Portage Glacier Express
Share
General Rates
- Passenger: $99
-
Duration
3.5 Hours, including round-trip transportation from downtown Anchorage and a 1-hour cruise
-
Indoor & Outdoor Viewing
Heated cabin + open-air deck
-
Location
1500 Byron Glacier Road Anchorage, AK US 99587
-
Up-Close Glacier Views
Get right to the glacier face
-
Accessibility
Stroller and wheelchair accessible
-
Family Friendly
Great for all ages
Activity details
Depart downtown Anchorage on a fun and scenic adventure to one of Alaska’s most famous and easy-to-reach glaciers. Enjoy a beautiful drive along the shores of Turnagain Arm before entering Portage Valley, where towering mountains, hanging glaciers, and lush rainforest surround you at every turn. At Portage Lake, step aboard the MV Ptarmigan for a memorable one-hour boat cruise across iceberg‑dotted waters to the face of Portage Glacier.
Lake conditions can vary, making each trip unique, but the cruise always offers incredible views of the glacier and the stunning natural landscape. Friendly onboard deckhand staff share engaging, kid‑friendly commentary about glaciers, wildlife, and the area’s natural history throughout the journey.
With comfortable round‑trip transportation included and a total tour time of just 3.5 hours, the Portage Glacier Express is a perfect choice for families, first‑time visitors, and anyone looking for a short, exciting Alaska adventure from Anchorage
What's Included
- Round-trip transportation from Downtown Anchorage
- 1-hour cruise to Portage Glacier
- Up-close views of Portage Glacier
- Heated indoor cabin + open-air viewing deck
- Onboard narration
- English-language tour
Available for Purchase
- Food & beverages
(available for purchase on board the M/V Ptarmigan)
Good to Know
- Wheelchair accessible (limited space, notify in advance)
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
- No outside alcohol or smoking onboard
- Service animals allowed, pets are not
- Be sure to bring your camera or binoculars so you don’t miss a thing
- Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time to receive a full refund.
Itinerary 
Hotel Pickup
Meet at the Hotel Captain Cook in downtown Anchorage. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to the 9:00 AM departure.
Scenic Drive to Portage Valley
Travel along Turnagain Arm and into Portage Valley, surrounded by towering peaks, hanging glaciers, and lush rainforest.
Portage Glacier Cruise
Board the MV Ptarmigan for a narrated, one-hour cruise across iceberg-dotted waters to the face of Portage Glacier.
Return to Anchorage
Relax and enjoy the scenic drive back to downtown Anchorage, arriving by 12:30 PM.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
-
How long is the cruise?
The Portage Glacier Cruise is approximately one hour long, including the scenic journey across the lake and time spent viewing the glacier and surrounding landscape.
-
What should I bring onboard?
We recommend bringing comfortable clothing suited for the weather, a camera, binoculars, and any snacks or drinks you’d like to enjoy on board. While we don’t sell food or drinks, you’re welcome to bring your own. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses!
-
What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise operates in most weather conditions, but Portage Glacier Cruises reserves the right to cancel or delay the trip due to severe weather or safety concerns. In such cases, guests will be offered a full refund or rescheduled for another departure.
-
Is parking available?
Yes, there is parking available at the dock, but we recommend arriving early during peak times to secure a spot.
-
Do I need to be physically fit?
Guests should be in good health and able to board the boat. If you need assistance boarding or have any special mobility requirements, please notify us in advance. We’re happy to provide support.
-
Will there be a guide on board?
Yes, the cruise includes onboard narration offering fascinating insights into the history, wildlife, and geology of the Portage Glacier and its surrounding area.
-
What if I don’t see any wildlife?
While we often encounter wildlife such as mountain goats, bald eagles, and other species, sightings are not guaranteed. Wildlife viewing is a natural experience and can vary, but we promise an unforgettable scenic tour of the glacier and surrounding area.
-
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure to receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Portage Glacier Cruises operates in all weather conditions unless the cruise is canceled by the company due to safety concerns. In the event of a company-initiated cancellation, guests will receive a full refund.
