Kayaking Between Icebergs in Alaska Was Surprisingly Peaceful
When most people think “icebergs,” they think freezing wind, icy waves, and Titanic-level drama. So when I signed up to go kayaking through iceberg-dotted waters in Alaska, I expected something intense. Maybe even a little terrifying.
What I got instead? Silence. Calm. Awe. And one of the most peaceful outdoor experiences I’ve ever had.
Turns out, paddling between towering chunks of floating ice isn't just safe (with the right guides), it’s meditative, magical, and—yeah—pretty surreal.
Where This Happens
This kind of adventure isn’t available just anywhere in Alaska. The sweet spot? Bear Glacier Lagoon, located in Kenai Fjords National Park near the town of Seward.
The lagoon is formed by the retreat of Bear Glacier (thanks, climate change), and it’s filled with meltwater, small icebergs, and huge floating ice chunks—some the size of trucks. Unlike the open ocean, the lagoon is protected and calm. Think glassy water, moody mist, and icy sculptures drifting in silence.
There are other spots too—like Glacier Bay or Valdez Arm—but Bear Glacier is hands-down one of the most accessible and visually stunning options.
Getting There Is Half the Fun
You don’t just drive to the lagoon and hop in your kayak. First, you take a boat or jet ski from Seward across Resurrection Bay, skimming past sea otters, bald eagles, and maybe even a humpback or two. Then, you land on a gravel beach, gear up, and finally slide your kayak into this otherworldly ice garden.
It’s remote. It’s wild. It’s beautiful.
And from the moment your paddle touches the water, everything gets very, very quiet.
What It’s Like on the Water
Imagine sitting in a stable kayak, wrapped in a drysuit, gently slicing across still, silvery water. The air is crisp, but not bone-chilling—at least in summer. Icebergs float by slowly. Some are white. Some are electric blue. Some have streaks of black from old glacial rock.
Every few minutes, one of them creaks or cracks, releasing a bubble of air that's been trapped for centuries. Sometimes they roll over with a deep groan, sending out tiny ripples that your kayak rides like a whisper.
It’s not scary. It’s grounding. The kind of experience that forces you to slow down, breathe deeply, and just be.
Wildlife? Yes Please.
In between icebergs, you’re likely to spot harbor seals sunning themselves on the floes. They’ll pop their heads up to check you out—curious but cautious.
Above, you might see puffins flapping clumsily or bald eagles gliding from spruce tree to cliff. And in the distance, depending on the season, you might hear the thunderous rumble of the glacier calving—giant chunks breaking off into the water.
It’s like kayaking through a BBC nature documentary. Only you’re in it.
Is It Safe?
Absolutely—with a guide.
The tour companies that operate in these icy lagoons are experienced and well-equipped. You’ll wear a drysuit or layers of waterproof gear, get a full briefing, and paddle in a small group with a pro leading the way.
Guides know which areas to avoid (like the base of an unstable iceberg), how to handle weather shifts, and what to do if someone gets chilly or tired.
You don’t need kayaking experience either—just a basic level of fitness and a sense of adventure.
What to Bring
- Thermal layers (wool or synthetic, not cotton) - Waterproof gloves - Warm hat that fits under a helmet or hood - Sunglasses with a strap (glare off ice is real) - Dry bag for phone/camera - Snacks and water (or let the tour company handle it) - Curiosity and calm vibes
Pro tip: if your camera has a wide-angle setting, use it. These views deserve it.
When to Go
- June to September is prime time for kayaking among icebergs in Alaska. - Mornings are usually calmer with better lighting. - Avoid heavy wind days—icebergs can shift quickly, and most tours will reschedule if it’s not safe.
Some die-hard adventurers go earlier in the season (late May), but water temps are colder and access can be trickier.
Is It Cold?
Yeah, kind of. But not miserable.
With the right gear, you’ll be comfortable. Most people actually warm up pretty fast from paddling. It’s not a splashy experience—you won’t get soaked unless you try something heroic.
And honestly, the crisp air just makes the hot chocolate afterward taste even better.
How Long Is the Tour?
Most iceberg kayaking trips run 4–6 hours total, including transport. Actual paddle time is about 2–3 hours. That’s plenty of time to explore, take breaks, and float in quiet awe without exhausting your arms.
Multi-day options are available for more remote glaciers, but the day trip gives you all the magic without the logistical hassle.
