An Alaska cruise sails through some of the most stunning landscapes on earth, but to truly grasp the immense scale and grandeur of its wilderness, you need to see it from the air. A floatplane tour offers a perspective impossible from the ship or the ground, lifting you above serrated peaks and sweeping down over ancient glaciers and deep, water-carved fjords. It’s an unforgettable experience that reveals the raw, expansive beauty of the Last Frontier.
These quintessential Alaskan “air taxis” are a vital mode of transport in a state with few roads, and for visitors, they provide unparalleled access to remote and breathtaking scenery. From the thundering waterfalls of Misty Fjords to the endless icefields around Juneau, a flightseeing excursion is one of the most popular and worthwhile investments you can make on your Alaska cruise.
Ketchikan: The Misty Fjords National Monument
For the most dramatic scenery in Southeast Alaska, a floatplane tour from Ketchikan into the Misty Fjords National Monument is a must. This 2.3-million-acre wilderness is a masterpiece of glacier-carved granite. Imagine soaring above 3,000-foot cliffs that plunge directly into deep, dark saltwater fjords. Waterfalls cascade from hidden alpine lakes, and dense Tongass National Forest blankets the mountainsides.
Most tours last between one and two hours and include a landing on a remote mountain lake or saltwater inlet. Here, surrounded by complete silence, you can step out onto the plane’s floats and absorb the pristine beauty. Every passenger gets a window seat and a headset to hear the pilot’s expert narration on the area’s geology and wildlife.
- Typical Cost: $280 - $380 per person.
Juneau: The Expansive Juneau Icefield
As Alaska’s capital, Juneau is a major hub for flightseeing operations and offers the most options for glacier-focused tours. The main attraction is the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Icefield, a remnant of the last ice age and the source of 36 named glaciers, including the famous Taku and Mendenhall Glaciers.
Juneau floatplane tours typically last about 40-60 minutes, flying you over the sprawling icefield’s deep blue crevasses, meltwater pools, and cascading icefalls. While helicopter tours offer the unique experience of landing and walking on a glacier, floatplane tours are generally shorter and less expensive. Some itineraries include a water landing on a lake with a stunning glacier view, providing a different but equally impressive experience. You’ll soar over at least five distinct glaciers, such as the Taku, Norris, Hole-In-The-Wall, and the East and West Twin Glaciers.
- Typical Cost: $200 - $350 per person.
What to Expect on Your Flight
Floatplane tours are an intimate and thrilling experience. The aircraft are small, typically seating between 4 and 8 passengers, which ensures everyone has a window seat for unobstructed views. The flights are low and slow, perfect for photography and soaking in the epic landscapes below. Your pilot will serve as your guide, narrating the flight and pointing out landmarks and potential wildlife sightings.
Important Considerations:
- Motion Sickness: These small planes experience more movement than commercial jets. If you are prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to take Dramamine or a similar preventative measure beforehand.
- Weight Limits: Safety is paramount, and floatplane operations are subject to strict weight and balance calculations. Individual passenger weight limits are enforced, usually between 200-250 pounds, although some operators can accommodate up to 300 pounds. Be prepared to provide your weight when booking and to be verified at check-in. There are no exceptions.
- Weather Dependency: Flightseeing tours are entirely dependent on the weather. Flights are frequently canceled due to low clouds, fog, or high winds. If the operator cancels the flight, you will receive a full refund, but it may be difficult to book a replacement excursion at the last minute. For this reason, booking through your cruise line can be advantageous. A ship-booked excursion guarantees a credit that can be applied to another available tour if your flight is grounded.
A floatplane tour is an incredible way to appreciate the vastness of Alaska’s wilderness. It’s especially well-suited for photographers and those who want to experience the majesty of glaciers without the physical demands of a helicopter landing and ice trek. The thrill of taking off and landing on water, combined with the awe-inspiring aerial views, makes it a highlight of any Alaskan cruise.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Alaska cruise floatplane tour cost?
Costs vary by location and tour length. Expect to pay between $280 to $380 per person for a 1-1.5 hour tour of Misty Fjords from Ketchikan. Juneau glacier tours are slightly less, ranging from $200 to $350 for a 40-60 minute flight.
Are there weight limits for floatplane tours in Alaska?
Yes, all operators have strict weight limits for safety and balance. Limits typically range from 200-250 lbs per passenger, though some operators may accommodate up to 300 lbs, sometimes with a surcharge. All passengers are weighed at check-in.
What happens if my floatplane tour is canceled due to bad weather?
Weather cancellations are common due to low visibility or high winds. If the operator cancels the flight, you will receive a full refund. Booking your tour through the cruise line can offer added protection, often providing an automatic credit towards another excursion if your original tour is canceled.