{"id":6951,"date":"2019-12-12T23:04:00","date_gmt":"2019-12-13T04:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/?p=6951"},"modified":"2020-06-05T11:04:39","modified_gmt":"2020-06-05T15:04:39","slug":"top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Paid and Free Things to do in Valdez Alaska"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6935\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/valdez-historic-facts\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"valdez-historic-facts\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Sign in Valdez lists a number of historic facts about the town&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Historic facts about Valdez Alaska\" class=\"wp-image-6935\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/valdez-historic-facts.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you want to know <em>\u2018Why visit Valdez?\u2019<\/em> and the top paid and free things to do in Valdez?&nbsp; Coastal beauty is surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in the world in the port town of Valdez Alaska on the Prince William Sound.&nbsp; This remote small Alaskan town offers top Alaska attractions &#8211; historical and outdoor adventures.&nbsp; Most tourists don\u2019t make it to Valdez since it is not on the way to anywhere else in Alaska, and it\u2019s far from most of Alaska\u2019s \u2018big name\u2019 destinations.&nbsp; With less tourism in this beautiful place, Tom and I were drawn to it.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<!--more-->\n\n\n\n<p>Often referred to as the \u2018Switzerland of Alaska,\u2019 surrounded by scenic mountains that plunge straight into the sea, Valdez is spell-binding.  Find out about the experiences that make Valdez worth the visit&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-what-makes-valdez-famous-\"><a>What makes Valdez famous?<\/a>&nbsp; <\/h1>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6940\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Wendy poses with carved seal sculpture&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Wendy poses with carved seal sculpture\" class=\"wp-image-6940\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-carved-seal-sculpture.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Valdez was the landing port for miner hopefuls heading to Alaska from Seattle for the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s.<\/li><li>The <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"The devastating earthquake and tsunami on Good Friday 1964. (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.valdezalaska.org\/discover-valdez-history\/valdez-history-1964-good-friday-earthquake\" target=\"_blank\">devastating earthquake<\/a> and tsunami on Good Friday 1964<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"The devastating earthquake and tsunami on Good Friday 1964. (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.valdezalaska.org\/discover-valdez-history\/valdez-history-1964-good-friday-earthquake\" target=\"_blank\">.<\/a><\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"\u2028Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989 is one of the worst oil spills in North America (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.history.com\/topics\/1980s\/exxon-valdez-oil-spill\" target=\"_blank\">Exxon Valdez oil spill of 1989<\/a> was one of the worst oil spills in North America.<\/li><li>Valdez is the southernmost terminus for the Trans-Alaska Oil pipeline.<\/li><li>Valdez is one of the most important commercial fishing ports in Alaska today.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Just after the depression in the late 1800\u2019s, people flocked to Alaska to participate in the Klondike Gold Rush.&nbsp; Working in and hailing from the ice-free southernmost Alaska port, the Pacific Whaling Company transported hopeful miners from Seattle to Valdez.&nbsp; While advertised as the \u2018All-American route\u2019 from Port Valdez to the interior of Alaska and Klondike mine, it was a trail that required glacier crossings and rafting through rapids.&nbsp; Few miners made it; instead, many miners established a tent city in Valdez, making up the majority of Valdez\u2019s population at the time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The town of Valdez certainly had its share of disasters over the years.&nbsp; Damage from the 1964 earthquake forced the residents to relocate and rebuild the whole town at a more stable location.&nbsp; Then the citizens of Valdez banded together for the massive clean-up of the Prince William Sound after the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.&nbsp; In spite of its difficulties, Valdez and its surrounding area are flourishing with many fun and interesting things to do.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-things-to-do-in-valdez-\"><a>Things to do in Valdez<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideally located, Port <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelalaska.com\/Destinations\/Communities\/Valdez.aspx. 2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Valdez (opens in a new tab)\">Valdez<\/a> provides access to one of the world\u2019s most scenic waterways \u2013 Prince William Sound.&nbsp; From cultural and historic activities like 3 museums, wildlife excursions and glacier hikes, activities abound in Valdez and its surrounding area.&nbsp; There are activities for all levels of adventurers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-jetpack-tiled-gallery aligncenter is-style-rectangular\"><div class=\"tiled-gallery__gallery\"><div class=\"tiled-gallery__row\"><div class=\"tiled-gallery__col\"><figure class=\"tiled-gallery__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6942\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Worthington Glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" data-attachment-id=\"6942\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Worthington Glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Open image 1 of 5 in full-screen\"srcset=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=600&#038;ssl=1 600w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=900&#038;ssl=1 900w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1200&#038;ssl=1 1200w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1280&#038;ssl=1 1280w\" alt=\"Worthington Glacier\" data-height=\"720\" data-id=\"6942\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg\" data-width=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-1.jpg?ssl=1\"\/><\/a><\/figure><figure class=\"tiled-gallery__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6944\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"small-island-in-prince-william-sound\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Small island in Prince William Sound, reflected in the quiet waters.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" data-attachment-id=\"6944\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"small-island-in-prince-william-sound\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Small island in Prince William Sound, reflected in the quiet waters.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Open image 2 of 5 in full-screen\"srcset=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=600&#038;ssl=1 600w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=900&#038;ssl=1 900w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1200&#038;ssl=1 1200w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1280&#038;ssl=1 1280w\" alt=\"Small quiet island in Prince William Sound\" data-height=\"719\" data-id=\"6944\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg\" data-width=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/small-island-in-prince-william-sound.jpg?ssl=1\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"tiled-gallery__col\"><figure class=\"tiled-gallery__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6923\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=605%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"605,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Terminus of Meares Glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=584%2C988&amp;ssl=1\" data-attachment-id=\"6923\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=605%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"605,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Terminus of Meares Glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=584%2C988&amp;ssl=1\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Open image 3 of 5 in full-screen\"srcset=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=600&#038;ssl=1 600w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=605&#038;ssl=1 605w\" alt=\"Terminus of Meares Glacier\" data-height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6923\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg\" data-width=\"605\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?ssl=1\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div><\/div><div class=\"tiled-gallery__row\"><div class=\"tiled-gallery__col\"><figure class=\"tiled-gallery__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6912\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-otters-rafting-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"sea-otters-rafting-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Sea otters rafting in Prince William Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" data-attachment-id=\"6912\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-otters-rafting-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"sea-otters-rafting-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Sea otters rafting in Prince William Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Open image 4 of 5 in full-screen\"srcset=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=600&#038;ssl=1 600w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=900&#038;ssl=1 900w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1200&#038;ssl=1 1200w,https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=1280&#038;ssl=1 1280w\" alt=\"Sea otters rafting in Prince William Sound, Alaska\" data-height=\"719\" data-id=\"6912\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-otters-rafting-1\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg\" data-width=\"1280\" src=\"https:\/\/i2.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-1.jpg?ssl=1\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"tiled-gallery__col\"><figure class=\"tiled-gallery__item\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6943\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Worthington Glacier, receeding due to warmer weather.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-attachment-id=\"6943\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Worthington Glacier, receeding due to warmer weather.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-label=\"Open image 5 of 5 in full-screen\"srcset=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?strip=info&#038;w=576&#038;ssl=1 576w\" alt=\"Worthington Glacier\" data-height=\"1024\" data-id=\"6943\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\/\" data-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg\" data-width=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/i1.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?ssl=1\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Various boat cruises and kayaking trips provide opportunities to visit some of the most beautiful wilderness in the world, and close-ups to Pacific coastal wildlife.&nbsp; Otters sunning themselves or diving for food are aplenty, humpback whales can be seen as they surface, and often with their calves.&nbsp; Dall porpoise, Steller sea lions, Harbor seals, bald eagles, puffins, and other water birds can be found here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Valdez boasts <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"5 nearby glaciers (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/discovervaldezalaska.org\/explore-valdez-glaciers\/\" target=\"_blank\">5 nearby glaciers<\/a>, and more tidewater glaciers than anywhere on earth.  Two of the most visited glaciers in the Valdez area are Meares and Columbia tidewater glaciers.&nbsp; While most tidewater glaciers began their retreat 600 years ago, Columbia glacier is currently in catastrophic retreat.&nbsp; Floating ice from the calving Columbia glacier is seen out in the Sound.&nbsp; Two days prior to our glacier cruise, boats were not allowed to get within 6 miles of the Columbia glacier because of the danger.&nbsp; We are happy that our cruise took us to Meares glacier instead so we could see a glacier safely from close range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>DISCLAIMER<\/em><\/strong>:  <em><strong>Many thanks to Stan Stephens Cruises for hosting us. While we were hosted at no charge, we received no payment for this post, and this post is Tom&#8217;s and my honest opinion.<\/strong><\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-paid-and-worthwhile-things-to-do-in-valdez-\"><a>Paid and Worthwhile Things to Do in Valdez<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-valdez-alaska-wildlife-and-glacier-cruise-\"><a>Valdez Alaska Wildlife and Glacier Cruise<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Valdez Glacier Cruise<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6945\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"stan-stephens-boat-bow-view\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Glacier Spirit boat from Stan Stephens Cruises.  This 90&amp;#8242; vessel can accomodate 149 passengers.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Glacier Spirit boat from Stan Stephens Cruises\" class=\"wp-image-6945\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-boat-bow-view.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Where waters are calmer more consistently than in Seward\u2019s\nResurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords, the Prince William Sound is a majestic place\nto observe the wonders of the Alaskan seas and coastline.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Having visited the Prince William Sound on both the Whittier and the Valdez sides, we chose and can highly recommend taking a cruise via Valdez boat tours.&nbsp; Apparently there is considerably more wildlife on the Valdez side of the Sound. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6941\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Wendy in front of Stan Stephens Valdez Spirit catamaran&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Wendy in front of Stan Stephens Valdez Spirit catamaran\" class=\"wp-image-6941\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-with-stan-stephens-boat.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-selecting-a-valdez-wildlife-and-glacier-cruise\">Selecting a Valdez Wildlife and Glacier Cruise<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>We selected the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stephenscruises.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Stan Stephens Cruises (opens in a new tab)\">Stan Stephens Cruises<\/a>, &nbsp;8.5-hour Meares Glacier Cruise for a few reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>&nbsp;More time on the water increases chances to see whales, and our fantastic whale watching experience was in the last 45 minutes of our trip.<\/li><li>In 8.5 hours, we went further and saw much more of the sound than the shorter 6-hour cruise.<\/li><li>The 8.5-hour trip goes to Meares Glacier, which is not in retreat so the boat is able to get closer to it to see the wildlife, the glacier flow, and observe calving without fear of affecting the boat.<\/li><li>More time on the boat gives the Captain time to share more information about the Sound, its history, and wildlife.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Upon boarding the boat, we chose booth seating for our meals. Since the boat was not too crowded, we made our way outdoors to watch the scenery as we left the harbor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-on%0Athe-way-to-the-glacier-\"><em>On\nthe way to the Glacier<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>As we listened, Captain Alan taught us about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Valdez and its history \u2013 Miners, commercial fishing, the earthquake, and Exxon Valdez oil spill and the clean-up.<\/li><li>The wildlife of the Prince William Sound &#8211; seabirds like murrelets, bald eagles, pigeon guillemots, puffins and more.<\/li><li>Ensuring that sea otters numbers increase, their food sources and consumption, mothering behaviors, longevity, fur and more.<\/li><li>Hanging glaciers not having enough ice to push to the ocean.<\/li><li>Meares glacier is 200-300 feet high from its base (some is underwater) and it&#8217;s 13 miles long.<\/li><li>Commercial fishing in Prince William Sound.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Early into our cruise, we stopped in at the wheelhouse\nto meet our friendly captain, Alan.&nbsp;\nCaptain Alan has an open-door policy, allowing passengers to hang out\nwith him as he drives the boat and narrates the trip. &nbsp;He pointed out the \u2018Saga,\u2019 a crabbing boat from the \u2018Deadliest\nCatch\u2019 that fishes here in the summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6911\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Purse seine fishing for salmon in Prince WIliam Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Purse seine fishing for salmon in Prince WIliam Sound\" class=\"wp-image-6911\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/purse-seine-boat-salmon-fishing.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the trip out of Port Valdez, Captain Alan told us about the large fishing industry in Valdez while we observed purse seiner boats fishing for pink salmon. &nbsp;It was interesting to learn about the techniques employed; a smaller boat sets the net for the main boat.&nbsp; Some days the fishermen bring in as much as 20,000 salmon and some days none.&nbsp; Fish are purchased on the water by the tender that takes them back to port for processing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6930\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lion-haulout-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Steller sea lions resting at a haul-out in Prince Wiliam Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Steller sea lions resting at a haul-out\" data-id=\"6930\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6930\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout-2.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6914\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Serene coastline of Prince WIliam Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Serene coastline of Prince WIliam Sound\" data-id=\"6914\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island\/\" class=\"wp-image-6914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/shoreline-in-narrows-between-coast-glacier-island.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"332\" data-attachment-id=\"6922\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/icebergs-in-bay\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?fit=1280%2C727&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,727\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"icebergs-in-bay\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Icebergs from Mares Glacier float into Prince WIlliam Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?fit=584%2C332&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=584%2C332&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Icebergs from Meares Glacier float into Prince WIlliam Sound\" data-id=\"6922\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/icebergs-in-bay\/\" class=\"wp-image-6922\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=1024%2C582&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=300%2C170&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=150%2C85&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=500%2C284&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6929\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-haulout\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lion-haulout\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Steller sea lions resting at a haul-out in Prince WIlliam Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Steller sea lions resting at a haul-out in Prince WIlliam Sound\" data-id=\"6929\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-haulout\/\" class=\"wp-image-6929\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-haulout.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the Meares Glacier Cruise, Captain Alan had time to take us to some more remote spots on the sound.&nbsp; We passed Point Bullhead.  When we saw Steller sea lions, he told us that this breed of sea lion is 3 times the size of California sea lions.&nbsp; We visited Growler Island, had a slow look around, and watched the water birds.&nbsp; At Glacier Island, we saw tufted puffins, and pigeon guillemots (have red legs and are in the puffin family). We also saw black-legged kittiwakes that migrate to the Equator for winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6916\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/bald-eagle\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"bald-eagle\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Bald Eagle perched near the water of Prince William Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle-1024x575.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Bald Eagle perched near the water\" data-id=\"6916\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/bald-eagle\/\" class=\"wp-image-6916\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bald-eagle.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6934\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/tufted-puffin\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"tufted-puffin\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Tufted puffin floats in Prince WIlliam Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Tufted puffin floats in Prince WIlliam Sound\" data-id=\"6934\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/tufted-puffin\/\" class=\"wp-image-6934\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/tufted-puffin.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-at-the-glacier-\"><em>At the Glacier<\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6924\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Passengers on Stan Stephens Glacier &amp;#038; Wildlife Cruise viewing Meares glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top paid and free things to  do in Valdez - Passengers view Meares galcier\" class=\"wp-image-6924\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-2.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At Meares glacier, we were treated to\nlots of calving over the 45 minutes that we spent there.&nbsp; Hearing the loud crack, we quickly scanned\nthe glacier face to see the huge chunks of ice plunging into the sea.&nbsp; Blue is the only color we saw in the glacier\nbecause all other colors are reflected out. &nbsp;We could see murrelets nesting by the glacier,\nharbor seals relaxing on floating ice, and thunderous glacier calving.&nbsp; The crew brought some of the glacier ice on\nboard for us to pass around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6927\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier-floating-icebergs\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Terminus, or snout, of Meares Glacier, with small icebergs floating&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Terminus, or snout, of Meares Glacier\" data-id=\"6927\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs\/\" class=\"wp-image-6927\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-floating-icebergs.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6925\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-3\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier-3\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Terminus of Meares Glacier and the flow behind it.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Terminus of Meares Glacier and the flow behind it.\" data-id=\"6925\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-3\/\" class=\"wp-image-6925\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-3.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6926\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-blue-ice\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier-blue-ice\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Ethereal blue color of Meares Glacier.  Densly packed glacial ice adsorbs red light, leaving a blue tint in the reflected light we see. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ethereal blue color of Meares Glacier\" data-id=\"6926\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-blue-ice\/\" class=\"wp-image-6926\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-blue-ice.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"988\" data-attachment-id=\"6923\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=605%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"605,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Terminus of Meares Glacier&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?fit=584%2C988&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?resize=584%2C988&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Terminus of Meares Glacier\" data-id=\"6923\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier\/\" class=\"wp-image-6923\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?w=605&amp;ssl=1 605w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?resize=177%2C300&amp;ssl=1 177w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier.jpg?resize=89%2C150&amp;ssl=1 89w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6939\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"wendy-in-front-of-glacier\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Wendy with Meares Glacier in background&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Wendy with Meares Glacier in background\" data-id=\"6939\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier\/\" class=\"wp-image-6939\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/wendy-in-front-of-glacier.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We had the thrill of traveling through the narrow lane between\nGlacier Island and the mainland looking for bears on shore. &nbsp;Along the way, we were treated to exquisite\ncolors and reflections on the glass-smooth water. &nbsp;Regal-looking Bald eagles were perched in the\ntrees. We passed sea lion haul-outs, where we listened to them roar, saw them\nhanging out on the buoys and on the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dall porpoises surfed our bow wave on the return trip.&nbsp; These black and white porpoises have coloring\nmuch like killer whales, but Dall porpoises are much smaller than Orcas.&nbsp; We saw harbor porpoises on the return trip\ntoo, but they were not interested in our boat or playing in the wake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"397\" data-attachment-id=\"6920\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/humpback-breeching\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?fit=1280%2C870&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,870\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"humpback-breeching\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Juvenile humpback whale breeching in Prince William Sound, Alaska.  &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?fit=584%2C397&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?resize=584%2C397&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Juvenile humpback whale breeching\" class=\"wp-image-6920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?resize=1024%2C696&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?resize=300%2C204&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?resize=150%2C102&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?resize=441%2C300&amp;ssl=1 441w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As we came upon a huge floating piece of ice, on the opposite side of the boat a humpback whale breeched and we all ran to the other side of the boat. &nbsp;Captain Alan was busy explaining how rare it is to see a humpback breech, and with that it breeched a 2<sup>nd<\/sup> time.&nbsp; At this point Captain Alan said that it is extremely rare to see 2 breeches, and the whale breeched for a third time.&nbsp; Captain Alan altered course to stay near the whale and told us that he has never experienced 3 breeches in a row; with that we got a 4<sup>th<\/sup> breech.&nbsp; Wow!&nbsp; What a show! &nbsp;If we hadn\u2019t been on the 8.5-hour cruise we would have missed that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"332\" data-attachment-id=\"6922\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/icebergs-in-bay\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?fit=1280%2C727&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,727\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"icebergs-in-bay\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Icebergs from Mares Glacier float into Prince WIlliam Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?fit=584%2C332&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=584%2C332&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Icebergs from Meares Glacier float into Prince WIlliam Sound\" data-id=\"6922\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/icebergs-in-bay\/\" class=\"wp-image-6922\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=1024%2C582&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=300%2C170&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=150%2C85&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?resize=500%2C284&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/icebergs-in-bay.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6921\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/humpback-breeching-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"humpback-breeching-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Juvenile humpback whale breeching in Prince William Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Juvenile humpback whale breeching\" data-id=\"6921\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/humpback-breeching-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6921\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/humpback-breeching-2.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"988\" data-attachment-id=\"6909\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?fit=605%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"605,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Ethereal blue color of Meares Glacier.  Densly packed glacial ice adsorbs red light, leaving a blue tint in the reflected light we see. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?fit=584%2C988&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?resize=584%2C988&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ethereal blue color of Meares Glacier\" data-id=\"6909\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal\/\" class=\"wp-image-6909\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?w=605&amp;ssl=1 605w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?resize=177%2C300&amp;ssl=1 177w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/meares-glacier-with-harbor-seal.jpg?resize=89%2C150&amp;ssl=1 89w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6913\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-otters-rafting-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"sea-otters-rafting-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Sea otters rafting in Prince William Sound, Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Sea otters rafting in Prince William Sound\" data-id=\"6913\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-otters-rafting-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6913\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-otters-rafting-2.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We were pleased to have selected Stan Stephens Cruises; they are the longest operating cruise company in Valdez Harbor \u2013 over 40 years.&nbsp; In 1989, when the Exxon Valdez ran aground on Bligh Reef, Stan\u2019s boats carried first responders to the site.&nbsp; At that time, Stan Stephens assisted in the clean-up effort by buying additional boats to support the spill research.&nbsp; From then on, Stephens dedicated his life to working with industry to protect Prince William Sound, according to the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Stan Stephens website (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.stephenscruises.com\/about-us\/\" target=\"_blank\">Stan Stephens website<\/a>. I am pleased that our tour operator and crew are so dedicated to protecting the ocean &#8211; a cause near and dear to our own hearts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-about-stan-stephen-boat-cruises\">About Stan Stephen Boat Cruises<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Stan Stephens operates 2 cruise boats, both twin-hull catamarans which are more stable than single deep \u2018V\u2019 hull, and make for a smoother journey. &nbsp;There are tables indoors on both the first and second floors, plus outdoor seating. &nbsp;The Glacier Spirit boat is very clean and quite comfortable with plenty of room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Food and drinks are served throughout the day.&nbsp; Complimentary water, tea, coffee, and lemonade\nare available all day.&nbsp;&nbsp; At lunch, a hot\nmeal is served, and a mid-afternoon snack. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"alignleft size-medium is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern.jpg?ssl=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"6947\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Glacier Spirit boat from Stan Stephens Cruises in Valdez Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/stan-stephens-glacier-spirit-boat-stern.jpg?resize=201%2C314&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top Paid and Free Things to Do in Valdez - Glacier Spirit boat from Stan Stephens Cruises\" class=\"wp-image-6947\" width=\"201\" height=\"314\"\/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Boats like the Glacier Spirit require 1 captain and 2 crew; Stan Stephens cruises typically have 4-6 staff on board.&nbsp; Stan Stephens believes in employing locals, so most of the crew are local high school kids who often work summers here through college and beyond. &nbsp;Some continue on to become boat captains themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We found the crew regularly on watch for wildlife when not\noccupied by cruise operations. &nbsp;They were\npointing out the animals as they spotted them. &nbsp;They offered to take passenger\u2019s photos.&nbsp; All of the staff are friendly and\nprofessional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-kayaking-from-port-valdez-\"><a>Kayaking from Port Valdez<\/a> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Kayaks are available for rental in Valdez, generally in conjunction with a kayaking tour.&nbsp; While you can kayak on your own, I highly recommend taking a guided trip since you\u2019ll safely see much more with an experienced guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Tip: <\/em>Before\nbooking a cruise or kayak, check to see how close the boat will get to a\nglacier, and check with authorities on recommended safe distances from the\nglaciers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-valdez-museum-and-annex-\"><a>Valdez Museum and Annex<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>For under $10 per adult, see the entire history of Valdez from the initial miners\u2019 settlements to the current day at the Valdez Museum and Annex. &nbsp;There are antique vehicles that served the community, typical furnishings from the early days in an old Valdez exhibit, photos from the Valdez Alaska earthquake, exhibits on the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Trans-Alaska pipeline (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.alaskacenters.gov\/explore\/attractions\/trans-pipeline\" target=\"_blank\">Trans-Alaska pipeline<\/a>, and the Exxon Valdez oil spill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6918\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/elk-hide-artwork\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"elk-hide-artwork\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Elk-hide artwork &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Elk-hide artwork\" data-id=\"6918\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/elk-hide-artwork\/\" class=\"wp-image-6918\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/elk-hide-artwork.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6917\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"bighorn-sheep-stuffed\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Bighorn sheep on display at museum in Valdez.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Paid and Free Things to do in Valdez - Bighorn sheep on display at Valdez museum\" data-id=\"6917\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed\/\" class=\"wp-image-6917\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/bighorn-sheep-stuffed.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Annex is dedicated to the 1964 earthquake.&nbsp; To get a feeling for earthquake and its effects, see the film here called, <em>Between the Glacier and the Sea<\/em>, included in your museum entry fee<em>.&nbsp; <\/em>It\u2019s a short, yet moving and worthwhile film.&nbsp; Artifacts of pioneer daily life are also on display at the Annex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both museum buildings provide an informative look at the life and\ntimes in Valdez.&nbsp; With a NARM (National\nAssociation of Reciprocal Museums) membership both museums are free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska-\"><a>Free things to do in Valdez Alaska<\/a><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is lots to do for free in Valdez.&nbsp; We spent 3\u00bd days in Valdez, and in addition to the Stan Stephens Cruise and the Valdez and Annex Museums, we had time to do 3 of these 6 free activities in Valdez.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The bullet immediately below, is easy to do if you are driving into Valdez since you\u2019ll pass all 3 on the Richardson Highway, the only road into and out of Valdez, or if you cruise in and continue on land, plan these for your drive out of Valdez.&nbsp; You\u2019ll need a half-day to experience all 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>To do the free things below, take a short drive on the First Alaska Road, also called  Richardson Highway, through the Thompson Pass to see this spectacular scenery and wildlife.&nbsp; This road, just north of Valdez, was used by miners to reach the interior of Alaska from their point of entry at Port Valdez.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6936\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/waterfall-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"waterfall-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Waterfall feeding into Prince William Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top Paid and Free Things to do in Valdez - Waterfall Outside Valdez in Keystone Canyon\" data-id=\"6936\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/waterfall-1\/\" class=\"wp-image-6936\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-1.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6943\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Worthington Glacier, receeding due to warmer weather.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Worthington Glacier\" data-id=\"6943\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6943\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/worthington-glacier-from-richardson-highway-2.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6919\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"glacier-hiking-warning-sign\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Warning sign at entrance to glacier trail&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Warning sign at entrance to glacier trail\" data-id=\"6919\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign\/\" class=\"wp-image-6919\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/glacier-hiking-warning-sign.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6937\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/waterfall-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"waterfall-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Waterfall feeding into Prince William Sound&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top Paid and Free Things to do in Valdez - Waterfall Outside Valdez in Keystone Canyon\" data-id=\"6937\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/waterfall-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6937\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/waterfall-2.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>The glacier near Valdez &#8211; a hike to <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Worthington Glacier (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.alaska.org\/detail\/worthington-glacier-state-recreation-site\" target=\"_blank\">Worthington glacier Valdez<\/a>. &nbsp;It is 28 miles north of Valdez. This Valdez glacier hike offers a short walk to a viewing platform, an easy hike from the lower entrance, or a 2-mile more difficult hike up to and along a narrow ridge.<\/li><li>Thompson Pass is a beautiful place to see the alpine tundra.&nbsp; There are stops along Richardson Highway to photograph the views and falls, and paths for walking or hiking. &nbsp;The moderate hike is a 2.4-mile loop.<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Keystone Canyon (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"http:\/\/www.valdezalaska.org\/discover-valdez-history\/valdez-history-keystone-canyon\" target=\"_blank\">Keystone Canyon<\/a> near Valdez along the Richardson Highway, find this spectacular 300\u2019 Canyon, and its two photo-worthy major waterfalls 1) <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Bridal Veil Falls (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/alaska.guide\/Waterfall\/Bridal-Veil-Falls-Valdez\" target=\"_blank\">Bridal Veil Falls<\/a> with access to the 2-mile Valdez goat hiking trail, and 2) the dramatic Horsetail Falls just 12 miles from Valdez.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery columns-3 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"><ul class=\"blocks-gallery-grid\"><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6933\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska\" data-id=\"6933\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2\/\" class=\"wp-image-6933\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-2.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"576\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"6932\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"576,1024\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?fit=576%2C1024&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?resize=576%2C1024&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska\" data-id=\"6932\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1\/\" class=\"wp-image-6932\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?w=576&amp;ssl=1 576w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?resize=169%2C300&amp;ssl=1 169w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-with-salmon-1.jpg?resize=84%2C150&amp;ssl=1 84w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"328\" data-attachment-id=\"6931\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?fit=1280%2C719&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,719\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?fit=584%2C328&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?resize=584%2C328&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Steller sea lions feast on salmon near the hatchery outside of Valdez Alaska\" data-id=\"6931\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3\/\" class=\"wp-image-6931\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C575&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lions-with-salmon-3.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"blocks-gallery-item\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"584\" height=\"329\" data-attachment-id=\"6949\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?fit=1280%2C720&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1280,720\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"steller-sea-lion-disagreement\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two Steller sea lion bulls fight for prime position near the salmon hatchery outside Valdez Alaska&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?fit=584%2C329&amp;ssl=1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?resize=584%2C329&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"To Paid and Free Things to DO in Valdez - Two Steller sea lion bulls fight for prime position at Solomon Gulch hatchery\" data-id=\"6949\" data-full-url=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg\" data-link=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement\/\" class=\"wp-image-6949\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?resize=500%2C281&amp;ssl=1 500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/steller-sea-lion-disagreement.jpg?w=1168&amp;ssl=1 1168w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 584px) 100vw, 584px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.valdezfisheries.org\/the-hatchery\/\">Solomon Gulch Hatchery<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211; It is so much fun to watch the sea lions\u2019 antics at the fish ladder as they chase fish and fight over territory &#8211; we visited a few times.&nbsp; The best time to see the sea lions and bears feeding on salmon is at high tide.   Although there is no fish farming in Alaska, there are plenty of salmon hatcheries.&nbsp;  Valdez Fisheries Development Association runs the hatchery where they collect the male and female salmon to harvest eggs and milt, fertilize the eggs, and grow fish to a size ready to release into the ocean. &nbsp;See the outdoor exhibits, fish ladder, and wildlife feeding on returning salmon in summer.&nbsp; <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Fish in Valdez  (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.alaskaoutdoorssupersite.com\/valdez-fishing\/253-alaska-fishing-valdez-roadside-fishing\" target=\"_blank\">Fish in Valdez <\/a>\u2013 Provided you have a license, roadside, freshwater, and saltwater fishing are free.&nbsp; You can rent a boat or go with a charter, which has a cost.&nbsp; A variety of fish types can be caught in Valdez, and different limits apply to different varieties.&nbsp; Check the limits when and where you fish.&nbsp; Varieties include trout, Dolly Varden, grayling in freshwater, and salmon in some areas.&nbsp; In saltwater are salmon and Dolly Varden along the shore, and king salmon, rockfish, and halibut in the sound.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Visit Old Town Site \u2013 Valdez was located on the waterfront until the 1964 earthquake and tsunami that devastated the town, killing some of its inhabitants.&nbsp; The whole town was relocated to a more stable location 4 miles down the road. &nbsp;Take a self-guided tour of the site. &nbsp;There are posts with pictures of establishments that were there before the earthquake.&nbsp; The trail is 1.7 miles and will take 1 hour.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li> Visit <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.mjwhitneymuseum.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Maxine &amp; Jesse Whitney Museum<\/a> &#8211; This is the opportunity to see one of the largest collections of Native Alaskan art and artifacts in the world.&nbsp; Maxine Whitney traveled to native villages purchasing and collecting items for her gift shop.&nbsp; Her collection was donated and is now housed in the downtown Valdez state-of-the-art museum. <\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Spend time at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alaska.org\/detail\/crooked-creek-information-site\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Crooked Creek  (opens in a new tab)\">Crooked Creek <\/a>\u2013 Just \u00bd mile outside of Valdez on the Richardson Highway, in mid-July through August you can view salmon returning to their home stream to spawn.&nbsp; At times black or brown bears can be seen feasting on the salmon.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-conclusion-\"><a>Conclusion<\/a><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Valdez has all the things tourists visit Alaska to see and do.&nbsp; From fishing to glacier viewing, hiking and kayaking, to history and native culture, there\u2019s a lot to experience in Valdez.&nbsp; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Stan Stephens Meares Glacier Cruise is longer than other glacier and wildlife tours offered in the exquisite Prince William Sound. &nbsp;The price is comparable with other similar cruises.&nbsp; This longer tour offers more opportunities for animal sightings.  When I asked guests what they thought of the Stan Stephens cruise, I heard \u201cReal, real good day!\u201d and \u201cGreat trip!\u201d &nbsp;Both Tom and I have to agree!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With less tourism in this beautiful place, Tom and I were drawn to Valdez.&nbsp; In July, we found that it was not as crowded as other areas on Alaska\u2019s Kenai Peninsula.&nbsp; Visiting Valdez is a highlight of a trip to Alaska. Put it on your bucket list!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Save as Pin for later&#8230;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska\/\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"250\" height=\"375\" data-attachment-id=\"6958\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/whale-breech-pinterest\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?fit=400%2C600&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"400,600\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"whale-breech-pin\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Top Paid and Free Things to Do in Valdez&lt;br \/&gt;\nDo you want to know \u2018Why visit Valdez?\u2019 Know the top paid and free things to do in Valdez?  This remote small Alaskan town offers top Alaska attractions. Jacob Hillman-Photographer&lt;br \/&gt;\nhttps:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska\/&lt;br \/&gt;\n#stanstephensboatcruises #valdezalaska #glaciercruise #alaskawildlife #scenicdrive #KeystoneCanyon #Valdezwaterfalls  &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?fit=400%2C600&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-6958\" style=\"width: 250px;\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?resize=250%2C375&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Humpback whale breeching in Prince William Sound\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?w=400&amp;ssl=1 400w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/whale-breech-pinterest.png?resize=100%2C150&amp;ssl=1 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><\/a><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"250\" height=\"375\" data-attachment-id=\"6959\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/sea-lions-pinterest\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?fit=400%2C600&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"400,600\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"sea-lions-pinterest\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Top Paid and Free Things to Do in Valdez&lt;br \/&gt;\nDo you want to know \u2018Why visit Valdez?\u2019 Know the top paid and free things to do in Valdez?  This remote small Alaskan town offers top Alaska attractions.  https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska\/&lt;br \/&gt;\n#stanstephensboatcruises #valdezalaska #glaciercruise #alaskawildlife #scenicdrive #KeystoneCanyon #Valdezwaterfalls  &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?fit=400%2C600&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-6959\" style=\"width: 250px;\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?resize=250%2C375&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Top Paid and Free Things to DO in Valdez - Steller sea lions feasting on salmon returning to their hatchery\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?w=400&amp;ssl=1 400w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/sea-lions-pinterest.png?resize=100%2C150&amp;ssl=1 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px\" \/><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Do you want to know \u2018Why visit Valdez?\u2019 and the top paid and free things to do in Valdez? . This remote small Alaskan town offers top Alaska attractions &#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/top-paid-and-free-things-to-do-in-valdez-alaska\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"meta-nav\">&rarr;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[922,566,963,962],"tags":[491,961,945,948,956,270,271,388,994,964,614,1002,356,385,978,54,639,66,975,966,937,1009,1006,244,987,1005,184,965,988,976,46,67,17,1003,982,466,972,1000,991,968,969,18,996,977,992,1013,755,990,984,979,985,1007,747,986,980,973,998,1004,967,989,1010,981,1012,995,1008,1001,1011],"class_list":["post-6951","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-alaska","category-united-states","category-valdez","category-valdez-alaska","tag-adventure","tag-alaskan-wilderness","tag-bear-viewing","tag-bearviewing","tag-bearviewing-alaska","tag-birding","tag-birdlife","tag-birds","tag-bligh-reef","tag-boat-adventures","tag-boat-cruise","tag-bridal-veil-falls","tag-coastal","tag-coastal-parks","tag-columbia-glacier","tag-cultural-adventure","tag-cultural-adventures","tag-culture","tag-dall-porpoise","tag-exxon-valdez-oil-spill","tag-fishing","tag-free-things-to-do-in-valdez","tag-glacier-and-wildlife-tours","tag-glacier-hiking","tag-glacier-island","tag-glacier-viewing","tag-glaciers","tag-good-friday-1964-earthquake","tag-growler-island","tag-harbor-seals","tag-hiking","tag-history","tag-history-culture","tag-horseshoe-tail-falls","tag-humpback-whales","tag-kayaking","tag-kayaking-trips","tag-keystone-canyon","tag-kittiwakes","tag-klondike-gold-rush","tag-klondike-mine","tag-land-adventures","tag-maxine-jesse-whitney-museum","tag-meares-glacier","tag-murrelets","tag-native-alaskan-artifacts","tag-nature-excursions","tag-pigeon-guillemots","tag-port-valdez","tag-puffins","tag-purse-seiner-boats","tag-sea-adventures-bald-eagles","tag-sea-lions","tag-solomon-gulch-hatchery","tag-stan-stephens-cruises","tag-stellar-sea-lions","tag-thompson-pass","tag-tidewater-glaciers","tag-trans-alaska-pipeline","tag-tufted-puffins","tag-valdez-boat-tours","tag-valdez-glacier-cruise","tag-valdez-glacier-hike","tag-valdez-museum-and-annex","tag-why-visit-valdez","tag-worthington-glacier","tag-worthington-glacier-valdez"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Top Paid and Free Things to do in Valdez Alaska - Adventurous Retirement<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Do you want to know \u2018Why visit Valdez?\u2019 and the top paid and free things to do in Valdez? . 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After completing\u00a0a trip of a lifetime, we are excited to share our favorites. Four and a half weeks in New Zealand\u2019s South Island, and we can show you\u00a0mountaintops,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Abel Tasman&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Abel Tasman","link":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/category\/abel-tasman\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Franz Josef Glacier","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/franz-josef-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1200%2C674&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/franz-josef-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1200%2C674&ssl=1&resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/franz-josef-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1200%2C674&ssl=1&resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/franz-josef-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1200%2C674&ssl=1&resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/franz-josef-glacier-3.jpg?fit=1200%2C674&ssl=1&resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]},{"id":6605,"url":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/best-way-to-see-denali-national-park\/","url_meta":{"origin":6951,"position":5},"title":"Best Way to See Denali National Park","author":"Wendy","date":"October 24, 2019","format":false,"excerpt":"Why Visit Denali National Park? First let\u2019s consider \u2018why people visit Denali National Park,\u2019 and then the Best Way to see Denali National Park.\u00a0 More than 400,000 people from around the world visit Denali yearly.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think it\u2019s because Denali is the world\u2019s coldest mountain in the land of\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Alaska&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Alaska","link":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/category\/alaska\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"Entrance sign to Denali National Park","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/denali-park-entrance-sign-e1571948694779.jpg?resize=350%2C200","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/denali-park-entrance-sign-e1571948694779.jpg?resize=350%2C200 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/denali-park-entrance-sign-e1571948694779.jpg?resize=525%2C300 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/denali-park-entrance-sign-e1571948694779.jpg?resize=700%2C400 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/denali-park-entrance-sign-e1571948694779.jpg?resize=1050%2C600 3x"},"classes":[]}],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6951","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6951"}],"version-history":[{"count":49,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6951\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7424,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6951\/revisions\/7424"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6951"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6951"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/adventurousretirement.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6951"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}