Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise

Travelers considering a trip to Alaska often look for a blend of stunning scenery, wildlife, and memorable glaciers. This Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise promises just that—a chance to see a real Alaskan glacier up close while also visiting a wildlife center, all within a manageable five-hour window. But, like many guided tours, it’s not without some hiccups, especially when weather throws a wrench in plans.

What makes this experience appealing is its convenient location just 50 miles south of Anchorage, offering a straightforward escape into nature. The interactive guides, the chance to get within 300 feet of Portage Glacier, and the opportunity to see local wildlife are definite pluses. On the flip side, the tour’s mixed reviews highlight some potential frustrations, particularly around weather-related cancellations and value for the price. It’s ideal for those with flexible schedules who crave a snapshot of Alaska’s natural beauty.

Good To Know

• Close-up Glacier Viewing: Motor right up to Portage Glacier’s face for an awe-inspiring view.
• Wildlife Center Visit: Enjoy a one-hour walk at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, seeing animals up close.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides provide insights into the natural history of the area.
• Weather Impact: Tour cancellations due to weather can happen, sometimes last-minute.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 14 participants, ideal for personalized attention.
• Price and Duration: At $239 per person, the tour offers a compact, comprehensive experience for the value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This five-hour excursion kicks off with pickup from downtown Anchorage, making logistics simple. You’ll board a comfortable, small group van—limited to 14 people—which ensures a more intimate atmosphere and personalized guidance. The journey takes you to Portage Lake, where the highlight awaits: a glacier cruise that gets you within 300 feet of the towering Portage Glacier’s icy face.

The Glacier Cruise

The cruise itself is the core of this experience. Expect a relaxing motorized ride across Portage Lake, with the chance to hear the unmistakable “rumble” of calving ice. This natural occurrence, when large chunks of ice crash into the water, is both thrilling and awe-inspiring. The spectacular views of the glacier against the surrounding mountains provide perfect photo opportunities.

The guides are knowledgeable, sharing details about the glacier’s formation, its ongoing calving, and the area’s natural features. This added context helps make the experience more meaningful, especially if you’re interested in learning about Alaska’s icy giants.

Wildlife Center Visit

Following the glacier cruise, your tour includes a one-hour walk at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC). Spanning over 200 acres, the AWCC is a rescue sanctuary for injured, orphaned, and ill animals, unable to survive in the wild. Here, you might see bears, moose, elk, bison, and other native species.

Reviewers mention that timing is often coordinated so visitors can enjoy the bear feeding, which is described as a “jaw-dropping” highlight. The AWCC’s mission to rescue and provide refuge makes it a meaningful stop, especially for animal lovers.

Additional Highlights

Beyond the main attractions, the tour offers views of Turnagain Arm, which is celebrated as a must-see destination. The scenery along the route is typical of Alaska’s rugged beauty—mountains, forests, and waterways that seem to stretch forever.

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The Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Cost

Transport is provided from downtown Anchorage, with check-in at their new location on 3rd Ave, directly across from the Hilton Hotel. The small group size (up to 14 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and tailored commentary from guides, who are generally praised for their knowledge.

At $239 per person, the cost covers the entry to the Wildlife Center, the glacier cruise, transportation, and the guidance. However, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase something during your day. The tour lasts about five hours, a reasonable length for those who want a taste of Alaska without a full-day commitment.

Weather Considerations

Weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, and this tour is no exception. The reviews reveal some frustrations: Jennifer drove six hours from Fairbanks only to have her tour canceled due to “wind gusts of 13 MPH.” While that might seem light, cancellations can happen with little warning, which could impact your plans if you don’t have flexibility.

The Guide’s Role

A recurring theme among reviewers is the expertise of the guides. Their knowledge about the glacier, local wildlife, and natural history adds significant value, turning a boat ride into an educational outing. One reviewer specifically appreciated the guide’s efforts to explain the area’s natural features, making the experience more engaging.

The Downsides and Considerations

Despite its many appealing aspects, this tour has some drawbacks. The main issue for some travelers is the cancellation risk due to weather. Since the tour relies on calm conditions for the cruise, wind or other weather factors can lead to last-minute cancellations, sometimes wasting a significant part of your day, as one reviewer experienced.

Plus, at $239, some might feel the experience is slightly pricey, especially considering the possibility of cancellations and the fact that food and drinks are not included. If you’re on a tight budget or want a more flexible itinerary, this could be a concern.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who are eager to see Portage Glacier up close and don’t mind a small risk of cancellation. It works well for those interested in wildlife, as the AWCC offers the chance to see native animals in a rescue setting. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drive and the chance to learn from guides with a wealth of local knowledge.

If you prefer guaranteed weather and flexible scheduling, or if you’re seeking a more comprehensive or longer glacier experience, you might want to explore other options. However, for a focused, well-guided, and relatively short introduction to Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, this tour offers a solid snapshot.

The Sum Up

The Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Cruise provides a compact, scenic, and educational glimpse into Alaska’s icy landscapes and wildlife. With knowledgeable guides, a close-up view of a majestic glacier, and the chance to interact with rescued animals, it promises an engaging experience. That said, the potential for weather-related cancellations and the limited inclusions mean it’s best suited for flexible, curious travelers who value expert guidance and stunning scenery over a perfectly seamless day.

While the price might seem high for what’s included, the chance to stand within 300 feet of a glacier and observe animals in their sanctuary makes it a memorable option for those wanting a taste of Alaska’s natural wonders without committing to a full-day tour.

If you’re looking for a manageable, well-guided adventure that combines glacier views with wildlife encounters and don’t mind the possibility of last-minute cancellations, this could be a great choice. Just remember to stay flexible, dress warmly, and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from downtown Anchorage are part of the tour.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately five hours, making it a short but sweet experience.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $239, which covers entry to the Wildlife Center, the glacier cruise, transportation, and guides.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase at the Wildlife Center.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, offering a more personal experience.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, weather conditions can lead to cancellations, sometimes at the last minute.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers, as weather in Alaska can change rapidly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the small group size and wildlife focus make it generally suitable for families with older children.

How accessible is the Wildlife Center?
The wildlife center is part of the tour and generally accessible, but travelers with specific mobility needs should inquire directly.

In summary, this tour offers a taste of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife, guided by experts in a small-group setting. While weather can be unpredictable and prices may add up, the close-up glacier view and wildlife encounters make it a memorable, if sometimes unpredictable, adventure for those eager to experience the rugged beauty of Alaska.

You can check if your dates are available here: