Ketchikan Duck Tour
About this activity
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Experience Highlights
Embark on the classic Duck Tour of Ketchikan and discover "Alaska's First City" by land and water! For 90 minutes you'll wander the historic streets and, without getting off, glide down to the calm waters of the Tongass Narrows for two unforgettable perspectives of the town and its harbour.
The usual meeting point is Ketchikan's cruise piers 1-4; exact details - and possible transfer supplement for passengers docking at Ward Cove - are confirmed on your voucher. The tour is conducted in English, is suitable for all ages and features live narration that mixes history, wildlife and good humour.
- Secure your seat in an amphibious vehicle with limited seating.
- Experience two adventures in one: scenic city tour and harbour cruise
- Listen to expert guides uncover legends, fun facts and local jokes
What’s included
- Amphibious vehicle with guided tour of 90 min.
- Live storytelling in English (history, culture and wildlife)
- Pick up and drop off at Ketchikan cruise piers 1-4
- On-board toilet for greater comfort
Select participants and date
Step by Step
Climb aboard a state-of-the-art amphibious vehicle and get ready for a unique tour: first you'll meander through the colourful streets of Ketchikan as your guide points out landmarks such as Creek Street, old houses on stilts and the iconic carved totem poles that pay homage to the Tlingit culture.
Arriving at the launch ramp comes the most anticipated moment: the splash down. The driver transforms the bus into a boat and you find yourself cruising the Tongass Narrows, the inland arm of the sea that surrounds the city. From the water, the wooden buildings, the seaplanes taking off and the forested mountains make for a postcard-perfect view that can only be seen from this vantage point.
As you move at a leisurely pace, your guide shares anecdotes about the Tongass rainforest, salmon fever and the importance of totem poles as a historical tale carved in cedar. Thanks to the medium-sized group format (max. 49 passengers) everyone enjoys unobstructed views and the chance to ask live questions.
The water route includes a walk past local fishing boats and boatyards; with a bit of luck you'll spot bald eagles on the masts or sea lions resting on the buoys. On the way back to the mainland, the vehicle then heads back through the streets before disembarking at the same point of departure, leaving you plenty of time to explore Ketchikan on your own or return to your cruise ship.
For maximum enjoyment, arrive 30 minutes before your chosen time, wear waterproof layers (the weather can change quickly) and bring your camera ready - the transition from land to sea guarantees spectacular photos you'll be hard to forget.
