Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier
Sail through a breathtaking Alaskan fjord to witness the immense Dawes Glacier, surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful light, fewer crowds
Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier
Best Time
Peaceful light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sail through a breathtaking Alaskan fjord to witness the immense Dawes Glacier, surrounded by towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
"A dream come true, this serene fjord offers majestic views of glaciers and icy waters."
🌅 Wake Up Early for Views
Don't miss the magic! Many recommend an early wake-up call for the best scenic cruising experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can be chilly, even on sunny days. Pack warm clothing and windproof gear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dawes Glacier
End of Endicott Arm
Witness the immense power of this tidewater glacier as ice calves into the sea with thunderous roars.
Endicott Arm Fjord
Sail through this stunning, narrow fjord surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains and dramatic cliffs.
Icebergs Galore
Marvel at the diverse shapes and colors of icebergs floating in the glacial waters.
Cascading Waterfalls
Admire the numerous waterfalls that tumble down the steep mountainsides, especially after rain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Start
Be Prepared for Changing Conditions
+1 Pack layers and be ready for cooler temperatures, even in summer.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Wake Up Early for Views
Don't miss the magic! Many recommend an early wake-up call for the best scenic cruising experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can be chilly, even on sunny days. Pack warm clothing and windproof gear.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Spot seals and otters from a distance; they can be hard to see with the naked eye.
🚢 Consider Smaller Boats
For a closer experience, some opt for smaller expedition boats from the main cruise ship.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Wake Up Early for Views
Don't miss the magic! Many recommend an early wake-up call for the best scenic cruising experience.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Temperatures can be chilly, even on sunny days. Pack warm clothing and windproof gear.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Spot seals and otters from a distance; they can be hard to see with the naked eye.
🚢 Consider Smaller Boats
For a closer experience, some opt for smaller expedition boats from the main cruise ship.
🧊 Listen for the Ice
The sounds of ice cracking and calving are part of the glacier's powerful symphony.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, highlighting the stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and the awe-inspiring glacier itself. Many recommend waking up early to fully appreciate the peaceful and majestic experience. Some note that wildlife sightings can be distant, and the glacier may appear smaller than in past years due to natural melt.
"Scenic cruising through this quiet and peaceful section of Alaska on a semi overcast morning. I saw some seals and otters through a binocular as they're too far and small to spot with naked eyes. Slightly cold and not too windy. Others said that the glacier melted a lot compared to when they were here 10 years ago. We couldn't get close enough to the glacier, only took pictures from a distance."
Limitless
"Our cruise ship entered Endicott Arm very slowly. Floating by huge snowcapped mountains, waterfalls, and icebergs floating by. It was worth getting up early to enjoy the sites"
Lemmie Klein
"Stunning mountains, waterfalls and Dawes Glacier. September has more rain than August and so more waterfalls! The water is ~1000’ deep and allows the ship to safely navigate the space and turn in a circle"
Mike Brown
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier are primarily accessed via cruise ships sailing through Alaska. Many major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity Cruises, offer itineraries that include scenic cruising through this fjord.
While both are stunning fjords in Southeast Alaska, Endicott Arm is a separate waterway. Sometimes, cruise itineraries may substitute Endicott Arm for Tracy Arm due to ice conditions, as it offers a similar, breathtaking glacial experience. +1
Independent travel to Endicott Arm is challenging due to its remote location. It's best experienced as part of an Alaskan cruise itinerary. Some specialized charter boat tours might be available from Juneau, but cruises are the most common method.
Endicott Arm is located approximately 50 miles southeast of Juneau, Alaska. Cruise ships typically sail through this area as part of their scenic cruising days.
The most popular way to see Dawes Glacier is by taking an Alaskan cruise that sails through Endicott Arm. Some ships offer the option to board smaller expedition boats for a closer view of the glacier.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No separate tickets are required for Endicott Arm itself. Access is typically included as part of your Alaskan cruise fare. Excursions, such as smaller boat tours from the main ship, may have an additional cost.
Endicott Arm is a natural fjord and is accessible year-round, but its primary viewing season is during the Alaskan cruise season, typically from May to September. Cruise ships schedule their scenic cruising through the arm during daylight hours.
There are no direct entrance fees for Endicott Arm. As it's part of the Tongass National Forest, general access is free. However, the cost is incorporated into your cruise ticket or any specific tour bookings.
It's advisable to book Alaskan cruises, especially those including popular scenic cruising areas like Endicott Arm, at least 6-12 months in advance, particularly for peak season travel.
Generally, you cannot disembark directly at Dawes Glacier. The experience involves scenic cruising past the glacier. Some ships may offer tender services or smaller boat excursions for a closer look.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often spot seals and otters in the waters of Endicott Arm. Keep an eye out for marine life, and some lucky travelers have even reported seeing orcas.
The best vantage points are from your cruise ship's deck or balcony, offering panoramic views. Some ships allow you to get very close, even performing a 360-degree turn for everyone to see.
The scenic cruising portion through Endicott Arm and to Dawes Glacier usually takes several hours, often starting early in the morning and concluding by midday. +1
Cruise ships are equipped to navigate these waters safely. They maintain a safe distance from the glacier and are aware of calving ice. Smaller expedition boats also operate with experienced guides.
The primary activity is scenic cruising. Some excursions may offer kayaking or wildlife viewing tours from smaller vessels.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and a serene atmosphere. Moody, overcast days can also create dramatic and captivating photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the fjord and glacier. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance water and sky colors.
Try to capture the scale by including your ship or other elements in the frame. Photos of icebergs with interesting shapes or colors can also be striking.
While not common as dedicated tours, many cruise lines offer onboard photography talks or guides who can offer tips. The best approach is to be prepared and capture the moments as they unfold.
Lighting can vary greatly. Mornings can be dim, while midday can be bright. Overcast days are common and can provide diffused, even light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a cruise with ample deck space or private balconies so children can comfortably observe the scenery. Waking up early might be a challenge, but the visual spectacle is often worth the effort. Some cruise lines offer kids' programs that might touch upon Alaskan natural wonders, making the experience even more engaging.
🚢 Cruise Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the ship's maneuverability; the ability for the ship to turn in a circle at the glacier's face is a highlight for many. If your cruise offers it, consider the smaller expedition boat excursion for a more intimate encounter with the glacier.
📸 Photography Buffs
Bring a versatile lens setup, from wide-angle for the grand fjord views to telephoto for wildlife. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as moody skies can create incredibly atmospheric images. Capturing the scale of the glacier and the intricate details of icebergs will be key.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Dawes Glacier
Cruise ships typically navigate as close as safely possible to Dawes Glacier, often performing a full 360-degree turn so all passengers can get a good view. Some cruise lines offer specialized excursions where you can board smaller expedition boats that venture even closer to the glacier's face, providing a more intimate and thrilling perspective.
It's important to note that the glacier's appearance can change significantly due to seasonal melt and ice flow. While some visitors have observed a noticeable melt compared to previous years, the raw power and beauty of Dawes Glacier remain a highlight of any Alaskan cruise.
Navigating Endicott Arm Fjord
As you cruise deeper into the arm, you'll encounter numerous icebergs that have calved from the glacier. These ice formations come in various sizes and shades of blue and white, adding to the ethereal beauty of the landscape. Keep an eye out for waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, especially after rainfall, which are more prevalent in September.
The journey through Endicott Arm is often described as peaceful and serene. The remoteness and natural beauty create a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness. Many visitors find that waking up early to witness this scenic cruising is well worth the effort.
Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Keep your binoculars handy, as these creatures can sometimes be distant. While less common, some lucky cruisers have reported sightings of orcas or other marine mammals in the area. The remote and pristine environment provides a habitat for various species, adding another layer of wonder to the experience.
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