Valdez vs. Whittier

[brandygirlo]

We are trying to decide which would be better - Star Stepens Columbia Galcier Cruise (6 1/2 - 7 hours) possibly including the Meares Glacier Excursion (9 hours) out of Valdez or the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise(6 hours) out of Whittier that goes through Ester Passage, Harriman Fjord, Barry Arm, Surprise Glacier. We are looking to stay in calm waters.

 

Also, is kayaking through the waters around Valdez somewhat repetitive if we do the cruise?

 

Really appreciate any help you can give me.

Thanks so much

 

[wolfie11]

They are all good, but the Meares is amazing. How are you planning to get to Valdez? I assume you are on the 14 day Princess with a stop there? Otherwise it's very difficult to get to.

[brandygirlo]

Thanks for your thoughts - actually we decided after investigating everything to pass on a cruise this time and just do a two week land tour with our own car. The boards have been very helpful. We thought that at another time, we would cruise the inside passage - use our legs for hiking and exploring on our own while we still can and be pampered on a cruise later.

[Budget Queen]

Thanks for your thoughts - actually we decided after investigating everything to pass on a cruise this time and just do a two week land tour with our own car. The boards have been very helpful. We thought that at another time, we would cruise the inside passage - use our legs for hiking and exploring on our own while we still can and be pampered on a cruise later.

 

 

All these tours are extremely worth while AND different. Key for Valdez is TIME, which most people underestimate. :)

[brandygirlo]

BQ

Could you explain what you mean by underestimating the time in Valdez? Did you mean for the cruise to the glaciers or time spent in Valdez? What are your recommendations?

[Budget Queen]

BQ

Could you explain what you mean by underestimating the time in Valdez? Did you mean for the cruise to the glaciers or time spent in Valdez? What are your recommendations?

 

Time spent in Valdez, especially if also doing Kennicott/McCarthy- MUST do, in my opinion, otherwise, hardly worth going all this distance. In Valdez, it is worthwhile to spend 3 night, with doing a day boat trip. I ONLY like the regular ferry to/from Whittier. The fast ferry is much more transportation based, and you just don't ge the advantage of this top scenic area.