Prince William Sound is a vast, protected body of water on Alaska’s southcentral coast, sheltered from the open Gulf of Alaska by the Kenai Peninsula to the west and the Chugach Mountains to the north. Its 3,800 miles of coastline encompasses active tidewater glaciers, ancient fjords, island archipelagos, and waters teeming with sea otters, Steller sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, and five species of Pacific salmon. The two main gateway towns are Valdez on the eastern shore and Whittier on the western shore.
Getting to Prince William Sound
To Whittier: Just 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Whittier is the most accessible entry point. The road passes through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel — 2.5 miles long and the longest highway tunnel in North America. Check the tunnel schedule before departing as it operates on alternating directions.
To Valdez: A 5–6 hour drive from Anchorage via the Glenn and Richardson Highways, passing through Keystone Canyon just outside Valdez — a dramatic gorge with waterfalls dropping directly beside the road.
Glacier Cruises
Seeing the tidewater glaciers of Prince William Sound from the water is one of the signature Alaska experiences. Phillips Cruises and Tours operates the most popular day cruise from Whittier, visiting 26 glaciers including Columbia Glacier — one of the largest tidewater glaciers in Alaska. Glacier cruise prices range from approximately $150 to $200 per person for day trips.
Watching a tidewater glacier calve — a massive chunk of blue ice breaking from the glacier face and crashing into the sea — is a visceral, primordial experience. The sound arrives seconds after the visual, a deep crack followed by a thunderous splash that echoes off the fjord walls.
Sea Kayaking in Prince William Sound
Prince William Sound is widely considered one of the finest sea kayaking destinations in the world. From Whittier, guided day kayak tours operate into the fjords, visiting glaciers, sea caves, and wildlife-rich bays. Half-day tours cost around $80–$100 per person. Common wildlife encounters include sea otters, harbour porpoises, orcas, humpback whales, and tufted puffins.
Wildlife Watching
Sea otters are ubiquitous throughout the Sound — watching them floating on their backs cracking shellfish on their chests is endlessly entertaining. Orcas are present year-round, following salmon runs and hunting marine mammals. Humpback whales feed in the Sound from late spring through autumn.
Best Time to Visit
May through September is the primary visitor season. June and July offer the best weather and longest days. September brings calmer waters ideal for kayaking and the first autumn colours on the hillsides.
Practical Tips
- Check the Whittier tunnel schedule before driving — it operates on alternating directions at scheduled times.
- Dress in waterproof layers for any water-based activity, regardless of air temperature.
- Book glacier cruises and kayak tours in advance for July and August.
- The Alaska Marine Highway ferry between Whittier and Valdez is an excellent way to see the Sound without a kayak or tour booking.