3 minute read
Whittier
harters tter c ourtesy Lazy o c Whitter
EXPERIENCE PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND
Surrounded by three magnificent glaciers, Whittier is an adventure lovers paradise. Each summer the 220 residents of this bustling community welcome thousands of visitors arriving by road, cruise ships and ferries.
In 1941 the U.S. Army built a railroad tunnel to transport fuel and other supplies from Whittier to Anchorage. On November 20, 1942, the “holing through” ceremonies were held and the first train passed through the tunnels on March 10, 1943. The Portage tunnel is 0.9 miles long and Whittier tunnel is 2.5 miles.
Change came in 2000, when for the first time ever residents were able to reach Whittier by road. The State of Alaska transformed the existing railroad tunnel into a one-lane, combination highway and railway tunnel. This created the longest combined rail and highway tunnel in North America. The toll for the Whittier tunnel is $13 for cars, motorcycles and RV’s less than 28 ft.
VIsITOr INfO
Whittier Chamber of Commerce Uncover the great adventures of Prince William Sound in Whittier. Hiking, kayaking, glacier cruising, wildlife watching, fishing, cabin cruising and sitting enjoying the awe inspiring views of Prince William Sound.
ACCOMMODATION
The Inn at Whittier is a full service hotel with 25 rooms and two townhouse suites. This beautifully designed hotel sits overlooking the Whittier Harbor. TV, free Wi-fi, fridge and microwave. 907-472-3200
THE GATEWAY TO PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND WHITTIER
ALASKA
WhittierAlaskaChamber.org
July 3 | Fireworks at midnight July 4 | Celebration FREE! Hiking, Glaciers, Fishing, Cruises, Kayaking, Museum, Shops, Dining
Whittier Parking and Camping offers secure parking in the center of town and a separate campground with 50 unserviced sites, some adjacent to Whittier Creek. No reservations. Open mid-May to October.
Lazy Otter Charters is family owned and operated since 1994 and will take you on a customized Prince William Sound adventure. Small boat glacier and wildlife cruises offering exclusive departures for 2 to 27 people, which includes a beach landing and shore walk. Also offering guided kayaking and water taxi services to remote areas of the Sound.
Visit their whimsical and charming café on the harbor serving espresso, baked goods, and soft serve ice cream. Try the world famous salmon spread. 907-694-6887 or 907-529-0235 Glacier Jetski Adventures is glacier viewing for the adventurous. An experienced guide takes guests on SEADOO watercraft through Blackstone Bay. Explore the waters, marine life and glaciers with the freedom of your own jetski. Drysuits & helmets are provided. Call for reservations. 907-830-4001 The Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train departs Anchorage at 10am and arrives in Whittier at 12:20pm, in time for a glacier & wildlife day cruise in Prince William Sound before returning to Anchorage the same day. Prince William Sound Museum is a tribute to the men and women who pioneered and served in the Territory of Alaska. There are 32 exhibits that explore Whittier’s history as a military port and a rail terminal. This small but fascinating museum is located in the historic Anchor Inn. Open daily, $5 donation for admission.
THINgs TO DO
Best of Prince William Sound from Whittier!
Custom Wildlife & GlaCier Cruises exClusive departures
Water Taxi • Guided Kayaking • Kayak Rental www.lazyotter.com info@lazyottercharters.com 907-694-6887 800-587-6887