Portage Glacier Cruise
1 Hour Cruise • All Ages
About
Just an hour’s scenic drive from Anchorage along the breathtaking Seward Highway, Portage Glacier offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Board the M/V Ptarmigan, a custom-built sightseeing vessel designed for optimal glacier viewing, including a heated cabin with expansive windows and an open-air top deck.
During the one-hour cruise, you’ll glide across the iceberg-dotted waters of Portage Lake, journeying past cascading waterfalls and steep mountain cliffs. Get up close to the towering wall of Portage Glacier, and with a bit of luck, witness the thrilling sight (and sound!) of calving ice. A U.S. Forest Service ranger provides expert narration, sharing fascinating insights into the area's history, geology, and wildlife.
This budget-friendly and family-friendly tour operates daily from mid-May to mid-September, with five departures to fit your schedule. Whether you're exploring Southcentral Alaska in a car or RV, this is the perfect stop to experience one of the state's most iconic glaciers.
Highlights
This cruise offers a rare chance to see one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers up close, making it a must-do experience for visitors of all ages. The short, one-hour duration makes it easy to fit into any itinerary while still providing incredible views and a true taste of Alaska’s wild beauty.
Unlike many glacier tours that require long hikes or flights, this cruise brings you right to the face of Portage Glacier with minimal effort. Guests can take in the towering blue ice from the comfort of a heated indoor cabin or step onto the open deck for an unobstructed view. The surrounding scenery, with rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and floating icebergs, adds to the magic of the experience.
Onboard narration enhances the journey with fascinating details about the glacier’s history, rapid changes, and the unique environment of the Portage Valley. The combination of accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and engaging storytelling makes this tour a standout experience in Southcentral Alaska.
What's included
Your ticket includes:
- A one-hour cruise on Portage Lake
- Stunning views of Portage Glacier and surrounding landscapes
- Indoor heated seating and outdoor viewing areas
- Engaging onboard narration about the area’s history, wildlife, and glaciology
- Narration in English
What to bring
Clothing for the weather: Dress in layers to stay comfortable, as temperatures on the water can be cooler. A light jacket or rain gear is recommended.
Camera and binoculars: The stunning scenery is worth capturing, and binoculars will help you spot wildlife and distant features.
Sunscreen and sunglasses: Even on cooler days, the Alaskan sun can be strong, so it's a good idea to protect your skin and eyes.
Operated by