Top 10 Things to do in Valdez, Alaska (AK)

The largest tidewater glacier in Alaska.

Area known for great river rafting.

Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises has been at home in Valdez and Prince William Sound since 1971. Known then as North Star Marine Charters, Stan and Mary Helen Stephens operated fishing and hunting charters on their first vessel the 26 foot m/v Mary Helen. Seven year later in 1978, the entire family joined the business as Stan, Mary Helen and their three daughters operated their first tour to Columbia Glacier on board the m/v Vince Peede. At this time the company changed it name to Stan Stephens Charters, Inc., and to Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises in 2003. Between 1987 and today Stan, Mary Helen, their daughters and extended family (also know as co-workers) have worked to develop their operations and increased awareness of Valdez and the Sound amongst travelers. During this time the company has operated a variety of tour boats between the three larger communities of Prince William Sound; Valdez, Whittier and Cordova. In addition to operating cruises, Stan Stephens Cruises also operated Growler Island Wilderness camp located just south of Columbia Glacier for 15 years. On Good Friday 1989, life for the residents of Prince William Sound changed when the Exxon Valdez ran aground on Bligh Reef. Stan's vessels were some of the first to carry response observers to the site. Due to the need for spill research, the Stephens's purchased two additional boats. It was the early days of the spill as Stan was observing the response that he dedicated the remainder of his life to working with industry to protect Prince William Sound. Today, the crew at Stan Stephens Cruises lives by Stan's example and works to share the corner of Alaska he worked so hard to protect. Since 1971 the vessels and tours that Stan Stephens Glacier & Wildlife Cruises have operated have changed, but the one thing that has not changed is their commitment to the customer and the company's long term dedication to the Valdez and Prince William Sound.

At Valdez Saltwater Adventures we are passionate about Alaska and want to share some of what this great state has to offer. Our team stands ready to enrich your next adventure, whether you are on your first trip or a seasoned veteran on the water. We employ a captain and deckhand on all fishing adventures to ensure that all guests receive the attention and first-class service they deserve.

Guided glacier hikes, iceberg tours, rock and ice climbing around Valdez and Worthington Glacier. Operating year round by local residents, we are experts on the area. Join us to climb inside and under a glacier or canoe inside an iceberg, our tours not only show you the best of Valdez but leave you with a sense of thrill and adventure. We also offer custom private tours, and northern lights tours.

Don't miss the trip of a lifetime! The most beautiful flying in all of Alaska is HERE in the world famous Chugach Mountains and Prince William Sound. Experience walking on a glacier...drink the water, see your reflexion in a crystal clear blue pool of glacier water! See the majestic Columbia Glacier up close. See huge pieces of ice calve off into the ocean and hear the thunderous roar. Walk amongst the massive icebergs that get trapped on the shore as the ocean tide goes out. This is a MUST DO in Alaska!!! It's like having your very own National Geographic experience...in person! An experience to remember for a lifetime! If you are planning a flight seeing tour in Alaska, THIS is the one to do!!! We have the longest tours for the best prices in all of Alaska and the scenery is absolutely breath taking. Read what our guests are saying about us! We look forward to creating a magical experience for you...one that you will be talking about for years to come.

Aurelia Charters conducts exploration voyages throughout the coastal wilderness of Prince William Sound, Alaska. Our 12 passenger 80 foot schooner carries kayaks and our small boat on deck. We anchor in spectacular coves and bays and explore the coastline by kayak or small boat. We provide warm beds, hearty meals and hot showers. We often encounter wildlife.

Join us for adventure on our beautiful 38' Mediterran Yacht as we explore Prince William Sound. We will take you fishing, sightseeing, on a photography tour, overnight, multiday or single day trips, fishing and exploring. Come on out and have a G'day. Our vessel is a 38 foot Mediterranean Yacht sporting 2 Cummins diesel engines, all modern electronics. Onboard bathroom with separate walk-in shower, 2 staterooms, total accomodations for 6 adults, enclosed flybridge for excellent viewing underway and a large fishing cockpit, full walkaround deck with railing and 10 foot rigid inflatable boat for excursions to shore. The vessel has a 400-600 mile range and onboard freezer for your fish. An abundance of activities are accessible including beachcombing, kayaking, exploring, hiking, clamming, shrimping, fishing, photography, sightseeing, visiting native villages, glacier viewing, wildlife viewing to include whales (pilot, killer, humpback, etc), bears, seabirds, eagles, sealions, otters, seals, mountain goats, dolphins, sharks, etc.

Experience Valdez, Alaska like never before! We are Luck of the Irish Charters; an experienced vessel owned and operated by Captain Patrick and Admiral Peggy Bookey since 1981!