Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan
Ketchikan, United States

Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour

Outty Ranking 76 4.9 · 74 traveler reviews3.5 hoursFrom $259

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

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Age 12 and under

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From, per person$259
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Outty Ranking

76/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 74 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour worth booking?

Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour is a 3.5-hour experience in Ketchikan, United States, from $259 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 74 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
76 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (74)
Duration
3.5 hours
From
$259 per person

Explore the breathtaking waters of Ketchikan on this intimate whale watching tour. With a small group led by knowledgeable locals, enjoy personalized service as you search for humpback whales, orcas, seals, and more. Thi

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore the breathtaking waters of Ketchikan on this intimate whale watching tour. With a small group led by knowledgeable locals, enjoy personalized service as you search for humpback whales, orcas, seals, and more. This 3 to 3 and a half-hour adventure aboard a stable catamaran features heated indoor seating and panoramic views, ensuring comfort in any weather. Savor a complimentary locally sourced lunch of your choosing between five different options, while taking in the stunning Alaskan scenery. If no marine mammals are spotted, a $100 cash guarantee awaits you at the end of the tour. - Small-group tours led by local experts for an authentic experience - 3-3.5-hour duration on a high-speed vessel reaching prime wildlife hotspots - Complimentary lunch included - Marine mammal sighting guarantee with cash refund if no sightings occur - On time for cruise ship departure guarantee

    What's included

    Included

    • Private transportation
    • On-board WiFi
    • Lunch
    • On-board restrooms

    What you'll see and do

    1. Ketchikan

      We will depart and arrive to Berth 3 in downtown Ketchikan. From there we will go to the surrounding areas in search of whales and marine mammals and other wildlife. Expect to have numerous encounters with anything from humpbacks, orcas, seals, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, bears, deer, sea and river otters.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Ketchikan

    We're at City Float between berths 3-4, alongside the boardwalk between Arctic Bar & Julies. Look for our aluminum 'Island Cat' with logo & website—we're usually on the top deck. At low tide, check the harbor from the boardwalk. We'll call ~15 min before your tour with directions!

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    We're at City Float between berths 3-4, alongside the boardwalk between Arctic Bar & Julies. Look for our aluminum 'Island Cat' with logo & website—we're usually on the top deck. At low tide, check the harbor from the boardwalk. We'll call ~15 min before your tour with directions!

    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 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Whales and Lunch

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 2Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 3Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 4Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 5Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 6Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour in Ketchikan, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 70 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Photo opportunities

    2 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    70 verified traveler reviews for Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    68
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    1
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    carolinamlalalalala · August 2026

    Whales and Lunch Tour

    I booked the Whales and Lunch tour when I visited Ketchikan and it was the best tour out of all my travels in Alaska. My mother and I created such amazing memories that I took home to Maine with me. The tour was such a positive experience from the beginning to end. Captain Judah greeted my mother and I with a smile and told us to come aboard. The drive out to see whales was spectacular! We witnessed sea lions barking on the rocky shores, eagles fishing on the water, a historic lighthouse, and stellar seals sunbathing in the Ketchikan sunlight. It was an ABSOLUTELY breathtaking backdrop of Alaskan nature: majestic mountains, float planes landing all around us, and the boat life in the channel. The cherry on top was seeing WHALES! Captain Judah tried all the spots he usually sees whales. After not seeing whales in those spots, he did not give up! He was determined for us to see whales! He spotted a whale and immediately turned the boat around to see the whale. We saw a whale float and roll on the surface and gave us a performance of showing his tail! We hung around and watched the whale for a good while and saw the whale surface many times before heading back. Along with seeing wildlife and nature, Captain Judah was knowledgeable about whales and Alaskan wildlife. I came away from Whales and Lunch tour with a deep appreciation for Alaskan wildlife. I 100% recommend this tour for anyone visiting Ketchikan.

    via Tripadvisor

    217JohnW217 · August 2026

    Excellent office staff...and whales

    In addition to what others have said about seeing whales etc. the office was very professional and helpful. We were able to book for the next day, the directions for meeting the boat were clear, all was handled very well.

    via Tripadvisor

    sam_h · August 2026

    Bang on time and great...

    Bang on time and great knowledge from the trip leader. He showed us some great drone footage too. Saw a whale and lots of sea lions. Lovely food, coffee and snacks included as well!

    via Viator

    Thomas_P · August 2026

    great trip!

    i hear sometimes see a lot other times a little. we followed one feeding for a couple of miles. he made his ring of bubbles and came up many times in front of us. he also breached once. our trip was well worth it. you should give it a try. i think these folks know as much as any tour about finding the whales.

    via Viator

    Magicscot · August 2026

    Fantastic Whale Watch Experience

    Judah gave excellent value for money and a wonderful experience. Will take this tour again when I return next month.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for coming! We are excited to see you next month!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3.5 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
    26
    Verdict
    Strongly Recommended

    Why this scores 76

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)91
    Review evidence (18% weight)62
    Booking momentum (14% weight)55
    Value for money (12% weight)69
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)64
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ketchikan.

    How much does Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $259 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 Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 3.5 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 Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 74 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 Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour?

    +

    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 Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour?

    +

    Around 26 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?

    +

    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 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Whales and Lunch! Ketchikan's Premier Marine Mammal Viewing Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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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