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Glacier Quest Cruise - Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK

Glacier Quest Cruise - Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK

Overview

Drive the Seward Highway along the scenic Turnagain Arm to Whittier. The Glacier Quest Cruise takes you from the quaint seaside town of Whittier to glacier-filled Blackstone Bay, a dramatic deep-water fjord where two tidewater glaciers and several alpine glaciers await. Keep an eye out for sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, mountain goats, whales, and more!

You will see several glaciers, including Tebenkof Glacier, named for Mikhail Demitrievich Tebenkof, an outstanding surveyor whose maps were the first charts of Alaska’s waters published in 1852. Northland Glacier rests majestically, clinging to the edge of the towering mountain. Blackstone and Beloit are tidewater glaciers that have carved a steep pathway to reach Prince William Sound’s saltwater. Cruise up close to these massive glaciers to watch for telltale signs of movement signaled by the distinct “pop” of glacier ice calving.

City: Whittier

Thu 24 Apr

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $205.54

Make a reservation

Thu 24 Apr

Starting at $205.54

Make a reservation

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What's Included

No Seasickness Guarantee - Our smooth cruising catamarans & the calm waters of Prince William Sound.

A Chugach National Forest Service ranger provides professional narration during the cruise.

Wild Alaska smoked salmon chowder, oyster crackers, Julienne vegetable salad, cheese stick, fruit snack, and a Peppermint Pattie. Request Vegetarian Chili or Kids’ Meal 48 hours prior

Smoke-free vessels - We do not allow any form of tobacco, marijuana, vape or e-cigarettes.

ADA Accessibility limited - Please call regarding your specific needs so we can assist you.

Restroom on board

Coffee, hot tea, and ice water are available.

Additional Info

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What To Expect

Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel

Add travel time from Anchorage to Whittier at 90 minutes each way. From Girdwood to Whittier, allow 45 minutes. We recommend taking the 11:30 AM tunnel entrance at the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to access Whittier in time for the Glacier Quest Cruise. The tunnel is open thirty minutes past the hour for access to Whittier. After your cruise, the tunnel opens on the hour to depart Whittier until 11:00 PM.

Prince William Sound

The Glacier Quest Cruise travels 45 miles into Blackstone Bay where seven glaciers and glistening waters provide a spectacular panoramic view from the mountain peaks above to the turquoise saltwater sea below. Please check-in one hour before cruise departure time.

Cancellation Policy

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews (44)

689constancem

Jul 2024

Everything about this day exceeded our expectations except the rainy weather...but even with that, it was well worth the money and the highlight of our trip to Alaska. I wasnt expecting much from the food but my son in law actually said the next day he was still thinking about the salmon chowder it was so good! Our boat was only a year old, perfect condition, great table for our group of 5. As FYI they do offer other foods and snacks for a cost which was a pleasant surprise. The narration during the cruise along with the brochure passed out really made the trip....the glaciers up close impressed all of us. I would recommend this shorter cruise as we still saw several glaciers and wildlife without taking more of the day. The tunnel experience into Whittier was also a fun experience.

Response from Host

Jul 2024

We love the Glacier Quest Cruise and are so happy you got to experience it on our new boat, the M/V Chugach Express. Thank you for your time, feedback, and letting Phillips Cruises & Tours be a part of your Alaska adventure!

Ramneek_S

Jul 2024

Service, food and glacier viewing . everything was perfect and above expectations.everyone loved and enjoyed

beachteach927

Jul 2024

It poured the entire drive to Whittier, making me nervous about a day on the water, but I am so glad we decided to take the trip anyway. While the day was overcast, drizzly and chilly, the cruise and CREW were amazing! We were seated with another small group and had terrific views both from our table as well as around the ship, both inside and out. Our captain pointed out wildlife and the park ranger gave terrific (and unobtrusive) information about the glaciers and the wildlife spotted by passengers and the wildlife we didn’t encounter as well. Our lunch was surprisingly good and the friendly staff worked to make sure everyone had what they needed in a timely manner. I cannot wait to go again!

Response from Host

Jul 2024

When it comes to weather, we always tell our guests to hope for the best but pack and prepare for the worst. We will be sure to pass on your comments to our Crew as they strive to make our guests comfortable and entertained on every cruise. Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback and for letting us be your guide in Prince William Sound.