Royal Caribbean is known for its high-energy, family-focused ships. If you're traveling with kids or in a large group, Ketchikan offers some of the best adventure-style whale watching in Alaska.
Royal Caribbean ships (Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas) typically dock at the Downtown berths. If you're on a larger ship, you might be at the furthest berth (Berth 4), so allow an extra 10 minutes to walk into town.
For Royal Caribbean families, we recommend the fast-boat zodiac tours. These are safe but exciting, sitting low in the water for a "whale's eye view." They are a huge hit with kids and teens.
Private Charters: If you are traveling in a group of 6 or more, booking a private boat is often cheaper than buying individual tickets through the ship. You get your own captain and can customize the tour to include eagle viewing or a stop by a salmon hatchery.