Sitka Boat Tour

Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but Sitka is famously active. Depending on conditions and season, you may see humpback whales, sea otters, sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles, brown bears, and an impressive cast of seabirds.

• May through September offers the most consistent whale activity in Southeast Alaska, when humpback whales feed close to shore and may display dramatic surface behavior, including rare bubble-feeding sightings.
• Late winter and early spring can align with herring spawn events, sometimes drawing both humpbacks and orca pods into fast-paced feeding action. Timing varies year to year, making every trip uniquely wild.

The waters around St. Lazaria are known for seabird activity. You may spot the famous tufted puffins, common murres, rhinoceros auklets, black oystercatchers and more.

Southeast Alaska is shaped by rainforest, islands, and cold ocean currents. That mix creates rich marine habitat and a coastline that feels wild even when you’re close to town.

Southeast Alaska is a cold-water, maritime environment. Conditions can shift quickly: wind, rain, and fog even when the morning looks friendly.

• Dress in layers and assume rain. A waterproof shell and warm mid-layer are the default setting.
• Bring gloves and a warm hat for boat days. “Summer” still has teeth here.
• Itinerary and timing may change for safety, sea state, and wildlife considerations.

• Waterproof rain jacket (and rain pants if you have them).
• Warm layers (fleece/wool) and a hat.
• Binoculars and a camera strap.
• Motion-sickness meds if you’re prone.