From Seward or Whittier: Guided Craft Tour and Ship Transfer

Traveling in Alaska often means breathtaking fjords, towering mountains, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. But if your cruise ends in Seward or Whittier and you’re looking for a memorable way to transition to Anchorage, this guided craft beverage tour offers a blend of stunning scenery and local flavor. For $369 per person, you get a mix of sightseeing, tastings, and cultural insight in a small-group setting. It’s a great way to wind down after a cruise with a dash of adventure and a lot of authentic Alaskan charm.

One of the standout features we love is the combination of scenic drives with behind-the-scenes visits to breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Plus, the aerial tram ride atop Mt. Alyeska adds a real punch of altitude and panoramic views. The tour’s intimate size—limited to just 8 participants—allows for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience. However, keep in mind that this is a one-way transfer from Whittier or Seward to Anchorage, so it’s ideally suited for travelers wanting a scenic, cultural, and tasting-focused journey rather than a quick transit.

This experience suits those who enjoy good drinks, scenic drives, and local storytelling. If you’re a curious traveler eager to learn how craft beverages are made in Alaska or simply want a memorable sightseeing route with a delicious twist, this tour might be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Drive along the 114-mile Seward Highway, one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Alaska.
• Local Tastings: Enjoy samples of craft beer, cider, spirits, and cocktails at several local stops.
• Mt. Alyeska Tram Ride: Revel in stunning mountain views with a tram ride and lunch at the top.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Visit Girdwood Brewing Co., Anchorage Distillery, and Double Shovel Cider Co. for tastings and insights.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, making for a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient Transfer: Includes hotel or airport drop-off (selected hotels), making your journey seamless.

A Thorough Breakdown of What to Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins either from the historic port city of Seward or Whittier, both iconic gateways to Alaska’s wilderness. You’ll be picked up at your hotel or cruise terminal—look for the well-marked black Big Swig Tours van. The ride to Anchorage is approximately 1.5 hours from Seward and a bit less from Whittier, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

The transportation is comfortable, with a focus on small groups (up to 8), ensuring you get a more intimate experience. The coach is not just a transfer but an integral part of the adventure, with live commentary providing background on the landscapes, local culture, and history.

Scenic Drive and First Stop: Alyeska Resort

As you drive along the Seward Highway, you’ll pass through some of Alaska’s most iconic scenery: mountain vistas, glaciers in the distance, and pristine lakes. The highlight of this stretch is the visit to Alyeska Resort, a renowned destination for skiers in winter and outdoor lovers year-round.

Reaching Alyeska offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy spectacular views. We loved the way the tour balances transportation and sightseeing, allowing you to relax and absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

Tram Ride and Lunch at Mt. Alyeska

The aerial tram ride is a definite highlight. The ride to the top provides sweeping views of the Chugach Mountains and surrounding glaciers—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scenery. Once at the top, a sit-down lunch is included, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors amid breathtaking vistas.

Travelers have mentioned that the tram experience is smooth and scenic, with some reviews noting “the views from the tram are absolutely worth the trip.” The lunch menu isn’t detailed but is included, so you can expect a relaxed sit-down meal with a view.

Behind-the-Scenes Tastings and Tours

After lunch, your guide will take you through a series of stops at local craft beverage producers. These visits include:

• Girdwood Brewing Co.: Known for its innovative brews, you’ll learn about their brewing process and enjoy tastings.
• Anchorage Distillery: Discover how local spirits are crafted, with behind-the-scenes insights.
• Double Shovel Cider Co.: Sample a variety of ciders and learn about cider-making in Alaska.

People who have been on the tour appreciate the behind-the-scenes access, as it goes beyond just tasting—you’re also learning about the craftsmanship involved. One reviewer shared that they appreciated “the behind-the-scenes tours and tastings,” which added depth to the experience.

Additional Stops and Optional Tasting Fees

The tour includes tastings of beer, cider, spirits, and craft cocktails, but additional tastings at each location are not included. If you’re a serious connoisseur or just eager to sample more, you might find yourself wanting to purchase more on-site. The stops are carefully curated to showcase local, authentic Alaskan beverages—far from mainstream breweries.

Drop-off and End of the Tour

After a full day of scenic drives, tastings, and sightseeing, you’ll be returned to your hotel or the airport in Anchorage, depending on your arrangements. The tour ends with ample time to settle in before your onward journey.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $369 per person, the experience isn’t the cheapest option available, but it offers good value if you consider the combination of scenic views, authentic tastings, lunch, and personalized guide service. The tour’s inclusion of a tram ride and behind-the-scenes visits makes it stand out from typical transit or sightseeing tours. For travelers wanting a curated, relaxed experience that combines sightseeing with local flavors, this is a solid choice.

Why It Works Well

• The small group size enhances interaction and comfort
• The scenic drive along the Seward Highway is arguably the best way to see the area
• The brewery, cidery, and distillery visits give insight into Alaska’s craft beverage scene
• The tram and lunch at Mt. Alyeska add a memorable element to the day

Possible Drawbacks

• It’s a one-way tour, so it’s best suited for those heading from Whittier or Seward to Anchorage
• Additional tastings at each location cost extra, so budget accordingly if you’re a drinks enthusiast
• The tour lasts roughly a day, so it may not suit travelers with limited time

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy both scenic drives and craft beverages. If you’re someone who likes to learn about local ingredients and processes, you’ll appreciate the behind-the-scenes tours. It’s also great for those wanting a relaxed, small-group experience that combines nature, culture, and food in one package.

It’s less ideal for travelers who prefer a quick transfer without stops or those looking for a more adrenaline-fueled activity. Also, if you’re not interested in drinking or have dietary restrictions, some stops might be less appealing, though the scenery and overall experience remain compelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, the tour is fully guided with a knowledgeable driver/guide providing live commentary throughout the day.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included from your hotel or cruise terminal in Whittier or Seward, and it’s a one-way transfer to Anchorage.

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

Are meals included?
Lunch is included at Mt. Alyeska, but additional tastings at breweries, distilleries, or cideries are extra.

How long is the drive?
The drive along the Seward Highway to Alyeska Resort takes approximately 1.5 hours.

What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes are required, and it’s advisable to wear layers suitable for mountain weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the tasting component, it’s best for travelers of legal drinking age.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a minimum number of travelers?
Yes, the tour requires a minimum number of participants to operate; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This guided craft tour from Seward or Whittier to Anchorage offers a thoughtful blend of Alaska’s stunning scenery and local craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy a relaxed, small-group experience with plenty of opportunities to learn and taste. The combination of a scenic drive, tram ride, and behind-the-scenes visits to breweries, cideries, and distilleries makes it a well-rounded day out.

While it’s on the pricier side, the inclusion of lunch, scenic viewpoints, and personalized touring makes it worthwhile for curious travelers seeking a taste of local Alaska beyond wildlife cruises. Whether you’re a beverage enthusiast or simply looking to add a memorable experience to your trip, this tour delivers on both scenery and flavor.

In short, if you love good drinks, stunning landscapes, and wanting to learn about local Alaska culture—this is a trip that won’t disappoint.