• Out to Sea Expedition Company - Embark on your adventure by meeting the Captain and Naturalist at our welcoming space on historic Thomas Street in downtown Ketchikan. Here, you will be equipped with rain gear (bibs and jacket), overboots, a dry bag for your belongings, and a USCG-approved life jacket. Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Our location at 124 Thomas St is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Berths 1-3 and a 20-minute walk from Berth 4 and the Ward Cove shuttle drop-off. Transportation from the downtown cruise ship docks is available upon request with at least 48 hours’ notice. For guests arriving at Ward Cove, we provide ship-specific transportation instructions. All tours depart from and return to the nearby Thomas Basin Boat Harbor in downtown Ketchikan.

Once everyone is dressed in Alaskan style, the Captain will conduct a brief safety briefing before you board the Zodiac vessel and set out to sea!

• Tongass National Forest - As you leave behind the cruise ship crowds of downtown, you’ll discover the vibrant history of Ketchikan and begin your journey into the Tongass Narrows. Our trips are designed to be destination-free, allowing us to explore the waters surrounding the island based on tides, weather, and wildlife activity. While we often visit the waters south of Ketchikan, the absence of a fixed destination allows us to truly experience the wonders of Southeast Alaska.
• Inside Passage - During the 2.5-hour water adventure, you will have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife and stunning scenery from an open Zodiac, allowing you to experience Alaska with all your senses. As we cruise along the rocky shorelines, watch for Sitka Black-tailed Deer, River Otters, or Mink foraging on the beach while majestic Bald Eagles perch in the towering evergreens of the Tongass National Forest. At lower tides, we’ll explore the vibrant intertidal zone and encounter creatures like Sea Stars, Giant Green Anemones, Sea Urchins, and more! Continuing through the protected waters of the Inside Passage, we will search for marine mammals such as Harbor Seals, Steller Sea Lions, Porpoises, Humpback Whales, and Killer Whales (Orcas) that inhabit this area. In addition to marine mammals, we will look for various species of resident and migratory birds that thrive in the nutrient-rich waters of our region.
• Ketchikan - On our return to town, you will have the opportunity to view the bustling waterfront of Ketchikan and learn more about the history and culture of this unique island community.

Southeast Alaska boasts an incredibly diverse ecosystem. While specific wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed, we believe that with the expertise of our crew and the quiet, unobtrusive vessels we have chosen as exploration platforms, there is a good chance of witnessing something truly extraordinary.

Every trip is unique, and the ocean always has surprises in store. Let’s venture out to sea!

• Out to Sea Expedition Company - As year-round locals, we encourage you to ask the crew for recommendations on other activities, shops, restaurants, and more after your tour. We love our home and want to help you make the most of your visit to Ketchikan!

• Complimentary use of full rain gear and waterproof overboots
• USCG approved life jackets for safety
• Dry bags provided for personal item protection
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Assorted snacks included

Embark on a thrilling journey as you traverse through enigmatic aquatic avenues of the sea, filled with patches of islands, in search of diverse wildlife on a robust Zodiac exploration vessel. The knowledgeable captain along with the expert naturalist will use their extensive comprehension of the locale to unveil the mysteries of this dense ecosystem. Feel the wind from the ocean caress your face and savor the salty tang of sea air as you glide over the waves. Indulge in your curiosity as you steer through narrow waterways, aligned with jagged coastlines, lush green island forests, and obsidian-coloured sandy beaches. Morph into an investigator, a sailor, an adventurer.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.