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Private Sitka Wildlife Photography Worskhop on the Water

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6-Hour Duration
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Full-Day Private Workshop
Private Boat Tour
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Up to Four Guests
Heated Cabin
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Comfort in Changing Weather
All Skill Levels
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From Phones to Pro Gear

Description

This six-hour experience is a relaxed, full-day outing on Sitka Sound, built around wildlife, photography, and taking the time to really observe what’s happening around you. It’s not rushed, and it’s not scripted. The day unfolds based on the weather, the light, and where the wildlife happens to be.
 
You’ll travel by boat through island passages, sheltered bays, and open coastline, watching for whales, sea otters, sea lions, puffins, bald eagles, and other local marine life. Some moments are active, like a nearby surfacing whale; others are quieter, drifting on calm water, observing birds along the shore, or photographing coastal reflections.
 
As wildlife appears, you’ll get simple, practical guidance on how to photograph what you see. The focus is straightforward and hands-on, with time to discuss light, movement, and timing for all experience levels. You can ask questions and adjust your approach without pressure.
 
The boat features a warm, covered cabin so you stay comfortable no matter the weather. Guests can step inside to warm up, review photos, or simply relax. With lunch, snacks, and hot drinks provided, your focus remains on enjoying the day, knowing comfort and refreshments are always available.
 
With space for up to four guests, the day feels personal and unhurried. Most leave feeling more confident with photography and deeply connected to Sitka’s coastal wildlife.

What's Included

Private 6-Hour Boat Workshop
Award-Winning Photography Instruction
Knowledgeable Guide
Lunch, Snacks, Hot Drinks
High-Quality Binoculars
Life Jackets
Permits and Harbor Fees
Transportation to Harbor
Guide Gratuity
Camera Equipment
Tripods
Rain Gear and Clothing

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need photography experience?

No. Instruction is fully customized, from beginner fundamentals to advanced technique refinement.

What camera should I bring?

Any camera works, including smartphones. Zoom lenses are helpful but not required.

Is this tour private?

Yes. Only your group of up to 4 guests is on board.

Does it run in rain?

Yes. The boat has a warm, dry cabin. Unsafe weather results in refunds or rescheduling.

Will we see wildlife?

Wildlife is never guaranteed, but Sitka Sound offers exceptional year-round opportunities.

Can cruise ship guests join?

Yes. The meeting point is one minute from the cruise shuttle drop-off.


Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 10 years old
This is a private tour for your group only, with a maximum of four guests.
Wildlife sightings vary by season and conditions; specific animals are never guaranteed.
Guests must be comfortable stepping on and off a small boat and moving around while underway.
The tour operates rain or shine and is only canceled if weather or sea conditions are unsafe.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult; minimum recommended age is 10.
Cancel up to 72 hours before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 72 hours of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City
Sitka

Duration
6h 00min

Price


Itinerary • 6h 00min • 4 activities

Meet at Crescent Harbor, get oriented for the day, and review safety notes and the general plan. This is also the time to get cameras ready and ask initial questions.

Duration
15 minutes

Step aboard the boat, settle in, and go over wildlife expectations, light conditions, and practical photography tips before heading out into Sitka Sound.

Duration
30 minutes

Cruise through bays, island channels, and coastal areas while watching for whales, otters, sea lions, puffins, eagles, and other marine life. Stop and adjust as wildlife appears, with hands-on guidance, time to practice, and space to slow down. Between sightings, photograph the coastal scenery, reflections, and changing light.

Duration
4 hours 30 minutes

Head back toward Crescent Harbor at an easy pace. Use this time to ask final questions, talk through what you practiced, and wrap up the day before disembarking.

Duration
45 minutes