Blue Ice and Tidal Drama: A Day from Whittier to Blackstone Glacier

WHITTIER BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Blue Ice and Tidal Drama: A Day from Whittier to Blackstone Glacier

A 6–8 hour boat tour aboard the 31' Nauti Star 2 that carries you into Prince William Sound to watch a tidal glacier calve, search for sea otters and visit waterfalls and a shipwreck.

Blue Ice and Tidal Drama: A Day from Whittier to Blackstone Glacier.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Whittier
Operator
Big Irv's Famous Alaskan Fishing Charters
Category
Boat Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

From the harbor in Whittier, this full‑day boat outing threads into Prince William Sound beneath the Chugach’s forested ridgelines. On board the 31' Nauti Star 2 you’ll move through fjord water, scan for resident sea otters, drift beneath cascading waterfalls, visit a shipwreck and spend time watching a tidal glacier calve blue ice into the sound.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE GLACIER

Blackstone Glacier calving and blue ice

The tour allocates time at a tidal glacier where you can watch chunks of blue ice break free and drop into Prince William Sound—one of the itinerary’s primary drawcards.

THE WILDLIFE

Resident sea otters and marine life viewing

Along the Sound the crew will point out resident sea otters and other coastal wildlife while you cruise between scenic stops.

THE SCENERY

Waterfalls and a shipwreck on a single circuit

The route combines glacier spectacle with closer‑in features: cascading waterfalls and a visit to a shipwreck that speak to the region’s rugged coastline and human history.

What the day feels like

What the outing feels like

This is a relaxed, information‑filled day aboard a fully appointed 31' vessel: a steady cruise across Prince William Sound punctuated by stops to scan shorelines, watch waterfalls, pull alongside a wreck and linger while a glacier calves. The boat is equipped with a private flushing head and a heater to keep the cabin comfortable during cooler stretches of the day.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should check with the operator first.

1
Day trippers and sightseersIdeal for visitors who want a full‑day marine outing (6–8 hours) with close glacier views and wildlife watching aboard a 31' passenger vessel.
2
Wildlife and glacier photographersGood for photographers seeking glacier calving and coastal wildlife opportunities from a small boat platform; plan for variable light and distance.
3
FamiliesSuitable for families who are comfortable spending 6–8 hours on a small boat; the vessel has a private flushing head and a heater for comfort.
4
Passengers with mobility concernsPassengers with limited mobility should check with the operator about boarding and stability on a 31' vessel before booking.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Tours run approximately 6–8 hours.

Vessel & onboard amenities

The outing uses the 31' Nauti Star 2, which is fully appointed with a private flushing head and a heater.

What to bring

Bring layered clothing for changing coastal conditions and any personal beverages—the crew can capture blue glacier ice from the water to chill drinks.

Operator

Operated by Big Irv's Famous Alaskan Fishing Charters out of Whittier, Alaska.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Blackstone Glacier Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 6–8 hours.

What boat is used for the trip?

The outing is aboard the 31' Nauti Star 2, a fully appointed vessel with a private flushing head and a heater.

Will we see glaciers calving?

Yes—time is spent watching a tidal glacier calve into Prince William Sound.

What wildlife might we see?

You can expect to see resident sea otters and other coastal marine life along the route.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes. The Nauti Star 2 is equipped with a private flushing head.

Can the crew provide glacier ice for drinks?

Yes; the crew will capture prehistoric blue glacier ice from the water to chill a beverage of your choice.