Preview We are still checking and adding to this guide. If something looks wrong, let us know.
What Wildlife Can You See on Your Cruise?
Port by port: what is seen, in which months, and whether you see it from the ship, from shore or on a tour.
Wildlife in Ketchikan
Black bearLikelyOn a tour
Floatplane trips to Anan; Anan and Ketchikan area bears feed on pink salmon, mid July to late August peak. Source Source 2
Salmon runLikelyFrom shore
Salmon return to local streams and creeks to spawn in summer. Source Source 2
Humpback whalePossibleOn a tour
Migratory whales are sometimes seen on flightseeing and day boat trips; no firm season published. Source
Your Cruise, Stop by Stop
Likelihood words (common, likely, possible, rare) summarise what parks, tour operators and tourism boards publish. Each row links its source.
Months only: we never claim one day is better than another.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026