Passage Canal

Your journey will depart from Whittier, Alaska known as the western “Gateway to Prince William Sound”. Extending nearly 11 miles (18 km) long and approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) wide, the average depth of this narrow passage is 1,128 ft (344 m). Most of the peaks are snow covered late into summer and glaciers begin to come into view. The coastline is trimmed with dark spruce trees flanked by rocky cliffs that make perfect nesting areas for migratory birds. Sea otters, Dall’s porpoise, whales, and bald eagles are often spotted here.

Blackstone Bay

The scenery takes a dramatic turn from the thick forest along Passage Canal to towering mountains, revealing jaw-dropping beauty in Blackstone Bay. Follow the glistening spray of waterfalls from the saltwater sea up the steep rock walks to find alpine glaciers perched on the mountain peaks. Take in all 360′ of the grandeur from the largest waterfalls to the smallest migratory birds or harbor seals resting on bits of glacier ice.

Chugach National Forest

The Chugach National Forest encompasses nearly 3500 miles of shoreline where 3-5 thousand bald eagles soar and five species of salmon flourish. The dense spruce forest provides shelter for a variety of wildlife and migratory birds. Scan the crystal clear water for jellyfish and follow waterfalls from mountain peaks to the sea.

Wildlife in Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is a nutrient-rich environment for a variety of wildlife. The weather and wildlife are two variables that change daily. You can prepare for the weather by dressing in layers. Our captains and crew will keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. It is possible to see sea otters, Steller sea lions, bears, mountain goats or whales on our cruises. Birders will delight at the change to get an up close look at a kittiwake bird rookery inhabited by more than 10,000 birds nesting on the rocky cliffs in Passage Canal.

M/V Glacier Quest Vessel Details (PDF)

The M/V Glacier Quest is an 80-foot high-speed catamaran with large picture windows, comfortable upholstered booths with tables for up to 149 passengers on two heated decks. The third deck is an outside observation deck on the upper level of the boat. A saloon, snack bar, small selection of gifts, and an ADA-accessible restroom with a baby changing table add to the comfortable amenities on board.

Perfect for Families

Families with younger children often choose the 3.75-hour Glacier Quest Cruise to see the glaciers in a shorter time frame. Through our partnership with the Chugach National Forest service, the ranger on board brings activity books keep young cruisers and their parents actively engaged during the cruise. If they complete the book during the cruise, they can earn their Junior ranger badge which is presented at an informal ceremony near the end of the cruise.

Getting to Whittier

Choose LEARN MORE for details on the mode of travel you plan to use to get to Whittier. When you are ready to book, choose BOOK NOW, select your travel date and follow the prompts to add transportation or receive self-drive instructions on your confirmation.