Whale

Watching

Whale watching in Alaska offers a unique chance to witness majestic whales and experience thriving marine wildlife.

ADVENTURES AT BOARDWALK

WHALE EXCURSIONS

Whale watching in Alaska offers a unique chance to connect with nature's beauty. Explore vibrant marine ecosystems and encounter magnificent creatures like humpback whales, orcas, and minke whales, as Alaska’s waters reveal a world teeming with wildlife and hidden wonders.

Prince of Whales

Prince of Wales Island offers an unparalleled connection to nature with its largely untouched and undeveloped landscape. Beyond a few small towns, the land is preserved for future generations, providing opportunities to observe wildlife like bears and birds in their natural habitats.

The island’s 990 miles of coastline also support diverse marine life, with bays, inlets, and hidden coves enhancing its rich ecosystems. While these secluded spots may be difficult for humans to access, marine animals have thrived here for centuries, making this part of Southeast Alaska a prime destination for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.

  • Humpback Whale: The star of whale watching, known for their large size, playful breaches, and melodic songs.
  • Gray Whale: Famous for their long migrations and curious approach to boats.
  • Orca (Killer Whale): Recognizable by their striking black and white coloring and social behavior.
  • Beluga Whale: The small, white whales known for their playful nature and distinctive facial expressions.
  • Minke Whale: The smallest and most elusive, often providing brief, yet rewarding sightings.
The prime whale watching season in Alaska spans from April through September. The months of June and July are particularly ideal for seeing humpback whales, while orca sightings are common throughout the season. Gray whales are often seen migrating between April and May, and rare sightings of minke and beluga whales occur during the summer months.
  • Prince of Wales Island: A hidden gem with fewer crowds, offering intimate whale watching experiences in secluded coves and rich marine environments.
  • Icy Strait and Glacier Bay: Known for abundant humpback, orca, and gray whale sightings.
  • Kenai Fjords and Southeast Alaska: Stunning locations that provide opportunities to see a diverse range of marine life, including sea lions, dolphins, and more.
  • Thermal base layers
  • A fleece or wool sweater
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants
  • Waterproof boots
  • Warm hats, gloves, and scarves Don’t forget sunglasses for glare and binoculars for better viewing.
  • A camera for capturing stunning wildlife and landscapes
  • Binoculars for a closer look
  • A waterproof bag for electronics
  • Sunscreen, as the Alaskan sun can be surprisingly strong
  • A guidebook or map of the area to enrich your experience
Whether you’re on a guided tour or kayaking in a secluded bay, Alaska offers spectacular encounters with marine life. While humpback whales are the main attraction, you might also see orcas, sea lions, dolphins, and more. Even if the whales are elusive, the breathtaking Alaskan scenery ensures your adventure is memorable.
Consider staying at Alaska’s Boardwalk Lodge, which offers customizable whale watching tours tailored to your interests. With expert guides and comfortable boats, the lodge provides a seamless and unforgettable whale watching experience.

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