Tracy Arm / Endicott Arm, Alaska

Majestic Fjords and Glacial Wonders.

A stunning view of a large blue and white iceberg floating in the waters of Tracy Arm Fjord, with a lush green forest shoreline in the background.

Overview

Tracy Arm / Endicott Arm, Alaska Cruise Port

Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm are twin fjords that carve their way through the stunning Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, a protected area within Alaska's Tongass National Forest. While not a traditional port of call where a ship docks, this destination is a highlight of many Alaskan cruise itineraries, offering a day of "scenic cruising." These narrow, deep waterways are renowned for their sheer granite cliffs, which rise dramatically from the water, and their pristine, ice-filled landscapes. At the head of the fjords lie active tidewater glaciers, the North and South Sawyer Glaciers in Tracy Arm and the Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm.

Navigating these fjords provides a rare opportunity to witness nature in its rawest form. Towering waterfalls cascade down steep rock faces, while icebergs of all shapes and sizes, from small "bergy bits" to massive, multi-story chunks, float serenely in the emerald-colored waters. The area is a haven for wildlife, with harbor seals often found lounging on the ice floes, mountain goats scaling the cliffs, and a variety of seabirds soaring overhead. This is a day for unparalleled natural beauty and a true immersion into the Alaskan wilderness.

Top Things to Do in Tracy Arm / Endicott Arm, Alaska

Witness Glacier Calving at Dawes or Sawyer Glacier

The most anticipated event in the fjords is witnessing glacier calving, where immense chunks of ice break off from the glacier face and crash into the sea with a thunderous roar. The Dawes Glacier in Endicott Arm and the North and South Sawyer Glaciers in Tracy Arm are all known for their frequent and spectacular calving displays.

Tip: Listen for the crackling and popping sounds ("white thunder") of the ice; this often indicates that a calving event is about to happen.

Get Up-Close with a Smaller Excursion Vessel

While your large cruise ship can navigate the fjords, it often cannot get very close to the glacier faces due to ice. For a truly immersive experience, book a smaller excursion vessel that can maneuver more nimbly through the icebergs. These boats often offer a transfer directly from your cruise ship and provide an unparalleled, up-close view.

Tip: Excursions from these smaller boats fill up quickly. It's highly recommended to book well in advance through your cruise line.

Spot Harbor Seals and Other Wildlife

Keep a sharp lookout for the abundant wildlife that calls the fjords home. Harbor seals are a frequent sight, often seen hauled out on ice floes, especially with their pups in late spring and early summer. You might also spot mountain goats on the high, rocky cliffs and a variety of seabirds, including bald eagles, flying overhead.

Tip: Bring a good pair of binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing, as the animals are often a distance from the ship.

Photograph the Dramatic Fjords and Waterfalls

The scenic beauty of Tracy and Endicott Arms is a photographer's dream. Capture the stunning vistas of sheer granite cliffs, snow-capped mountains, and dozens of waterfalls that plunge from great heights into the jade-green waters. The ever-changing icebergs also make for fascinating subjects.

Tip: Dress in layers and be prepared to spend time on the outdoor decks for the best photo opportunities. Bring a lens cloth to wipe away any moisture from mist or rain.

Marvel at the Icebergs

The fjords are often filled with an array of icebergs, from small "bergy bits" to large, iridescent-blue chunks. Each iceberg is a unique sculpture, carved by the elements. Enjoy the subtle variations in color, from stark white to deep sapphire blue, created by the density of the ancient ice.

Tip: The bluest ice is often the densest and oldest. The vibrant color is a result of the ice absorbing all colors of the light spectrum except blue.

Listen to Expert Naturalist Commentary

Your cruise ship will have a naturalist or park ranger onboard who provides live commentary throughout the scenic cruise. They offer fascinating insights into the geology, ecology, and history of the fjords, making the experience both beautiful and educational.

Tip: Make your way to a spot with a clear view of a television screen or speaker system to hear the commentary clearly.

Overview

Tracy Arm / Endicott Arm, Alaska Cruise Port