ORCA QUEST CRUISE

Orca Quest Cruise

From mid-May through mid-June, orcas frequent the waters outside of Seward in search of food. Join Major Marine Tours – the local whale experts – as we search for orcas during this prime time for orca watching. These incredible marine mammals are distinguishable by their prominent dorsal fins, which can grow up to six feet tall, and their fascinating social behaviors. Our experienced captains will explore the area’s orca hot spots and communicate with other vessels about recent orca sightings to maximize your chances of seeing orcas. Rather than following a set cruise route, we visit the places where orcas have recently been seen, giving you a unique cruising experience every day. Learn about these whales from our experienced, local captains and naturalist crew members. Hear the haunting calls of these animals for yourself through our onboard hydrophone if conditions allow.

Our Orca Quest Cruise departs from the Seward Harbor 360 Hotel dock at 1:00 p.m. You will cruise out of the Seward Small Boat Harbor and along the rugged coastline of Resurrection Bay. Depending on recent orca activity, you will either stay in Resurrection Bay or cruise into areas of Kenai Fjords National Park. Our captains will communicate with other vessels in the area about recent orca sightings and will visit orca hotspots to maximize your chances of seeing these amazing mammals.

Though orcas can frequent the sames areas day after day, they can be seen anywhere in Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. Therefore, every day is a different cruising experience. Resident pods of orcas frequent the area from mid-May through mid-June to feed on salmon, socialize with other pods, and mate. You may also see transient orcas, which visit the area to feed on Steller sea lions and Dall’s porpoises.

Several alpine glaciers, nestled high in the mountains surrounding Resurrection Bay, can be seen along the route if the weather permits. We may also cruise by Bear Glacier, a piedmont glacier and the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. In addition to orcas, you may also see humpback whales, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, Dall’s porpoises, sea otters, bald eagles, and many types of seabirds.

Beer, wine, sodas, hot chocolate, juice, and a variety of snacks will be available for purchase during the cruise. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided.

The red line on the cruise map illustrates a possible cruise route if orcas are seen within Resurrection Bay. Routes will vary widely depending on orca activity.