Whale watching in Ketchikan
Whale watching in Ketchikan means a boat trip out of the harbor to look for humpback whales, orcas and sometimes gray whales. The boats head into the Inside Passage waters around the island, where humpbacks bubble-feed at known spots and sometimes breach. Sightings depend on the animals, so the trip is a matter of good luck and patience as much as route.
Places to go
Tours to book
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
Alaskan Wildlife and Whale Watching Expedition
What to expect
Most whale trips here leave from the dock and head out through the Tongass Narrows and the channels around Revillagigedo Island. A small-group boat moves slowly, watching the water for blows, fins and feeding birds. Operators say humpbacks often bubble-feed on the surface and that breaching is sometimes seen. Orcas and humpbacks are the usual sightings, and gray whales appear now and then.
Along the way the boat may stop at salmon feeding grounds, where eagles and sea lions gather. Some trips search hidden coves and anchor for a picnic, with smoked salmon or reindeer sausage on the menu. The boats have covered cabins, so the trip works in rain.
Where to go
- Ketchikan Wildlife Tours. Small-group luxury boat stops at salmon feeding grounds and a humpback bubble-feeding area, with breaching sometimes seen. Eagle feeding is part of the trip. By tour boat. A trip that goes here: Alaskan Wildlife and Whale Watching Expedition, 2 Hours 30 Minutes, $249 a person
- Ultimate Ketchikan Wildlife Tour. Searches hidden coves for humpbacks, orcas and bald eagles, then anchors for a picnic with smoked salmon or reindeer sausage. By tour boat from the dock. A trip that goes here: Alaskan Wildlife and Whale Watching Expedition, 2 Hours 30 Minutes, $249 a person
Getting there
Most whale trips leave from the dock, so you walk or take a short shuttle to the boat.
When to go
The season for the tours runs from April 20 to October 15, and humpbacks and orcas are most often seen in summer. Summer rain is generally light and sporadic, but the boats have covered cabins.
Good to know
- Dress in layers, since weather can turn from sunny to windy and rainy within a short time.
- Bring a warm layer and rain gear even on a bright morning, as Ketchikan is one of the rainiest cities in North America.
- Keep to the boat's rules and give whales space; if they stop, look nervous or leave, the boat is too close.
Questions
Can you see whales from Ketchikan?
Yes. Boat tours out of Ketchikan often see humpback whales and orcas, and gray whales show up now and then. Humpbacks are known to bubble-feed at a feeding area and sometimes breach. Sightings are never guaranteed because the whales are wild.
What is the best time of year for whale watching in Ketchikan?
The tour season runs from April 20 to October 15. Summer, from May to September, is when humpbacks and orcas are most often seen, and summer rain is usually light and sporadic.
How long is a whale watching tour in Ketchikan?
Tours last either 1.5 or 2.5 hours.
