Skagway on a fast RIB boat is a blast. This Ocean Raft Wildlife Adventure takes you close to the shore along Lynn Canal, North America’s longest fjord, with photo stops for waterfalls and wildlife. I like that you’re not just staring from a distance—you’re skimming the coastline, with the “Mustang Survival” gear keeping you comfortable.

Two things I’d be excited about even before you arrive: the chance to spot bald eagles and seals on the same outing, and the way the captains and naturalist-style narration make the scenery easier to understand. One possible drawback is that wildlife can be hit-or-miss on any given day, so you’ll enjoy it most if you’re flexible and you’re fine with great scenery even when the sightings are light.

Key highlights to know before you go

• You wear US Coast Guard–approved Mustang survival suits to stay warm and dry enough for wet, windy water time
• Multiple photo and wildlife stops so you’re not just speeding past views
• Lynn Canal’s fjord scale hits different up close, including hidden coves and waterfall country
• Wildlife odds are built into the route: eagles, seals, sea birds, and the chance of whales
• Open-air boating means wind matters, but the gear helps a lot
• Comfort on board is practical, with the crew handling the safety talk and photo moments

Lynn Canal from the Water: Why This Fjord Feels So Close

Lynn Canal is the star here, and the water-level view is the whole point. From the boat, you get that dramatic fjord wall feeling—steep, rugged terrain right beside you—without needing a hike to earn the perspective.

This tour is designed for proximity. You’re out long enough to enjoy a real outing (about two hours on the water), but short enough to fit into a cruise day or a tight Skagway schedule. If you’ve ever watched whales or eagles from a distant overlook and wished you were closer, this is the kind of setup that makes that wish less hypothetical.

Meeting Point on Broadway: Getting Oriented in Skagway

Your starting point is simple and specific. Meet at a restroom south of 1st Ave on Broadway St, next to a grassy field. The building has wood siding with Native artwork, and the guide should be wearing Ocean Raft Alaska apparel and holding a sign that says Ocean Raft Wildlife Adventure.

Plan to check in in front of the building before you board the bus. That small step matters because it keeps you from losing time while everyone else is getting outfitted and heading out.

If you’re coming from a cruise dock, the process still tends to be straightforward—people report that it’s easy to find the operator near the ship. The key is to show up a bit early so you can focus on the fun part: getting on the water.

Mustang Survival Suit Time: Comfort, Safety, and What to Wear

Yes, you’ll wear the Mustang Survival suits—and that’s not just a nice extra. These are required by the US Coast Guard for safety and for comfort in cold, splashy conditions.

Here’s what matters for your own packing:

• Wear comfortable footwear. Sneakers work fine for people who expect mild water spray.
• Dress in layers. Even in warmer Skagway weather, the fjord wind can change fast.
• Bring a camera. You’ll want it during the stops for waterfalls and wildlife.

The suits go over your clothes (and you’ll typically get goggles and gloves too). People say they’re warm enough that you don’t feel bundled like a construction worker—hooded, wind-blocking gear that actually helps you enjoy the ride instead of rushing to get warm afterward.

One practical note: this is open air, so you’ll feel wind. Sunglasses are optional, but bring them if you have them—especially when light hits the water and snow-dusted mountains.

The Two-Hour RIB Adventure: How the Ride Works

Expect a mix of fast runs and slow cruising. The fast parts make it feel like a real Skagway adventure—wind in your face, water movement under you—while the slower stretches give the crew time to position for wildlife and photo stops.

The captains make multiple stops along the way. That’s not just for sightseeing; it’s how you get better shots and better chances at seeing animals doing normal wildlife things, like eagles perched near shorelines or seals hauling out.

You’ll also hear a narrative throughout the outing. The tone tends to be friendly and entertaining, with real-world wildlife context—less “random facts,” more “what you’re looking at and why it matters.”

Photo opportunities: how to get the good ones

Because you’re stopping often, you can actually frame shots instead of snapping while the boat is blasting forward. Use that time to:

• Shoot before the crowd at stops settles down
• Watch for guidance from the captain about where to look
• Keep your camera ready during shoreline passes, not just at the exact moment you stop

Wildlife Watching Plan: Eagles, Seals, and Possible Whales

Wildlife is a big reason to book this. The tour is set up for sightings like whales, eagles, seals, sea lions, sea birds, and even mountain goats—though no operator can guarantee any one animal on any day.

What I like about the approach is that it’s not “look hard, good luck.” You’re given multiple chances to find animals because the crew makes stops when conditions and sightings line up. That reduces the all-or-nothing feeling.

Eagles

Eagles show up often enough that they’re a core expectation. If you’re trying to spot them, watch shorelines and points where the terrain funnels visibility—eagles love perching spots that give a wide view.

Seals and sea lions

Seals (including harbor seals) are commonly spotted during these kinds of coastal rides. The best viewing usually comes when the boat slows near haul-out areas. Keep your eyes low and scan the shore edges and rocks as you approach.

Whales (and the “surprise” factor)

Whale sightings can happen on this outing, and people describe them as impromptu moments. That means your job is easy: keep your attention up and listen when the captain shifts tone from scenic narration to active spotting.

Waterfalls, Hidden Coves, and Shoreline Proximity You Can’t Fake

This is a coastline tour, not a view-from-one-angle experience. The value of getting close is that you don’t just see waterfalls—you see them in relation to the surrounding terrain, and you get that sense of water carving the fjord landscape.

Stops include hidden coves, beaches, and natural waterfalls. Even when wildlife sightings are light, these shoreline features tend to do the heavy lifting for the experience. You’re watching cascading water run through rugged terrain that feels remote and powerful.

One more detail that helps the vibe: because you’re near the shore, photos often look more dramatic. You’re not photographing a tiny waterfall in the distance—you’re capturing a real “this is right here” moment.

Guides, Narration, and Team Energy (Including Names You Might Hear)

The crew is a big part of why this tour rates so high. People mention captains and naturalist-style guides who keep things entertaining while still being informative.

You might hear specific guide/captain names on different departures, like Captain Alyssa paired with Naturalist Nicolette, or Harp meeting people at the start. Some groups also mention Captain Bevin, Captain Jen, and naturalist Brianna-style commentary during their rides. The pattern is consistent: safety first, then stories and wildlife context that make the scenery feel understandable, not just pretty.

One extra positive: the operator has a reputation for stepping in when something booking-related goes wrong. If you’re traveling with a group and timing matters, that kind of problem-solving attitude can reduce stress.

Price and Value: What $169 Buys You in Skagway

At $169 per person, this isn’t a budget add-on. So the question isn’t just cost—it’s what you’re buying.

Here’s the value math that makes sense for this tour:

• You get about two hours on the water, not a quick roadside viewing
• The Mustang survival suits are included, which matters in cold-water Alaska conditions
• You’re paying for a captain and a narrative guide, plus multiple stops that turn the ride into an actual experience
• You get proximity—close shoreline access that you can’t replicate from town

And yes, it’s expensive because Skagway pricing can be steep in general. But this outing earns its price by stacking comfort + time + access + wildlife-focused route design. If your goal is simply scenery at arm’s length, you might choose something cheaper. If your goal is close-up fjord time with real wildlife chances, this is one of the stronger bets for your money.

Who Should Book (and Who Should Skip This One)

This tour fits best if you’re comfortable in an active, outdoor setting. It’s not a slow stroll, and it involves wind, splashy conditions, and wearing a survival suit.

It’s not suitable for:

• Children under 10
• Pregnant women
• People with back problems

Also keep in mind that the boat ride is open air. If you get uncomfortable in wind or cold easily, dress for it and use the gear provided.

One more practical heads-up: the boat has no bathroom on board. Use restrooms before you go so you’re not thinking about it once the ride starts.

Finally, pets aren’t allowed and smoking isn’t allowed. That helps keep the experience comfortable for everyone.

Should You Book Ocean Raft Alaska in Skagway?

I’d book this if you want the fjord up close and you like wildlife viewing that isn’t limited to a single overlook. The combo of Mustang suits, a skilled captain, and repeated stops for photos and sightings makes this a strong “do it once” experience for most Skagway trips.

Skip it if your priorities are pure relaxation, if you don’t do well in windy outdoor conditions, or if any of the non-suitable factors apply to your group.

If you’re torn, ask yourself one question: do you want a scenic drive moment, or do you want shoreline time on fast water? If the answer is shoreline time, this tour is built for that.

FAQ

How long is the Ocean Raft wildlife tour?

The tour duration is listed as 150 minutes total, with a 2-hour sightseeing experience on the water.

What is included in the price?

The price includes the 2-hour sightseeing tour, a captain, Mustang survival suit (along with goggles and gloves), and multiple stops for photo opportunities.

What should I bring?

Bring a camera for photo opportunities, and comfortable footwear. The tour info also suggests bringing sunglasses if you have them and dressing in layers.

Is transportation to the meeting location included?

No. Transportation to the meeting location isn’t included.

Are pets allowed?

No, pets are not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for children?

It is not suitable for children under 10.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You Might Also Enjoy

Banff:Crowfoot Glacier, 4 Lakes and Johnston Canyon tourFrom Toronto: Snow Tubing and Snowshoeing or 1/2 Day TubingToronto: Niagara Falls & NOTL Heritage Town Guided Day TourVictoria Whale Watching Tour on a Covered Vessel