Frequently Asked Questions

Most guests book through their cruise line. For each tour, you'll find the cruise-line booking links on the tour page.

In most cases, no — reserving shore excursions through your cruise line is the fastest way to confirm your tour. If you're trying to book outside of your cruise line, availability is typically only confirmed within 24 hours of the date you want to go. Call the office the evening before to check for open space.

Independent booking is limited and space-available. Currently, the only tour available for independent booking is Whales and Wilderness Exploration, and it may be bookable earlier via FareHarbor or TripAdvisor.

Yes — any tour can be made into a private experience pending availability. You can request a private tour via the tour inquiry page, or call the office and speak with a manager.

Tours generally include transportation, a professional guide and experienced captain (where applicable), a snack and water, rain ponchos, and walking sticks. Life jackets, binoculars, maps, and other resource materials are available onboard. Gluten-free snacks are available upon request.

Dress comfortably in layers and wear shoes suitable for walking in the elements. Prepare for sun or rain. Bring a camera, extra memory cards and batteries, and consider bringing a reusable water bottle.

Yes. From May 15 through September 15, if a humpback whale is not sighted during your trip, each paying guest will receive $100 cash back on the dock.

You'll be with your guide through every activity and transition throughout the experience — not handed off between separate teams during the day.

Tour durations vary by experience. Examples: Whales, Glaciers & Rainforest Trails (5 hours door-to-door), Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari (5 hours door-to-door), Discover Alaska's Whales (3.75 hours door-to-door), Guide's Choice Trail Hike (4.5 hours door-to-door).

Yes — vessels have a restroom onboard, plus a heated and covered cabin with large windows that hinge open for wildlife viewing.

Yes. Most tours accommodate a maximum of 20 guests. The Photo Safari is limited to 14 guests, and the Guide's Choice Trail Hike has 12 guests or fewer per guide.

It depends on the tour. Some tours have no age limit, with the note that guests must independently navigate the risks and challenges involved. The Photo Safari is not recommended for children under 5.

Cancellations made one week prior to the tour date are subject to a 20% cancellation fee. Cancellations within 48 hours are subject to a 50% cancellation penalty fee. Exceptions may be made for medical emergencies and extenuating circumstances caused by cruise lines.

Yes — we guarantee you'll return to your ship on time, or we'll cover transportation to the next port of call.

Several tours include stairs and variable ramp conditions. Boarding vehicles requires navigating three steps independently, and entering the vessel involves two large steps. The harbor ramp changes steepness with the tide and can be quite steep at low tide. Wheelchairs and strollers are not recommended for some tours. Guests who may need additional assistance are encouraged to contact us at least 48 hours prior to discuss options and safety considerations.

It depends on the tour. Some glacier walks are about 1 mile in roughly 1 hour on an improved gravel path, with some steps and uneven ground. The Guide's Choice Trail Hike is strenuous: hiking at an adult pace for up to 3.5 hours, covering 4–6 miles with 600–800 ft of elevation gain.

Plan for changing conditions: dress in layers and expect both sun and rain.

Bring sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with good traction for wet surfaces and uneven ground.

Bring a waterproof rain jacket or shell, warm mid-layer, hat, and gloves — even in summer.

Bring a camera or phone, extra battery, and plenty of storage. A small dry bag or waterproof case is recommended.

Tours typically include rain ponchos and walking sticks as needed, plus a snack and water. Gluten-free snacks are available upon request.