We loved this excursion. We purchased it directly through our cruise ship and it was well worth it. The tour itself was informative and fun. The staff were beyond friendly and accommodating. Kelsey the captain was great. She provided a lot of really cool information. The hot chocolate was to die for. The snack plate was delicious. It was a great day in Ketchikan with the Lighthouse Excursion team. read more

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We went on the Eagles, totems and lighthouse tour. The captain and deck hands were very nice, helpful and informative! When I couldn't find the eagles nest on my own they directed me towards the correct area. We saw sooo many eagles it was breathtaking! We drove by the totems, couldn't get too close so if that is your goal, you might choose another tour. We really went for the eagles so we were not disappointed as we saw tons! They also pointed out some seals and other wildlife. Much to our surprise they served us a delicious little snack with salmon dip, smoked salmon, crackers and locally made chocolate...as well as some pickled kelp I believe (I'm not a fan of pickled things so I tried but didn't pay attention lol). Well worth the price of the excursion in our opinion. Another surprise was they had a few locally made gifts on board, one of the deck hands is also a very gifted artist so he had designed some of the stickers and tees for sale. It's great to support locals! The captain was very knowledgeable about the homes along the shoreline as well...who knew there was a home featured in architectural digest in Ketchikan!?! read more

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My family and I loved this excursion. Lighthouse Excursion staff were professional and made us feel safe. Their salmon spread was delicious. This may sound silly, but one of the main reasons I wanted to see Alaska since I was a young girl, were the eagles. I would hear stories of eagles just flying overhead regularly and how stunning they looked as they soared through the sky. Well, this excursion made my dreams come true! I still have the chills just thinking about it. We did not see whales like some were fortunate to see them, but we didn't feel like we missed anything. The totem poles were gorgeous and the lighthouse added a warmth feeling when I saw it. It was a perfect day. read more

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The staff: Kelsey, Nathan, Jarred, Jeff were incredible in looking after 13 of us! The excursion was very informative with taped information and then information from the captain (Kelsey) The boat ride was comfortable and the boat itself was clean and stable. The drinks (non alcoholic) were given out followed by a tasty plate of local produce and more drinks. read more

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By sheer luck, the weather was sunny on our excursion day and we had a great time seeing the sights. But what made it even better was that Captain Kyle, Alex, and Jared were all amazing. They kept us informed about the area and what we saw while sailing. Drinks were served twice, and a delicious snack plate was provided. We couldn't have asked for a better experience! read more

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Though the crew was courteous, there were many issues with this trip. The clearly aged boat motor was so loud that we could only hear about every 5th word of what was mostly prerecorded narration. The "gourmet" snack was one small piece of salmon, some type of dip, two round pickle slices, and a few wheat thins and ritz crackers. Though we understand that wildlife is not guaranteed, we spent roughly one hour looking at two bald eagles. In total we saw two bald eagles, a handful of jumping fish, and a couple of seals beached on an incredibly unimpressive lighthouse beach. My kids spent most of the trip coloring on the back of their bingo cards. Other kids napped, played on their phones or wandered the cabin. Definitely not kid friendly. Overall our family of 5 spent $650 for the trip which would've been better spent on the docks of Ketchikan. read more

Lighthouse Excursion - Our "gourmet" snack - Boat Tours Near Me

We booked the lighthouse excursion through Holland America, and it was great! The bus was waiting for us at the dock, and the driver gave us a guided tour of Ketchikan on the way to the boat excursion. Captain Kyle and his crew were great! We had just taken off, and he found a bald eagle on a pier nearby. We saw at least three more eagles before actually spotting a group of wild orcas! It was amazing to watch them in the wild. We went by the Totem Park and the lighthouse. They served us hot chocolate and a plate of local snacks, not to mention binoculars for everyone. There are two levels to the boat. The upper level has bench seating and an outdoor area. The bottom floor has tables with benches, and then an open, enclosed area in the back. Since it was raining, we opted for the open space on the bottom, which ended up being perfect for us. We were able to open a couple of windows to take photos, and had enough room to stand up when we needed to. Highly recommend this tour! read more

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This was an excursion from a cruise. Highly recommend it. We saw eagles, the totem poles and other amazing wildlife. The light snack and beverage were wonderful ( highlighted local companies). The Captain and crew were great. read more

Lighthouse Excursion - Bald Eagle - Boat Tours Near Me

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The crew was gracious and made sure guests were comfortable. I took 3 boat excursions on Alaska and this tour was the most informative. It was a beautiful tour. Thank you! read more

This was an excursion that my husband booked for our NCL Cruise. It was a drizzly cool day (August) , but glad we were able to see several bald eagles, jumping salmon, and birds. My phone couldn't get good photos of the eagles, but I appreciated being that close to see them with binoculars. I live 2,700 miles away (no bald eagles there!) so this was truly an experience. We got to see totem poles and learn the meaning behind them, the light house, and learn about a place I never knew about. We were served a delightful tasting of local silver wild Alaska smoked salmon, wild lingonberry jam, salmon dip, kelp pickles and crackers. There's also local coffee available, various teas, and soda. Captain Jeff Karlson and his crew, Maddy and Alex were very hospitable. It was an amazing experience to be on the water, surrounded by nature, wild life, in a place I would never have thought to visit had it not been for the cruise. If you like the light lunch provided on the boat, you can purchase the salmon, jelly, and kelp in their gift shop. Along with other items to bring back home. It was nice to support local vendors rather than some big box store (there is actually a Walmart in Ketchikan!) Bummed that we weren't able to see a bear, but understandably enough this is not a zoo....This is wildlife so if you can see it great, if not then maybe on the next trip. read more

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Even in the pouring rain, this was such a great tour! From the bus ride to the actual boat tour, the guides were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. As for the tour itself, it was lovely - great ride and great views. And although I was not expecting too much from the snack service, I really enjoyed it, especially the smoked salmon with lingenberry. We were especially lucky on this trip to see not only several bald eagles, but also a pod of playful orcas. All in all, I recommend this tour to anyone! read more

Lighthouse Excursion - Boat Tours Near Me

Pilot Jeff, Mads and Alex are so great! This was an education and relaxing boat ride! Upper deck as well as heated lower cabin with tables and benches as well as a walkout on the bow and viewing inner cabin. Many eagles and nests and we spied some juveniles being trained by their parents! June 9 2023 was sunny and no jacket needed! Mads and Alex served us great tasty snacks of kelp pickles, smoked salmon by a local company, crackers and salmon dip! We snagged some warm beanies, chocolate and purchased kelp pickles for delivery to our Utah home!excursion is well worth the price and time! Norwegian denies their passengers the ability to spend enough time in Ketchikan. It was either an excursion or 8 mile ride to the town, not both! We wished we would have gotten to see the great town, but we're grateful to see the totems, eagles the stag lighthouse and experience this great crew! We'd do it again! read more

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We had a very nice tour with Lighthouse Excursions. Captain Kyle was very informative and the crew was just great. The snack was good too!

For the most part, this was a a wonderful experience. However, after having taken a whale watching cruise the day before and being pushed and shoved and not able to get any photos because altho they said I could get photos from both sides but the whales were on the OTHER side the whole time, I got on THIS boat with high hopes. It was my last chance to get some photos and there weren't that many people on this trip. I got on the second deck, in the front where I'd finally have an unobstructed view. No one could get in front of me here. I came to Alaska because I am ill and wanted to take photos to remember this. The captain then let some guy walk THRU the bridge where she was steering and he cut right in front of me (the only way he could get there and there was only like one foot in front of me) and stood right in front of me blocking me view. WHO DOES THAT? IT was extremely rude of both the captain and this pushy guy. Not okay. Otherwise, the crew was nice, the food was good and the cruise was really nice on a beautiful day. Just didn't appreciate the pushiness of this guy nor the captain letting him get away with it. read more

Awesome awesome excursion. If you're traveling to Ketchikan you should definitely do the Lighthouse, totems& Eagles excursion. Super nice crew. read more

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Everything! Saw eagles, seals , sea lions and orcas!!! Captain and staff were amazing. Local flavors were awesome. Totally recommend this excursion! A must ses experience !! read more

Great excursion. Captain Kelsey knows the area well. She pointed out eagles and their nests just after we got underway. It was interesting to hear about the history and geology of the area. Plenty of photo ops. The taste of Alaska, all locally sourced, was delicious! We even saw a humpback whale. We booked our excursion through our Holland America cruise. Capt Kelsey, her crew and bus drivers clearly enjoy their jobs. Thanks for a fun 3 hours! read more

This was an amazing trip. It started as a quick bus ride from the pier down (directionally up) to Ward Cove, where we transfered to the boat at what was once the Ketchikan pulp factory. Walking through the Tongass National Forest is one thing, but seeing it from the water is something else. Our first stop (where we idled off shore) was the Totem Bight State Park where we were able to take pictures of the totems as our captain told us about the history and the native culture. Then, it was onward to Guard Island Lighthouse, with a plethora of eagle spotting and picture taking opportunities along the way. If you are a collector of lighthouse stamps, be sure to bring your passport because they have a Guard Island stamp on board. The day was not the best, with lots of drizzle, so the hot chocolate was warm and welcome. They also gave us a snack plate with local made items, including salmon, pickled kelp, and chocolate. read more

We loved this, would recommend it to anyone!! Best hot chocolate and service, staff very knowledgeable and kind!!!

We took a Lighthouse Excursions tour that was booked by our cruise line. The tour was well-narrated and quite enjoyable. Since much of the tour involves looking for wildlife, every tour is a bit different. We were fortunate to see many bald eagles, individually and in pairs, harbor seals in groups, plus a whale or two. Every time wildlife was spotted, the boat was slowed down and deck hands helped customers spot the animals. A couple of eagle nests were pointed out as well. We stopped to look at Totem Bight and its many wonderful totems, and swung by Guard Island Lighthouse. There are several different seating areas outside and inside the boat, with great viewing opportunities in all areas. Binoculars were provided. Along the way, we were served tasty hot chocolate, followed (as we headed to the most distant point, the lighthouse) by a plate of delicious smoked salmon, a salmon dip (recipe provided) and crackers, kelp pickles, and chocolate. These products were made locally and are available for purchase while on the boat. Lighthouse Excursions is a local family-owned business, and supports other local businesses by serving and selling their top-quality products. Everyone we met was knowledgeable and nice. If you enjoy photography, bring your camera and a long lens. And always be prepared for rain when you visit Ketchikan! read more

A wonderful tour start to finish! The van driver was full of interesting information and local knowledge. The boat was roomy and they provided binoculars which came in very helpful, as we saw a lot of bald eagles and several nests. Captain Jeff shared lots of colorful stories as a 4th generation local and capped it off with delightful puns. It was also neat to see the totems from the water, as would have been the original intention. In addition to all that, we were served truly delicious hot chocolate and very good salmon nibbles, and even given the recipe for the salmon dip. We don't even particularly like fish but this was delicious. Highly recommend this tour to get a local viewpoint of beautiful Alaska! read more

We did the lighthouse, totems, and eagles boat tour and it was great. Captain Kelsey, a 6th generation Alaskan, was very knowledgeable about the area and piloted our boat to several bald eagle nesting spots. She made sure you could see the sights regardless of where you were sitting on the boat. A great start to our Alaska adventure! read more

This trip was fabulous! The crew was outstanding and they provided a small snack and beverage. The sites were absolutely amazing. The weather in Ketchikan is rainy but it does not dull the experience. I highly recommend this excursion. read more

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We took the Lighthouse, totems, and eagles excursion and we really enjoyed it. The captain was really great and she taught us how to spot eagles and showed us eagle nests. The deck hands were really cordial and welcoming and eager to help with sighting and food. read more

We went on this excursion with Lighthouse Excursions last week and loved it! It was a beautiful, sunny day in Ketchikan and it a great day for a cruise on the water. We saw several eagles while cruising out to the lighthouse. The captain and crew were wonderful and informative! They even provide many pairs of binoculars for guests' use on the cruise, great touch! While cruising past Bight Totem Park, the crew helped inform us about the history of the park and totem poles generally. They served their famous hot chocolate, along with other beverages you might prefer. They also served their famous salmon dip along with other Alaska-made foods, which was wonderful. They actually offer the items they serve, as well as other Alaska-made items, for sale on board, which was a great souvenir to bring home. read more

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Thanks to Captain Kyle for a great tour! Saw several bald eagles, a couple nests, jumping salmon, a few lazing seals, and heard a lot of local history, absolutely perfectly delivered by Captain Kyle (when your party includes two septuagenarian non-native English speakers, you really cherish someone who has perfect enunciation, pacing and intonation!!) Best of all, he actually let my toddler son take the helm (don't worry, it was just long enough for his thrilled parents and grandparents to take some photos). For anyone who's on a Norwegian cruise, I think this is an excellent option and a way to avoid the insanely long line for the shuttle. The provided binoculars and snacks (hot chocolate and an assortment of Alaskan-sourced snacks) were also very appreciated, as was the great service from assistants Emily and Iain. Do bring rain gear if at all in doubt, as there may not be enough seats in the covered portion of the boat (and the view is better outside anyway.) read more

We booked this tour and did not regret it for a second. Captain Kelsey McNeil and her crew were so knowledgeable and so friendly. We saw so many eagles! And the boat ride was so pleasant. They provided us a cup of really delicious hot chocolate, nice quality along, with a delicious plate of salmon spread, jam, crackers and smoked salmon. Overall we had a great experience and really enjoyed this excursion! read more

The tour of the channel and lighthouse was amazing. Appreciate the time Captain Kyle Bailey and crew took to show us around and allow us to see the land and sea wildlife!!! read more

This was the best ex ursion of our Alaska cruise. Captain Kelsey, and deck hands Jess and Mike were so friendly and helpful. We saw whales breaching, totems, lighthouse and eagles up close! We had so much fun out on the water. This is one not to missed! The snacks and beverages were a welcomed surprise and so tasty. Thanks again to the crew! read more

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Thanks Captain Jeff, Mads and Alex for an amazing tour! The food was great! The tour was great! And you were so welcoming!

What a great tour of the area. The staff is well knowledgeable and the information is always flowing. The views are amazing, we saw bald eagles, hump back whales, and more. Snacks, hot chocolate, and other drinks were provided. This is a must when your in town!!! Just a relaxing, off your feet, breath taking tour... read more

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Captain Kelsey McNeil and her crew were amazing. She gave us a beautiful tour of the totem poles and told us what they are about. They were so awesome to see the work and how tall they are. We got to see so many beautiful Eagles and juvenile once's too which captain said really didn't see them. So was a special treat. She also showed us the light house as close as she could which was beautiful. He staff served us food, hot chocolate, and soda. Took our photos and have us such a fantastic experience. We were so happy to take this excursion and to help a small business. Thank you Captain Kelsey for the wonderful experience. read more

Lighthouse Excursion - On our boat excursion - Boat Tours Near Me

The employees and owner of this company are gold star human beings. A young man named Nathan Alexander went above and beyond to make sure I (as a solo traveler with limited time in Ketchikan,) could make it to the tour. He sent a van to get me, communicated with me excellently over the phone, and was nothing but kind and beyond helpful. I initially thought there was no availability on the dates I had available, but he worked some magic and made it work! Speaking to locals in town, this company (and the owner/his wife) are very beloved and well respected. Everyone loves working for them, and their employees are treated incredibly well. The tour itself was absolutely wonderful! Very reasonably priced, *amazing* staff (kind, professional, educated on topics, warm with everyone,) excellently kept boat with no bad views from any seat inside or out! The snacks and drinks they served were super tasty and local, lots of variety. They provided binoculars, we saw tons of bald eagles, an eagle's nest with a baby bird inside, A WHALE (!!), otters chasing schools of salmon, fish jumping out of the water, and so much more! I loved hearing about the history of the lighthouse and we had excellent views of everything. I would absolutely recommend this tour in Ketchikan. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Everyone went above and beyond to make the experience remarkable. The kind man who drove me from town had tons of great jokes, facts about town, and local advice to share! He even dropped me off at Totem Bight Park after the tour, which saved me a $50 in cab fees from town and made my day! Book this tour, you won't regret it read more

Our first time in Ketchican, and we decided to do this morning tour. So glad we did! We were able to see over 10 eagles and two nests. We also saw a little bit of a shy whale, and about 5 harbor seals. Our captain Kyle gave us great narration of the history of Ketchican with a history of the first peoples. Mike and Rachel helped us locate Eagles, nests and seals. They also served a delicious snack of smoked salmon and lingonberry along with salmon dip, crackers, pickled cucumber and hot chocolate. I highly recommend this tour! read more

Lighthouse Excursion - Boat Tours Near Me

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Capt. Jeff and his crew were so knowledgeable, interesting, and funny. They are truly stewards of the area and culture. We saw everything as advertised with the added sighting of two whales. I highly recommend this tour. It's absolutely worth the time and money. read more

I highly recommend this tour. The weather was perfect the day we went. As advertised, we saw many eagles and nests on our way to Totem Bight Park and Guard Island Lighthouse. We also saw harbor seals lounging on the rocks below the lighthouse and two humpback whales on our way back to the dock. Captain Kelsey and her crew were excellent. Being a native of Alaska her commentary was very informative but not intrusive. We got to taste salmon spread and took the recipe home to try again. read more

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Wonderful experience! Crew were great. The snacks provided highlighted local companies. This is a small locally owned business and they are well worth the price. We saw bald eagles, humpback whales, totems and the lighthouse. Great information provided along the way. read more

Captain Kelsey was fantastic! She helped us view multiple eagles and managed the boat masterfully. Kyle was very helpful and provided multiple glasses of hot chocolate that had the right amount of chocolate! The weather was in the 50 degree and sunny range which created a great trip. I would highly recommend this excursion if you dock at Ketchikan! read more

We went on Captain Jeff's Totem Princess today, for a GREAT excursion. His narration was good and pointing out wildlife! We saw 6 or 8 bald eagles, 3 eagles nests, harbor seals, sea lions, and various sea birds. His deck hands (Natalie and Mads) were great and served us drinks, a great local snack and nice hot chocolate!! Well done crew! read more

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What a beautiful, breathtaking and above expectations excursion Captain Jeff and his crew were knowledgeable, professional and all around pleasant. We were greeted with notably "The Best Hot Chocolate in Ketchikan". High powered binoculars we waiting for you when you sat down Later delicious Hors d'oeuvres, which included smoked salmon, salmon dip w/crackers and kelp pickles. All of which we had to find to purchase (not all on the ship). I would highly recommend this tour read more

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