Frequently Asked Questions

We are located in the center of the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest in North America. Spring, summer, and fall, May through September you can expect temperatures from the 50s to high 70s. Average summer temperatures are in the upper 50s to lower 60s. Wrangell gets less rain than other parts of Southeast Alaska but we still average about 80 inches annually so be prepared.

Wrangell has a number of great bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) in addition to a hotel, hostel, and fun camping. We also have two RV parks. Additionally we have a small Waterfront Garden apartment available for short term rentals. Don’t hesitate to call us for recommendations and more information on any of these lodging options.

We are on an island in the Inside Passage in Southeastern Alaska located between Ketchikan and Juneau. You get here by boat or plane. Alaska Airlines jets fly in here twice a day. Look for flights 64 and 65, which are great connections out of Seattle. Alaska Marine Highway Ferries stop here regularly. You can bring a vehicle on the ferry or rent one on the island, but it’s highly likely you won’t even need one while you’re here.

We have four boats that make up our fleet. The tour you choose will determine which boat you will be on for the day. All the boats were specifically constructed to do a specific type of tour.

“Timber Wolf” is a 35-foot aluminum cabin cruiser and is fast with 600 horsepower. A big back deck, great for fishing and whale watching. A comfortable cabin with all-around visibility, seating for six passengers, full-size marine toilet, and heated by the onboard oil stove. This boat is also equipped with an excellent array of marine electronics and high-quality fishing gear.

“Wild Side” is a 27-foot aluminum state-of-the-art jetboat. Fast, powerful, and nimble, great for shallow waters or going ashore. Forward-facing, stadium style seating that can accommodate ten passengers with windows everywhere. The cabin is covered and heated, with an onboard public address sound system so you can hear your tour guide and captain and also outfitted with the latest marine electronics.

“Tongass” is a 24’ Persion Weld aluminum jet boat. Comfortable, quick, and has great visibility. Enclosed heated cabin for 6 passengers and capable of going ashore. Nicely appointed with electronics and a great back deck for enjoying the elements and photography.

The “Sea Ark” is a 16-foot welded aluminum jet skiff. Fast and fun! Seating for five in this open skiff designed for very shallow water and getting into the nooks and crannies that the big boats don’t even consider! Hang onto your hat! Great for birding tours, freshwater fishing, and hard to beat for a nice day on our rivers.

If you’ve booked one of our packages, we will already have your lunches for you however, if you have not, then you’ll be happy to know we have several restaurants in addition to great delis in both of our grocery stores. If you are buying your own groceries, there is a good selection in both stores here, but you will want to know that they open Monday through Saturday, usually closing by 7PM and limited hours on Sunday. Bring a lunch on all of our day tours. We are usually back in town in time for you to get dinner at one of our local restaurants. You’ll want to note that if you are on one of our bear tours, all food must stay on the boat. The boats generally have sodas, coffee, or tea on board. We are making an effort to reduce our use of disposable plastic bottles and encourage you to come prepared with your own reusable water bottle filled for each day’s tour. While we don’t regularly provide alcoholic beverages, you are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages with you. You are on vacation!

Layers are great. Comfortable casual. Do remember a pair of shorts and a couple of T-shirts because when it’s nice, you’ll be glad you had them! Most days, hoodies and fleece jackets are great and a set of light rain gear is the perfect shell on the outside for rainier days. Sturdy shoes, like hiking boots, are a good choice. Remember to bring a hat and if you are joining us for one of our glacier destinations, you might even enjoy a beanie and gloves. We are on the water so sunglasses are great. A light day pack or boat bag is good to keep these extra layers and your personal belongings collected and with you for the day.

John and I are parents to five children and we love to help other families make memories with their children that will last a lifetime. We are always excited and willing to help you plan a trip that includes tours that everyone in the family will enjoy. We feel that we can take children on any of our tours with advance notice so we can properly pair you with suitable guests and plan the day’s itinerary to include fun for the kids. Families often book our vessels privately so we can operate on your timeline and cater to your specific preferences. When you take your family on one of our adventures, it’s the perfect way to foster some very high-quality time together and offer your children a glimpse and new appreciation for our amazing wildlife and wilderness.

All fishing, shrimping, crabbing, and clamming activities require a fishing license. You can purchase licenses in Wrangell from Alaska Charters & Adventures or local sporting goods stores, or you can purchase direct from the state of Alaska at http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/Store/