Ride an amphibious vehicle known as the "Duck" through the historical streets of Ketchikan and out into the placid harbor, while a guide entertains you with tales of the city's past.
Board the Duck right at the pier and after a safety briefing, your fully narrated Duck experience commences with a drive through the streets of Ketchikan, an area settled in 1883 around a salmon cannery. This picturesque "Salmon Capital of the World" still revolves around fishing, as you'll see at sites like the salmon ladder and spawning grounds, where thousands of salmon congregate. Of course, there's plenty more to explore during the land-based first half of this tour, including the former Red Light District along Creek Street, a curious downtown tunnel, and beautiful Whale Park, which is dominated by the Chief Kyan Totem Pole, one of more than 80 totem poles throughout the city.
Then, the scenery changes dramatically as the Duck drives down a ramp straight into the harbor and becomes a seaworthy boat. As you cruise through the Tongass Narrows, a half-mile-wide channel separating Ketchikan from Gravina Island, you'll pass fishing boats, pleasure boats and perhaps even seaplanes. You'll also notice a number of canneries along the shore, most of which is forested to the water's edge. You might also catch sight of black bears and bald eagles, which tend to gather around the salmon streams.
Finally, after approximately thirty-five minutes in the water, the Duck will drive back on to dry land and following a short safety check, make its way back to the pier where your tour concludes.
Please note: This is a seated tour and guests will remain on the Duck the entire time. While wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are welcome aboard the Duck, participants must be able to negotiate a 9-step ladder (each step is 6 inches high) unassisted in order to enter and exit the Duck. Wheelchairs, walkers and strollers are not permitted on the Duck and will be kept with the dock representative in a dry, secure place and returned at the end of the tour. Weather appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.