Common Questions

Yes. We offer complimentary transportation from the airport, cruise ship pier or your hotel in Ketchikan.

For most flights, passengers are picked up 30 minutes before departure. Our dock is located just beyond Berth 4, approximately a three-minute drive from the downtown cruise ship pier.

For Guests docking at Ward Cove, transportation is also available when your flight is scheduled close to your ship’s arrival in Ketchikan. Due to the longer drive, pickup from Ward Cove occurs 45 minutes before flight time.

Weather plays an important role in every flight. Conditions are closely monitored, and any changes or updates are communicated clearly in advance. Schedules are planned with flexibility in mind, and all decisions are made with safety, visibility, and your overall experience as the top priorities.

We will communicate via cell phone, so please be sure to turn your phone on or out of airplane mode once you arrive in port.

Flight durations vary by tour and destination, ranging from shorter scenic flights to extended experiences like Misty Fjords and bear viewing tours. Exact timing is shared during booking, so expectations are clear and aligned with travel plans, including cruise schedules.

At Seawind Aviation, experience and local knowledge make the difference. Decades of flying in Southeast Alaska, deep ties to local communities, lodges, and outfitters, and a calm, guest-focused approach mean every flight is handled with care- not rushed or standardized.

We’re a small team that takes pride in doing things the right way, putting safety and the passenger experience above all else.

Each flight offers a unique perspective on Southeast Alaska. Depending on the tour and conditions, guests may see dramatic fjords, granite cliffs, glaciers, waterfalls, remote coastlines, and wildlife such as bears, whales, or mountain goats. Routes are thoughtfully shaped around weather, visibility, and seasonal highlights to create the best possible experience.

Seawind Aviation serves a wide range of guests – including cruise visitors with limited time, locals, photographers, anglers, lodge guests, and adventure travelers. Flights are well-suited for anyone seeking a meaningful, well-guided way to experience Alaska from the air.

Weather and visibility play an important role in every flight. Conditions in Southeast Alaska can change quickly, and we will always delay, reroute, or cancel if conditions are not suitable. These decisions are made with safety — and the quality of your experience — as the priority. Any flights canceled by Seawind Aviation are fully refunded.

Yes. For bear viewing tours, guests receive an additional bear safety briefing from the guide before departure. These trips are guided with an emphasis on respect for wildlife, safety, and preservation.

Please advise at the time of booking so that accommodations can be arranged if an alternative diet is available.

Yes. Due to the length of the tour, small backpacks with water and essentials are permitted. You may bring a small backpack or purse with you on your tour. Larger backpacks will need to be securely stored at our office. Please note that food is not permitted due to bears having a keen sense of smell; however, we will provide bottled water for you. If you have any medical conditions that require you to have a snack, we can make accommodations for this.

Often, yes — but each situation is unique. Safety is always the top priority, and we are happy to discuss individual needs ahead of time to determine the safest way to accommodate your party.

Yes. Every flight begins with a clear safety briefing from your pilot, including procedures specific to floatplane operations. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident before takeoff.

Yes. We offer complimentary transportation from the airport, cruise ship pier or your hotel in Ketchikan.

For most flights, passengers are picked up 30 minutes before departure. Our dock is located just beyond Berth 4, approximately a three-minute drive from the downtown cruise ship pier.

For Guests docking at Ward Cove, transportation is also available when your flight is scheduled close to your ship’s arrival in Ketchikan. Due to the longer drive, pickup from Ward Cove occurs 45 minutes before flight time.

Yes. Floatplane flying in Southeast Alaska requires deep experience and careful decision-making. Seawind’s pilots have decades of local flying knowledge, and every flight is supported by thorough maintenance practices and safety-first operations.

Yes. This tour is suitable for most ages and offers a relaxed pace.

Yes, there is a restroom at the top of the trailhead.

Weather conditions are closely monitored before every flight. If weather prevents safe flying, reservations are rescheduled or fully refunded.

• Flight Duration: At Polk Inlet, Prince of Wales, the flight is roughly 7 minutes longer than at Traitor’s Cove.
• Wildlife: There are higher chances of seeing whales on the Prince of Wales route.
• Trail Conditions: The trail at Polk Inlet is generally easier to walk; it is shorter and flatter than Traitor’s Cove.
• Salmon Run Duration: The salmon run at Polk Inlet tends to last a little shorter than the salmon run at Traitors Cove.
• Restroom Facilities: Please note that there are no restroom facilities available at Polk Inlet.
• Bear Viewing Location Adjustments: If salmon runs are slow in one area, we will change the destination to ensure you have the best opportunities to see the bears.

We require a 30-day cancellation notice. Cancellations with 30 days’ prior notice are fully refundable, less a 15% processing fee. Last-minute cancellations with less than 30 days are non-refundable. Cancellation fees are waived for flights that are delayed or cancelled due to cruise ship delays or poor weather conditions.
All requests for cancellations need to be made in writing to info@seawindaviation.com and are expected to receive a response within 24 hours. If there is no response, please call our office at 907-225-1206.

We recommend dressing in layers and wearing stable footwear. Southeast Alaska weather can be cool, even in summer, and boarding involves docks and water-access areas.

Guests fly in either our legendary DeHavilland Beaver (DHC-2) or DeHavilland Otter (DHC-3) floatplanes. Aircraft assignment depends on the tour type, group size, and operational considerations for the day.

Each flight offers a unique perspective on Southeast Alaska. Depending on the tour and conditions, guests may see dramatic fjords, granite cliffs, glaciers, waterfalls, remote coastlines, and wildlife such as bears, whales, or mountain goats. Routes are thoughtfully shaped around weather, visibility, and seasonal highlights to create the best possible experience.

Because these are small aircraft operating in remote environments, passenger weight and balance are important for safety. In some cases, an additional fee may apply for guests over 250 lbs. We encourage you to call us in advance so we can plan appropriately.

Yes. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras or phones to capture the landscapes and wildlife seen during the flight.

Yes. All flights are scheduled privately based on your itinerary.

Backcountry camping kits, outfitting, and outboard motors are available from Alaska Wilderness Outfitters and Experience One Charters.

Often, yes — but each situation is unique. Safety is always the top priority, and we are happy to discuss individual needs ahead of time to determine the safest way to accommodate your party.

Yes. A valid passport is required for all passengers traveling by air between the United States and Canada. Passport cards and alternative forms of identification are not accepted for air travel.

Seawind requires all remote charters to have a way of communicating. Advanced Communications Inc. offers local rentals of Satellite phones – Call 907 225 8877.

Non-U.S. passport holders traveling from Hyder to Ketchikan are required to clear U.S. customs upon arrival; however, this option may not always be available. We will need passenger names, date of birth, proof of citizenship/residency, and customs to meet the airplane upon arrival to view passports.

Yes. Every flight begins with a clear safety briefing from your pilot, including procedures specific to floatplane operations. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident before takeoff.

Flights require advance coordination with Canadian customs and border officials. Our team will guide you through the process to ensure everything is properly arranged before departure.

Please contact us or call us directly at (907) 225-1206.

As early as possible to allow for customs coordination and availability.

Freight is charged at a minimum of $25 per package (up to 25 pounds), with an additional $1 per pound for weight above that.

Pricing varies based on destination distance, aircraft, and load requirements. Flights to closer lakes are typically more cost-effective.

Flights are weather-dependent. If delays are necessary, Seawind will keep passengers informed and reschedule as needed.

Guests arriving by cruise ship receive detailed meeting instructions when their reservation is confirmed.

Every situation is different, and safety is always the top priority. If you or a member of your party has special needs or may require assistance boarding, please contact us ahead of time so we can determine the safest and most comfortable option.

Guests fly in either our legendary DeHavilland Beaver (DHC-2) or DeHavilland Otter (DHC-3) floatplanes. Aircraft assignment depends on the tour type, group size, and operational considerations for the day.

Weather and visibility play an important role in every flight. Conditions in Southeast Alaska can change quickly, and we will always delay, reroute, or cancel if conditions are not suitable. These decisions are made with safety — and the quality of your experience — as the priority. Any flights canceled by Seawind Aviation are fully refunded.

Non-U.S. passport holders traveling from Hyder to Ketchikan are required to clear U.S. customs upon arrival; however, this option may not always be available. We will need passenger names, date of birth, proof of citizenship/residency, and customs to meet the airplane upon arrival to view passports.

Yes. Advance notice is required for customs coordination if you are not a U.S. passport holder. Seawind will assist with notifying U.S. Customs and coordinating your arrival.

Please contact us or call us directly at (907) 225-1206.

Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure at the Seawind office in Ketchikan to check-in.

Freight is charged at a minimum of $25 per package (up to 25 pounds), with an additional $1 per pound for weight above that.

The flight typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather conditions.

Flights operate twice weekly, on Monday and Thursday mornings.

Flights are weather-dependent. If delays are necessary, Seawind will keep passengers informed and reschedule as needed.

Each passenger may bring up to 40 pounds of luggage. Additional weight is charged at $1 per pound.

Yes. For bear viewing tours, guests receive an additional bear safety briefing from the guide before departure. These trips are guided with an emphasis on respect for wildlife, safety, and preservation.

Safety is the foundation of everything we do — from aircraft readiness to weather decisions and pre-flight briefings. Flying in Southeast Alaska requires experience, careful judgment, and a deep respect for conditions, and we operate with that responsibility in mind.

Yes. The Beaver and Otter are known for being roomy, stable, and well-suited for Alaska flying. They offer a comfortable experience with outstanding views, especially for scenic flights like Misty Fjords.

Because these are small aircraft operating in remote environments, passenger weight and balance are important for safety. In some cases, an additional fee may apply for guests over 250 lbs. We encourage you to call us in advance so we can plan appropriately.

Absolutely. Both aircraft can be booked for private charters or group flights, offering a more personalized and flexible experience. Please contact us directly for availability and private group rates.

Often, yes — but each situation is unique. Safety is always the top priority, and we are happy to discuss individual needs ahead of time to determine the safest way to accommodate your party.

Yes. Small aircraft require careful weight and balance calculations for every flight. Passenger weights help ensure the aircraft is loaded properly and operated safely.

Yes. In addition to flightseeing tours, Seawind Aviation provides charters and lodge transportation to remote areas throughout Southeast Alaska, depending on location, season, and scheduling.

Yes. Every flight begins with a clear safety briefing from your pilot, including procedures specific to floatplane operations. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and confident before takeoff.

Our Beavers typically seat 6–7 passengers, while our Otters can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Both aircraft are well-suited for flightseeing tours, charters, and lodge transportation.

Space is limited in small aircraft, and weight considerations are important. We recommend bringing only essentials, such as a camera or small personal item. Our team will confirm appropriate baggage guidelines during booking.

DeHavilland Beavers and Otters were originally built between the late 1940s and early 1960s and remain some of the most trusted aircraft in Alaska aviation. Our fleet is meticulously maintained and operated to modern safety standards.

Yes. Floatplane flying in Southeast Alaska requires deep experience and careful decision-making. Seawind’s pilots have decades of local flying knowledge, and every flight is supported by thorough maintenance practices and safety-first operations.

In some cases, an additional fee may apply for guests whose weight exceeds 250 lbs, as aircraft balance requirements can vary. We encourage you to call us in advance so we can discuss details and plan appropriately.

Every situation is different, and safety is always the top priority. If you or a member of your party has special needs or may require assistance boarding, please contact us ahead of time so we can determine the safest and most comfortable option.

We recommend dressing in layers and wearing stable footwear. Southeast Alaska weather can be cool, even in summer, and boarding involves docks and water-access areas.

Guests fly in either our legendary DeHavilland Beaver (DHC-2) or DeHavilland Otter (DHC-3) floatplanes. Aircraft assignment depends on the tour type, group size, and operational considerations for the day.

We are always happy to answer questions. Please reach out directly:
Phone: 907-225-1206
Email: info@seawindaviation.com

For fleet questions, accessibility needs, or private charter inquiries, please contact us directly:
Phone: 907-225-1206
Email: info@seawindaviation.com

Weather and visibility play an important role in every flight. Conditions in Southeast Alaska can change quickly, and we will always delay, reroute, or cancel if conditions are not suitable. These decisions are made with safety — and the quality of your experience — as the priority. Any flights canceled by Seawind Aviation are fully refunded.

These floatplanes are legendary for a reason — they were designed for rugged regions like Southeast Alaska, offering the performance, reliability, and visibility needed for wilderness flightseeing and remote access.

Yes — on both the Beaver and the Otter, every passenger has a window seat, ensuring excellent visibility for sightseeing throughout the flight.