Valdez is a scenic Alaskan port surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 600+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
Valdez, often referred to as "The Switzerland of Alaska," is a dramatic and stunning cruise port nestled at the head of a deep fjord in Prince William Sound, surrounded by the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Chugach Mountains. While not as large as some other Alaskan cruise destinations, Valdez offers an intimate and immersive experience into Alaska's raw natural beauty, its rich history, and the incredible power of its glaciers. It is a key port for smaller expedition cruises and a popular stop for larger ships navigating Prince William Sound.
The city's history is marked by its role as the terminus of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and its resilience after the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake. Today, Valdez is a hub for outdoor adventure, offering unparalleled access to tidewater glaciers, abundant wildlife, and some of Alaska's most breathtaking scenery. A cruise stop in Valdez promises a profound connection with the Alaskan wilderness, combining majestic fjords with opportunities for glacier viewing and marine wildlife encounters.
The quintessential Valdez experience is a glacier and wildlife cruise into Prince William Sound. These tours take you deep into the fjords, offering breathtaking views of massive tidewater glaciers (like Columbia or Meares Glacier) calving ice into the water. You'll also have excellent opportunities to spot marine wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, eagles, and various seabirds, and potentially whales or Dall's porpoises.
Tip: Dress in multiple warm, waterproof layers, as it can be cold and wet on the water, even in summer. Bring binoculars and a good zoom lens for photography.
Delve into Valdez's unique history at the Valdez Museum & Historical Archive. The museum covers the city's gold rush days, its pivotal role as the terminus for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and its remarkable resilience after the devastating 1964 earthquake and tsunami, which led to the town's relocation.
Tip: The museum offers fascinating insights into the challenges and triumphs of living in this rugged Alaskan environment.
Witness a significant part of Alaska's aquatic life cycle at the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery. Depending on the season (late summer is best), you can observe millions of pink and chum salmon returning to spawn. This also attracts bears (usually black bears) and eagles looking for an easy meal.
Tip: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears. There are viewing platforms available.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Valdez Waterfront Trail. This paved path offers scenic views of the harbor, the surrounding mountains, and often provides opportunities for birdwatching or spotting harbor seals in the bay.
Tip: Bicycle rentals are often available in town, providing a great way to explore the local area.
If your cruise offers it or you can arrange transportation, a visit to Worthington Glacier (located about 28 miles north on the Richardson Highway) is highly recommended. This accessible road-side glacier offers close-up views and interpretive signs, showcasing a dramatic example of an accessible glacier.
Tip: This requires transportation outside of the immediate town. Check with your cruise line for available excursions.
Experience the dramatic beauty of Keystone Canyon, home to spectacular waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls. Located just outside Valdez (often seen on the way to/from Worthington Glacier), the canyon's sheer rock walls and cascading water are a testament to glacial carving.
Tip: These falls are easily viewable from the Richardson Highway, and tour buses often make brief stops for photos.
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Seward, Alaska
6 Sailings
Jun 10 - Aug 19, 2027
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Seattle, Washington
1 Sailing
May 27, 2027
Aboard
Viking Venus
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
2 Sailings
Sep 4, 2026 - Sep 7, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Azamara Pursuit
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Aug 5, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Azamara Pursuit
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Aug 5, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Noordam
From
Seattle, Washington
1 Sailing
Jun 6, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Westerdam
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
1 Sailing
Sep 13, 2026
Aboard
Viking Orion
From
Tokyo, Japan
3 Sailings
May 25, 2026 - May 20, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
14 Sailings
May 28, 2026 - Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Orion
From
Sydney, Australia
2 Sailings
Mar 30, 2026 - Mar 8, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him
Rudi D.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.
Dave O.
[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.
Barbara H.
