From Ketchikan: Crab Feast Lunch at World Famous Lodge

Imagine sitting down to a steaming plate of Alaskan Dungeness Crab in a rustic lodge with panoramic waterway views, while a friendly guide shares stories of the area’s history and quirkiest tales. That’s exactly what the Crab Feast Lunch at George Inlet Lodge offers. With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on nearly 20 reviews, this tour has become a favorite among visitors seeking authentic local flavors combined with scenic travel and engaging commentary.

What really draws travelers in is the generous three-course meal—featuring succulent crab, fresh salad with an Asian twist, and blueberry-topped cheesecake—and the chance to learn about the historic lodge, once an old cannery bunkhouse. Plus, the scenic drive past iconic Alaskan landmarks adds a visual feast to the experience.

A potential downside? Some reviewers mention feeling a bit rushed at the end of the meal, which might cut into the relaxed vibe. Still, this tour is best suited for those who want a lively, food-filled outing with a taste of local culture and scenery. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to indulge in Alaskan seafood and stories, all within a cozy, small-group environment.

Key Points

• Authentic crab experience: Enjoy a large, well-prepared portion of Dungeness Crab, a true Alaskan delicacy.
• Scenic drive: Travel past famous landmarks and the stunning George Inlet Waterway.
• Historic setting: Learn about the lodge’s past as an old cannery bunkhouse from the 1940s.
• Informative hosts: Guides share local tales, adding depth and personality to the experience.
• All-inclusive: Price covers lunch, transport, and a drink, making it a straightforward, stress-free outing.
• Small group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate, personable atmosphere.

A Hearty, Lively Lunch in a Historic Setting

This tour kicks off with a meeting point right in downtown Ketchikan, at the recognizable “The Rock” statue near the Visitors Bureau. From there, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable vehicle to head south toward George Inlet Lodge, roughly a 30-minute drive. The journey itself is part of the charm—your guides will point out landmarks and share stories that set the scene for what’s to come.

Once you arrive at the lodge, the rustic but cozy atmosphere immediately welcomes you. Sitting on the scenic shores of the George Inlet Waterway, the lodge’s history as a cannery bunkhouse from the 1940s adds a layer of authenticity. Your guide will fill you in on this history, giving context to the building’s past while you settle in for your meal.

The Meal: More Than Just Crab

The highlight is, of course, the main course—a steaming heap of Dungeness Crab, served in generous quantities. Reviewers consistently praise the crab’s quality: “Excellent crab, well prepared, and served in large quantities,” says Ken, who appreciated the freshness and the hearty portion. While some mention the meal felt rushed towards the end—serving until just minutes before the closing—this doesn’t take away from the overall deliciousness.

Alongside the crab, you’ll enjoy a crisp salad tossed with an Asian-style dressing, adding a refreshing contrast. The meal wraps up with a mouth-watering blueberry cheesecake, a sweet finish that many find satisfying. Julia notes that her driver also gave her a little side tour afterward, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The Scenery and Stories

Throughout the drive and during the meal, your guides will share stories about the area’s history, from the lodge’s past to local legends. The views of the waterway and surrounding landscapes make for a memorable backdrop, and the storytelling helps deepen your appreciation of the region.

The All-Inclusive Value

For $92 per person, the tour offers excellent value, considering the included items: lunch, transportation, and an alcoholic beverage. Additional drinks can be bought on-site if you’re craving more, but the included drink already boosts the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, starting in downtown Ketchikan and ending back where it began. The small group size—capped at 10—ensures a more personal, engaging experience. The journey itself offers a glimpse of Alaskan coastal life, with guides sharing local tales and history that enrich the meal.

The walk up to the lodge involves about 79 stairs, but a shuttle is available for those with mobility concerns. Timing is flexible, but arriving a bit early—about 30 minutes after the meal’s start time—can help you settle in comfortably.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport or ID for check-in and ID verification if needed.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a bit of walking, and the stairs can be steep.
• Don’t forget your camera—the scenery and views are picture-perfect.
• A credit card is handy for drinks or souvenirs.
• Pack cash if you want to tip or purchase extra drinks.
• If you have dietary restrictions, notify the provider in advance to ensure your needs are met.

Authentic and Fun: What Reviewers Say

Guests consistently mention the lively, rowdy atmosphere, describing the lunch as more than just a meal but a “rowdy good time”. Julia appreciated the personal touches from her guides Anna and Alexis, who gave her a little side tour, helping her see more of Ketchikan beyond the lodge.

Ken praised the meal but noted it was a bit rushed at the end, leading to some waste, so if you prefer a relaxed pace, consider arriving early or letting the staff know you’d like more time. Robert’s review highlights the crab’s quality—”fantastic and never ending”—and the fact that he was the last to leave, not wanting to depart.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking to savor authentic Alaskan crab in a friendly, informal setting. It suits travelers who enjoy interactive storytelling, scenic drives, and hearty local food. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a small-group environment that feels personal and engaging.

While not ideal if you’re seeking a luxurious dining experience or long, leisurely meals, it offers great value for a lively, fun, and authentic taste of Alaska’s seafood culture. The inclusion of a drink and scenic storytelling makes it a memorable addition to your cruise or land tour.

The Sum Up

The Crab Feast Lunch at George Inlet Lodge provides a genuine taste of Alaska’s seafood bounty paired with scenic views and engaging guides. The generous crab portions, informative stories, and the historic lodge setting make it a lively highlight for many visitors.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a fun, interactive meal with a local flavor, especially those interested in seafood and history. The intimate group size, included drinks, and scenic drive add to the feeling of a personalized adventure.

While some guests might find the pacing a little hurried, overall, this tour delivers a delicious, authentic, and memorable Alaskan experience at a reasonable price point.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket covers a three-course lunch, transportation to and from the lodge, and one alcoholic beverage.

Where do I meet for this tour?
You should meet your guide at “The Rock” statue by the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Berth 2. If arriving at the Ward Cove Docking Facility, you’ll need to arrange transportation to downtown.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
There is a staircase involved—about 79 steps—though a shuttle is available if you prefer to avoid climbing.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including transportation and the meal.

Can I customize my dietary needs?
Yes, it’s recommended to inform the provider of any dietary restrictions beforehand to ensure your needs are accommodated.

Do I need to pay extra for drinks?
The tour includes one alcoholic beverage, but additional drinks are available for purchase on-site.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the quality of the crab, scenic drive, and storytelling, most find the $92 fee reasonable and worth the memorable experience.

This lively, authentic crab feast at George Inlet Lodge offers a genuine taste of Alaska’s seafood, history, and scenery—all wrapped into a relaxed, fun-filled outing. Perfect for curious travelers wanting more than just a meal, it’s a great way to connect with local culture while enjoying top-quality crab in a cozy setting.