Ketchikan, Alaska: The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure

If you’re heading to Ketchikan and looking for an activity that mixes adventure with authentic Alaskan scenery, the Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure deserves a serious look. This 3-hour tour promises a chance to see Alaska’s underwater beauty in a way that many cruise passengers miss—by snorkeling in calm, clear waters teeming with marine life. Think of it as a peek into a hidden world just minutes from your cruise ship.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the experienced guides—all PADI professionals—bring a wealth of knowledge and safety awareness. Second, the quality of equipment and wetsuits ensures comfort even in colder water temperatures. A potential drawback? The activity’s strenuous nature and physical requirements mean it’s best suited for those in good health and reasonably fit. This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Alaska’s marine environment up close, especially those who enjoy a bit of a workout with their sightseeing.

Key Points

• Outstanding Guides: All tours are led by certified PADI professionals who prioritize safety and knowledge-sharing.
• High-Quality Gear: The use of 7mm wetsuits, masks, fins, and optional weight belts make the experience comfortable and accessible.
• Unique Marine Encounters: Expect to see sea stars, sea urchins, fish, and colorful invertebrates in shallow tide pools and kelp forests.
• Convenient Location: The tour starts just five miles from the cruise pier at the Liquid Sunshine gauge, making logistics simple.
• All-Inclusive Price: Roundtrip transportation, gear, and guided tour are included, providing great value for the $180 fee.
• Suitable for Beginners and Pros: With full instructions and supervision, even first-timers can enjoy this activity—though it’s rated as strenuous.

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A Detailed Look at the Mountain Point Snorkeling Experience

How the Tour Begins: Easy Access and Preparation

Your adventure kicks off at the Liquid Sunshine gauge near the Ketchikan Visitors Center on Berth 2 in downtown Ketchikan. From here, you’re transported comfortably to the site, with roundtrip transportation included in the price. On the way, you’ll stop at the shop to change into your wetsuit—an experience in itself, thanks to the heated dressing rooms and secure storage for your belongings.

The wetsuits are top-tier 7mm suits, designed to keep you warm in waters that, surprisingly, reach around 65°F in summer. This warmth level is a delight for many, especially considering the chilly reputation of Alaskan waters, but with the suits, you’ll hardly notice the cold. The gear also includes hood, boots, gloves, mask, fins, snorkel, and optional weight belts for freediving—covering all your needs.

What You’ll Experience: Underwater Alaska

Once suited up, you’ll be taken to a calm, rocky beach with shallow tide pools and steep rock walls—Southeast Alaska’s best snorkeling spot. The underwater landscape is stunning, with kelp forests and rock formations teeming with marine life.

During the guided marine life tour—an hour-long segment—your guides will point out sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and a variety of fish and colorful invertebrates. One reviewer remarked, “We had a great time! Water was a bit rough and it is definitely a strenuous activity, but the guides were so helpful and nice.” The guides’ professionalism and knowledge enhance the experience, turning a simple snorkel into a fascinating exploration of Alaska’s underwater ecosystems.

The Experience: What to Expect

Expect to hover over vibrant kelp beds, spotting multi-colored sea stars, urchins, and other invertebrates. The shallow tide pools are especially lively, offering close-up views of marine creatures, some of which are touchable—if you’re brave enough!

While the water temperature is surprisingly warm, participants should be reasonably physically fit because the activity is rated as “Most Strenuous.” This means you’ll be moving around, potentially battling currents, and staying in the water for about an hour. As one reviewer noted, “The entire team was very friendly. It was a unique experience throughout. I would recommend it to anyone who loves the underwater world and nature.”

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers with a good level of physical fitness and no severe medical conditions—especially heart or respiratory issues. It’s not recommended for children under 8, those with mobility problems, or anyone over 65. Proper preparation, including bringing a towel, swimsuit, socks, and change of clothes, ensures a smooth day.

What’s Not Included?

While the tour includes everything you need for snorkeling, souvenirs like Snorkel Alaska logo wear are available for purchase. The experience has received high praise for efficient organization, friendly staff, and comprehensive instructions.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $180 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the all-inclusive nature—transport, high-quality gear, expert guides, and marine experience. Reviewers consistently mention how well-organized and professional the operation is, making it feel like a safe, well-managed adventure rather than a rushed activity.

Why This Tour Might Be a Perfect Fit

If you’re a cruise passenger with a sense of adventure, a love for marine life, or simply curious about what lies beneath Alaska’s waters, this snorkeling trip can be a highlight. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to get out of the city and experience the natural beauty below the surface, something many traditional sightseeing tours don’t offer. Plus, the friendly guides and high-quality gear make it accessible even for beginners.

Final Thoughts

The Mountain Point Snorkeling Adventure in Ketchikan offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s underwater world, combining professional guidance, top-notch equipment, and stunning scenery. It’s a chance to see marine life up-close and learn about the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides. For travelers who enjoy active, outdoor experiences and are comfortable in the water, it’s a memorable addition to any Alaskan itinerary.

However, keep in mind the physical demands of the tour. If you have mobility issues, respiratory concerns, or prefer less strenuous activities, this might not be the best fit. But for those ready for a bit of a workout that leads to incredible views beneath the waves, it’s well worth considering.

This tour not only provides a meaningful interaction with Alaska’s marine environment but also delivers excellent value thanks to its inclusive pricing, expert guides, and convenient location.

FAQ

Is transportation to the snorkeling site included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the Liquid Sunshine gauge near the Ketchikan Visitors Center is included, making logistics straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, swimsuit, change of clothes, socks, and a towel. The tour provides all the gear, but personal items should be stored securely.

Is the water cold?
In summer, water temperatures can reach about 65°F, which is surprisingly warm for Alaska, especially with the included 7mm wetsuits.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners thanks to full instructions, supervision, and quality gear. However, it’s rated as strenuous, so some physical fitness is required.

What is the minimum age?
Participants should be at least 8 years old, and the maximum weight limit is 260 lbs. The tour is not suitable for children under 8 or those with certain medical conditions.

How long is the snorkeling portion?
The guided marine life tour lasts about one hour, with the total activity lasting around three hours including preparation and transportation.

What if I have medical conditions?
Guests with heart, respiratory, or mobility issues should consult their doctor before booking, as the activity requires physical exertion and is rated as strenuous.

This snorkeling adventure in Ketchikan stands out as a dynamic, well-organized way to experience Alaska’s marine life. With knowledgeable guides, top-notch equipment, and vibrant underwater scenery, it’s suited best for active travelers eager to explore beyond the surface—literally.

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