What to expect on a whale watching tour?

You may also have the opportunity to view whales from the shore, depending on the tour. A guide or naturalist will often be on board to provide information about the whales and their behavior. The duration of the tour can vary, but most whale watching tours last for a few hours.



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Here is a short list of things you may want to bring on your trip.
  1. Binoculars.
  2. Rubber soled shoes (avoid heels and leather or plastic soles)
  3. Picnic lunch.
  4. Warm clothes/blanket.
  5. Sunscreen and sunglasses.
  6. Camera/video recorder/phone.
  7. Book or playing cards (for the trip in or out)


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It is easy to get wet while whale-watching, especially if you're on a boat where ocean water often sprays up onto passengers.

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While most outfits guarantee a 90 percent chance of a spotting a whale, you might consider booking an extra trip if it's at the top of your bucket list. Some companies offer a complimentary outing if your trip ends sans sighting—check out the policy before booking.

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Calm Waters: Mornings often offer relatively calmer waters due to reduced wind activity. This can enhance your whale-watching experience by providing more stability and a smoother ride, allowing for better observation and photography opportunities.

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Although not required, a gratuity for your guide is a great way to show your appreciation for their outstanding service. Guiding is a hospitality industry comparable to that of a server at a restaurant. 10% – 20% gratuity is a good general rule, depending on how amazing your guide was.

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The best place for whale watching is always on the outer decks. To maximize your comfort while whale watching, we strongly recommend dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear. This is especially true for our Spring Wildlife Cruise, as spring temperatures in Alaska can be quite cold.

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Time: Approximately 2.5 – 3 hours. Usually a whale watching tour takes anywhere between 2.5 to 3 hours in order to navigate the ocean in search of different whale species.

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Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed. As the day progresses and the sun sets, whales become more active as they prepare to rest for the night.

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Spring Whale Watching (March, April, May): Our trained whale watching captains know the best ways to gently follow and observe these precious moments with the utmost safety and respect for the animals. Spring is the best time of year to look for FIN WHALES.

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