Snorkeling in Alaska sounds impossible, which is exactly why it's a bragging-rights bucket-list item. A 7mm wetsuit keeps you warm in the 55-65F water while PADI-certified divemasters lead a small group over a vivid intertidal world of giant sunflower sea stars, anemones, urchins, sea cucumbers and darting salmon. Hot showers and cocoa wait for you back on shore - an only-in-Southeast-Alaska experience no first-timer expects.
What to expect
You'll suit up in a warm 7mm wetsuit and descend into 55–65°F water led by PADI-certified divemasters, drifting over a vivid intertidal garden of giant sunflower sea stars, anemones, urchins, sea cucumbers, and darting salmon. The cold-water clarity reveals a thriving ecosystem most cruise visitors never witness, turning what sounds impossible into a genuine bragging-rights moment. Back on shore, you'll shed the gear for hot showers and warm cocoa—an only-in-Southeast-Alaska reward that caps the 3-hour experience. Small-group instruction and professional guidance mean even first-time snorkelers feel safe exploring this remote mountain-fed marine world.
No real ship equivalent - the cruise lines don't sell this, so booking Snorkel Alaska direct is the only way to do it. It's a 20+ year local operator that guarantees you back to the pier, which removes the usual independent-booking risk.
Good to know
Roundtrip downtown transport from the pier and all gear (full wetsuit, snorkel kit) are included in the ~3-hour outing, so book directly with Snorkel Alaska—cruise lines don't sell this excursion. The 20+ year local operator guarantees on-time return to the ship, eliminating the risk of independent bookings; apply online code 'ONLINE' at booking to drop the $189.99 per-person price to ~$171. Bring only a swimsuit and towel; showers and warm drinks await on shore. Plan this for the first half of your port day to ensure a comfortable buffer before all-aboard.