KODIAK WHALE WATCH FIELD GUIDE
Humpbacks in the Bay: Two Hours Aboard the Evan‑Stephen for Close Whale Encounters
A focused, two-hour eco‑tour in Chiniak Bay from Kodiak aboard the 28' cabin cruiser Evan‑Stephen that targets humpbacks, orcas and a wide array of marine life.
Humpbacks in the Bay: Two Hours Aboard the Evan‑Stephen for Close Whale Encounters.
The Public Whale Watch Charter runs a tight, two‑hour circuit through Chiniak Bay, where the ocean scours a living theater of humpback whales, fin and gray whales, orcas and an abundance of seabirds. The small, comfortable cruise aboard the Evan‑Stephen threads past Woody, Long and Spruce islands and sweeps toward Miller Point with views back to Fort Abercrombie State Park, pairing sustained wildlife viewing with brief interpretive notes on Kodiak's fishing industry and WWII history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Humpbacks, Orcas and a Chorus of Sea Life
The tour is focused on whale watching and routinely turns up humpback whales, fin whales, gray whales and even orcas, alongside Stellar sea lions, puffins, otters, seals, pygmy orca dolphins, bald eagles and a wide variety of coastal birds.
The Evan‑Stephen: Small, Stable, Purpose‑Built
The trip is run aboard the Evan‑Stephen, a 28' by 11' aluminum cabin cruiser landing craft with a large forward viewing deck, seating for six in the cabin, a table with 360‑degree views and a wood‑burning stove for cooler or wetter days.
Nature Framed by Fishing and History
Beyond animal sightings, the tour offers interpretive moments about Kodiak’s dynamic fishing industry and unique WWII history as you transit near Woody Island, Long Island, Spruce Island and Miller Point with views toward Fort Abercrombie State Park.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Hour Eco‑Tour Feels Like
Two hours on the water means concentrated watching: a short launch, steady surveying of feeding and traveling whales, and time on the forward deck for photography and observation. The small‑group format keeps the experience intimate and the vessel provides a sheltered cabin and light snacks, while the guide can weave in short tutorials on local fisheries and WWII-era sites when interest dictates.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The charter is a focused two‑hour eco‑tour operating in Chiniak Bay.
Light snacks are included as part of the trip; the Evan‑Stephen offers a cabin and a wood‑burning stove for cooler or wet weather.
The vessel is a 28' by 11' aluminum cabin cruiser with a large forward deck and seating for six in the cabin.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the whale watch?
The tour lasts two hours.
What wildlife might we see?
Sightings commonly include humpback whales, fin whales, gray whales and orcas, plus Stellar sea lions, puffins, otters, seals, pygmy orca dolphins, bald eagles and many coastal birds.
How many people can the boat carry?
The cabin cruiser has seating for six; tours are limited to up to six people.
Are refreshments provided?
Light snacks are included as part of the trip.
What is the boat like?
The Evan‑Stephen is a 28' by 11' aluminum cabin cruiser landing craft with a large forward viewing deck, a cabin with 360‑degree views and a wood‑burning stove for wet days.
Can I book a birding‑specific excursion?
Yes — the operator notes that birding‑specific excursions are available on request.
How is 'Evan‑Stephen' pronounced?
The vessel name is pronounced 'even‑steven'.