Sitka Premier Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
We are excited to share that during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, whales were seen on 100% of our trips!
Skip the crowded boats and join Sitka Expeditions for a truly unforgettable whale watching and wildlife experience aboard our comfortable 13 passenger enclosed vessel. Enjoy a more personal and relaxed trip while staying warm and dry, with air ride seating and a private bathroom on board. Designed for both cruise ship guests and independent travelers, our tours are guided by knowledgeable locals who know exactly where to find the action. Witness whales breaching, bears feeding along the shoreline, and sea otters drifting in their natural habitat.
Whether it is your first time or a return visit, our trips are built to give you the best chance at incredible wildlife encounters without feeling rushed. Book your spot and experience the raw beauty of Sitka the way it is meant to be seen.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No land pickup available. We will meet you at 330 Harbor Drive (where the shuttle buses drop you off on the backside of the building.)
No stress guaranteed for return time to the ship.
This tour is weather dependent, if the captain deems the weather too bad you will be issued a full refund or a different tour
What To Expect
Our lifetime experienced guide will pick you up at a designated meeting place wherever your port is. From there, you will embark on an unbelievable journey in an unforgettable place. We will explore around Sitka looking for Humpback Whales, Orcas (killer whales), Sea Otters, Coastal Brown Bears, Bald Eagles and so many more other coastal animals.
What‘s Included
Designated pickup and drop off arrangements
Experienced and licensed USCG captains!
Onboard spacious bathroom
Water and Snacks
Spacious deck space to view and photograph wildlife from
Ground transportation
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Options
Premiere Whale Watching
Duration: 2 hours: 2 - 2.5 Hour Adventure Snacks and Water 31 foot heated/covered vessel
Reviews
134 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Count the cost
Rebecca T,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00So for what it was they did a great job and we all have to remember no one controls nature in any way. With that said the day we went was quite stormy and while it was an adventure and we did see a gray whale from pretty far back, the activity was sparse. I know again that they can’t control this but when it’s that choppy and sparse a discount would be appropriate. We paid almost $800 for 4 of us. With that in mind, I’m even talking $10 off per ticket. Just something to acknowledge that we for sure didn’t get to what was advertised. Having said that Jac is fantastic, brilliant, and on the ball and Frank took us through rough waters like a pro! Both were courteous and friendly and we enjoyed their company and expertise!
Great tour, affordable!
Kelly P,May 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Guide was very knowledgeable and nice! Gave us history tidbits and knew the spots to take us to see whales & eagles!
Phenomenal trip
Justin D,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Awesome trip, the boat is comfortable and had great views. The operator was very knowledgeable and knew where to look and what to look for. He is also accommodating, I don't do the best with boat rides but he checked in on me continuously. I would recommend this trip everytime.
Overall, great boat ride....
Sadie G,May 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Overall, great boat ride. We did the experience in the afternoon and saw a gray whale, otters and some sea lions. Highly recommend.
Knowledgeable guide
Amy C,May 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I knew when I booked the experience that whales cannot be guaranteed or any wildlife. But I feel like Jac and our boat captain did everything they could to make sure we saw as much as we could in the large waves that we had. We saw a gray whale, an eagle and a seal. Jac was very knowledgeable and I learned a lot on my trip.
Great Alaska Excursion
lisatC2254TN,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time on our Alaska excursion! Jac and Captain Frank knew exactly where to go and made the whole experience so enjoyable. They answered every question we had and helped us spot so much incredible wildlife along the way. Their knowledge, friendliness, and enthusiasm really made the trip special. Highly recommend this excursion to anyone visiting Alaska!
A great day, seeing tons of wildlife!
dcsfuture,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So many reasons to rate it five! First of all the boat was extremely comfortable. The seats were spring loaded with thick comfortable cushions so any bumps were easily absorbed. The captain was very skilled and the naturalist aboard was amazing! It was a surprise to have someone so knowledgeable on a small boat cruise. There were only 12 people.
★★★★★ An Unforgettable Day in Sitka!
Ruth H,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wow! What an incredible experience. Thank you to Jac and Frank for making this one of the highlights of our Alaska trip! From spotting a gray whale to watching adorable sea otters, every moment felt special. The wildlife was amazing, but what really made the day memorable was the experience you created for everyone on board. We especially loved the smaller group size. It felt personal, relaxed, and conversational rather than rushed. There was no feeling of being pushed from one stop to the next—just a shared mission of exploring Sitka and finding wildlife in its natural habitat. That made the entire tour feel authentic and enjoyable. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for Alaska. You helped create memories that we will be talking about for years to come. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Sitka! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Perfect!
Tosha K,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fun way to start our Alaska trip! They made sure we saw whales and lots of other animals. Friendly. Great communication. Prompt start time. Highly recommend!
Great Day
Warren T,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Boat was awesome, captain was awesome. Weather wasn't the best, but we were comfortable enough. Would do this tour again.
From US$199.00
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Operated by Sitka Expeditions