Top 9 Things to do Adventurous in Valdez, Alaska (AK)

The largest tidewater glacier in Alaska.

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.

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.

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.

An accessible glacier with a hiking trail that offers spectacular views.

Half day to 7 day wilderness kayaking expeditions departing from Valdez Alaska. Glacier kayaking at it's finest with small group sizes and naturalist trained guides.

Helicopter Skiing and Snowboarding Multi-Day All-Inclusive Packages or Single Day Skiing Snowcat and Sled Skiing Snowmobile Tours

Guided sea kayaking, rafting and glacier hiking. Join our upbeat, knowledgeable crowd, as we offer a unique means of exploring a remote and stunningly beautiful corner of Alaska. Ice climb, camp, backpack, water taxi, kayak rentals and guided half-day, full-day and multi-day trips abound. From sea kayaking amongst the icebergs of Prince William Sound, to whitewater rafting the canyons of the Chugach Mountains, to backcountry hiking into the depths of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, we offer a wholesome array of fun ways to experience the Alaskan wild. Explore with us for a day, or take all our trips and fuse them into a week-long multi-sport adventure! We customize many of our trips, so we are confident that we can find you the perfect fit.