Sea Crab Fishermen at Work

Overview

Take advantage of Ketchikan's incredible landscape and protected waters as you set out on the great Aleutian Ballad, a fantastically fun and genuine sea crab fishing vessel that has been featured on the Discovery Channels Deadliest Catch! Equipped with an authentic fishing crew and catching gear, the vessel has been completely remodeled to accommodate leisure travelers.

Come aboard and seat yourself under the heated and sheltered amphitheater or on the panoramic upper deck. When everyone is aboard and comfortable, your crew (some of whom you may have seen on television!) will cut loose and head out to the pristine fishing grounds.

On your way to the fishing grounds, you will become familiarized with the boat and her colorful history as a working crab fishing boat in the notorious Bering Sea, as well as the history of Alaska fisheries and the type of fishing vessels and gear you are likely to encounter during your cruise through Alaskan waters.

During your ride, expect to get very close to islands and land where you may see Alaskan wildlife. While we can't make wildlife guarantees, we'll keep the binoculars handy and make every effort to point out wildlife. You'll also want to keep an eye out for whales and porpoises swimming by during your journey.

As the Aleutian Ballad pulls up on the first set of fishing gear, you'll be right alongside watching as the crew begins to haul up the catch. Some animals brought to the surface will be placed in a live tank for everyone to see. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture these moments before the creatures are gently released back into the sea.

As we continue on towards the protected waters of Annette Island, we'll ease in close to shore where eagles nest. Further up the inlet, you will witness the huge crab pots being hauled aboard and you will be able to touch these giant crustaceans. We may even pull up an octopus pot!

This fascinating, educational, and interactive experience is perfect for all ages and is packed with the crews stories from the sea...you decide if they're fact or fiction!

This unique tour allows guests from all walks of life to stand on the edge of the commercial fishing world. At the end of your tour, you will return back to your cruise pier.