Whittier to Anchorage Cruise Transfer Wildlife Center and Tram

A Practical Guide to the Whittier to Anchorage Wildlife Center and Tram Transfer

Thinking about making the journey from Whittier to Anchorage? If so, this guided transfer offers more than just a ride — it’s a curated experience showcasing some of Alaska’s most memorable sights. You’ll travel comfortably in a Mercedes Sprinter, enjoying scenic stops, expert commentary, and the freedom of flexible drop-offs.

What we like most? First, the inclusion of guides who seem truly knowledgeable — they help bring Alaska’s highlights to life. Second, the small-group setting ensures a more personal, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the scenery. But a potential consideration is the price: at $475 per person, it’s not the cheapest option for a transfer, but the value lies in the curated stops and guided insights.

This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a stress-free, informative journey with a focus on wildlife, scenic beauty, and local highlights. It’s especially suited for those arriving in Whittier via cruise or looking for a scenic, guided transfer to Anchorage that includes memorable sightseeing.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a Mercedes Sprinter for a smooth ride and small-group intimacy.
• Curated Stops: Highlights include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Alyeska Tram.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with commentary.
• Flexible Drop-Offs: End your trip at your hotel, Airbnb, or the airport, with some optional local visits.
• All-Inclusive Stops: Entry fees to wildlife center and tram are included, saving time and hassle.
• Timing and Duration: The full experience lasts around 4 to 5 hours, making it a manageable day trip.

The Journey from Whittier to Anchorage: A Detailed Look

Starting in Whittier: A Town Unlike Any Other

Your adventure begins in Whittier, a tiny, unique port town mostly known for its cruise-ship traffic. The tour kicks off with a brief look at its landmarks, including the Begich Towers, a building that’s become an icon of this remote community. Expect to see the harbor and some local shops that serve the small population. This part is quick but gives a glimpse into a town built around its port and transportation hub.

Many reviews highlight the charm of this start, with travelers appreciating the short but informative introduction. The focus is on setting the scene for what’s to come—a scenic route filled with wildlife and mountain views.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel: A Tunnel through Time

Next, the journey takes you through the longest combined vehicle-and-rail tunnel in North America. Operating on a timed schedule, this one-lane marvel offers a rare thrill as you traverse a tunnel that links Whittier to the mainland. The 15-minute crossing is not just a transportation necessity but a memorable experience in itself. It’s a highlight for many travelers, offering a tangible sense of Alaska’s engineering feats.

The guided commentary here might touch on the history and significance of the tunnel, adding depth to this short passage. It’s a good chance to appreciate the scale and ingenuity involved in Alaska’s infrastructure.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: A Sanctuary of Iconic Animals

The biggest draw of this tour is a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a wide 200-acre preserve dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating native animals. Here, you’ll see brown and black bears, moose, musk oxen, bison, wolves, and porcupines. It’s a chance to observe Alaska’s iconic creatures up close, often in naturalistic settings.

You’ll spend about an hour and a half wandering the grounds, guided by knowledgeable staff or guides. Many reviews mention the “amazing variety” of animals and how the center’s efforts to rescue and care for wildlife seem genuine. The center’s setting also provides excellent photo opportunities, especially for those wanting to capture Alaska’s wilderness.

Girdwood and Alyeska Tram: Mountain Views and Mountain Air

From the wildlife center, the tour continues southward to Girdwood, a charming mountain town famous for the Alyeska Resort. Here, you’ll take a scenic ride on the Alyeska Aerial Tram, which whisks you up the mountainside.

The tram ride offers sweeping views of lush forests and rugged peaks, making it a favorite part of the trip. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic vistas and snap photos — many travelers describe the views as “breathtaking.” This stop typically lasts around an hour and a half, giving you time to appreciate the scenery and perhaps enjoy a quick snack or walk.

The Turnagain Arm Drive: One of Alaska’s Most Scenic Routes

As you head toward Anchorage, the tour passes along Turnagain Arm, a breathtaking stretch of coastline renowned for dramatic mountain vistas and tides that sometimes produce impressive bore tides. The guide will point out the geological and natural features, making this drive both beautiful and educational.

With around 30 minutes here, it’s a quick but impactful stop that emphasizes Alaska’s wild coastline. Many appreciate the opportunity to see this iconic stretch of road—it’s often called one of the most scenic drives in the state.

Final Stop: Anchorage and Flexible Drop-Offs

Your journey ends in Anchorage, where the guide offers flexible drop-off options—at your hotel, Airbnb, or even the airport. If time allows, you might visit local highlights like Earthquake Park or Lake Hood, which is famous for its floatplanes. This final segment is convenient and adaptable, especially for travelers with tight schedules.

What Makes This Tour a Good Value?

At $475 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to get from Whittier to Anchorage, but it combines transportation with curated sightseeing and expert commentary—making it more of an experience than just a transfer. The inclusion of entrance fees to the wildlife center and tram ride also adds convenience and value, saving travelers both time and money.

Many reviewers appreciate the small-group setting, which avoids the feeling of being just another face in a large tour bus. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate and relaxed, perfect for asking questions and engaging with guides.

The tour’s timing—around four to five hours—fits well into a day’s plans, especially for cruise passengers or those on a tight itinerary. The optional stops and flexible drop-offs allow travelers to customize their experience, whether they want to focus on wildlife, scenery, or local culture.

About the Guides and Reviews

While no reviews are currently posted, the emphasis on “knowledgeable guides” suggests that the tour provider prioritizes expert commentary. This can make all the difference in transforming a scenic drive into a memorable learning experience. Travelers often value guides who are friendly, well-informed, and able to answer questions about Alaska’s wildlife, geology, and history.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join.
• It’s recommended to book well in advance—on average, travelers book about 193 days ahead—to secure a spot.
• The tour includes admission fees but not snacks or bottled water, so plan accordingly.
• The pickup is offered from the Whittier cruise terminal, and drop-offs can be arranged at hotels or the airport.
• The tour operates on a scheduled timetable, with precise timing for the tunnel and other stops, so punctuality is helpful.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the Whittier to Anchorage route, especially those interested in Alaska’s wildlife and scenic landscapes. It suits cruisers arriving in Whittier, as it offers an easy, organized transfer combined with sightseeing. It’s also perfect for those who prefer small-group settings and personalized attention over large, generic buses.

If you’re keen on learning about Alaska’s animals, enjoying dramatic mountain and coastal views, and arriving in Anchorage with some memorable photos and stories, this tour fits the bill.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as there are no specific restrictions mentioned. It’s a good option for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy wildlife and scenic drives.

Can I be dropped off at the airport?
Yes, the tour includes flexible drop-off options, including the Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage.

What if I want to visit specific sites in Anchorage afterward?
You can coordinate with the guide to be dropped off at your hotel, Airbnb, or the airport—just message after booking to customize your drop-off.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
While not explicitly stated, Alaska weather can be unpredictable. Check with the provider if weather might impact your plans or sightseeing stops.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, snacks and bottled water are not included, so bring your own if needed. There may be opportunities to purchase food at certain stops.

How long is each major stop?
The wildlife center visit lasts about 1.5 hours, the tram ride about 1.5 hours, and the scenic drive through Turnagain Arm 30 minutes. The town of Whittier is a quick 20-minute overview.

Will I get good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The tram ride and scenic drive offer spectacular views, and the wildlife center provides great animal photography chances.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed experience.

What makes this tour stand out from other transfer options?
Its combination of sightseeing, wildlife, scenic views, and flexible drop-offs makes it more than just a transfer. The guided commentary and all-inclusive stops add real value.

Final Thoughts

This transfer from Whittier to Anchorage is more than just a shuttle; it’s a curated experience designed for travelers who want to see Alaska’s wildlife and scenery without the hassle of planning each stop. The guided insight, small-group atmosphere, and inclusion of key sights like the wildlife center and tram make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting to add a little adventure and education to their journey.

While it demands a bit of a premium, the convenience of all-inclusive stops and expert guides makes it a practical, enriching option. It’s especially ideal for cruise passengers or anyone who prefers a guided, scenic, and wildlife-focused transfer rather than a simple drive. If you’re looking to make the most of your time in Alaska, this tour might just be the best way to do it.