Venture to remote Neets Bay aboard your Alaskan-built expedition vessel to view the endearing black bears of Southeast Alaska.
- Visit one of the most productive salmon hatcheries in Southeast Alaska in search of Alaska’s popular black bears.
- Cruise past downtown Ketchikan’s dynamic and colorful waterfront. Enjoy photo opportunities of Totem Bight State Park, Guard Island Lighthouse and more.
- Relax in the warm, comfortable, spacious main cabin, surrounded by large windows or step outside onto the outside observation deck for maximum wildlife viewing.
Tour Details
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PriceAdults- $126.74 (tax included)
Children- $105.44 (tax included: Ages 3-12) -
AvailabilitySelect dates August - September
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Duration4.5 hours
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Participation requirementsThis tour is not wheelchair accessible. Tour activity includes navigating flat docks, tide variable ramps, and a maintained uphill walking trail. Guests will walk approximately 250-300 yards total.
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IncludedWater, coffee, tea and hot chocolate
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Not includedMeal items. Small snacks and beverages available for purchase onboard.
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What to bringWarm rainproof jacket, camera and/or video equipment. Cash or local check for onboard purchases.
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CancellationA $10/person processing fee will be charged for cancellations made after the booking is confirmed. No refund will be made for cancellations made less than 24-hours prior to tour departure.
Overview of the tour:
Embark your Alaskan-built expedition vessel and begin your cruise to Neets Bay, one of the most productive salmon hatcheries in Southeast Alaska. Along the way enjoy scenic views of colorful Ketchikan from inside the comfortable cabin, or outside from the observation decks while sipping coffee or hot chocolate.
Your onboard Naturalist will provide local insight and share stories as you cruise past Ketchikan International Airport, Port Gravina, and Ward Cove. Continuing north, view Totem Bight State Park with Tlingit and Haida Totem Poles, and cruise past Guard Island Lighthouse, a beautiful photo opportunity to view an active bald eagle’s nest.
Once your Captain turns into Neets Bay, the slow hushed shoreline cruise begins in search of black bear on the beach. This area is home to an abundance of wildlife who feast on the salmon returning upstream each year. Enjoy scanning the shoreline and observing local fishermen in the surrounding waterways. The onboard crew will assist in pointing out wildlife in the area, including chance sightings of harbor seals, sea lions, humpback whales, and orcas.
After getting your fill of wildlife, enjoy the return cruise to Knudson Cove where 14 passenger vans await at the end of a short, uphill walk. Aboard the vans, enjoy the scenic coastal drive down the North Tongass Highway as your driver/guide provides commentary on the way back to downtown Ketchikan.
**Due to exclusivity permits in Neets Bay, this excursion will not be able to land ashore to view bears; your understanding is appreciated.
**Wildlife sightings are frequent, but not guaranteed.
Allen Marine is committed to the long-standing relationships we have cultivated with our cruise line partners. Booking through your cruise line’s website is the most expedient and effortless way to book a trip, and includes several built-in benefits and guarantees. Because you are booking directly through your ship, your tickets will be ready ahead of time, and often hand-delivered to your state room. You are also guaranteed to make it back to your ship before it departs – the ship will stay in port if your shore excursion runs late. If there are any changes to your ship’s schedule, your shore excursions team will ensure that we are contacted on your behalf, and any necessary changes in itinerary will be made. Finally, you will have the added bonus of a dedicated shore excursions team who will be available to help answer questions and make arrangements should your tour be cancelled or changed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The value you receive by booking through your cruise line is truly outstanding.
