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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Ketchikan…
    3. /Animal Encounters
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /Ketchikan Bear & Whale Watching Cruise
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    Ketchikan Bear & Whale Watching Cruise

    Search Tongass waterways for bears, whales, seals, and eagles

    4.9 stars• 162 reviews

    Duration

    Approximately 4 hours

    Ideal For

    Up to 4 people

    Includes

    Snacks, drinks

    Highlights

    Travel through the waterways around Tongass National Forest for a chance to spot Alaska wildlife. Routes may include Neets Bay, Traitors Cove, and the Cleveland Peninsula.

    • Explore wildlife hotspots along Ketchikan's remote shoreline
    • Scan the water and forest for bears, deer, whales, seals, sea lions, and eagles
    • Ride from your cruise ship or a convenient Ketchikan dock
    • Bring a lunch if you want more than the onboard refreshments
    • Dress in layers and bring waterproof outerwear for changing conditions

    What's Included

    • Snacks
    • Drinks

    Important details

    • Ward Cove dockside pickup or drop-off, when available, costs $100 each way and is not included in the listed price
    • Alcohol is allowed only for travelers of legal drinking age; unsafe intoxication and prescription-drug misuse are prohibited
    • Smoke tobacco only on the rear aft deck
    • Marijuana, bananas, and banana bread are not allowed onboard
    • Air-ride seats have an approximately 300 lb weight limit; other seating is available

    Product ID: PT5BA9

    FAQs

    Yes. Paying by Venmo adds a +1.9% transaction fee. Paying by credit or debit card adds a 3% fee, and manual card charges also add a +3% transaction fee. Cash can be used for the final payment only. Checks must be sent well in advance and are not accepted on the day of the trip.

    If your cruise docks at Ward Cove, you can take the free cruise shuttle into town to meet. If Ward Cove dockside pickup by vessel is available, it costs +$100 each way (pickup or drop-off).

    Dress for the weather and plan for changing conditions. Wear layers and bring waterproof gear, especially if rain is expected.

    Experience provided by Reel Alaska Fishing Charter

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Private Charter

    $2,850

    Base Price Includes Up To 1-4 Guests. Additional Guests Will Be Charged Extra

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    162 reviews•Google Maps
    141
    0
    0
    0
    7

    Scott, Colby, and Cody have built something special here with their fishing operation in Ketchikan. These captains consistently get praised for their professionalism, fishing knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm on the water. Guests catch a wide variety of fish including salmon, halibut, rockfish, and even sharks, with several reviews mentioning they limited out on multiple species. The boats are clean and well-maintained, equipment is top-notch, and the captains handle everything efficiently even when managing multiple lines for larger groups. What really stands out is how personable these guides are. Multiple reviewers describe it as "fishing with friends and family," and they clearly go the extra mile with early starts, long days, and flexible service tailored to each group. They're excellent at teaching guests about the fish and local waters, making the experience educational alongside the excitement. Cruise ship passengers especially appreciate the seamless pickup and drop-off coordination. As a bonus, many groups spotted whales, orcas, and even bears during their trips, though the focus remains squarely on putting clients on fish in all weather conditions.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    My husband and I fished with Scott On August 14, 2026. He promptly met us right outside our cruise ship. We wanted to target salmon, and we caught nine altogether. The weather could not have been more perfect, and Scott is very knowledgeable about the waters. He even tried to get us a halibut, but a half-day charter just wasn’t really enough to target them. We would definitely book with him again. His knowledge is priceless. We even got to see a little peek of a humpback whale on the way.

    Photo of Elese Stover

    Elese Stover

    August 16, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    My husband and I fished with Scott On August 14, 2026. He promptly met us right outside our cruise ship. We wanted to target salmon, and we caught nine altogether. The weather could not have been more perfect, and Scott is very knowledgeable about the waters. He even tried to get us a halibut, but a half-day charter just wasn’t really enough to target them. We would definitely book with him again. His knowledge is priceless. We even got to see a little peek of a humpback whale on the way.

    Photo of Elese Stover

    Elese Stover

    August 16, 2026

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