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

Thu 26 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $199.95

Make a reservation

Thu 26 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)

Brian_F

Jun 2024

If you’re looking for something a little different to the normal cruise ship shore excursion offering or perhaps you would like to try a bit more adventurous, this may be the perfect tour for you. Delaney and Eric, owners of Out To Sea Expeditions gave us the most delightful tour of the waters around Ketchikan. We were outfitted with rain gear which were well maintained and very clean. You could tell by the organization of the gear room and the shop how every detail is considered by the owners. For anyone worried about whether the gear will fit. They accommodated my 6’7” tall big guy husband without any problem and larger sizes yet were available. We were given a safety briefing, donned lifejackets, boarded the zodiac, and were off on our adventure. On our tour, we were lucky, experiencing no rain, just clouds. As we are bird watchers and so were they, our time was enhanced by getting several life birds that they eagerly scouted out the best locations to find. We were happy to see seals hauled out on the rocks, bald eagles on their nest, starfish and anemones up close, a couple of deer who had managed to swim out to a small island (later found out they had to be rescued and taken back to shore). We did see a couple of whale blows at a distance. The whole of the tour was so informative and both Delaney and Eric answered any questions we had and told us so many interesting facts and details. Warm drinks and water were also offered. A glimpse into the type of business these two wonderful folks are running came when we found out upon arrival that the 6 other people who had booked the tour had cancelled last minute. The decision could have been made to cancel our tour since it left only the two of us, but they said it wasn’t our fault and they wouldn’t never cancel even if only taking two people. A true class act. Give Out to Sea Expeditions a try! Wonderful guides, fun boating experience, lots of wildlife. It’s what you’re looking for!

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you so much for your thoughtful & detailed review, we really appreciate you taking the time to share about your experience!

KurtC

Jun 2024

It was fascinating learning about the starfish and seeing the humpback whale feeding near the shoreline was great.

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you!

Isabella_T

May 2024

We had a wonderful excursion with Delaney and Eric! The rainy weather didn't stop us from enjoying the breathtaking scenery and the pleasant company of our guides. Their passion and knowledge of the local species and where to find them were remarkable. We got to see many marine and coastal species including seals, porpoises and even a whale! Would 100% choose this tour again!

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thank you! We’re so glad you embraced the Ketchikan weather and enjoyed your time on the water :)