Whale Watching

In the spring, thousands of whales, including humpback whales and gray whales, travel from the warm waters of Hawaii or Mexico to spend the summer feeding in the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska. Other species like orcas make their home in Alaska waters year-round. There’s nothing quite like viewing these magnificent mammals spouting, fluking, and breaching in their natural habitat, against a stunning backdrop of Alaska mountains or coastline. 

The best way to view whales in Alaska is out on the water. A wide variety of whale watching cruises are available, primarily in the Southcentral and Inside Passage regions, though whales can be seen in Southwest and Arctic waters, as well. Whale watching cruises range from deluxe half-day or full-day tours on large, comfortable commercial boats to longer, customized trips on small charters. Tours typically begin in the spring, from March–May, and run through September or October, weather permitting. Whale watching is also excellent aboard multi-day cruises to Alaska and trips on the Alaska Marine Highway ferry.