Sitka Whale Watching Tours

All of the tours are customized to accommodate cruise ship passengers



 

Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Excursion

 

Duration 2 Hours

Ages 3+ $175


Small Group Whale Watch

 

Sitka lies in a unique location, nestled between the Tongass temperate rain forest and the Alexander Archipelago. Our waters are home to an abundance of marine life such as sea lions, otters, seals and an array of birds; these waters are also stops for whales and orcas, which feed on a variety of sea life. Join us as we explore Alaska’s southeast waters aboard our 24-foot vessel with both closed cabin and a forward and aft viewing deck. This allows for a truly intimate experience as we explore coves, islands and search for an array of marine life.

Sitka, Alaska is a great place to whale watch and view other marine wildlife. The city lies in a unique location, nestled between the Tongass temperate rain forest and the Alexander Archipelago.

Our waters are home to an abundance of marine life such as sea lions, otters, seals and an array of birds; these waters are also stops for whales and orcas, which feed on a variety of sea life.

Join us as we explore Alaska’s southeast waters aboard our 30' foot sea worthy vessel with both an inside cabin and a forward and aft viewing deck. This allows for a truly intimate experience as we explore coves, islands and search for an array of marine life.

Capacity: Our boat is limited to 6 passengers, giving it a fun and personal experience.

​Vessel: 30' Hewescraft Aluminum boat

​Guide: US Coast Guard licensed Captain

Depart/Return Point: Our tour departs/returns from Cresent Harbor in downtown Sitka, which is directly adjacent to Harrigan Centenial Hall--this is the main depot for cruise line passengers.

Please read all the important details below

 

Cancellation Policy

Reservation Policy:

Cancellation fee of 50.% is charged if cancelled 14 day(s) or less before the event; Cancellation fee of 100.% is charged if cancelled 7 day(s) or less before the event.

If your ship is late to arrive we will do our best to reschedule your tour times to allow you to attend your tour or a full refund will be given; in this event call 1-908-267-9495 for your rescheduled times.

Guests will receive a full refund in the event of operator cancellation due to weather or any other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows and late shows will be charged the full price of their ticket.

Baranof Tours reserves the right to cancel a guest’s tour if it's felt that for any reason guest(s) cannot participate safely in our activity. Refunds for such cases will be determined on a case by case bases.

Please note: all guests including infants and children must have a paid ticket to participate in any of our tours

By reserving any of our tours, you agree to all the terms and conditions of our reservation policy.

Tour Photos




Five Star Trip Advisor Reviews

A5660TVnancyt Dayton, Ohio Wrote a review

Fantastic Trip - lots of wildlife spotting

This was an amazing trip. Our captain Tad warned us that the water was rough with 6' swells and that we might not see as much wildlife. That was not the case - we had a sea lion playing with our boat and "smiling" for our cameras. We saw whales and eagles, but my favorite was seeing 2 bears. We got pretty close to them from the water while they were on shore fishing for salmon. Tad loaned me his binoculars so I could get an even better look at them. This excursion was the highlight of our trip to Alaska.

 

Barbara S Plano, TX Wrote a review

 
We were lucky enough to stumble on this company when were in Sitka with nothing planned. Missy went out of her way to accommodate us at short notice. They have a new 6 person boat for 2023 and captain Tad was fantastic. We saw sea lions, sea otters, and humpback whales, Tad made sure we all got a great view of everything. Thank you.

 

 

 


 

Sitka Marine Adventure

Duration 2 Hours

Ages 3+$179


2 hours of Incredible Marine Life Exploration and Adventure!

Lots of amazing photo opportunities! From the comfort of your heated vessel you're sure to enjoy the majestic beauty of Sitka, and our amazing marine wildlife. A truly unbelievable view that only a few get the privilege to see each season.This could be your once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience Whales, Sea otters, Eagles, Sea lions in beautiful Sitka, Alaska, considered the Pearl of the Pacific.

Details:
Our captain only allows 6 guests per tour, making each trip as comfortable as possible!

Our 26' Glacier Bay Catamaran vessel is Coast Guard inspected and your safety is always our top concern.

Each tour is custom-made for the best viewing at the time of your arrival.

Learn all about Sitka, as you get up close and personal with the abundant wildlife and amazing scenery.

Requirements:
Bottled water is included
Children are welcome! Child pricing unavailable.
Recommended Dress: We recommend dressing in layers with the top layer being waterproof. Sensible walking shoes that may get wet are also suggested.
Restrictions
This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Due to seat sizes as well as guest safety and comfort, passengers weighing more than 250 pounds (113 kilograms or 18 stone) must purchase an additional seat to reserve adequate space in the boat.The Average seat is 18" wide.

 

Please read all the important details below

 

 

Cancellation Policy

 

Customers may cancel any tour up to 48 hours prior to the tour date and receive a full refund. If a customer cancels a tour less than 24 hours prior to the tour date, the customer shall not receive a refund. The passenger shall receive a full refund in the event that the cruise ship does not dock in port. If your ship is late to arrive we will automatically reschedule your tour times to allow you to attend your tour. If your ship is late call 1-907-738-1733 for rescheduled times. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.

 

 
 

Tour Photos




Five Star Trip Advisor Reviews

Scott J. Wrote a review

Really Fun!

This is the way you want to go out whale watching. The 26 foot boat carries only 6 passengers so you get a very personalized tour. There is an inside cabin so if you need to get cover from the weather you can and everyone will fit. Boat is fast and a ton of fun. Captain Frank grew up in Sitka and lives there and knows everything about the area so he made it very interesting. Unfortunately we didn't see any whales but nature is not always cooperative. However we had great time out on the water and the views were spectacular. I would definitely go out with this crew again and I highly recommend

 

 

Elizabeth H. Wrote a review

Small Tour Group is the way to Go!!
 
Sonny is an amazing Captain, but the service even before getting on the boat is top notch. Well run, well taken care of and treated.kindly. Once aboard the vessel I felt safe and in the care of a master Captain. The stories, humor and personable character of Sonny made this trip worth it. Oh yeah, we also saw humpbacks, sea lions, otters and eagles. As it turns out whales are very receptive to hearing the rustle of Rice Krispie treats and fruit snack wrappers. Everyone should embrace this small boat approach to seeing the Alaskan waterways.

 

 

 


 

Marine Wildlife Tour

 

Duration 2.5 Hours

  Up to 6 Passengers $200 Per Person

Children 3 and under are Free!

 


Discover The Amazing Beauty of Southeast Alaska

Experience the Breathtaking wonders that surround Sitka, Alaska with a true Sitkan. Have the chance to see humpback and Orca whales, sea otters, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, and even the occasional brown bear or puffin while cruising around the outer coast of Baranof Island!

More info
This 2.5-hour boat tour is a shared boat tour Outside deck seats and a comfortable heated cabin, with a private bathroom, healthy snacks and beverages included. Kid binoculars, activity books, and sensory toys provided. Ginger Chews and Sea bands provided for cases of seasickness. It is recommended that our passengers take dramamine an hour before their tour.

What to bring
Rain coat for outside viewing.
Not Suitable for passengers with back pain
Not Suitable for pregnant mothers

If you will be visiting Sitka via Cruise Ship, please let us know which Cruise line you will be on in the checkout.

Boat

Quiet Mon is a 30’ ft. Sea Sport Pilot, outfitted with a

Volvo Penta D4 turbo diesel engine that can operate at 22 knots, getting you to the wildlife in just a few minutes.

 

You are guided by our U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain. Your Captain is a local born and raised Sitkan. He has over 20 years of experience on the Sitka Sound and as a professional marine diesel technician.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery from a warm, heated and comfortable cabin which includes a settee, bench seating, and a private bathroom!

OUR BOAT OFFERS:

​A warm, heated and comfortable cabin

Large windows that fully open, getting you close to the action!

Plenty of interior seating for 6 passengers

Large deck space with Deck Seating for viewing wildlife and Whales

Ability to stand upright while inside the cabin (no crouching!)

PRIVATE BATHROOM (other boats don't have a bathroom or any alternative!) Great for kids!

Binoculars, field guides, and healthy snacks & beverage

ACCOMMODATING COLLAPSIBLE WHEELCHAIRS!

Please read all the important details below

 

Cancellation Policy

  • Deposits are non-refundable

  • Customer receives a full refund or gift card if Sitka Sound Tours cancels the tour

  • Times and rates are subject to change

  • Please Complete the payment link (if applicable)at least 2 weeks before your tour.
    Tours that have not been paid within the requested time frame will be cancelled

    Sightings of All Marine wildlife not Guaranteed.

Tour Photos




Five Star Trip Advisor Reviews

Mike O. Wrote a review

Amazing day with Rick!

What an amazing trip we had with Rick yesterday. if you are going to Sitka you need to do this tour. Rick only takes a max of 6 people on his boat and he knows where to find the action. We saw Humpback, Grey and killer whales along with seals and otters. Rick was wonderful and a great boat captain. Fantastic experience!

 

Taylor H.Wrote a review

Book with Rick!
 

Our tour guide, Rick, was absolutely amazing! He is a local who grew up on the waters of the sound. He knows what waters to avoid to keep you safe and knows exactly where to find wildlife. We saw sea lions, otters, a mama bear and her cub, bald eagles, and tons of whales. We really enjoyed talking with Rick. He is very respectful of the waters and the animals who inhabit those waters; you can tell how much he loves his hometown of Sitka. His boat is so unique and is a great way to see some stunning scenery, my husband and I would highly recommend him and his tour!

 

 

 

 


 

Sitka Whale & Wildlife Tour

Duration 2 Hours

2-Hour: $186 per person
3-hour tour: $259 per person
4-hour tour: $299 per person


THE ONLY SITKA TOUR WHERE YOU CAN SEE & LISTEN TO THE WHALES

Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Sitka Alaska’s marine life on an exhilarating whale watching excursion. As you sail across the North Pacific waters, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and witness the majestic humpback whales diving and emerging from the ocean. The playful sea otters and seals lounging on the kelp beds will make you smile, while the powerful orcas gliding through the water will leave you in awe. As you marvel at the vibrant plumage of the colorful marine birds soaring overhead, you’ll feel a sense of tranquility and peace.

If you’re looking for the perfect Alaska whale-watching cruise, Sitka Sound is the ideal location. Come aboard our comfortable catamaran and glide through the waters of the North Pacific to sight some of the diverse marine life that lives here.

Our expert naturalist guide will help you spot orcas, porpoises, humpback, minke, and gray whales. They will tell you about the different behaviors of each species and you will also have the opportunity to listen to these incredible creatures through our state-of-the-art amplified hydrophone system. We may be treated to the “boing” of the minke whales or the songs of the humpbacks.

You’ll also have the chance to see sea otters playing in the kelp forests, seals and sea lions relaxing in the coves and splashing around in the ocean, and colorful marine birds feeding on the abundant food sources.

Your guide will inform you about the beautiful landscapes, the rugged volcanic cliffs, and the history of the area. This complete Alaska wildlife tour is sure to leave you feeling in awe of the natural world!

Highlights
Hear the songs and calls of the whales on our state-of-the-art amplified hydrophone system.

Have the chance to spot orcas, porpoises, humpback, minke, and gray whales and brown bears.

Observe seals, sea lions, sea otters, and colorful marine birds.

Explore the spectacular landscapes of Sitka Sound.

Enjoy commentary from a certified naturalist guide and witness fascinating wildlife behaviors.

Learn about each creature you see and gain insights into local history.

Group size
Maximum 6 people

 

Please read all the important details below

 

 

What to Bring

 

Camera or cell phone with well-charged batteries – we have a limited number of USB outlets.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe, rubber-sole, flat shoes. Boat (or non-marking) shoes are not necessary.
To reduce the number of items in the waste stream (the life cycle of garbage), personal water bottles are recommended.
Rain gear – as Sitka is surrounded by temperate rainforest you always need to come prepared.
Temperatures on the water are cooler so dress in layers.

 

 
 

Tour Photos




Five Star Trip Advisor Reviews

r0bert870 Wigan, UK Wrote a review

Wildlife viewing at its very best!

Simply superb! Neil is an amazing captain, friendly, personable, extremely knowledgeable about Alaska, wildlife and the environment. The catamaran is an ideal boat for wildlife viewing and photgraphy as it is stable and manoeuvrable. Neil is adept at putting the boat in the best place for wildlife encounters whilst obeying all the rules when near whales and other wildlife. We have had the experience of a lifetime, humpbacks bubblenetting, literally in front of the boat! Witnessing orcas chase and kill a porpoise, getting superb views of a raft of over 200 sea otters.

 

 

Jennifer H. Wrote a review

Alaska whale watching boat excursion
 
Sonny is an amazing Captain, but the service even before getting on the boat is top notch. Well run, well taken care of and treated.kindly. Once aboard the vessel I felt safe and in the care of a master Captain. The stories, humor and personable character of Sonny made this trip worth it. Oh yeah, we also saw humpbacks, sea lions, otters and eagles. As it turns out whales are very receptive to hearing the rustle of Rice Krispie treats and fruit snack wrappers. Everyone should embrace this small boat approach to seeing the Alaskan waterways.
 
 

 

 

 

Meeting Place

Unless you’ve made special arrangements for a different meeting location, we kindly ask all passengers to gather at Harrigan Centennial Hall, conveniently situated at 330 Harbor Drive. Look out for our distinctive blue sign in front of the building it’s a beacon guiding you to the beginning of your tour. Once you arrive, be sure to check in with one of our friendly team members, easily recognizable in their bright yellow jackets. From there, your journey continues down the gangway, where you’ll find our vessel waiting in the harbor, just next to the hall.

Important Note for Cruise Ship Passengers: If you’re arriving via cruise ship, we’ve got your transportation covered! You’ll be transported to Harrigan Centennial Hall either by a convenient shuttle bus or a comfortable liter, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure.

Include/Not Included

Included
Access to a state-of-the-art amplified hydrophone system to hear the whales’ calls and songs.
Detailed booklets for the wildlife we often see on this tour.
Access to Coast-Guard recommended marine binoculars for all guests while onboard.
Beverages and snacks including coffee, hot chocolate, tea, water.
Bathroom
Not included
Transportation to and from the meeting point.
City and Borough of Sitka sales tax.
Staff gratuities.
***Meals -Avoid Crowded Restaurants! – Sitka’s restaurants get swamped during cruise ship season often leaving no seats open for enjoying meals while in port

Our Solution – Expedition Cuisine Menu – When booking look for the Optional Meal Add-Ons to have freshly prepared breakfast items, Sandwiches and Salads safely waiting for you to come aboard.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations and Refunds – if you must cancel
a) All cancellation and refund requests must be made in writing and e-mailed to us
b) If you must cancel your Expedition or Water Taxi the following fees apply:
i) Fifteen days or more from the date of departure a full refund will be issued.
ii) Fourteen days or less from the date of departure no refunds will be issued.
Cancellations & Refunds – If A Whale’s Song Expeditions Must Cancel
a) Whale & Wildlife Watching, Bird Watching, Charter, Water Taxi, and 4-Hour Photo Expeditions
The expedition will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Due to safety concerns or unforeseen circumstances, the captain may choose times of the day when weather and ocean conditions are more favorable. In the rare event that we, A Whale’s Song Expeditions, must cancel an expedition, you will have the opportunity to:
i) Reschedule your expedition (subject to availability).
ii) Receive credit towards a future expedition.
iii) Receive a full refund.
b) Multi-Day Expeditions
The expedition will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Due to safety concerns or unforeseen circumstances, the captain may choose times of the day when weather and ocean conditions are more favorable. If any of the on-water parts of these expeditions does not occur, you will have the opportunity to:
i) reschedule the part of your expedition that was canceled (subject to availability).
ii) receive credit towards a future expedition for the part of the expedition that was canceled.
iii) receive a refund for the part of the expedition that was canceled.