What to Expect
The Chilkat River float is a serene and scenic journey through the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, one of Alaska’s most treasured natural habitats. Your adventure begins right at the Haines cruise ship pier, where your guide will meet you. From there, you’ll board a bus for a 40-minute narrated drive along the Haines Highway, a designated National Scenic Byway. The drive itself is an excursion, offering views of glacier-capped mountains, lush valleys, and potential sightings of moose in the marshlands.
Upon reaching the river put-in point, your guides will provide a safety briefing and outfit you with all necessary gear, including life jackets, rain ponchos, and often, waterproof boots. You’ll then board a sturdy 18-foot inflatable raft. Don’t worry about your paddling skills—the guide sits on an oar frame and does all the steering and propelling. Your only job is to relax, stay watchful, and soak in the 360-degree scenery.
The float itself lasts for about 90 minutes to two hours, covering a gentle, rapids-free stretch of the glacially-fed Chilkat River. You’ll be silently gliding through the Bald Eagle Preserve, which is home to a significant year-round population of America’s national bird. Look up into the massive cottonwood trees lining the banks, where you can often spot eagles perched high above or tending to their nests. The river’s ecosystem is rich, supported by summer salmon runs that also attract brown bears, though sightings are not guaranteed. After the float, you’ll be treated to a simple but satisfying riverside picnic lunch before the scenic drive back to the pier.
Who This Is For
This excursion is perfectly suited for anyone seeking an immersive and peaceful wilderness experience without the physical demands of hiking or kayaking. It is arguably the best excursion in Haines for families with young children (typically ages 7 and up) or multi-generational groups that include older, less mobile travelers.
Because there is no required paddling and the river has no whitewater, it’s ideal for those with limited mobility or low fitness levels. If you can walk on uneven ground for a short distance to the raft and sit comfortably for about two hours, you can enjoy this trip. It is a fantastic choice for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a stable, quiet platform for observation. The small group sizes, usually capped at 14 guests or fewer, ensure an intimate experience far from the cruise ship crowds.
Ship vs. Independent Booking
For the Haines rafting tour, booking independently is the clear winner for both price and experience. Local, Haines-based operators meet you directly at the cruise ship dock, eliminating any logistical hurdles. The primary advantage is cost savings. A tour booked directly with a company like Rainbow Glacier Adventures costs around $179 for the 4-hour trip. Booking the exact same experience through your cruise line’s shore excursion desk can cost as much as $300-$330 per person.
By booking direct, you are also supporting the local Haines economy more directly and often benefit from smaller group sizes than the large blocks of seats reserved by cruise lines. Since the activity is extremely safe and takes place on a calm river, the “back-to-ship” guarantee offered by cruise lines provides little added value. Simply ensure your tour’s return time is at least 90 minutes before your ship’s all-aboard call.
What to Bring
Packing for the Chilkat River float is about preparing for variable weather. Layering is key.
- Base Layer: A moisture-wicking shirt (synthetic or wool).
- Mid Layer: A warm fleece or puffy jacket.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential.
- Pants: Comfortable pants (hiking pants are ideal); avoid cotton jeans as they stay wet and cold.
- Footwear: Your operator will likely provide waterproof boots, but wear warm wool or synthetic socks.
- Accessories: A warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses are highly recommended, even on overcast days.
- Gear: A camera is a must. Bring a waterproof bag or even a Ziploc to protect it. Binoculars will greatly enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.
Most operators include a picnic lunch and all necessary rafting equipment, so there is no need to bring food or drinks.
How to Book
Booking this tour is straightforward. The most reputable and long-standing operators can be booked directly online through their websites. It is highly recommended to book several months in advance to secure your spot, especially for peak season travel.
Verified Local Operators:
- Rainbow Glacier Adventures: A well-regarded local company offering a 4-hour tour from Haines. They have decades of experience in the area.
- Haines Rafting Company: Specializes in small-group river adventures, focusing on getting off the beaten path within the preserve.
When booking, confirm the meeting location (it will be at the pier) and the tour duration to ensure it fits within your ship’s port schedule. By booking directly with these companies, you’ll save a significant amount of money and enjoy a more personal and authentic Alaskan experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect on the Chilkat River rafting tour?
Your guide will meet you at the dock and take you on a 40-minute narrated drive up the scenic Haines Highway to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. After a safety briefing, you'll board an 18-foot inflatable raft for a gentle 1.5 to 2-hour float down the river. Your guide does all the paddling, so you can focus on spotting eagles, moose, and maybe even bears. Afterward, you'll have a picnic-style lunch before the scenic drive back to Haines.
Should I book this tour through my cruise ship or independently?
For this excursion, booking independently is almost always the better choice. Local operators like Rainbow Glacier Adventures offer the tour for around $179 per person. The identical tour sold through a cruise line can cost upwards of $300. Since the tour is very safe, operators meet you at the dock, and it doesn't involve complex logistics, booking direct offers significant savings with minimal risk.
What should I wear and bring for the rafting float?
Dress in warm layers, as weather on the river can change quickly. A waterproof rain jacket is essential, even if it's not raining when you start. Most operators provide waterproof boots and a life jacket. Bring a camera (in a dry bag if possible), binoculars for wildlife viewing, and sunglasses. You won't need anything else, as lunch and gear are typically included.
Are there any age or fitness requirements for this tour?
This is one of the most accessible excursions in Haines. There is no paddling required by guests. You must be able to walk on uneven ground to get to the raft. The minimum age is typically 7 years old, and there may be a weight limit of around 350 lbs. It's an excellent choice for families with children and older adults who want to experience the Alaskan wilderness without strenuous activity.
What is the cancellation and weather policy?
Tours operate in most weather conditions, including rain. A light rain won't cancel the trip, and operators will provide rain ponchos. Cancellation policies vary, but you can generally expect a full refund if you cancel at least 48 hours in advance. If the operator cancels due to extreme weather, you will receive a full refund.
How far in advance should I book the Chilkat River float?
Because this is a very popular tour and operators use small groups (often capped at 12-14 people), it's recommended to book at least 3-4 months in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak months of June, July, or August. Booking early ensures you get a spot with a reputable independent guide.
Which local companies operate this tour and what's included?
Reputable local operators include Rainbow Glacier Adventures and Haines Rafting Company. The price typically includes round-trip transportation from the Haines dock, all necessary rafting gear (life jacket, boots, rain poncho), a professional guide, and a picnic-style lunch with sandwiches, fruit, and cookies.