Orcas are commonly called killer whales, although they are actually a member of the dolphin family. Fish-eating "resident Orcas" and mammal-eating “transient Orcas” are genetically distinct from each other, and never intermingle.
Listen to Humpback Whales (MP3)
We offer morning and afternoon excursions on the M/V TAZ, into North America's most famous Humpback whale feeding grounds — Icy Straits and Pt. Adolphus. These areas (near Glacier Bay) are world-famous for the gathering of these gentle giants. Their unique feeding techniques, acrobatics, and vocalizations make every tour unforgettable. This is whale watching at its best!
Join us for an unforgettable opportunity to see Humpback whales, plus a variety of other marine mammals, including Minke whales, Orcas (killer whales), Stellar sea lions, Sea otters, Dall porpoises. and the elusive Harbor porpoises. We also observe Bald Eagles, Puffins, a wide variety of other sea birds, and occasionally an Alaskan brown bear can be see strolling the beach!
We offer two daily tours from Gustavus, seven days per week. While we specialize in regularly scheduled whale watching and wildlife viewing tours, custom tours and charters are also available for larger groups.
The M/V TAZ offers two touring options, seven days a week (from May 25 through September 5). Our morning tour departs the Gustavus dock at 8:30 a.m. and returns at noon. Our afternoon tour departs at 1:30 p.m. and returns to the Gustavus dock at 5:00 p.m.
The 45' M/V TAZ is an ideal vessel for observing and photographing wildlife. It is extremely stable, with large observation windows which allow for great viewing from both inside or outside on the deck. In addition, our unique hydrophone system allows us to hear the calls of the whales underwater. We also have a comfortable heated interior and enclosed restroom for the comfort of our passengers.
The TAZ and crew are fully certified by the US Coast Guard for your safety. When you join us you will have the best opportunity to see Humpback whales and other marine mammals such as Minke whales, Orcas (killer whales), Stellar sea lions, Sea otters, Dall porpoises, and Harbor porpoises. Bald Eagles, Puffins, Arctic terns, Glaucous-wing gulls, and a wide variety of other shore birds are often observed as well.
All tours include quality binoculars for your use, snacks and an assortment of hot beverages. We also offer custom whale watch tours and personalized group charters (up to 23 passengers). Cross Sound Express is an authorized Concessionaire in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. We are permitted to enter Glacier Bay from September 1 thorough May 31.
On a group charter, you share your experience with those in your own group. A group charter closes your trip to all other guests.
Whales, birding, marine mammals, scenic wonders, wildlife viewing and photography, all in a single day! Our naturalist will explain much of the human and natural history of the area, while doing a boat trip past the mouth of Glacier Bay to Cross Sound, at the northern outlet of the Inside Passage.
We will take in a different view of the majestic Fairweather Range on the outer coast of Glacier Bay National Park, and we can even walk around the quaint board-walk village of Elfin Cove. Back aboard the boat, we'll set out to see a beautiful natural stone arch reaching nearly a hundred feet out of the ocean, visit bird rookeries, and observe sea lion haul outs.
We'll possibly get a close up of commercial salmon fishing operations, or halibut long-liners working their gear. The larger tides in this region create some of the most dynamic ocean currents in Southeast Alaska, and we will experience how they create a feeding frenzy for Bald Eagles and sea lions.
Whales, seals, and sea otter are not forgotten — we will enjoy their presence during much of the trip.
Do you just need a ride? Kayaking is one of the most popular activities in the area. For safety reasons, many paddlers prefer not to do larger crossings, and need a drop-off or pickup at a remote location.
Cross Sound Express LLC offers dependable water taxi service, in a sturdy, fast, vessel designed to carry kayaks and camping equipment.
For standard dropoffs, you and your gear can be dropped off from the swimstep. for charter dropoffs, we would bring the Zodiac for a beach transfer. We can also schedule a time and place for your pick up, in the same manner.
Whether base camping, or doing a longer paddle, check with Cross Sound Express LLC about your needs. Tod Sebens can share his extensive knowledge about camp sites, and what to expect with winds, tides, and currents.
Tthe M/V TAZ is available for transport of groups (up to 23 passengers) between various ports and locations in Southeast Alaska.
We can comfortably take your group from Juneau for example, to another remote community or drop you at a location of your choice.
We are also licensed to transport up to three tons of cargo on our decks, providing freight service, for example, to a remote building site for the construction of your dream cabin.
Contact us for a quote, and to check the availability of the TAZ for any of these services.
In 2007 the TAZ started the unique service of offering an opportunity to truly become one with nature.
Join us on the waters of Cross Sound in Southeast Alaska for a wedding you’re sure to remember and cherish. Exchange your vows in the presence and sounds of the Humpback Whales of Point Adolphus.
This charter is tailored to your needs and wishes, and we will do everything possible to make your “Wedding with the Whales” an enchanting event.