Plan your visit
Plan Your Cruise
Get ready for a 6-hour journey into Prince William Sound. Review our checklist for packing, parking, and boarding.
Getting there
Valdez is a 5-6 hour drive from Anchorage via the Glenn and Richardson Highways.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive to Valdez via the Richardson Highway, connecting from Anchorage via the Glenn Highway (about a 5-6 hour drive). | 5-6 hours from Anchorage | Cost of rental and gas | A very scenic drive featuring waterfalls, Thompson Pass, and the Worthington Glacier. |
| Boat: Take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Whittier across Prince William Sound to Valdez. | 3-6 hours depending on the ferry | Varies by season and vehicle size | Offers an alternative to driving, with great views of the Sound before you even start the glacier cruise. |
| Tour: Book a guided catamaran cruise (like Stan Stephens or Lu-Lu Belle) departing directly from the Valdez Small Boat Harbor. | 6-9 hours | ~$180 per adult | The primary and most practical way to view the Columbia Glacier and safely navigate the iceberg fields. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Cruises operate strictly from mid-May through mid-September. Weather in Prince William Sound is highly variable. Rain is common, and temperatures drop significantly as you approach the iceberg fields. July and August offer the warmest base temperatures, but you must still dress in layers.
What to bring
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The boat will not reach the glacier's face. The massive, miles-long iceberg field prevents close access.
You will view the 300-foot ice wall from a distance using binoculars and zoom lenses.
How the day runs
A typical timeline for a 6-hour day cruise to the glacier.
The typical daily schedule for a boat tour departing Valdez.
- Check-in at the harbor
Arrive at the Valdez Small Boat Harbor to collect your tickets and board.
- Depart Port Valdez
Sail past the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Terminal and the Old Valdez Townsite.
- Navigate Valdez Arm
Watch for Steller sea lions and Dall's porpoises as you enter Prince William Sound.
- Columbia Bay Iceberg Field
The captain carefully maneuvers through miles of floating ice.
- Glacier viewing
Spend time on the outer decks photographing the glacier terminus from a distance.
- Return to harbor
Arrive back at the Valdez Small Boat Harbor.
What to bring on board
Dressing appropriately is critical for this trip. Temperatures drop drastically near the ice. Wear warm, insulated base layers and a windproof, waterproof outer jacket. Bring warm gloves and a beanie. You will want closed-toe, nonslip shoes for moving safely around the wet viewing decks. Read our full guide on What to Wear.
Bring high-quality binoculars for spotting distant wildlife. A camera with a good zoom lens is essential, as the boat cannot get close to the glacier face. You may bring a small cooler with extra snacks, but check space guidelines first. Do not bring personal alcohol; it is strictly prohibited.
Easiest way to do it
Columbia Glacier Cruise from Valdez
6 h 4.9 (301)
- Lunch: Served around 12:00 PM is a light soup lunch.
- Light refreshments: Complimentary coffee, tea and water.
From$186per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can I bring a stroller on the Columbia Glacier cruise?
Yes, you can usually bring a stroller on board. The 6-hour cruise is suitable for children, featuring heated cabins. Check Kids on the Cruise for more details on traveling with family.
Will I get seasick on the Prince William Sound cruise?
The protected fjords and large catamaran vessels provide a stable ride. However, if you are prone to motion sickness, take medication before departure. Read Seasickness Prevention for preparation tips.
What should I wear on a glacier cruise in Alaska?
Wear warm, insulated base layers and a waterproof outer jacket. Bring warm gloves, a hat, and closed-toe, nonslip shoes. Sunglasses are also recommended to protect against glare from the water and icebergs.