Travelers considering a cruise on the coastal waters of Alaska have two legendary options: Kenai Fjords National Park, departing from Seward, and Prince William Sound, departing from Whittier or Valdez. These experiences offer unforgettable encounters with the natural beauty of Alaska while delivering distinctly different experiences. Knowing what these differences are will help guide you in your choice between them.

The Kenai Fjords Reputation: A Marine Wildlife Paradise

Kenai Fjords National Park has a stellar reputation that it came by honestly. It’s a rugged coastline that has become one of the premier destinations for viewing marine wildlife. Humpback whales, orcas, gray whales, sea lions, sea otters, and endless seabirds flock to the nutrient-rich waters of Resurrection Bay and the Gulf of Alaska.

Many travellers to this park go specifically for the excellent whale-watching opportunities, and they are rarely disappointed by this choice. The whale-watching doesn’t happen in isolation, though; the towering cliffs and occasional glacier views make for dramatic coastal scenery that provides an excellent backdrop to the plentiful wildlife encounters.

Prince William Sound: Where Glaciers Take Center Stage

Rather than the abundant wildlife of Kenai Fjords, Prince William Sound offers an unparalleled glacier experience. Here, the frozen landscape isn’t an occasional backdrop, but rather the main attraction. The sound is home to over 150 glaciers, many of which calve directly into the sea. While the focus is on glaciers, these cruises still offer a chance to spot marine wildlife.

The views aren’t the only thing that sets these two destinations apart. The waters of western Prince William Sound are also notably calmer than the open water of Kenai Fjords. The surrounding mountains and islands shield the water, providing a smoother ride that’s perfect for those with seasickness or simply a desire for a more comfortable journey. The still waters of the sound will make it easier to focus on the spectacular scenery without distraction.

The same conditions that calm the waters make the experience here much more intimate as well. Rather than the vast expanse of the Gulf of Alaska, this cruise navigates through protected fjords. Here, visitors get close enough to glaciers to hear the thunderous crack of ice calving into the sea and feel the chill from the ancient ice.

Choose Your Own Alaska Adventure

The reality of these two destinations is that they both offer an unforgettable experience. The choice between them comes down to which lifelong memories you want to forge.

If you dream of seeing whales, sea lions, and diverse marine life aplenty, Kenai Fjords is your top choice. It is a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts for a reason and will undoubtedly provide you with incredible photos and memories.

If wildlife is on your list but you prefer stunning vistas and the raw power of nature, Prince William Sound is unbeatable. The ancient blue ice in the area creates an otherworldly experience that will transport you far away from your daily concerns and provide an experience that’s both serene and exhilarating at once.

The Practical Considerations

Of course, every decision must have a bit of practicality involved. In your choice between these two favored destinations, logistics plays a key role. Seward, where you’ll depart for Kenai Fjords cruises, is about 125 miles south of Anchorage. This represents a lengthy drive of approximately 3 hours. Whittier, the western gateway to Prince William Sound and from where our tours depart, is just 60 miles from Anchorage, cutting your travel time in half.

Experience the Glaciers with Phillips Cruises & Tours

If your heart races at the sight of massive ice formations or if you dream of witnessing the ancient forces that shaped our planet, there’s no better destination on Earth than Prince William Sound. We at Phillips Cruises & Tours invite you to discover why glacier lovers flock to Whittier to depart on a tour of the sound.

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