch for multiple species of resident and migratory birds that enjoy the nutrient dense waters of our region.
140 minutes here
Ketchikan
On our return to town, you will have a chance to see the working waterfront of Ketchikan and learn more about the history and culture of this unique island community. Southeast Alaska has an incredibly diverse ecosystem. While we can't guarantee specific wildlife encounters, we believe that with the experience of our crew, and the quiet unobtrusive vessels we have selected as exploration platforms, there is a good chance of experiencing something truly magnificent. Every trip is a little different, and you never quite know what the ocean will provide. Let's go out to sea!
Pass by without stopping
We are year-round locals, so after your tour be sure to ask the crew for recommendations on other activities, shops, restaurants, etc. We love where we live, and we want to help you make the most of your visit to Ketchikan!
1 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Ketchikan
Our outfitting space is a 10-15 min walk from the cruise ship docks off of the waterfront promenade near Thomas Basin. Transportation from the downtown docks is available on request with 48 hrs notice. For guests arriving at Ward Cove, we have ship specific instructions sent via email after booking.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Our outfitting space is a 10-15 min walk from the cruise ship docks off of the waterfront promenade near Thomas Basin. Transportation from the downtown docks is available on request with 48 hrs notice. For guests arriving at Ward Cove, we have ship specific instructions sent via email after booking.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Out to Sea Expedition Company
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 217 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
217 verified traveler reviews for Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great experience
Couldn’t be nicer guides. Extremely knowledgeable “Science Mom” explained everything. Saw a whale, bald eagles, sea otters plus others I can’t remember. Beautiful scenery. Also, regarding the check-in place: very clean, clean well-stocked bathrooms, extremely organized gear. Highly recommend this excursion!
Response from the operator: Thank you for joining us!
via Viator
Great Whale & Eagle Watching experience !!
This is a great whale watching experience! It’s well organized. Clean rain coats, gloves, hats & wet gear is provided. Layer up before you go & the extra items they provide will keep you warm & dry! We saw several bald Eagles including a baby, many whales including “Bubbles” and some coming up from the water with their mouth open. That was such a nice surprise !! We also saw sea lions, starfish, sea urchins and occasionally the fish/salmon jumping in the water. Eric & Delaney are so friendly and knowledgeable. You will not only enjoy the scenery but learning about the whales, etc is interesting also!! Side note: though you are in an open Zodiac & sit on the edge you will NOT get wet from the ride ( that was my concern) it was a pleasant, safe ride that is 100% recommended!!
Response from the operator: We are so glad you enjoyed your nature & wildlife experience in Ketchikan! It was a beautiful day on the water
via Viator
Great eco tour!!
What an amazing trip! Like many of the other reviews have said, this tour is incredible. Yes, we saw wildlife: eagles, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, star fish, salmon, and yes, a whale! BUT this was so much more than the wildlife. The operators, run by Delaney and Eric were incredibly knowledgeable about literally everything on our tour. I'm not talking about 'let me look it up on my phone' knowledge. From the depth of the water in the area, to which trees are extremely rot resistant, to the temperament of Steller sea lions versus Harbor seals, why starfish are core species in this ecosystem, do eagles 'swim'... You get the idea. And just being on the water in the small (super safe), open air, Zodiac was an awesome experience. Even before the hot chocolate and snacks, this eco-tour is a definite recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you for joining us! We are so happy to hear you fully appreciated the magic of exploring via Zodiac. It really is our favorite way to experience the area and we love sharing it with our guests.
via Viator
Zodiac boat ride
Super fun. We saw Bubbles the humpback whale feeding. Naturalist on board was informative and a great teacher. The waterproof gear provided covered you from head to toe.
Response from the operator: Thanks for joining us! Bubbles has certainly become a local favorite :)
via Tripadvisor
A great adventure on the water
The crew is well-seasoned, pleasant, and very knowledgeable. They definitely get passengers prepared for the environment and experience . It was one of the best excursions we've ever participated in. The wildlife, the Zodiac, the naturalist, the boat captain, and the beautiful scenery were just perfect. I would absolutely recommend this excursion to folks who want to participate in a fun, educational adventure.
Response from the operator: We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review! Thank you for joining us :)
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 77
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ketchikan.
How much does Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition cost?
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Prices start at $210 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Ketchikan usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition take?
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Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Ketchikan is not rushed.
Is Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 221 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Ketchikan, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition?
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Around 77 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Ketchikan can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Ketchikan and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Ketchikan within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Ketchikan?
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Ketchikan runs short, cruise-timed excursions: Misty Fjords floatplane flights, Tongass rainforest zip lines, totem park tours, crab feasts and wildlife boats up the Behm Canal. On Outty we rank every Ketchikan experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour, Off the Beaten Path Ketchikan Photo Safari - 3 hr., Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Rainforest Canopy Ropes and Zipline Adventure Park. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Ketchikan?
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May to September, matching the Alaska cruise season. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Ketchikan?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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