Private Bear Viewing By Seaplane

Imagine soaring over Alaska’s rugged landscapes in a private seaplane, then quietly watching Brown Bears in their natural habitat for hours on end. That’s exactly what this Private Bear Viewing by Seaplane tour offers. With a stellar 5.0 rating from six reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience unforgettable. The combination of scenic flights, expert guides, and close encounters with Alaska’s famous bears creates a compelling adventure—one that feels both exclusive and authentic.

One of the standout features is that this tour is completely private, making it ideal for those looking for a personalized experience without the crowds. Plus, the flight over Admiralty Island and the Tongass National Forest offers some of the most stunning views the region has to offer. However, it’s worth noting that this trip costs around $2,500 per person, which is a significant investment, but one that many believe is worth every penny for the access to pristine wilderness and wildlife in such an intimate setting.

While the trip is designed to be enriching and flexible—offering customizations and a full 6 hours of adventure—weather can impact plans, as with any outdoor activity in Alaska. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable walking over uneven terrain and who want a genuine, eco-conscious experience. If you’re after a memorable, nature-centered journey with a focus on Alaska’s Brown Bears, this tour might just be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Tour: You and your group enjoy an intimate experience with no other visitors.
• Expert Guides: Led by locals who know the area intimately, ensuring a safe and informative journey.
• Scenic Flights: Covering Admiralty Island and the Tongass National Forest, offering breathtaking views.
• Flexible Itinerary: Up to 4 hours of bear viewing, with options for customizations like additional flightseeing.
• Eco-Friendly: All trips are carbon-negative, emphasizing responsible tourism.
• Practical Details: Includes rain gear, rubber boots, lunch, and facility fees—all designed to keep you comfortable.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The Journey Begins at Juneau Airport

Your adventure kicks off at Ward Air Inc., where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. The check-in process is straightforward, especially since this is a private tour—no need to worry about large crowds. Once you’re all set, the excitement builds as you step into the seaplane, ready for the approximately 20-30 minute flight over some of Alaska’s most iconic scenery.

Flights Over Admiralty Island and Tongass National Forest

As the plane lifts off, you’ll witness the glaciers and rugged terrain of Juneau fade into the distance. The highlight here is flying over Admiralty Island National Monument, famous for its dense bear habitat. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning aerial views, with one noting how the floating glaciers and lush wilderness make the flight a highlight in itself.

Bear Viewing: The Main Event

Upon arrival at your designated bear viewing area—often a secluded spot along a creek or shoreline—you’ll spend 2 to 4 hours observing Brown Bears in their natural environment. The actual viewing time is flexible, allowing your guide to tailor the experience based on wildlife activity and weather conditions.

Travelers have shared memorable moments of witnessing mothers with cubs, bears fishing for salmon, and bears wandering freely in the wilderness. One reviewer mentioned seeing five bears, including a mother and her cub, which highlights how close and varied your encounters can be. Guides like Peter Nave are praised for their knowledgeable and approachable manner, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Return Flight and Final Views

After soaking in the sights and sounds of the wilderness, you’ll board the plane again for a beautiful return flight over the Tongass Forest and, optionally, the Juneau Icefield—offering extra flightseeing that some guests choose to add for an even more spectacular experience. This flight allows you to see Alaska from a perspective few get to enjoy, with reviewer comments often mentioning how smooth and breathtaking the flights are.

Flexibility and Customization

The tour is highly customizable—so if you’re interested in extending your bear viewing, adding more flightseeing, or tailoring your experience, your guide is likely to accommodate. Just reach out beforehand, and they can prepare a personalized itinerary.

What’s Included and Practical Considerations

For the price, the tour includes all the essentials: rubber boots, rain gear, lunch, and landing and facility fees. These details are crucial in Alaska, where weather can be unpredictable, and terrain may be slippery or uneven. Reviewers appreciated the thoughtfulness of these inclusions, noting that it made the experience comfortable and hassle-free.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Ward Air Inc. in Juneau, with near public transportation options available. The tour runs daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM, giving plenty of flexibility in planning your day.

Accessibility and Suitability

While most travelers can participate, it’s important to note that you should be able to walk over 1 mile on slippery terrain. This makes the tour less suitable for those with mobility issues or severe balance concerns. Still, for those comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions, it’s an adventure that’s well worth the effort.

The Value: Is It Worth the Cost?

At $2,499.50 per person, this tour is certainly an investment. However, when you consider the private nature, the expert guides, the scenic flights, and the rare opportunity to see bears in the wild, many reviewers agree that it offers exceptional value. One even remarked, “I would love to do that excursion every day and never get tired of it,” highlighting its memorable quality.

The small group size—or private arrangement—means you’re not just a number. This intimacy enhances wildlife sightings and allows for more personalized attention from guides. Plus, with a full six hours of adventure, there’s enough time to truly connect with the wilderness.

Why It’s a Good Deal

• The scenic flights alone are worth a substantial part of the price, offering aerial views of glaciers and forests that are impossible to replicate elsewhere.
• The expert guides ensure you see a variety of bears and learn about their behavior and habitat.
• The inclusions, such as lunch and rain gear, save you from having to pack or rent additional equipment.
• The environmentally responsible approach adds peace of mind, knowing your adventure minimizes ecological impact.

Authenticity and Reviews: What Travelers Say

The experiences shared by past guests reflect consistent themes. Reviewers highlight the knowledge and approachability of guides like Peter Nave and Mattheus, who are praised for their depth of local knowledge and ability to spot bears with precision. One reviewer mentioned that the lunch was delicious, contributing to the overall positive experience.

Many describe the aerial views as breathtaking, with some noting that they had never seen such scenery elsewhere. The close-up bear sightings—including mothers with cubs—are often described as unforgettable. The absence of crowds adds a layer of intimacy that enhances the sense of connection with nature.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This private bear viewing experience is ideal for adventure seekers who crave an authentic, wildlife-focused tour in Alaska. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic flights, expert guides, and exclusive access to wildlife in a pristine environment. If you’re willing to invest in a luxurious, eco-conscious, and customizable adventure, this tour offers a compelling, memorable way to connect with Alaska’s wilderness.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience. Weather can also influence plans, so flexibility and a love for outdoor adventures are key.

In short, if you’re after a unique, personalized opportunity to see Alaska’s iconic bears in action and enjoy awe-inspiring flights, this tour is a remarkable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is exclusive to your group, providing a personalized experience without other travelers nearby.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers rubber boots, rain gear, lunch, landing and facility fees, and the scenic flights over Admiralty Island and Tongass National Forest.

How long is the bear viewing segment?
You can expect between 2 to 4 hours of bear viewing, with the exact time depending on wildlife activity and weather conditions.

What is the difficulty level?
Participants should be comfortable walking over 1 mile on slippery terrain, as the experience involves some physical activity in outdoor conditions.

Can I customize the trip?
Yes, the tour offers options for additional flightseeing, longer bear viewing, or other modifications—just ask your guide beforehand.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips are weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Private Bear Viewing by Seaplane tour from Juneau combines breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and genuine wildlife encounters—perfect for those wanting an intimate, eco-conscious journey into Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, this experience stands out as a memorable highlight of any Alaskan visit.