OCEAN ADVENTURES

Ocean Tours

Orca and humpback whales, otters, sea lions, and birds are among the many animals that make their home in Prince William Sound. During the spring and summer, day-long cruises will take you to some of the best vantage points for viewing mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Don’t have a full day? Helicopter tours can cover the same area in less time and even land you on top of a glacier!

Kayak Tours

Those looking for more adventure can spend a day kayaking glacial waters. Glaciers, wildlife, ice caves, and waterfalls can be viewed up close by kayak. It is even possible to take a kayak out fishing if you’ve got the right setup.

Kayak companies in Valdez operate guided tours or rent out equipment and safety gear. Independent kayakers can paddle in scenic lakes around Valdez and Thompson Pass. A kayak and small boat launch are available along the beach near Kelsey Dock.

ValdezAlaska.org/ Valdez-Glacier

Another popular destination for kayakers and paddle-boarders is Valdez Glacier Lake, accessible at the end of Airport Road. The lake is known for the numerous icebergs in the lake that have calved off Valdez Glacier. Kayakers should exercise extreme caution near icebergs as they have a larger underwater mass, are dangerously unstable, and can flip over.

Glacier Viewing

Valdez hosts five major glaciers for travelers to visit by guided tour or independently. Whether you charter a helicopter, take a boat, or hike, Valdez has many accessible, breathtaking glaciers to explore.

COLUMBIA GLACIER is the second largest tidewater glacier in North America and the largest in Prince William Sound.

MEARES GLACIER is unique because while most glaciers throughout the world are retreating, Meares Glacier is one of the few advancing tidewater glaciers.

SHOUP GLACIER is tucked away in Shoup Bay, a rugged 8 miles west of town, and is accessible by foot, boat, kayak, and helicopter.

VALDEZ GLACIER is located east, beyond the airport, and plays a large part in the history of the town. Known as the All-American Route, gold seekers traveled over the glacier into the interior of Alaska during the Gold Rush of 1898.

WORTHINGTON GLACIER is one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. Located in Thompson Pass, within view of the Richardson Highway, this glacier is a must-see, driving in or out of Valdez. Watch for the turnout at milepost 29, park your vehicle, and then walk up to the glacier for an up-close experience.