Ketchikan Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion
Keep your camera within easy reach, because photo opportunities abound on this seafaring Ward Cove shore excursion, which features guaranteed eagles, multiple eagle nests, Totem Bight State Park, Vallenar Rocks Wildlife Viewing Area, and the historic Guard Island Lighthouse.
Meet your captain and Alaskan crew at their private dock just 5 minutes away from the Ward Cove Welcome Center and board your vessel. You're free to relax in the heated main cabin or enjoy the open-air observation deck, as you witness an abundance of eagles with binoculars provided to you. You will see multiple eagle nests and baby eagles in season. Harbor seals, pigeon guillemots and moon jellyfish are commonly spotted as well. Whales, deer, blue heron and a variety of sea birds are seen throughout the entire season. Along the way, you'll hear of the area's maritime history, the rich Tlingit, Haida & Tsimshian Alaska Native cultures, the timber and fishing industries, and local lifestyles.
You'll observe harvested and old-growth areas of the Tongass National Forest, and travel past historic Ward Cove Cannery. On clear days, you'll circumnavigate the Guard Island Lighthouse established in 1901. No other Ketchikan cruise excursion offers this itinerary, nor offers a view & sights of Totem Bight State Park from the water. You'll view the Totem Bight clan house totem poles, including Ketchikan's tallest totem pole. As you travel past the park, you'll see colorful cabins, mansions of the local rich and famous, and unique homes, many built on their own islands. Your deckhands are pleased to take your picture in front of the totem park, lighthouse or posing with your captain for a memorable photo in the wheelhouse.
Your captain will unravel historic mysteries of Alaska's most dangerous island, Danger Island, as you traverse the waters along the Sarah Palin-famed "Bridge to Nowhere" Island. You will circumnavigate or have clear viewing of a total of 12 islands on your tour route. Many of these islands are inhabited only by Alaska's wildlife.
Enjoy Alaska's most scrumptious artisanal hot chocolate, coffee, tea, water or your favorite soft drinks, along with salmon spread, crackers, alder-smoked salmon, and bull kelp pickles. These are all provided by a complimentary table service and will make for a delightful treat as you take in the breathtaking seascape and professional narration. Your Ketchikan excursion boat accommodates around 40 guests, complete with onboard restrooms and gifts for sale.