Portage Glacier Cruise (Self-Drive)

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Portage Glacier Cruise (Self-Drive)

Duration
Approximately 1 hour
Price From
$59.00 Adult
$49.00 Child
  • Easy Activity Level
  • Family Friendly
  • Nature & Wildlife

Get up close to Portage Glacier aboard the mv Ptarmigan on a one-hour cruise.  This tour is the perfect option for vacationers and visiting friends and family since it is only a one-hour drive from Anchorage. Five departure times are available every day, May 11 through September 16, 2026.

Please note: Cruise operation is subject to weather conditions. Child price applies to ages 12 and under. 

Reserve Your Cruise Online

Online reservations must be made at least 5 days in advance.  For same day ticket sales, please purchase them on site at the Portage Glacier Cafe (401 Portage Lake Loop, Girdwood, AK 99587).

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Daily departure times

  • 10:30 a.m.
  • 12 p.m.
  • 1:30 p.m.
  • 3 p.m.
  • 4:30 p.m. 

mv Ptarmigan Highlights    

  • 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
  • Operates under special use permit with the Chugach National Forest and is an equal opportunity provider
  • Snacks and beverages available for purchase

 

Departure Location

This tour departs from the Hotel Captain Cook, located at 939 W. 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time.

Directions

If you’re driving to Portage Glacier

Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage

Take a left on Portage Glacier Road (milepost 78.9) approximately 48 miles out of Anchorage

Travel 5 miles to fork in road; take the right-hand fork and travel a 1/2 mile. Turn left at the Portage Glacier Café (401 Portage Lake Loop)

Arrive at 1500 Byron Glacier Road, Girdwood, AK 99587

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure to receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable. 

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