Ketchikan Flightseeing Over Misty Fjords with Taquan Air: Review

Ketchikan flightseeing is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience Alaska’s wild beauty—especially if you’re visiting on a cruise. In this article, we share our honest review of a Misty Fjords seaplane tour with Taquan Air. It’s one of the top-rated excursions in Ketchikan. We explain what to expect and how to book the tour independently. You’ll find practical tips, real insights, and helpful advice to decide if this experience is right for your trip.

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Why Choose Flightseeing in Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is known as Alaska’s first city. And for me and my partner Chris is one of the best Alaska ports of call. Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and rugged coastlines, this area is remote, wild, and hard to explore by road. That’s what makes flightseeing in Ketchikan so special.

From the air, you can see what you can’t reach on foot or by car. This floatplane flightseeing tour offers sweeping views of Misty Fjords National Monument—one of the most dramatic landscapes in Southeast Alaska. Deep U-shaped valleys, steep granite cliffs, and endless waterfalls stretch out below.

Misty Fjords covers over two million acres. Most of it is untouched wilderness. Roads don’t go there. Boat tours take all day. But with a flightseeing tour, you can see it all in about an hour. It’s efficient, breathtaking, and unlike anything else.

If you’re coming on an Alaska cruise, this is one of the best shore excursions to book in Ketchikan. You get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and still have time to explore the town afterward.

We’ve done many top cruise excursions in Alaska—this one stands out. This is not a generic review. It’s based on our real experience, written for travelers who want value for their money and unforgettable views from above.

We include practical advice, insider tips, and honest pros and cons. If you’re wondering whether a Ketchikan seaplane tour is worth it, this article answers that.

Why We Chose Taquan Air

Ketchikan offers several flightseeing operators. We chose Taquan Air after comparing companies, reviews, and safety records. They’ve been flying in Southeast Alaska since 1977 and are fully FAA-certified. That gave us confidence.

Taquan runs both scheduled flights and scenic tours. We decided to book this scenic floatplane tour independently via Viator—not through our cruise line. Why? It was much cheaper. And we don’t mean a small difference.

We saved over $100 per person by booking the exact same tour through trusted platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide instead of through the cruise line. We also appreciated the clear tour descriptions, straightforward booking process, and transparent cancellation policy (free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts) when using those platforms. But you can also book your scenic flight directly on the tour operator’s website.

That’s why we often book shore excursions on our own. Of course, you can choose to book through your cruise line if that’s easier. It’s the same experience.

But if you’re a budget-conscious traveler, and you are planning your Alaska cruise, it’s worth comparing prices first.

Taquan also provides shuttle service to and from the cruise port. That made logistics simple. Reviews from independent travelers were consistently strong. So for us, Taquan was the best fit—safe, professional, and more affordable.

This review is not sponsored in any way—we paid for our Ketchikan flightseeing tour with Taquan Air out of our own pockets.

All photos shown in this article were taken by me and my partner Chris during our flightseeing tour over Misty Fjords.

Our Personal Experience – Why This Tour Mattered to Us

We’ve explored Ketchikan several times, but this scenic flight was on our Alaska cruise bucket list for a while. It’s not a cheap tour, so we had waited for the right moment. This time, we had something to celebrate.

We planned our Alaska cruise for April—early in the cruise season—because it marks our anniversary as a couple who explore the world together.

Booking this floatplane flightseeing tour was our gift to ourselves.

April weather in Ketchikan can be unpredictable. It’s still chilly and wet. We were a little worried. But we got lucky. The day turned out perfect for flying, with clear skies and calm winds.

We’ve taken many scenic flights across Alaska. We’ve flown over Denali from Talkeetna, landed on glaciers by helicopter, and even flown deep into the rugged Brooks Range. So why Misty Fjords?

Because the landscape here is completely different. Towering granite cliffs. Narrow fjords filled with mist. Waterfalls pouring down rock walls. It felt like stepping into another version of Alaska—one we hadn’t seen before. If you have only one day in Ketchikan, consider this scenic tour.

What to Expect Before the Flight

Taquan Air’s terminal is located near the waterfront, just a short, 10-minute drive from downtown Ketchikan. If you’re arriving by cruise, they offer a free shuttle. It picked us up right on time near the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau on Cruise Ship Berth 2,  at the bronze statue “The Rock”.

However, if your cruise ship docks in Ward Cove, insead of downtown, you’ll need to take a free shuttle to downtown Ketchikan—it’s about a 20-minute drive. Then you’ll walk to the bronze “The Rock” statue (no more than 5 minutes on foot), where the Taquan Air shuttle driver will meet you.

The Taquan Air’s terminal is clean, well-organized, and has big windows where you can watch the seaplanes come and go. Inside, you’ll find restrooms, a seating area, and a small gift shop. The check-in process was smooth. We showed our reservation, confirmed our names, and were given safety information.

Before boarding, there’s a short safety briefing. It covers life vests, headsets, and what to do in case of an emergency. It was quick, clear, and done in a relaxed atmosphere. Our pilot introduced himself and gave us a rundown of the flight path.

We didn’t need to bring much. A light jacket, and camera were enough. You’ll want your camera ready—there are photo opportunities from the moment you board. The terminal also has space to store bags if needed.

We were asked to provide our weight during the booking process. This is standard for small aircraft and helps balance the plane safely. Everything was handled professionally and without discomfort.

The entire pre-flight process took about 20–25 minutes. Then we were guided outside to the dock and boarded the plane. Our adventure was about to begin.

Seaplane Experience with Taquan Air

We flew on a deHavilland Otter—a larger, single-engine floatplane commonly used for flightseeing in Alaska. It seats 10 to 12 passengers, and everyone gets a window seat. The cabin was surprisingly spacious for this type of aircraft.

I got lucky. Just before boarding, the pilot asked if I wanted to sit up front in the co-pilot seat. Of course, I said yes. Sitting in the front gave me an incredible view and a true pilot’s-eye perspective of the entire flight.

Everyone else also had great visibility. The windows are large and perfect for photos. You don’t need to worry about getting a “bad” seat—every spot is a window seat.

We wore noise-canceling headsets, which let us hear the pilot’s live narration. The sound was clear. The commentary helped us understand what we were seeing—like geological features, landmarks, and how Misty Fjords formed.

Takeoff from the water was smooth and fast. Within seconds, we were airborne and looking down at Ketchikan’s colorful buildings and marina. The Otter handled well, and the flight felt steady and safe.

The engine was loud outside, but with the headset on, it was surprisingly quiet. The plane didn’t shake or rattle. The pilot flew low and slow, just right for sightseeing. You could really take in the dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and deep fjords below.

It wasn’t just a scenic ride—it felt like a true Alaska adventure. Flying in a seaplane over the wilderness is something you never forget.

Highlights of the Ketchikan Flightseeing Tour Over Misty Fjords

Right after takeoff, we soared over Tongass Narrows. The town quickly disappeared behind us. Ahead stretched a wild, green maze of forest, fjords, cliffs, and clouds.

As we entered Misty Fjords National Monument, the scenery became dramatic. Towering granite walls rose straight from the sea. Some cliffs reach over 3,000 feet high. Waterfalls tumbled from snowy ledges and disappeared into deep fjords below.

The fjords were narrow and winding. The water below was calm and mirror-like, reflecting mountains and clouds. U-shaped valleys carved by ancient glaciers filled the landscape. It felt vast, untouched, and timeless.

Our pilot gently turned the plane from side to side so every passenger had a full view. One highlight was New Eddystone Rock—a sharp volcanic spire rising from the middle of the channel. It’s one of the most unusual sights in the monument.

We weren’t lucky with wildlife this time. But this area is often known for mountain goats clinging to steep cliffs. Others have spotted bears, eagles, and even seals in the water. For us, the real show was the weather.

As we flew above snow-covered peaks, light snow suddenly began to fall. Then it stopped just as quickly. A few minutes later, it started to rain. Then came sunshine. A vivid rainbow appeared, stretching across the fjord. Clear views returned. It was classic Alaska—wild, moody, and full of surprises.

The light, the shifting skies, the snow, and the rainbow made the scenery even more magical. Every minute felt like something new. We couldn’t stop looking.

Return Flight and Final Views

The return flight followed a slightly different route. That gave us fresh views of valleys, islands, and the coastline around Ketchikan. The light had shifted by then. Clouds moved again. Sunlight hit the mountains at new angles, and the colors looked even deeper.

We flew over small lakes hidden in the forest. From above, they looked like mirrors tucked between ridges. The water glowed dark green, surrounded by untouched wilderness.

As we approached Ketchikan, we saw cruise ships in the harbor, colorful houses on stilts, and fishing boats coming in and out. After seeing pure wilderness, it felt surreal to return to town in just minutes.

The landing was smooth. The pilot brought the floatplane down gently onto the Tongass Narrows. Within seconds, we were taxiing back toward the dock.

Our faces were glued to the windows until the very end.

What stood out most? The ever-changing weather. The dramatic cliffs. And our pilot’s live narration. He had deep knowledge of the Misty Fjords and Ketchikan’s history. He shared stories, explained geology, and made the flight feel personal and educational. It wasn’t just a scenic ride—it was a guided experience from above.

If you’re looking for a short but unforgettable adventure, this is it.

Pros and Cons – Honest Review of Taquan Air

We always share the good and the less-than-perfect. Here’s our honest take based on our own experience.

Pros:

• Stunning route over Misty Fjords—views you can’t get from the ground.
• Professional and experienced pilot who shared detailed commentary and stories.
• Smooth booking process on their website with clear timing and instructions.
• Free shuttle service to and from the cruise dock—easy and on time.
• Every seat has a window, including ours up front in the co-pilot position.
• Clean and organized terminal with helpful staff and great viewing areas.
• Well-maintained aircraft—we felt safe and comfortable the entire time.
• Cheaper than cruise-line excursions when booked independently.

Cons:

• Not a budget tour—it’s a premium experience with a higher price tag.
• No wildlife sightings for us this time, though that’s never guaranteed.
• Weather can be unpredictable, and flights may be delayed or canceled.

Overall, we highly recommend Taquan Air. They run a tight operation, focus on safety, and offer breathtaking views. It’s not a cheap activity, but for us, it was worth every dollar—especially as an anniversary gift.

Practical Tips for Booking Your Ketchikan Flighseeing tours

1. Book in advance.
Flightseeing tours in Ketchikan sell out fast—especially in summer. We booked a few weeks ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute.

2. Compare prices.
Booking through your cruise line is easy but more expensive. We saved around $80–100 per person by booking independently through a trusted seller.

3. Use a reliable platform.
We recommend booking directly with Taquan Air or using verified sellers like Viator or GetYourGuide. Read recent reviews before buying.

4. Choose a morning flight if possible.
Morning and noon flights often have better weather and smoother air. That’s when visibility is usually best.

5. Check the cancellation policy.
Weather in Ketchikan changes fast. Make sure the tour has a flexible policy in case your flight gets delayed or canceled.

6. Bring your camera—but skip the big lens.
A phone or small camera with a wide lens is best. Reflections from the window are hard to avoid, so try to shoot at an angle.

7. Don’t bring big bags.
There’s limited space in the cabin. The terminal has storage if needed. Bring only what fits on your lap.

8. Let them know if you’re on a cruise.
They’ll schedule your pickup and return so you’re back in time to board.

9. Watch the weather—but trust the pilot.
Ketchikan weather changes by the minute. Even on cloudy days, the views can be magical. If it’s unsafe, they won’t fly.

Ketchikan Flightseeing: FAQs Answered

How long is the flightseeing tour?
Most tours, including ours with Taquan Air, last 1 hour from takeoff to landing. That doesn’t include check-in and shuttle time. The total duration is approx 2 hours.

Can I book this tour if I’m visiting on a cruise?
Yes. This is one of the most popular Ketchikan shore excursions. Just make sure the timing works with your ship schedule.

Is it safe to fly in a floatplane?
Yes. Taquan Air is FAA-certified and has experienced pilots. We felt safe and well-informed the entire time.

Will I see wildlife during the flight?
Possibly. Some tours spot mountain goats, eagles, or even bears. We didn’t see any this time, but the views were still spectacular.

Does every passenger get a window seat?
Yes. The aircrafts use by Taquan Air give each passenger a window seat. Everyone has clear views.

Is it suitable for seniors or kids?
We didn’t see older travelers on our flight, but many reviews mention seniors enjoying the tour. The walk from the office to the seaplane is short—about 2 minutes on a flat dock. There are a few steps to climb when boarding. Kids who are comfortable with flying would enjoy it too.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Safety comes first. If weather conditions aren’t safe for flying, the tour will be delayed, rescheduled, or refunded.

Can I bring a large camera or backpack?
Cameras are fine. But leave bulky bags at the terminal. Space is tight inside the plane.

What should I wear?
Layers are best. A light jacket, long pants, and closed shoes worked well for us. It’s warm inside the plane, but it may be chilly outside. Check out our Alaska cruise packing list.

Do I need to tip the pilot?
Tipping isn’t required, but it’s appreciated.

Final Thoughts – Ketchikan Flightseeing Tour: Is It Worth It?

Yes. For us, this Ketchikan flightseeing tour with Taquan Air was absolutely worth it.

The views were jaw-dropping. The experience was smooth, well-organized, and personal. From booking to landing, everything went as promised. We got lucky with the weather, but even if it had been cloudy, the flight over Misty Fjords would still have been unforgettable.

This isn’t a budget excursion. But if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this delivers. Especially if you’re short on time in port, it’s one of the best ways to see Southeast Alaska’s true wilderness in under an hour.

We’ve taken many scenic flights across Alaska—and this one stands out. It’s not just the landscapes. It’s the way the pilot shared stories, the feeling of flying low over remote fjords, and the thrill of taking off from water.

If you’re planning an Alaska cruise or visiting Ketchikan independently, we highly recommend adding this tour to your itinerary. Just make sure to book early and check the weather.

And if you’re celebrating something special, like we were—this is a beautiful way to mark the moment.

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