Portage Glacier Cruises

Just an hour’s scenic drive from Anchorage along the breathtaking Seward Highway, Portage Glacier offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Board the M/V Ptarmigan, a custom-built sightseeing vessel designed for optimal glacier viewing, including a heated cabin with expansive windows and an open-air top deck.

During the one-hour cruise, you’ll glide across the iceberg-dotted waters of Portage Lake, journeying past cascading waterfalls and steep mountain cliffs. Get up close to the towering wall of Portage Glacier, and with a bit of luck, witness the thrilling sight (and sound!) of calving ice. You will also enjoy learning fascinating insights into the area’s history and wildlife while listening to the onboard narration throughout your journey.

This budget-friendly and family-friendly tour operates daily from mid-May to mid-September, with five departures to fit your schedule. Whether you’re exploring Southcentral Alaska in a car or RV, this is the perfect stop to experience one of the state’s most iconic glaciers.

• A one-hour cruise on Portage Lake
• Stunning views of Portage Glacier and surrounding landscapes
• Indoor heated seating and outdoor viewing areas
• Engaging onboard narration about the area’s history, wildlife, and glaciology

Arrival & Check-In (10–15 Minutes Before Departure)

• Guests arrive at the dock and check in for their scheduled cruise.
• Boarding begins shortly before departure.

Departure & Welcome Aboard

• The boat departs from the dock on Portage Lake.
• Guests are welcomed with a brief introduction and safety announcement.

Scenic Cruise Toward Portage Glacier

• The vessel makes its way across Portage Lake, offering views of surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
• Onboard narration provides insights into the history, geology, and wildlife of the area.

Up-Close Glacier Viewing

• The boat approaches Portage Glacier, allowing time for photos and observation.
• Crew members share interesting facts about the glacier’s history and ongoing changes.

Return Journey Across Portage Lake

• Guests enjoy final scenic views while the boat returns to the dock.
• Additional narration and opportunities for questions.
  Docking & Disembarkation.

This cruise offers a rare chance to see one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers up close, making it a must-do experience for visitors of all ages. The short, one-hour duration makes it easy to fit into any itinerary while still providing incredible views and a true taste of Alaska’s wild beauty.

Unlike many glacier tours that require long hikes or flights, this cruise brings you right to the face of Portage Glacier with minimal effort. Guests can take in the towering blue ice from the comfort of a heated indoor cabin or step onto the open deck for an unobstructed view. The surrounding scenery, with rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, and floating icebergs, adds to the magic of the experience.

Onboard narration enhances the journey with fascinating details about the glacier’s history, rapid changes, and the unique environment of the Portage Valley. The combination of accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and engaging storytelling makes this tour a standout experience in Southcentral Alaska.