Question 1

How does the tunnel work to get to Whittier Alaska?

Accepted Answer

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the only way in and out of Whittier. It opens each direction once per hour — into Whittier at 30 minutes past the hour, out of Whittier on the top of the hour. It costs $13 for a passenger car to enter. There is no cell service on Portage Glacier Road so plan ahead and don't miss your tunnel time.

Question 2

How do I get to Whittier Alaska from Anchorage?

Accepted Answer

Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage and turn left onto Portage Glacier Road. Plan to arrive at the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel 30 minutes after the hour. Start navigation by Girdwood at the latest as there is no cell service on Portage Glacier Road. Allow extra time in summer for construction.

Question 3

What should I wear on a glacier tour in Whittier Alaska?

Accepted Answer

Dress in warm waterproof layers. Bring a rain jacket, warm base layers, and closed-toe waterproof shoes. It will be 10-20 degrees cooler on the water than on shore. Even on sunny days your waterproof jacket acts as a windbreaker. For March and April cruises, snow boots are recommended.

Question 4

What should I bring on a Lazy Otter glacier tour?

Accepted Answer

Bring warm waterproof layers, a camera with extra memory cards, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, and closed-toe waterproof shoes — especially if you want to participate in our exclusive beach landing. We have charging stations on board all boats.

Question 5

What wildlife can I see on a Prince William Sound tour?

Accepted Answer

Frequent sightings include sea otters, bald eagles, harbor seals, and black-legged kittiwakes. Steller sea lions are seen at certain times of year. Longer trips may spot black bears and tufted puffins. In summer months humpback whales are possible, and orca are rare and exciting visitors. Every day is different!

Question 6

Will I get seasick on a Prince William Sound glacier tour?

Accepted Answer

Prince William Sound is protected from open ocean swells by miles of coastline and islands, making seasickness far less likely than on tours out of other nearby harbors. It is the only area in this part of Alaska where tidewater glaciers can be reached without passing through open water.

Question 7

How close does the boat get to the glaciers?

Accepted Answer

Typically within one-quarter mile — a safe distance that still gives an impressive view given the massive scale of tidewater glaciers. In some cases heavy glacial ice in the water may require viewing from further away, but captains always work to get the best and safest view possible.

Question 8

Are the boats safe on a Lazy Otter tour?

Accepted Answer

All vessels are operated by experienced USCG-licensed captains and are subject to regular drills, training, and inspections. Each vessel is equipped with life rafts, life jackets, first aid equipment, emergency position indicating radio beacons, and firefighting supplies.

Question 9

Is there food on Lazy Otter glacier tours?

Accepted Answer

Summer tours include a boxed lunch with a sandwich and other goodies. All sightseeing tours offer tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks. Spring and fall tours provide snacks but not a boxed lunch. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Water taxis do not provide food or drinks.

Question 10

Can I bring my dog on a Lazy Otter tour?

Accepted Answer

Only registered service animals are allowed on sightseeing vessels with advance notice. Dogs are welcome on water taxi trips but must not be on the seats. Advance notice is required for all animals.

Question 11

How much should I tip on a Lazy Otter glacier tour?

Accepted Answer

A gratuity of $10-$20 or more per person is suggested depending on tour length and service quality. For water taxi, $10 or more per person is recommended. Tipping is not mandatory but is very much appreciated by your captain and crew.

Question 12

Does Lazy Otter Charters have a minimum passenger requirement?

Accepted Answer

The High Velocity has a minimum of 4 passengers and accommodates up to 6. The Voyager has a minimum of 15 and accommodates up to 27. Smaller parties can book the boat exclusively or may be matched with other travelers.

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