Is bear viewing safe?
The short answer is YES grizzly bear viewing is safe. Confrontations between bears and humans can be avoided when people have a clear understanding of bear behavior and show the bears respect. We are very predictable in our bear viewing behavior and this allows the bears to be comfortable with our presence. There has never been a documented case of a brown bear attack on a group of three or more humans. Guides on the Katmai coast carry marine flares and bear spray to scare off bears should the need arise. At Alaska Adventure Cruises our guides are put through a training program and have years of in the field experience with the bears.
Is the boat safe?
Every precaution is taken to ensure your cruise is memorable for all the right reasons. All shore excursions are guided by our Certified Guides. The M/V Rogue1 exceeds the USCG required navigational aides and personal safety gear and has a USCG 5-star safety rating and is operated by a USCG licensed captain.
Physical requirements?
There are a couple sets of stairs on the M/V Rogue 1. For bear viewing you need to be able to get in and out of the skiff and walk at least ½ mile on uneven terrain. We can take anyone but if you can't walk as far or aren't mobile it will limit the intimacy of your bear viewing experience.
What should I bring each day?
Dress for cool & wet weather, with the ability to remove layers for warm weather. Wear layered clothing (windproof fleece), rain gear, jacket & pants (lightweight coated nylon). Bring a day pack and water bottle (you will carry all you bring). Be sure to bring your camera & memory cards & batteries. Binoculars, bug dope (DEET), sunscreen, sunglasses and hat are all recommended. Bring your bag lunch (NO FISH). MEDICATION: if you use it, bring enough for the trip plus 2 days just in case the weather delays your return. Click here for a printable full checklist of things to bring.
Best time to go bear viewing?
We operate from late May to mid-September. When you come depends on what your priorities are for your trip. The bears start coming out from hibernation in May. We start out watching them feeding on coastal sedge grass, into the mating rituals. If you want to see bears catching fish, then plan your trip for August through late September. For birders looking to catch a glimpse of a nesting puffin visit from late May to early August. Whale watchers looking for humpback whales will want to visit from May through August. There is no magic bullet when it comes to the best time to go bear viewing,
What’s a typical day of bear viewing?
We will either head straight to the beach when we get up or have breakfast then go. We will spent a few hours watching bears and then either eat a packed lunch or return to the boat for lunch (groups choice). Then look for a new area or return to the same area. We will return for dinner and enjoy a fine meal and story telling of the day. After dinner we can return to shore or find a quiet place to anchor, do some paddle boarding or kayaking, or just enjoy the views from the deck while sipping your favorite beverage.
What other other animals might I see?
Wildlife you will see will be split between coastal land and sea. Coastal land mammals you may see include Alaskan coastal brown bear (grizzly), foxes, wolves (Katmai), river otters, & deer (Kodiak). Sea mammals you may see include orca whales, humpback whales, grey whales, fin whales, sea lions, seals, and sea otters. Sea birds abound along the coast including bald eagles, horned puffins, tufted puffins, oyster catchers, and many more. See our complete list of bird species here.
What if I get sea sick?
If you are prone to seasickness it is a good idea to check with your physician regarding appropriate medication. If sea sickness stops you from cruising it is possible to meet us on site via air taxi. Air taxi is not included in quoted price. We suggest making sure to pack plenty of dramamine just in case.
How many people are allowed on this trip?
We can take a maximum of 6 guests per trip.
What if I have special dietary needs?
We can accommodate to your special dietary needs.
What will the weather be?
The weather in Kodiak Archipelago and Katmai is unpredictable. Average summer temperatures range from a low of 45F to a high of 68F with rain from 4.5 to 5.6 inches per month. You really won’t know what you’re going to get until you arrive, so be prepared to make the journey, rain or shine.