2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Your adventure begins as we cruise through the Tongass Narrows, where your guide provides live narration about Ketchikan’s rich history, culture, and bustling shoreline.
From there, we head into prime wildlife viewing areas where the wild side of Alaska comes alive. Keep watch for humpback whales surfacing and diving, bald eagles soaring overhead, harbor seals lounging along the rocks, and a wide variety of seabirds that thrive in the rich waters of Southeast Alaska.
Every trip is unique—no two tours are ever the same!
We operate two vessels: the Eagle One (22 passengers max) and the Eagle One Express (44 passengers max). The boat used for your tour is determined by group size and daily minimums to ensure the best experience for everyone.
Our tours regularly encounter marine life, and we’re proud to have about a 90% success rate for humpback whale sightings—a number we work hard to maintain! That said, wildlife is always on its own schedule, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
This is our official meeting point. Please plan to check in 30 minutes before your tour start time. If your cruise ship docks downtown (Berths 1–4), you’re in luck, we’re just a short walk away! Meeting Point: Berth 2 Visitors Center, 131 Front Street. From Berth 2, it’s about a 1-minute walk from your ship’s gangway. From Berths 1, 3, or 4, it’s an easy 5–12 minute walk, depending on your pace. If your ship docks at Ward Cove, you’ll need to take the free shuttle provided by your cruise line. Allow at least one hour before your tour to travel. The shuttle ride takes 20–30 minutes and will drop you off at Berth 4 downtown. From there, it’s an 8–12 minute walk to our meeting location at the Berth 2 Visitors Center. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for an unforgettable Ketchikan adventure!
Thomas Basin
Your journey begins in Thomas Basin, a lively harbor where working fishing boats and local skiffs share the water. Surrounded by historic boardwalks and the hum of Ketchikan’s waterfront, we cast off from this charming port and head into the open waterways to begin your Wildlife and Whale Quest.
Included in your trip are a variety of chips and pastries, coffee, tea, bottled water, flavored sparkling water.
We have Binoculars and blankets for you if needed.
Be sure to bring weather appropriate clothing! Layering is best.
823 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Wyz1981,May 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very friendly crew and very organized and professional. We were early in season, but captain was determined to find a whale and went out of the way to do so and we did see one 4 different times. The eagles were amazing, especially seeing 20 of them in nature and so close to us. Highly recommend
Deborah C,May 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
Despite having our contact details, and that another tour was happening that day, the tour was cancelled through lack of people signing up for the cruise. I can appreciate that we were the only people signed up for the trip but if we were given notice and time to make other arrangements our day would not have been ruined. I hope the tour operator takes notice of the review and give people the heads up, this would have been far fairer.
Dawn E,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Be ready to stand up and watch for whales carefully. The captain and crew will point them out, but, space is sometimes limited as to best views. Most people were kind about sharing the view. It is a little chillier upstairs especially when the boat is moving, so bring warm clothing. We had a beautiful sunny day and saw lots of whales, one very close that was playing and slapping their tail. We also saw eagles, nest, and a few seals.
Merry61,May 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We definitely recommend this excursion. We learned so much about the history, lifestyles, wildlife, and environment of Alaska. The best part was when the captain turned off the engine and we just existed in the overwhelming beauty, quietly watching for whales. It was the perfect day.

Amanda P,May 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Time on this family owned vessel is one of a kind! They know the area very well and communicate with other vessels to try to get you sightings of Alaskan wildlife. While the wildlife is never guaranteed (since they are not on the payroll) during our time with eagle one we got to follow a pod of 4 humpback whales, see eagles being fed from the ship, porpoises, seals, and sea lions. The crew is very kind and knowledgeable. The boat was a great ride and very comfortable. They provide hot chocolate and coffee to help keep you warm. Truly a one of a kind experience that you will be glad you joined. 10/10 recommend this excursion!
Bradley W,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was a phenomenal tour with a fantastic crew! Check in with simple and the crew was easy to find at the visitor center. After meeting on the dock, we had a short walk to the boat. The boat is clean, spacious and offers ample indoor and outdoor area. Unlike some of the mega sized whale watching boats this one is designed for approximately 30 to 35 people, and with that number of passengers, it still feels very spacious and never crowded. The crew was amazing. They made sure that all of the passengers were aware of what was happening around us, and that everyone had ample opportunity to view the wildlife. Because the upper deck allows for a limited number of people, they made sure that everyone had an opportunity to go up if they wanted to. The captain did a great job positioning the boat so that we were able to get some great photos and video. Highly recommend this tour!
patricia g,May 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
Captain Morgan and her mate were friendly and enthusiastic in our successful quest to find a whale. The boat was extremely clean and well kept. I contacted them the day before to clarify the return time, but never got a response, which was disappointing. However, shoreside, we were able to rebook to an earlier time, resolving our concern
Rich H,May 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Exceptional service with a knowledgeable and personable crew who knew where to go to maximize sightings. I knew from pre-reading that whale sightings could be scarce in early May, but we easily saw between 15-20 whales breaking the surface. In addition to the eagles soaring around in the air, we visited a nesting area and were able to see them up very close. Just an amazing experience! You want be disappointed!


KGail J,May 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was an extraordinary experience. Truly was a little skeptical about seeing any whales as it’s early in the season but…the captain found the whales and it was a show. The whales almost knew we were there to see them…super show by them. Way beyond expectations. Then there was the majestic eagle and the playful seals and sea lions. Crew was friendly and informative. Great excursion!!!
Brandie M,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
Awesome sunny day. Perfect length excursion. Saw a whale, porpoises and an eagle …. AMAZING day! Thank you!
Operated by Eagle One Enterprises, LLC