Portage Glacier Cruises
About Us
The Portage Glacier Cruise in Alaska provides an accessible and scenic one-hour boat tour on the M/V Ptarmigan across Portage Lake, allowing visitors to approach within 300 feet of the stunning blue ice face of Portage Glacier while navigating among floating icebergs and potentially witnessing dramatic calving events
Why Us?
This family-friendly excursion, just an hour south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway, offers heated indoor seating and open-air decks for optimal viewing of the Ice Age remnant and surrounding natural beauty. This 1-hour boat tour on Portage Lake, getting you within 300 feet of the glacier's face—perfect for a half-day outing without committing to a full day. Cruises depart multiple times daily from May to September, making it a budget-friendly option for families and self tours.
In short, opt for Portage Glacier Cruises if convenience, cost, and a focused glacier experience top your list—it's an accessible "taste" of Alaska's ice without the bigger commitment.
Portage Lake Cruise
WHERE ARE WE?
Portage Glacier Cruises is just an hour's scenic drive from Anchorage along the beautiful Seward Highway. We are in the Portage Valley just before the tunnel to Whittier.
We cruise on Portage Lake which is calm making it ideal for families, seniors, or those prone to seasickness.
M/V Ptarmigan
The only boat operating on Portage Lake
Onboard Narration
Fully enclosed, heated cabin
Expansive windows for enhanced viewing
Topside view-deck offers a great vantage point for watching the glacier “calve,” and for visitors to enjoy the fresh air
Holds up to 144 passengers
80-foot vessel was built on site at Portage Lake to U.S. Coast Guard specifications
6.5-foot draft for minimal environmental impact
Sound system cannot be heard from the shore, ensuring preservation of this naturally peaceful setting for wildlife and other visitors
Hull designed for safety in ice-filled waters
Cruise Detals
We have 5 daily departures to fit your needs making it a budget-friendly option for families and self-tours with tickets ranging from $49-69 per person
What is Included and not included
A one-hour cruise on Portage Lake
Stunning views of Portage Glacier and surrounding landscapes
Indoor heated seating and outdoor viewing areas
Engaging onboard narration about the area’s history, wildlife, and glaciology
Food and Drink are available on board
Reviews of Portage Cruises and Tours
“What a wonderful way to spend an hour. The views are gorgeous, the crew is such fun and the narration is very interesting. I learned a lot about glaciation and geology. 100% recommend!”
“We took the one-hour Portage Glacier cruise and had a fantastic time—it was the perfect family outing! On the ride to the glacier, we were lucky enough to spot a mountain goat and an eagle. Our captain even brought us up close to a beautiful waterfall along the way, which was a nice surprise.
“At the glacier, we had plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the stunning views. One highlight was when the staff scooped up a piece of floating glacier ice for everyone to see and touch—such a cool moment!”
“The entire crew was friendly, professional, and clearly cared about our experience. The boat was clean and comfortable, with great viewing areas both indoors on the lower level and outside on the upper deck. We felt safe and well taken care of the whole time.”
“Highly recommend this cruise for anyone visiting the area!”
Location
Portage Valley We are located in Portage Valley, an easy 48 mile drive south of Anchorage, or 24 miles south of Girdwood. Travel to Portage Glacier Road (milepost 78.9) and take a right and then turn left into Portage Glacier Cafe, 401 Portage Lake Loop. Our address is 1500 Byron Glacier Road.
