Whale watching tours are very popular in Glacier Bay. Most commonly HumpBack whales, Gray whales, and Orca whales are seen. Glacier Bay whales have been closely monitored since 1985. Glacier Bay is a whale sanctuary. They thrive in the waters cold temperature, and mainly in the Icy Strait or Point Adolphus. The best place to whale watch is there, on a tour boat or ferry. Whale watching costs $120.00 for adults and $60.00 for children. Tours go from 8:30 a.m to 12:00 pm or 12:30 p.m to 4:00 p.m
Bird watching is also very popular. there are approximately 274 species of birds in Glacier Bay. Forests, beach meadow, and tidal flats are the best places to see birds, especially during migration. Bartlett Cove, the Park Visitor Center, the Bartlett River estuary, and the Gustavus and Beardslee isands are good places to birdwatch. During the winter, bird species are scarce. So spring is the best bird watching time there is.
Kayaking is a great way to get exercise and get an up close view of the breathtaking scenery. Kayakers are required to attend an orientation at the visitor center. Kayak rentals for $50.00 and guided kayaking are available. There are payments to make to be able to kayak. Kayaking in Bartlett Cove or the Icy Strait both cost $150.00. Kayaking with the whales costs $435.00. Kayakers must stay at least 1/4 to 1/2 of a nautical mile away from the tidewater glaciers for safety.
Want to see Glacier Bay from above? Then flightseeing is for you. Flightseeing goes all year round and is the way to get a great view of Glacier Bay's breathtaking scenery. Up to 5 people can fit in a plane load. Tours usually go to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost is $505.00
Hiking is another popular thing to do. There are no designated or carved trails for hiking, so watch where you are going. There are guided tours available to visitors if wanted. Food and water, tough boots, a hat, and long pants are recommended for hiking. Make sure to pick up a map of the park before hiking.
Sport fishing is permitted in Glacier Bay. licensees are required, and are available at the visitor center. There are nearly 200 species of fish - including pacific halibut, rockfish, lingcod, pacific cod, sablefish, and pollock. Also numerous salmon species. fish carcasses must be dumped more than 200 feet away from the shore. watch out for hooking other animals on your line. Anglers should not attempt to snag. this is prohibited by state law.