What to Expect on Your 4-Day Kenai Fjords Boat Excursion

Embark on an unforgettable journey deep into the rugged, wild, and awe-inspiring coastline of Kenai Fjords National Park. Over 4 days, you’ll experience towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and remote solitude—accessible only by water.

🌄 Day-by-Day Overview

Day 1: Departure from Seward + Resurrection Bay to Aialik Bay

• Morning departure from Seward’s small boat harbor

• Cruise through Resurrection Bay, watching for sea otters, puffins, and bald eagles

• Stop Over in The Aw Inspiring Spire Cove

• Enter Aialik Bay, a glacier-carved fjord surrounded by mountains

• Afternoon arrival at Aialik Glacier—watch for thunderous glacier calving

• Evening anchorage in a protected cove, dinner on board, and optional Paddle Boarding

Day 2: Holgate Arm Exploration

• Cruise deeper into Aialik Bay and explore the Holgate Arm

• Approach the Holgate Glacier, another active tidewater glacier

• Enjoy Paddle boarding, beach walks, or just relax with the views

• Possible whale sightings (humpbacks, orcas) and bird rookeries

• Overnight anchorage in a remote cove

Day 3: Into the Remote Northwestern Fjord

• Early cruise toward Harris Bay, entering Northwestern Fjord

• Visit Northwestern Glacier, and potentially see Anchor & Ogive Glaciers

• Fewer boats = more solitude. Incredible photographic opportunities

• Optional paddle or skiff excursion to view wildlife close-up

• Evening stargazing or (late season) possible Northern Lights viewing

Day 4: Return to Seward via Outer Coast

• Leisurely breakfast and final wildlife sightings

• Return voyage via coastal cliffs, sea lion haul-outs, and rocky outcroppings

• Arrive back in Seward Harbor by mid-afternoon

• Farewell group photo, gear pack-up, and local tips for your next adventure

🐋 Wildlife You May See

• Whales: Humpbacks, orcas (transient & resident pods)

• Seals & Sea Lions: Harbor seals, Steller sea lions

• Birdlife: Puffins, kittiwakes, eagles, murres, guillemots

• Otters: Often floating in kelp or near shorelines

• Mountain Goats: Occasionally visible on steep fjord walls

• Bears: Onshore (usually from a safe distance)

❄️ Glaciers You’ll Visit

• Aialik Glacier – Massive, iconic, frequently calves

• Holgate Glacier – Accessible via Holgate Arm, active tidewater glacier

• Northwestern Glacier – Remote, dramatic setting, less-visited

🛏️ Onboard Accommodations & Amenities

• Cozy sleeping quarters for each guest (shared or private options)

• Hot showers and flushing marine toilets

• Indoor lounge area and heated cabin space

• All meals provided – locally sourced seafood, hot drinks, and snacks

• Paddle Board or inflatable skiff for shoreline exploration

🧳 What to Bring

• Waterproof outerwear (jacket & pants)

• Warm layers (fleece, wool, thermal underwear)

• Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Camera or binoculars (dry bag recommended)

• Seasickness remedies if needed

• Personal toiletries and medications

• A good book or journal for quiet fjord moments

✅ What’s Included

• 4 days, 3 nights aboard a small expedition-style vessel

• All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages

• Naturalist or captain-led interpretation

• Use of Paddle Boards and/or Skiff

• Fishing gear

🚫 What’s Not Included

• Alcoholic beverages

• Travel insurance

• Transportation to/from Seward

• Gratuities for crew

🎯 Trip Style

• Small group (max 6 guests)

• Focused on wildlife viewing, glaciers, Paddle Boarding, and unplugging

• A mix of adventure and relaxation, suited to most fitness levels