From Seward or Whittier: Guided Craft Tour and Ship Transfer

If you’re finishing up a cruise in Alaska and craving a taste of local flavor along with some spectacular views, this guided craft tour from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage might be just what you’re looking for. For $369 per person, it offers a unique blend of scenic sightseeing, local craft beverages, and cultural insights, all wrapped into a compact, 9-hour experience.

One feature we particularly love is the combination of scenic drives and personal tastings—it’s a practical way to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty while sampling its vibrant craft beverage scene. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is quite full, with a packed schedule that may leave little time for spontaneous exploration or longer stops.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of nature, local craftsmanship, and small-group intimacy, this tour caters well to those looking for a well-rounded, engaging day after a cruise. It suits travelers seeking a taste of Alaskan culture combined with breathtaking landscapes and a bit of indulgence.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive: Travel along the iconic Seward Highway through the Kenai Peninsula with stunning mountain and lake views.
• Local Tastings: Enjoy guided behind-the-scenes visits and tastings at a brewery, cidery, and distillery, learning about Alaska’s craft scene.
• Mount Alyeska Tram: Ride the aerial tram to the top of Mount Alyeska for panoramic vistas and lunch.
• Small Group: The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Full-Day Experience: Includes transportation, tastings, tram ride, lunch, and live commentary—delivering value for the price.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour begins with a warm welcome and a comfortable ride from either the Whitter cruise terminal or your Seward hotel. The group size is kept small—limited to 8 participants—which means you’ll get more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, especially as you pass through some of Alaska’s most gorgeous scenery.

The Scenic Drive Along the Seward Highway

The drive along the 114-mile Seward Highway is often highlighted as a highlight itself. We loved the way the guide pointed out notable landmarks and shared interesting tidbits about the area’s history and wildlife. Expect to see towering mountains, pristine lakes, and even chances to spot wildlife—though the experience is primarily about enjoying the visual feast of Alaska’s landscape.

Traveling through the Kenai Peninsula, the scenery feels unspoiled and expansive, making it a perfect way to transition from the cruise ports into the heart of Alaska’s natural beauty. Reviewers often mention that the views are breathtaking, and the drive itself is a peaceful, scenic highlight that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Mount Alyeska Tram Ride and Lunch

One of the most memorable parts is the tram ride to the top of Mount Alyeska. This aerial cable car offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. At the summit, you can enjoy lunch with a view, which is a real treat, especially if the weather is clear.

Guests have noted that the tram ride is smooth and the vistas from the top are “simply spectacular,” providing plenty of photo opportunities. The tram ride also offers a chance to appreciate the scale and grandeur of the Alaska wilderness from a comfortable vantage point.

Behind-the-Scenes at Local Breweries and Distilleries

What sets this tour apart is the focus on Alaska’s craft beverage scene. The stops include visits to Girdwood Brewing Co., Anchorage Distillery, and Double Shovel Cider Co.—each offering behind-the-scenes tours, tastings, and insights into how these local producers craft their beverages.

Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the knowledgeable guides who explain the art and science behind brewing and distilling. One guest mentioned that they learned that at Girdwood Brewing Co., “the brewmaster shared stories of how they source local ingredients, making the beers uniquely Alaskan.”

While tastings are included, some travelers noted that additional tastings might be available for purchase if you want to extend your tasting experience. These stops provide a delightful taste of local craftsmanship and a chance to mingle with the artisans behind the beverages.

Additional Stops and Highlights

The tour’s structure ensures you visit several points of interest without feeling rushed. The behind-the-scenes tours at Girdwood Brewing Co., Anchorage Distillery, and Double Shovel Cider Co. are designed to be intimate and educational. Guest reviews mention that the guides offer live commentary that enhances understanding of each location and Alaska’s craft culture.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Approximately 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Price: At $369, the cost includes all tastings, lunch, tram ride, guide, and transportation—offering good value considering the variety of experiences packed in.
• Transportation: The tour uses a well-marked Big Swig Tours van for pickup at either Whittier or Seward. The ride is comfortable, with scenic commentary along the way.
• Group Size: Limited to 8 people, providing a more personalized and intimate atmosphere.
• Booking Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a “reserve now, pay later” option make planning easier.

What’s Missing or Could Be Improved?

The main drawback for some might be the tight schedule—there’s a lot packed into a single day, which might limit the time at each stop. If you’re someone who loves lingering over a beer or taking time for spontaneous exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since it’s a one-way transfer to Anchorage, travelers should plan their onward transportation accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers who want a taste of local culture and scenery without a long-term commitment. It’s perfect if you’re interested in craft beverages, scenic drives, and stunning vistas, but don’t want to spend an entire day on separate excursions. It also suits those who prefer a small-group setting, as it allows for more interaction and personalized commentary.

Those with an interest in Alaska’s craft industry, or who simply want a memorable way to conclude their cruise with a relaxed but engaging day, will find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or longer stops to explore local spots more deeply, you might find this tour a bit hurried.

Final Thoughts

This guided craft tour from Seward or Whittier offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, local craftsmanship, and cultural insights. For just over $350, you get a scenic drive, panoramic tram ride, behind-the-scenes tastings, and a taste of Alaska’s burgeoning craft scene—all in a small-group setting that feels personal and relaxed.

It’s a smart choice for travelers looking to maximize their time after a cruise, especially if they enjoy learning about local products and prefer a more intimate experience. Keep in mind the schedule is packed, so if you love taking your time, consider whether this quick but comprehensive tour fits your travel style.

This experience is about highlighting the best parts of Alaska’s scenery and local craft culture in one engaging, well-organized day. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of everything without the hassle of planning multiple stops or guided tours on their own.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most age groups, but participants should wear closed-toe shoes and be prepared for some walking during visits.

What is included in the price?
The price covers tastings of beer, cider, spirits, and craft cocktails, lunch, tram ride, driver/guide, and live commentary.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Additional tastings at the breweries or distilleries might be available for purchase, but they are not included in the tour fee.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

How long is the drive from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage?
The drive along the Seward Highway is approximately 1.5 hours, offering plenty of scenic vistas along the way.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is included at the Mount Alyeska summit, with options that allow you to enjoy the views while eating.

Can I join the tour from Whittier or Seward?
Yes, the tour departs from either Whittier or Seward, with pickup at your hotel or cruise terminal.

Is this a guided tour with commentary?
Absolutely, a guide provides live commentary throughout, enriching your understanding of the sights and local culture.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring closed-toe shoes and any personal items you might need, but everything else—like transportation and tastings—is taken care of.

This tour offers a fun, scenic, and flavorful way to round out your Alaska adventure—perfect for those who want a little bit of everything packed into a memorable day.