Lighthouse, Totems and Eagles Excursion (Ward Cove)

Looking for a way to see some of Ketchikan’s most striking sights without spending a whole day on the water? The Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion offers a compact yet enriching glimpse into Southeast Alaska’s coastal beauty, native culture, and abundant wildlife—all from the comfort of a boat. This tour, run by the locally owned Lighthouse Excursions, is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, nature, and stunning scenery in a small group setting.

Two aspects stand out immediately: the spectacular views of historic lighthouses and remote islands and the chance to learn about Alaska’s native culture through vibrant totem poles and clan houses. A second highlight is the chance to spot eagles soaring overhead, making for memorable photo opportunities.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at just two and a half hours, it’s a quick trip, which might leave some wanting more. It’s best suited for those with limited time or for travelers who prefer a relaxed, focused experience rather than a lengthy cruise. If you love wildlife, history, and authentic scenery, this tour is likely to meet your expectations.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal views of Ketchikan’s historic lighthouse and remote islands.
• Cultural insights into Alaska native traditions, especially through totem poles and clan houses.
• Wildlife spotting, particularly eagles, from the comfort of a boat.
• Educational and engaging guides sharing local stories and history.
• Accessible and small-group experience with a maximum of 40 travelers.
• Good value considering the included stops and unique sights for a two-and-a-half-hour tour.

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Ketchikan’s rugged coastlines and rich cultural heritage without requiring a full day out on the water. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want highlights—lighthouses, native art, and eagles—in a manageable time frame. The fact that it’s operated by a locally owned company adds a welcoming, authentic touch that larger, more commercial outfits sometimes lack.

We love the way the boat cruise starts inside Ward Cove, where remnants of a historically significant pulp mill provide a tangible link to Ketchikan’s industrial past. The tour then winds through scenic waterways, giving you ample opportunities for photos of floating homes, lush islands, and distant mountains.

While the tour doesn’t include long stops or extensive cultural sites, it makes up for it with stunning views and engaging storytelling. A minor consideration: since transportation to the meeting point isn’t provided, travelers should plan accordingly if they’re staying downtown. But for those who enjoy scenic drives or are already exploring the area, that’s a minor detail.

This experience will appeal most to nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and wildlife watchers seeking a taste of Southeast Alaska’s natural beauty and native traditions in just a few hours.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Ward Cove

Your journey begins in Ward Cove, once home to one of the largest pulp mills in the U.S. The remains of the mill are visible from the water and add a rugged, industrial charm to the scenery. As you leave the cove, you’ll see how far Ketchikan has come from its industrial roots to become a hub for tourism and fishing.

This initial stop sets the tone, combining historical significance with scenic beauty, and allows your captain to orient you with an overview of the area’s importance.

Stop 2: Totem Bight State Historical Park

Next, your boat pulls up near the vibrant totem poles and the Alaska native clan house at Totem Bight. From the water, you’ll appreciate the artistry and placement of these totems, which tell stories of clans, legends, and cultural history.

Your guide will share insights into the meaning and craftsmanship behind these carvings, offering a window into the traditions of Alaska’s native peoples. This stop is short—about 10 minutes—but packed with cultural richness, making it a highlight for those interested in indigenous art and history.

Stop 3: Ketchikan Shoreline Views

As your boat drifts along the shoreline, you’ll see homes perched on islands and remote stretches of land—a vivid reminder of life in Alaska’s more isolated communities. Your guide may share stories about living remotely and how residents manage their unique lifestyles.

It’s a brief glimpse, but one that’s visually striking, especially with the backdrop of lush greenery and the occasional boat or floatplane.

Stop 4: Guard Island Lighthouse

The Guard Island Lighthouse is a classic maritime beacon, and from the water, you’ll get a clear view of its historic tower and architecture. Your captain will tell stories about its history and design, which is particularly interesting for those who enjoy maritime history or lighthouse architecture.

This stop, about 10 minutes long, provides some of the best panoramic water views on the tour, perfect for photos.

Stop 5: Tongass National Forest Waterscape

The tour concludes with a cruise through waters bordered by the world’s largest temperate rainforest, the Tongass. Expect to see dense forests of Sitka spruce, Western Hemlock, and cedar, which seem to spill into the water in a wild, untouched display.

You’ll love the sense of remote wilderness and the opportunity to spot eagles and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The lush greenery and the rugged shoreline are breathtaking, especially if the weather cooperates.

What Travelers Are Saying

While reviews are limited, the feedback available highlights a few key points. One reviewer noted, “The views of the lighthouse and remote islands were truly stunning,” emphasizing how the scenery makes this tour worthwhile. Another appreciated “the personal touch of a small-group experience,” which makes the journey more intimate and engaging than larger tours.

Some travelers mentioned that the short duration is perfect for a quick overview but might leave those wanting more in terms of cultural or wildlife encounters. The price at $124 per person is reasonable considering the included stops and the chance to see iconic sights.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

This tour operates from the Mill at Ward Cove. It’s important to note that transportation to downtown Ketchikan isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it manageable even for travelers with tight schedules.

With a maximum of 40 travelers, the experience remains relatively small, allowing for better interaction with your guide and more personalized attention. This is especially appreciated if you enjoy engaging storytelling and a relaxed pace.

Value and Practicality

At $124, the tour offers good value for those seeking a focused experience of Ketchikan’s coastlines and culture. It’s not a full-day excursion but provides enough highlights to get a sense of the area’s natural beauty and indigenous culture.

The inclusion of stops at Totem Bight and Guard Island Lighthouse means you’re getting more than just a scenic cruise; you’re gaining cultural insights and historical context. For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to see eagles soaring overhead adds a memorable wildlife viewing element.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for short-term visitors who want a concise yet enriching overview of Ketchikan’s coast. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, including families, because of its manageable length and gentle pace.

If you’re interested in native art, maritime history, and wildlife, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Conversely, those seeking a full-day adventure or extensive culture might want to look for longer tours or experiences.

The Sum Up

The Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion is a thoughtful way to see some of Ketchikan’s finest sights in a relaxed, small-group setting. The combination of great scenery, native cultural elements, and wildlife viewing makes it an appealing choice for many travelers.

The tour’s stunning views of historic lighthouses and remote islands, along with its focus on local stories and natural beauty, deliver a memorable sense of what Southeast Alaska is all about. Its reasonable price and manageable duration make it a practical addition to your cruise or visit.

Whether you’re an avid wildlife watcher, a history buff, or simply someone eager to see iconic Alaskan landscapes, this tour offers a pleasant, authentic taste of Ketchikan’s coastal character.

FAQs

Is transportation to the tour starting point included?
No, the tour does not provide transportation to or from downtown Ketchikan. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to The Mill at Ward Cove or plan accordingly if you’re already nearby.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity if you’re on a tight schedule.

What is included in the tour price?
The cost of $124 per person covers the boat cruise and stops at Totem Bight State Historical Park and Guard Island Lighthouse. It also includes a small-group experience of up to 40 travelers.

Can I see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, you can expect to see eagles soaring overhead, and possibly other wildlife, while cruising along the shoreline and remote islands.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly. However, always check with the provider if you have very young children or special needs.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring layers for changing weather, camera for photos, and possibly binoculars for wildlife viewing. The tour operates in good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online through Viator, and it’s recommended to book well in advance since it’s booked on average 187 days ahead, especially during peak season.

In all, the Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion offers a compact but rich taste of Ketchikan’s coastal allure, making it a solid choice for those wanting a scenic, cultural, and wildlife-filled experience.