Up close views of towering ice-blue glaciers bring thousands of visitors to Alaska annually.
No one forgets their first or subsequent fascinating view of these magnificent natural wonders.
If you are traveling to Alaska this season, here’s your chance to hop onto the next cruise through these fantastic glacier destinations.
Are you torn between Endicott Arm vs. Glacier Bay? Let’s have a comparative look at them so you can decide for yourself. They are two of the most spectacular locations for a breathtaking glacier cruise experience.
Why Is It Called Endicott Arm?
The large fjord inlet is a thousand miles long and is named after a late 1800s seafarer who died in the fierce currents.
Thankfully, today, we have tide charts to help with the maritime movement, preventing similar incidents.
Does Endicott Arm Have Glaciers?
Yes. The iconic Dawes Glacier stands out proudly at the end of the Endicott Arm fjord. Before you get to the glacier, you will enjoy the picturesque view of the Alaskan wilderness.
Look out for the numerous wildlife and large birds that call the Tracy Arm Valley home.
Some cruise ships may not include a tour of Endicott Arm in their itinerary. Should they miss the Dawes Glacier, book a day tour from Juneau in a smaller boat.
Nevertheless, cruise lines will book glacier excursions for interested passengers, so enquire before you depart.
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Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay is renowned for its abundant marine life, wildlife, and numerous glaciers.
For visitors to Alaska, traveling to this region is intriguing and a lesson on how impressive nature is.
Your adventure awaits, so book a cruise and explore the remote coves, inlets, and harbors.
Make early flight reservations, car rentals, and hotel bookings to avoid the summer rush.
As with all travels to new locations, your safety is a priority, so consider getting insurance to cover unexpected incidents.
Endicott Arm Vs Glacier Bay: Which Is Better?
While both glacier locations offer a stunning view of the splendid Alaskan landscape, there are a few differences.
First, Endicott Arm is in the southeastern fjord, part of the beautiful Inside Passage inlets and hidden coves.
Its accessibility is convenient for small cruise ships or charter flights. Furthermore, the 30-mile stretch to the glacier is filled with rock cliffs, ridge valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
When you reach the end of Endicott Arm, you will behold the active Dawes Glacier. It is almost a mile long and stands impressively tall above 600 feet.
Dawes Glacier is famous due to its dramatic calving display. Huge chunks of icebergs fall off the glacier walls, and you will hear the booming sound as they crash into the water.
The icebergs then float on the water, an alluring backdrop from the small boats that cruise Endicott Arm.
Unbelievably, the floating ice only represents about 10%, as 90% of what breaks off is submerged in the sea.
Harbor seals also breed in Endicott Arm, so watch out for these marine mammals that sometimes bask on the floating ice.
On the other hand, Glacier Bay is home to eight massive glaciers. On a calm weather day, you will enjoy seeing each of them, although they are a bit farther into the mountains.
Unlike Dawes Glacier, the icebergs at Glacier Bay keep melting, meaning you will likely not witness any calving.
Nevertheless, the surrounding national park has more glaciers worth visiting and plenty of wildlife to see. Since you may spend up to 9 hours cruising the park, have your binoculars handy.
If you miss the sea otters, scan the mountain slopes for bears and goats. Alaska’s largest bird of prey, the bald eagle, is also worth watching out for on a glacier cruise.
When the boat stops, take out your camera and capture the charming sights that make a trip to Alaska worthwhile.
Which Glacier Tour Should I Choose, Endicott Arm Or Glacier Bay?
Primarily, a glacier tour will depend on your cruise ship’s itinerary. Furthermore, it depends on the length of your Alaskan trip. But both glaciers are impressive and worth a visit.
When you reach Glacier Bay, rangers will come aboard and share detailed information about the park. Ask as many questions as possible, and request a stamp on your national park passport.
In Endicott Arm, you will experience the dramatic shift of the ice at Dawes Glacier, the tour’s highlight. Kids will enjoy this show, especially since it’s a shorter excursion.
Visiting Glacier Bay is a lengthy adventure, and children’s attention span is short, though they enjoy the ranger’s visit.
Is The Dawes Glacier Excursion Worth It?
For people who love nature and the outdoors, it is an exhilarating experience.
When the cruise ship stops, hop into the smaller boats for a closer look. If not, sit back with your binoculars and admire the scenery from a distance.
Since the Dawes Glacier calving is the best part of an Endicott Arm tour, watch and smell the ice as it melts off.
The heart-pounding encounter will have you chasing more glaciers in your future adventures.
It is important to note that the excursion may take longer than expected. While there are snacks to purchase on board, pack a light meal.
During good weather, the tour may last about 7 hours. Avoid booking another outing on the same day, as you may return to the ship past 2.
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What To Wear For Your Endicott Arm Vs. Glacier Bay Tour
Alaska is typically cold, no matter the season, although summer may be warmer. The weather also changes drastically, so wearing layers is advisable for a glacier tour.
As you get closer to the ice, it gets chilly, and if you are under-dressed, use the boat’s enclosed seating area. Still, being outside offers a better view of the glacier and wildlife.
Final thoughts
There you have it. The detailed comparison of Endicott Arm vs. Glacier Bay above should simplify your glacier cruise tour options.
I recommend Glacier Bay because it’s cheaper and also a three-in-one experience for wildlife and numerous icebergs.
Endicott Arm is also pleasant, especially to witness the calving show at Dawes Glacier.
Whichever excursion you take, the all-around beauty of Alaska is an incredible experience, especially if you indulge in a flightseeing tour.
