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)

christinekX7504DB

May 2024

We had a rainy but lovely afternoon with Delaney and Eric this memorial day weekend. It was chilly and wet the day we visited Ketchikan, but that didn't stop Delaney and Eric from showing us around the beautiful landscape and wildlife of Ketchikan. They provided all the gears to keep us warm and dry in the rain and we were able to see the a few humpbacks (I screamed the first time I saw the tail), bunch of bald eagles (flying, resting, juvenile, adult, etc) and other birds, many harbor seals swimming as a group, sea stars, and many more wildlife! Delaney was not only knowledgeable (and full of love for her home in Ketchikan) but also engaged my 5 year old daughter the whole time. Highly recommend!

Response from Host

Oct 2024

Thanks again for taking the time to leave a review!

W747HYrichardg

May 2024

When I was looking for an excursion in Ketchikan, I came upon the name Out to Sea Expedition. One previous review caught my attention, as it referred to being the only person to use their services, which spoke volumes of the care that the ownership/staff have for their customers. Turned out to be so very true, Despite the rain, the wind, the cold, the adventure in the zodiac was great. Captain Eric, Naturalist Jenny (the water fowl queen) new when to venture for the best sightings. Eagles, whales, sea otters, various water fowl, 5 harbor seals (clowned for us), The knowledge that both Captain Eric and Jenny have is limitless, as is their passion for the seas, They along with Delany make sure the tourists are well taken care of with proper preparedness before the excursion and during. I highly recommend booking a special day with Out to Sea Expedition Company. When I return to Ketchikan, I will book a second excursion. (Thanks Delaney for the tip about NY Cafe. Owner speaks highly of you. Fish chowder-great) Thanks Richard, "the spotter".

Response from Host

May 2024

Thank you Richard! We are so glad you enjoyed your experience and appreciate you taking the time to leave a review. We will be sure to share the new nickname with Jenny :) Look forward to seeing you again in the future! PS Happy to hear the NY Cafe was a good recommendation, it is one of our favorite spots in Ketchikan!

maryannc762

May 2024

This was our first visit to Alaska, with a keen interest in whale watching. We scheduled our excursion with Out to Sea Expeditions while stationed in Ketchikan. The excursion emerged as the pinnacle of our journey. The proprietors themselves were our guides. They were exceptionally personable, ensuring our comfort throughout the trip. Their extensive knowledge of the locale was evident, providing us with abundant information about the surrounding area and islands. They prioritized our comfort and safety, adhering to the standard distances for observing whales. However, the whales seemed to have their own rules. I couldn’t have asked for a more enriching experience.

Response from Host

May 2024

Thank you for sharing your incredible photos, we certainly got lucky with the whale activity that day! We appreciate you taking the time to write a review. As a note for future guests: Out to Sea adheres to the Alaska Humpback Whale Approach Regulations and does not intentionally approach whales within 100 yards. It is also important to note that this guest is a talented wildlife photographer with professional camera equipment. While there are often great opportunities to photograph the nature & wildlife of the area on our tour, the quality of photos depend on the equipment you use, your skill level as a photographer, the weather conditions, the wildlife activity, and sometimes a little luck! :)