Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition

Overview

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.

City: Ketchikan

Mon 23 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $199.95

Make a reservation

Mon 23 Feb

Starting at $199.95

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Full Rain Gear, waterproof Overboots, and USCG approved Life Jackets

Dry bags for personal items

Coffee and/or Tea

A light snack is provided

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

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.

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.

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!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (133)

NCTexan2011

Aug 2024

This tour is a great way to see more of the small details and ask questions than might be possible on a bigger boat or tour. There were 6 guests, plus our pilot, Eric, and our naturalist, Jenny. We saw everything from brilliantly colored tidal pool sea stars, to jumping fish and feeding whales. We even ate some kelp and heard about Eric's experiment with kelp pickles. Eric and Jenny both brought an incredible wealth of knowledge and background to the experience. We heard about so much more history and interesting tidbits that wouldn't have been possible with a larger group. Out to Sea provided everything we needed, from dry gear to gloves, hats and shoe covers if needed. We were plenty warm! After the tour, there's a local watering hole right next door to grab a drink and overhear more local stories.

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you! We appreciate you taking the time to share about your experience! PS glad you made it next door for a different kind of Ketchikan experience :)

kellykC9900DF

Aug 2024

Eric and Delainey provided a thoughtful, exciting, and fascinating excursion for my husband and me during our port day in Ketchikan. They kitted us up in waterproof EVERYTHING for the trip on the zodiac, including waterproof bags for our belongings. We saw harbor seals, an otter, purple seastars, orange seastars, tons of bald eagles, marbeled murrelets, red-necked phalaropes, Kingfishers, sandpipers, and other birds. We added 6 birds to our life list that day! We learned several uses for bull kelp. Plus, they're just good people. Don't forget to ask about the 8th graders' "survival trips" story! Highly recommended!

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you so much for the review! We’re always excited if we can help add to someone’s life list :)

lsmorris1955

Jul 2024

Delaney and Eric made this a great experience for us! The Zodiac was wonderful way to see the Alaskan wildlife up close and personal. I would highly recommend this as a must do in Ketchikan.

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you! We are happy to hear you enjoyed the experience!