Misty Fjords Expedition – 6 Passenger Boat

Our review focuses on the Misty Fjords Expedition offered by Alaska Hummer Adventures — a 4.5-hour boat tour that promises intimate, personalized explorations of one of Alaska’s most breathtaking wilderness areas. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and features suggest it offers a rare glimpse into the raw beauty of the Misty Fjords, far from the crowds and commercialized tourist spots.

What we really like about this tour is the small group size — a maximum of six travelers — which means you’ll get a more relaxed experience and plenty of time for questions or close-up wildlife sightings. The expert guides and focus on personalized attention stand out, as does the opportunity to see mountain goats, whales, seals, and sea lions from the comfort of your boat. A potential drawback is the cost — at $400 per person — which may seem steep but can be justified by the private, customized nature of the trip. This tour is best suited for travelers who value intimate, flexible exploration and want to avoid the crowded, large-group excursions typical of cruise ship days.

If you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or someone who appreciates off-the-beaten-path adventures, this trip could be a highlight of your Alaska visit. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and want to see the wilderness without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Small, private experience with a maximum of 6 travelers for personalized attention
• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests and viewing preferences
• Wildlife sightings, including whales, bears, mountain goats, seals, and sea lions
• Convenient departure from Ketchikan with optional pickup
• Valuable for travelers who appreciate expert guidance and authentic landscapes
• Price reflects a premium, intimate experience rather than a mass-tour option

Setting sail from Ketchikan into the Misty Fjords

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup in Ketchikan, making it easy to start your day rather than waste time on transportation. The boat itself is a small, 6-passenger vessel, which makes for a cozy yet comfortable ride across the water. The 4 hours 30 minutes duration strikes a good balance — long enough to cover the highlights but not so long that you feel exhausted.

Once underway, the real magic begins. As you leave the harbor, your captain (who is usually knowledgeable and friendly, according to reviews) will set the tone with commentary about the area’s history and geography. You’ll cruise past the dramatic cliffs and glacial fjords that give Misty Fjords its name, with plenty of opportunities to pause and admire the scenery.

The highlights of Misty Fjords National Monument

The tour’s main focus is the Misty Fjords National Monument, an area renowned for its towering cliffs, lush forests, and waterfalls. The boat stops at key spots like Rudyerd Bay, New Eddystone Rock, and Punchbowl Cove, each offering unique vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Rudyerd Bay is a favorite for many, with its sweeping views and the chance to see mountain goats clinging to the rocky slopes. The guide’s insights about the area’s geology and history add depth to the experience, making it more than just a photo op.

New Eddystone Rock is a striking volcanic formation, perfect for photos and learning about the area’s volcanic past. From the boat, you’ll get a chance to see bald eagles soaring or seals lounging on rocks — wildlife that’s often visible from the water.

Punchbowl Cove offers a serene setting, with calm waters and lush surroundings, ideal for a quiet moment or snapping a few memorable photos.

Wildlife sightings and photo opportunities

Many reviews highlight the wildlife encounters — sightings of whales, orcas, seals, and sea lions are common. One reviewer described seeing a pod of orcas, calling it a “truly lucky” moment. The guide typically supplies binoculars, so you won’t miss the details, and you can spend more time spotting rather than straining.

The chance to see mountain goats and bears makes this tour especially appealing to nature enthusiasts. Since the area is so untouched and remote, these sightings feel authentic and unspoiled, a contrast to more commercial wildlife tours.

The value of a private, customizable experience

One of the biggest selling points is the customizability of the itinerary. Unlike larger, fixed tours, you can express your interests — whether that’s focusing on wildlife, photography, or simply soaking up the scenery. Your captain can adapt the route based on weather or wildlife activity, offering a truly tailored experience.

The small boat allows you to get closer to nature than larger vessels, which some reviews note as a significant advantage. A smaller vessel can navigate into narrower fjords and quieter coves that bigger boats can’t access, offering a more immersive view.

The practical details

The tour costs $400 per person, which might seem high but includes personalized service, expert guides, binoculars, and a private boat. The 4.5-hour duration provides ample time to explore the area without feeling rushed, a plus for those who want to savor the scenery.

Most bookings are made 48 days in advance, indicating good interest, and the tour has a minimum of 4 guests to operate. If the minimum isn’t met, you’ll receive a full refund or alternative arrangements. Weather can impact the trip, but the provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if conditions are unsafe.

Pickup options are available, and the tour concludes at the Ketchikan Cruise Pier 131, making it easy to continue your day or head back to your ship.

What travelers are saying

The reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience. Many praise the knowledgeable guides, like Captain Lance and Sheldon, for making the trip memorable and engaging. One reviewer called it a “great day, just beautiful,” emphasizing the stunning scenery and the professionalism of the crew.

Some reviews mention extra charges or shorter trip durations—an important reminder to clarify what’s included and understand that weather or operational decisions might affect the schedule.

The unanimous theme is authenticity and wildlife viewing, with many travelers remarking on the spectacular scenery and the friendly, informative guides.

The Sum Up: Is this tour worth your time?

This Misty Fjords private boat tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Alaska’s wilderness intimately. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value personalized attention, wildlife encounters, and spectacular scenery without the crowds. The small group setting means you’ll get more flexibility and a better chance to ask questions or focus on wildlife sightings.

While the price may seem steep, many find it justified by the quality of the experience, the expert guidance, and the authenticity of the landscape. If you’re visiting Ketchikan and have an interest in nature, photography, or wildlife, this trip could be a highlight — especially if you’re after a more exclusive and flexible adventure.

For those on a budget, though, it’s worth considering how much value you place on personalized service and intimate scenery. This isn’t a tour for those seeking a quick, large-group experience — it’s for travelers who want to connect deeply with Alaska’s wild side in a comfortable, private setting.

FAQs

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 48 days in advance, but it’s worth checking availability closer to your trip. The tour requires at least 4 participants, so last-minute bookings depend on filling those seats.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t safe or favorable, the provider will offer a different date or a full refund, ensuring you don’t pay for a day you can’t enjoy.

Are snacks or water included?
No, snacks and bottled water are not included in the price, so participants should bring their own if desired.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, and possibly mountain goats or bears. Wildlife sightings depend on the day’s activity, but these are common in the area.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the boat size and nature of the trip, it’s best suited for those comfortable on small vessels and with an interest in wildlife and nature.

Where does the tour end?
The trip concludes at Ketchikan Cruise Pier 131, making it easy to continue exploring or return to your cruise ship.

In essence, the Misty Fjords private boat tour offers a combination of adventure, education, and stunning scenery that’s hard to beat in Alaska. Whether you’re after wildlife, landscape photography, or just a peaceful day on the water, this trip has the potential to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Ketchikan.