Self-Drive Zodiac Adventure
Amazing Wildlife
Captain Your Own Zodiac
Breathtaking Scenic Views
Experience the Beauty of Alaska From Sea Level
This is an incredible opportunity to explore the protected waters of the Tongass Narrows in a small group setting, while you captain your own Zodiac. Nothing compares to experiencing the beauty of Alaska from sea level, where you may have the opportunity to get up-close and personal with some of nature’s most epic beings! Along the way, you will make stops at points of interest and your guide will share stories about the local culture, heritage, wildlife, and the incredible history of the Ketchikan Pulp Mill, once the world’s largest of its kind.
Highlights
Snap photographs of the beautiful scenic landscape and wildlife
Explore the protected waters of the Tongass Narrows
Get up close and personal with nature’s most epic beings with Ketchikan wildlife viewing!
Experience the thrill of captaining your own Zodiac
See Totem Bight State Historical Park from the water, a collection of totem poles erected along the shoreline
Hear stories about the local culture, heritage, wildlife and the history of the Ketchikan Pulp Mill
Click the Tabs to Learn More
Trip Details
Trip Details
Meeting point
- The Welcome Center at Ward Cove Dock
Availability
April through October, daily availability varies, please click here for more information
Duration
Approximately 2.5 hours from Ward Cove
Group size
Maximum 16 guests
Included
- Rain gear
- Rubber boots
- Life jacket
- Snacks – coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and cookies
What to bring
- Dress in layers
- Photo ID
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Debit/credit cards
Participation requirements
- Minimum age is 6 years old
- Guests should weigh between 30lbs and 350lbs
- Drivers must be at least 25 years old with a valid driver’s license
- The tour is not a good choice for guests with back or neck injuries or expectant mothers
About your guide
Your guide will lead you through the protected waterways
What You’ll See & Do
You’ll have 30 minutes to gear up with the guides and take in the all-important safety briefing where you will learn the dos and don’ts of captaining your own boat. Your gear includes raingear, rubber boots, and a life jacket. Once the safety and handling instructions have been given, you’ll depart directly next to your cruise ship in your four-passenger boat, be prepared to be wowed as we sail past your home away from home!
Your next 2 hours or so will be spent on the water in your Zodiac where your guide will help you navigate the protected waters of the Tongass Narrows and take you past private islands and scenic shorelines taking into account the day’s weather conditions and possible wildlife sightings. Be on the lookout for humpback whales, orcas, seals, and bald eagles in an unforgettably beautiful setting so make sure you have your camera ready at all times!
During the tour, you will make stops at points of interest and your guide will share stories about the local culture, heritage, wildlife, and the history of the Ketchikan Pulp Mill. See Totem Bight State Historical Park from the water, home to a collection of totem poles erected along the shoreline, which pays tribute to this Tlingit and Haida artform. Feel free to ask questions!
We finish your tour by heading back to the dock for the final 15 minutes, where a hot beverage and a snack awaits to warm you up before returning to your cruise ship!
