Ketchikan Duck Tour

Our review focuses on the popular Ketchikan Duck Tour, a 90-minute jaunt that takes you on land and water in a state-of-the-art amphibious vehicle. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Alaska traveler, this tour promises a lively blend of scenery, history, and humor.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the knowledgeable guides who keep the commentary engaging and the stunning photos you can snag of Ketchikan’s iconic totem poles and rugged streets. Plus, the mix of land and water travel offers a refreshing perspective you won’t get from a standard city tour.

On the flip side, some travelers have noted that visibility can vary depending on where you sit in the vehicle, especially if you’re on the right side when boarding. Also, this experience is about 90 minutes long, so it’s best suited for those with a flexible schedule looking for a compact taste of Ketchikan rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re curious about Alaska’s first city with a dash of humor and a splash of water, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Combines land and water sightseeing in one seamless experience
• Guides are praised for their storytelling, humor, and knowledge
• Includes stops at numerous totem poles and scenic spots
• Offers good value for the entertaining price
• Limited to 49 travelers for a personal feel
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility or seasickness concerns

What to Expect on the Ketchikan Duck Tour

The Experience: A 90-Minute Land-and-Water Adventure

The Ketchikan Duck Tour kicks off from the cruise pier at 131 Front St., where you’ll meet your guide and driver. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you’ll enjoy a narrated journey through Ketchikan’s streets and harbor. The vehicle itself is a modern amphibious craft, capable of smoothly shifting from roads onto the water, providing a seamless transition between land-based sightseeing and a boat cruise.

You’ll love how this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Ketchikan’s layout, architecture, and natural beauty. The fact that it stays within protected waters means even seasick-prone travelers can relax, as there are no large waves or rough seas to contend with. This calming environment enhances the overall comfort, especially for families or older visitors.

The Land Portion: Exploring Ketchikan’s Streets and To whom it appeals

Your guide will navigate the streets of Ketchikan, pointing out historic buildings, local sights, and explaining the area’s geology and history. This is where you’ll see many of the town’s famous totem poles, which are sprinkled around the city and add a distinctive cultural touch.

One reviewer remarked, “The trip was really good. It’s fun to go from land to sea, and the guides were really good at informing about history.” This highlights how the land portion is both informative and engaging, making it ideal for those interested in Alaska’s indigenous art and local stories.

The Water Stop: A Unique Perspective from the Harbor

Once in the harbor, the amphibious vehicle splashes into the water, offering a new view of Ketchikan’s scenic harbor. You’ll see the colorful boats, the rugged coastline, and possibly wildlife—though some reviews note no wildlife sightings on this particular trip.

The boat cruise segment offers a different way of appreciating the city, with many passengers finding it a fun, lighthearted experience. Many reviews mention the humor and personality of the guides, who often share jokes and lively commentary. One reviewer said, “Garett and Miguel were fantastic, with great jokes and stories,” which underscores the tour’s lively atmosphere.

The Highlights: To the Poles, the People, and the Views

Ketchikan is famed for its totem poles—and you’ll see many on this tour, sprinkled around the city and in designated cultural sites. The guide’s explanations help you appreciate these carvings’ significance, making the experience both educational and visually captivating.

The tour also covers Ketchikan’s rustic streets and scenic vistas, giving you a taste of the town’s rugged charm. For those who love storytelling, the guides sprinkle in history, local lore, and even some humor—”dad jokes” are a common feature, keeping the mood light and enjoyable.

Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes the bus tour and the boat cruise, but there are some costs to keep in mind. There’s an additional transportation fee of $12 per person from Ward Cove to downtown Ketchikan, which you should budget for. Gratuities are not included, so if you appreciate your guide’s effort, a tip is customary.

The meeting point is straightforward—just head to the cruise pier at 131 Front St. The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers, with the only physical requirement being the ability to navigate a 9-step boarding ladder. Once seated, you’ll remain in your seat for the entire ride, which is comfortable and family-friendly.

The Hidden Value: Why It’s Worth the Price

At $75 per person, this tour offers a lot in entertainment, education, and unique vistas. Many reviewers feel it’s a worthwhile expense, describing it as a “high-value tour” with “great jokes,” “knowledgeable guides,” and “stunning views.”

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a concise, fun overview of Ketchikan without overloading their schedule. The group size maxes out at 49, ensuring a lively, personal environment rather than a crowded bus.

The Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Numerous reviews praise guides like Garett, Jennifer, and Miguel for their humor, storytelling, and professionalism. One reviewer noted, “Jennifer and Miguel were great—entertaining and handled unforeseen problems with humor and efficiency.” Their ability to blend facts with humor enhances the overall quality of the tour.

The Scenic and Cultural Sights

You’ll see Ketchikan’s vibrant totem poles, historic architecture, and rugged streets. The views from the harbor are particularly photogenic, especially if the weather clears. While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the focus on local art and scenery creates a meaningful experience.

The Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 49 travelers, this tour fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows guides to give more personalized attention. The tour’s design, staying within protected waters, makes it accessible for most travelers, including those wary of open ocean waves.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a lively, engaging tour that balances humor and information. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a shorter, more manageable sightseeing experience rather than a full-day excursion.

If you’re interested in learning about Ketchikan’s culture through its totem poles, or simply want a fun way to see the town from both land and water, this tour will fit the bill. It’s especially good if you appreciate guides who can entertain and inform in equal measure.

FAQ about the Ketchikan Duck Tour

Is this tour suitable for people with seasickness?
Yes, because the tour stays within calm, protected waters of the Inside Passage, so large waves and rough seas are not encountered.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the meeting point is the cruise pier at 131 Front St. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the start location.

Are there restroom facilities on board?
Restrooms are not available on the amphibious vehicle, so plan accordingly before the tour.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Most travelers can participate, with no specific age restrictions mentioned. However, guests must be able to navigate a 9-step ladder to board.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, including both land and water segments.

What is the price, and does it include all costs?
The tour costs $75 per person, but there’s an additional transportation fee of $12 per person from Ward Cove to downtown Ketchikan. Gratuities are not included.

What makes this tour a good value?
Given the engaging guides, scenic views, and fun land-and-water mix, many find it a good deal for a memorable 90-minute experience packed with stories, humor, and sights.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Ketchikan Duck Tour offers a lively, family-friendly way to explore Alaska’s First City. Its mix of land and water travel, combined with knowledgeable guides and entertaining storytelling, makes it a compelling choice for those wanting an overview of Ketchikan’s sights and culture in a short time.

While visibility can depend on where you sit, most travelers leave with great stories, beautiful photos, and a better understanding of what makes this town special. It’s a tour that emphasizes fun without sacrificing authenticity, perfectly suited for travelers who enjoy learning through a bit of humor and a lot of scenic views.

If you’re looking for a memorable, engaging introduction to Ketchikan that balances value, comfort, and authenticity, this amphibious adventure is well worth considering. It’s a chance to see the city from both land and water, guided by locals who keep the mood light and the stories interesting.