Misty Fjords: The Yosemite of the North

Granite cliffs, 1,000-foot waterfalls, and untouched wilderness just a short trip from Ketchikan.

Boat vs. Floatplane: Which is Better?

Misty Fjords National Monument encompasses over 2 million acres of wilderness. There are no roads here—you must arrive by sea or sky. Choosing the right method depends on your budget and how much time your ship is in port.

Floatplane (Flightseeing)

Price: $349 - $425 per person
Duration: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
Pros: Aerial view of U-shaped valleys, wilderness landing included.
Best For: Guests with short 6-hour port calls.

Boat (Wilderness Explorer)

Price: $219 per adult / $169 child
Duration: 4.5 - 5 hours
Pros: Water-level perspective of cliffs, better wildlife spotting.
Best For: Guests with 8-10+ hour port calls.

2026 Travel Advisory: Booking Windows

Misty Fjords floatplane tours are the #1 bookable activity in Ketchikan. For May-September 2026, independent operators are seeing 80% occupancy by mid-April. We recommend booking at least 3-4 months in advance to secure a morning slot.

What to Expect in the Fjords

Whether you fly or sail, you will see some of the most dramatic geology on Earth:

New Eddystone Rock: A 237-foot volcanic plug rising straight out of the Behm Canal.
Rudyerd Bay: The heart of the monument, featuring vertical granite walls that rise 3,000 feet from the water.
Punchbowl Cove: Famous for its mirrored reflections on calm, misty mornings.

Misty Fjords Logistics for 2026

Requirement	Floatplane Details	Boat Details
Departure	Downtown Waterfront (Berths 1-4)	Downtown Waterfront
Seasickness	Low (Smooth air is typical)	Low (Protected fjords, no open ocean)
Mobility	Must climb 3-4 steps into plane	Fully accessible gangways
Weather Risk	Moderate (Flights cancel in low fog)	Low (Boats almost always sail)

Not sure if you have enough time? Check our 4-6-8 Hour Ketchikan Itinerary Guide.

View Misty Fjords Tour Availability →