Misty Fjords Seaplane Tour
Active
2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Island Wings Air Service is owned and operated by Alaska veteran pilot Michelle Masden, who started flying in 1977 and began her business in Ketchikan in 1993. Island Wings takes the time and makes the effort to help you realize your Alaskan dreams. Share our love of flying through our vast Alaskan wilderness. Experience the freedom of flight over the wild grandeur of the mountains, the islands and the endless sea. Our focus is the quality of your experience. From the handling of your reservation, to the equipment we operate, to the places we visit; we don't compromise and neither should you. The total time for this tour is 2.5 hours including: the two hour flightseeing tour and fifteen minutes for the pick-up and fifteen minutes for the drop-off. This tour takes you on a flight from Ketchikan to the Misty Fjords National Monument with a landing on a freshwater lake or a saltwater fjord with approximately a thirty minute stopover.
Available options
Misty Fjords Seaplane Tour
Pickup included
What's included
We operate well maintained six-passenger DeHavilland Beaver floatplanes
Interactive narration with your Pilot
US Forest Service Special Use Permit for Shore stops within Misty Fjords National Monument
Guranteed window seats for every person
Voice activated, noise cancelling headsets for every passenger
Pick-up and drop-off by Island WIngs van from the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Cruise Ship Berth 2
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Alaska's Inside Passage or Southeast Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth. One of its jewels is the majestic Misty Fjords National Monument. Completely road-less and consisting of 2.3 million acres, an area larger than Yellowstone, makes a seaplane tour the only way to comfortably experience the many different levels within the deep, narrow fjords. More dramatic than the Grand Canyon, the fjords are steep walled inlets of the sea. Created by glacial gouging long ago, snow capped, sheer granite cliffs rise dramatically 3,500 out of the sea, ribbonned with waterfalls plummeting sensationally thousands of feet. Nestled within the steep walled canyons, lie pristine bowl-shaped alpine lakes suspended at many different elevations above sea level. Fed by more than 150 inches of misty rain annually, the lush rain forest, made of giant stands of spruce, hemlock and cedar, cling to the rugged rising terrain. Wildlife abounds in the area, with mountain goats and harbor seals being the most frequently sighted animals. Our most popular tour lasts 2 hours and takes you across Revilliagegedo Island over to the Alaskan mainland where the fjords are located, and into the heart of the monument. Headsets with voice communication are provided to passengers so you can chat in flight and ask questions as we fly. For the highlight of the tour, we will land on an alpine lake or on a calm bay at sea level and let passengers get off of the floatplane for a quiet excursion. Relax, stretch your legs and take some photos as you drink in the silence of the vast wilderness. Flying within the Misty Fjords is truly an emotional experience you’ll never forget!!
What's not included
No food or drinks allowed on the floatplane, except bottled water
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
57 reviews
5★
54
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.9
175 reviews
5★
168
4★
2
3★
3
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please wear layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
All passengers MUST provide us a contact phone number when booking or call us to confirm a tour time.
Passengers travelling via cruise ship MUST provide their cruise ship name to us so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
About Ketchikan
Ketchikan, known as Alaska's First City, is a vibrant port town located in the southeastern part of Alaska. It is renowned for its lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, and rich Native American heritage, making it a unique and appealing destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Misty Fjords National Monument
A stunning natural wonder featuring deep fjords, towering cliffs, and lush forests. It offers breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities.
Nature
Half-day to full-day trip
Moderate to expensive, depending on the tour
Totem Bight State Historical Park
A historic site featuring a collection of beautifully carved totem poles, showcasing the rich Native American heritage of the region.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget (free or small entry fee)
Saxman Native Village
A living Native American village where visitors can experience traditional Tlingit culture, including dance performances and totem pole carving demonstrations.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate, depending on the tour
Creek Street
A historic boardwalk street that was once the red-light district of Ketchikan. Today, it is a charming area with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free to explore, with costs varying for shopping and dining
Ketchikan Museum and Archives
A small but informative museum showcasing the history and culture of Ketchikan and the surrounding region.
Museum
30 minutes to 1 hour
Budget (small entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
King Crab
Alaskan king crab is a delicacy, known for its sweet and tender meat. It is often served steamed or grilled, with butter or other seasonings.
Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with shellfish allergies.
Salmon
Alaskan salmon is a staple of the region, with various species available, including sockeye, coho, and king salmon. It is often grilled, smoked, or baked, and served with local sides.
Lunch or Dinner
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for those with fish allergies.
Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a popular seafood choice, with a sweet and delicate flavor. It is often served steamed or in crab cakes, with various dipping sauces.
Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with shellfish allergies.
Alaskan Halibut
Alaskan halibut is a firm, white fish with a mild flavor. It is often grilled, fried, or baked, and served with local sides and sauces.
Dinner
Not suitable for those with fish allergies.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Fishing
Wildlife viewing
Kayaking and canoeing
Boat tours and charters
Scenic boat tours
Visiting museums and cultural sites
Shopping and dining
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. This is the ideal time for wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of Ketchikan.
10°C to 20°C
50°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards and take necessary precautions.
Ketchikan is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as rugged terrain, frequent rain, and limited medical services in some areas. It is important to take necessary precautions and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs or handling cash in public
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended in your car or accommodation
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Ketchikan International Airport • 5 km from city center
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are available but have limited schedules and routes. They are a budget-friendly option for getting around town.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Ketchikan
North Point-Hughes
Sunny Point
Day trips
Metlakatla
25 miles (40 km) north of Ketchikan • Full-day trip
A small, predominantly Native American community located on Annette Island. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional totem poles, and stunning natural beauty.
Prince of Wales Island
50 miles (80 km) south of Ketchikan • Full-day or overnight trip
The second-largest island in the United States, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is known for its rugged beauty and abundant natural resources.
Tongass National Forest
Varies, with access points throughout the region • Half-day to full-day trip
A vast and diverse national forest offering a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is known for its lush rainforests, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Festivals
Ketchikan Salmon Derby • July
Ketchikan Arts and Humanities Council's Annual Festival of Music and Art • June
Ketchikan's Independence Day Celebration • July 4th
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices
- Pack for all types of weather, as Ketchikan is known for its frequent rain and cool temperatures
- Rent a car or book a tour to explore the region's diverse attractions and activities
- Try local seafood and cuisine, which is a highlight of the region's food and drink scene
- Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting Native American sites or cultural events
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
