Ketchikan: Misty Fjords National Monument Floatplane Tour

Taking to the skies over Misty Fjords National Monument is a bucket-list adventure for anyone visiting Southeast Alaska. This floatplane tour from Ketchikan offers a unique perspective on the region’s untouched wilderness, with stunning aerial views of fjords, waterfalls, and rugged cliffs. It’s not just a flight—it’s a chance to see Alaska’s wild beauty from above, accompanied by commentary from your pilot and a musical soundtrack that sets the mood.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of flying in a small floatplane with the serenity of gliding over untouched landscapes. The knowledgeable guides and pilot make the journey informative and engaging, adding context to each breathtaking vista. Plus, the chance to spot wildlife such as eagles, bears, and deer from the air makes it more than just sightseeing—it’s an authentic peek into nature’s rhythm.

A potential consideration is the price, which at $389 per person, isn’t the cheapest outing in town. However, many reviewers find it offers good value considering the exclusivity and the quality of the scenery. The small group size—limited to just six travelers—ensures a more intimate experience, but it also means you’ll want to book early to secure a spot during peak seasons.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate aerial views, outdoor adventure, and wildlife spotting. If you’re comfortable in small aircraft and eager to see Alaska’s wilderness from a high vantage point, this is a memorable choice. It’s also ideal for those who want a high-quality experience with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and meaningful commentary.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views of Misty Fjords and the surrounding wilderness
• Expert pilot commentary that adds context and enhances the scenery
• Wildlife sightings like eagles, bears, and deer from above
• Small group experience for personalized attention
• Includes transportation from Ketchikan to the flight departure point
• Value for money when considering the quality and uniqueness of the experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect During Your Flight

Your adventure begins in downtown Ketchikan, where you’ll meet your pilot and driver near the Visitor’s Bureau, right next to the iconic bronze statue and rain gauge. From there, you’ll hop into a private van, ensuring a smooth, stress-free transfer to the floatplane base. The entire process from pickup to return takes about 2 hours, with the actual flight lasting around 1 hour.

Getting on board the floatplane is part of the fun—your aircraft accommodates six passengers, with guaranteed window seats. As you settle in, you’ll notice how compact and nimble the plane is, making for a more intimate experience than large commercial flights. Your pilot will give a quick safety briefing before taxiing onto the water, then lifting off for the skies.

Once airborne, your pilot’s voice comes alive through your headset. Expect insightful commentary about the landscape unfolding below, along with a musical soundtrack that adds to the atmosphere. The flight takes you over Tongass Narrows, where you’ll see Ketchikan shrinking into the distance, and then over the expansive Tongass National Forest on Revillagigedo Island.

The highlight of the flight is reaching Misty Fjords, a protected wilderness area known for its sheer cliffs, deep fjords, and cascading waterfalls. The region is famous for its misty, moody atmosphere, which gives the area its name. As your aircraft circles over lakes and rock formations, you’ll get breathtaking views of New Eddystone Rock, a volcanic remnant rising from the water.

Throughout the flight, the pilot points out landmarks and shares stories about the area’s volcanic past and natural features. Keep your binoculars handy—many travelers report spotting eagles soaring high above or bears foraging near the shoreline. The landscape is rugged, with steep granite walls and lush forest covering the slopes.

The flight concludes with a gentle glide back to Ketchikan, where your van awaits to bring you back to town. Many find this short but sweet flight to be a highlight of their Alaska trip—an experience that combines adventure, education, and spectacular scenery.

The Value of This Tour

At $389, this floatplane tour is an investment, but many travelers feel it’s justified given the quality of the views and the exclusivity of the experience. Instead of a crowded bus or boat, you’ll be in a small group in a private aircraft, which means more personalized attention and better photo opportunities. The inclusion of transportation from downtown Ketchikan makes the logistics simple, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

Numerous reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the pilot was, making the trip both educational and enjoyable. Several travelers have expressed how the pilot’s narration added richness to the scenery, pointing out features they might have missed on their own. Others appreciated the smooth takeoffs and landings, ensuring comfort even if you’re slightly nervous about small aircraft.

It’s worth noting that this tour is not suitable for those over 300 lbs or with certain weight restrictions, which is primarily for safety and aircraft balance reasons. Children over two are welcome with a ticket, and the tour runs typically in the morning or afternoon—offering flexibility to fit your schedule.

Authenticity and Experience: What Travelers Say

Feedback from past travelers consistently highlights the expertise of the pilots and the stunning scenery. Ruth from the US called it a “great excursion,” praising the pilot’s fun personality and the organized nature of the trip. Adrienne from the Netherlands recommended it wholeheartedly, saying, “Really nice people, pilot, driver, and so on. We definitely recommend this.”

One reviewer, Renata, appreciated the narration, noting that “the pilot narrated the landmarks and there was background music that made the whole experience really great!” However, some found the soundtrack a bit distracting, with one traveler remarking that the pre-recorded commentary sometimes felt out of sync or was cut off. Despite that, most agree that the overall experience was well worth the price.

Travelers also highlight the exhilaration of flying in a small plane and the incredible views of waterfalls and cliffs. Many describe the scenery as “breathtaking” and say it surpasses what they expected from just looking at photos or reading descriptions.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Book early due to limited spots—especially in peak summer months.
• Prepare for the possibility of early morning or afternoon flights—check availability when booking.
• Dress comfortably and in layers, as even in summer, mornings and higher altitudes can be cool.
• Keep your camera or smartphone ready—these views are picture-perfect.
• Be aware of weight restrictions if you or a companion exceed 250 lbs, as an additional surcharge applies.
• If you have mobility concerns or fear of small aircraft, consider whether this experience suits you.

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The Sum Up

This Misty Fjords floatplane tour from Ketchikan offers a blend of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery that’s hard to match. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, small-group experience and are eager to see Alaska’s wilderness from a new perspective. With knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, it’s a trip that leaves a lasting impression—one that many travelers say is worth every penny.

While the price may seem steep, the combination of spectacular views, wildlife sightings, and expert narration makes this a worthwhile splurge for most outdoor enthusiasts. The small group setting ensures a more intimate experience and ample opportunities for photos and questions, adding to its value. If you’re looking to elevate your Alaska adventure with a memorable aerial tour, this floatplane flight is an excellent choice.

FAQ

How long is the flight?
The actual flight lasts about 1 hour, but the entire experience, including transportation, is around 2 hours.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet your guide by the large bronze statue and rain gauge next to the Visitor’s Bureau on berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private van will take you from Ketchikan to the floatplane base and back.

What is the weather like?
Flights operate in typical weather conditions; the misty atmosphere is part of the region’s charm, but flights can be canceled or postponed in severe weather.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, guests over 250 lbs (113 kg) require an additional surcharge of $168, and the maximum weight limit is 300 lbs (136 kg).

Is this suitable for children?
Children over the age of 2 require a ticket; infants under 2 are considered lap children and do not need a ticket.

What should I bring?
Dress in layers, bring your camera, and prepare for potentially cool temperatures at altitude.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour offered in other languages?
The tour is conducted in English, with live commentary and audio guides in English.

This floatplane tour offers an incredible way to see Alaska’s wilderness from above, combining adventure, education, and stunning scenery into one memorable trip. It’s a must-do for those wanting a unique perspective on Ketchikan’s awe-inspiring landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby