Whale-Watching Confusion! Here’s What You Need To Know !

 

One of the best places to see orcas is in Alaska, and there are many whale-watching tours available in the area.

 
 

If you’re lucky, a September Alaska cruise might give you the chance to see the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky!

 

Juneau Whale-Watching Shore Excursions- The Whale-Watching Capital of Alaska

Juneau is hands down the best place to see whales on an Alaska cruise. Humpback whales are abundant in Auke Bay and Stephens Passage from May through September

Go in search of whales with a naturalist guide on a quick trip from Juneau. Hop onboard a boat and get binoculars to spot other wildlife such as sea lions, bald eagles, and black bears.

Binoculars are provided so you can see the humpbacks, killer whales, Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, black bears, and towering mountains better. With the growing abundance of whales in the area and their comfort with small boats, you are bound to see many.


Whale-Watching Excursions in Sitka

Embark on a marine wildlife tour from Sitka to explore the surrounding waters of the Tongass National Forest. Spot whales, sea lions, sea otters, eagles, puffins, and other sea birds in their natural habitat.

Board one of the 3 boats, Full Nelson, Judi Kay, or Freestyle, and set off on your adventure. These vessels can legally take up to 6 passengers, making this tour truly intimate and personable.

All boats have covered cabins to take cover from weather and open decks for viewing wildlife and enjoying the fresh air of the Tongass National Forest.

Learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that make Sitka Sound such a special place. Spot several whale species, including humpback, gray, and killer whales, as well as sea lions, sea otters, eagles, puffins, and sea birds.


Shore Excursions to See Whales in Seward

Seward is not just a cruise port—it’s a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, one of Alaska’s best wildlife areas. This port is known for glaciers, stunning landscapes, and excellent whale watching.
Start your day with an unforgettable journey through Kenai Fjords National Park, where towering glaciers, rugged fjords, and abundant wildlife create a breathtaking scene.

As you glide through the fjords, be on the lookout for whales breaching in the distance, sea lions basking on rocky shores, and playful sea otters floating nearby. With nutrient-rich waters attracting a variety of marine species, you may also spot harbor seals, porpoises, and puffins diving for fish.

This incredible tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty—an absolute must for nature lovers exploring Alaska!

 
 
 

June and July are good months if you want a good shot at seeing Orcas in SE Alaska - although an excursion in Vancouver might be a better bet if you're specifically after Orcas

 
 
 

WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON AN EXCURSION TO SEE WHALES IN ALASKA

The following items will always be helpful in making your tour a happy memory:
– Warm comfortable layers including a rain jacket
– Sunblock
– Sunglasses
– Camera or video camera and film
– Binoculars

 

The best binoculars for an Alaskan cruise are rugged enough to withstand the wet and frigid weather , yet lightweight and easy to carry and pack.

 

CAN YOU SEE WHALES FROM THE CRUISE SHIP IN ALASKA?

Onboard Whale-Watching Tips for Your Alaska Cruise

Whale watching from your cruise ship is an amazing experience. You don’t always need a tour—sometimes, the best sightings happen right from the deck! Here’s how to spot whales while onboard and make the most of your Alaska cruise.


Know the Best Spots on the Ship

Not all areas offer great views. To increase your chances of spotting whales:

  • Go to the open decks. The aft (back of the ship) and upper decks usually provide the best views.

  • Lower decks can be a great option because you’ll be closer to the water, giving you a better view of whales at a shorter distance. Upper decks provide a wider view, but keep in mind that the height of the ship (even smaller ones) creates more distance between you and the whales.

  • Avoid crowded areas. If possible, find a quieter spot for better visibility.

  • Choose the starboard or port side based on the route. Your ship’s crew often announces whale sightings—listen for updates!


Bring Binoculars for a Closer Look

Whales don’t always come right up to the ship. A good pair of binoculars helps you spot spouts, fins, and breaches from a distance.


Watch for Whale Signs

Whales often give clues before they surface:

  • Look for spouts. A spray of mist in the air means a whale is nearby.

  • Watch for splashes. Humpbacks sometimes breach (jump out of the water), while orcas make fast, sleek movements.

  • Check for seabirds. Large groups of birds feeding on fish can mean whales are hunting below.


Be Patient and Keep Watching

Whale watching takes patience. They don’t appear on command, so stay alert and keep scanning the water. Some of the best sightings happen when you least expect them!


Mornings and Evenings Can Be the Best Times

  • Early morning is often calmer, making it easier to spot spouts.

  • Late afternoon to early evening can also be good, especially for humpbacks.


Dress Warm and Be Ready to Spend Time Outside

Alaska’s weather can be cold and windy, even in summer. If you’re spending time on deck, wear layers, a hat, and gloves to stay comfortable while watching. Check out my Alaska cruise packing list on the next article to be prepared!


Listen to Crew Announcements

Cruise ships often have naturalists or onboard guides who announce whale sightings. Keep your ears open and be ready to rush to a viewing area when whales are spotted!


Have Your Camera Ready—but Enjoy the Moment

If you want photos, use a fast shutter speed to capture movement. But don’t spend the whole time looking through a screen—watching a whale in real life is an unforgettable experience!

 

The best time to cruise to Alaska to see whales is any time throughout the cruise season.

 

BEST ALASKA CRUISE ITINERARIES FOR WHALE WATCHING

Some Alaska cruise routes are better than others for spotting whales. If you want the best chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life, choose an itinerary that includes Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska waters.

Inside Passage Cruises (Round-Trip Seattle or Vancouver)
Now that you know all about the best time to cruise to Alaska to see whales, don’t wait a minute longer and start planning your Alaskan vacation now.

Best for: Frequent whale sightings from the ship and popular ports with great whale excursions.

  • Sails through calm, rich feeding waters where humpbacks and orcas hunt.

  • Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan—all excellent whale-watching ports.

  • Ideal for first-time Alaska cruisers and those who prefer round-trip routes, which are more affordable.

  • Best whale-watching months: June–August.

One-Way Alaska Cruises (Seattle/Vancouver to Seward/Whittier)

Best for: More time in whale-rich waters and diverse wildlife experiences.

  • Sails deeper into Alaska, including spots like Resurrection Bay (Seward).

  • More chances to see orcas (killer whales) near Kenai Fjords National Park.

  • Hubbard Glacier or Glacier Bay—sometimes whales can be spotted near glaciers.

  • Requires a one-way flight but offers more diverse scenery and wildlife.

  • Best whale-watching months: Late May–early September.

Small-Ship & Expedition Cruises

Best for: Getting closer to whales and a more intimate, nature-focused experience.

  • Smaller ships can navigate closer to wildlife-rich areas.

  • Often include kayaking and Zodiac boat tours for closer whale encounters.

  • Less crowded but more expensive than traditional cruises.

  • Operators include UnCruise Adventures, Lindblad Expeditions, and Hurtigruten.

  • Best whale-watching months: June–August.

 

Discover the beauty of Alaska and connect with wildlife on Norwegian Cruise Lines. It has 7 outstanding itineraries to choose from.

BEST CRUISE LINES FOR WHALE WATCHING IN ALASKA

Some cruise lines cater more to wildlife lovers than others. Here are the best options for whale watching:

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

  • Best for: Serious wildlife enthusiasts.

  • Why? Holland America ships have naturalists onboard who give live commentary when whales are spotted.

  • Best routes: Inside Passage, Glacier Bay, and Gulf of Alaska cruises.


PRINCESS CRUISES

  • Best for: A mix of comfort and great wildlife experiences.

  • Why? Many Princess ships offer onboard naturalists, plus great shore excursion partnerships for whale watching.

  • Best routes: Inside Passage and one-way Gulf of Alaska itineraries.


NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE (NCL)

  • Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want good whale-watching opportunities.

  • Why? NCL often has affordable fares and sails whale-rich waters like Icy Strait Point and Juneau.

  • Best routes: Inside Passage and one-way Vancouver to Seward cruises.


CELEBRITY CRUISES

  • Best for: A more luxurious experience while still offering great wildlife viewing.

  • Why? Many itineraries include Hubbard Glacier and Kenai Fjords, where whales are active.

  • Best routes: Gulf of Alaska and Inside Passage.

UNCRUISE ADVENTURES (SMALL SHIPS)

  • Best for: Those who want small, adventure-focused cruises with close wildlife encounters.

  • Why? UnCruise ships stop in remote areas, where you can kayak or take Zodiac tours to see whales up close. You’ll be guided by passionate experts with wide-ranging knowledge of Alaska.

  • Best routes: Glacier Bay, Kenai Fjords, and Inside Passage.

 
 
 
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