If you've ever dreamed of spotting bald eagles soaring overhead, listening to the haunting cries of loons, or witnessing the bustling colonies of puffins and murres, birdwatching in Southeast Alaska offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich world of birds. And while the Nordic Endeavor is best known as a premier fishing vessel, there’s a remarkable side benefit that delights both anglers and their nature-loving companions: world-class birdwatching.
As you cast your line into the pristine waters, don’t be surprised if your attention is pulled skyward or toward the rugged coastline, where an incredible diversity of birdlife thrives. For those in the group who prefer binoculars to fishing rods, or anyone who enjoys connecting deeply with nature between bites, the Nordic Endeavor offers front-row access to one of North America’s richest avian habitats.
Why Birdwatching in Southeast Alaska is a Must-Do (Even on a Fishing Trip)
Southeast Alaska is one of North America's most ecologically rich bird habitats. Its vast and varied landscapes support hundreds of bird species throughout the year. Whether you're an experienced birder or a curious traveler with a camera, witnessing seabirds, raptors, songbirds, and shorebirds in their natural environment is exciting and humbling.
The region is part of the Pacific Flyway, a major north-south route for migratory birds. This makes spring and fall migration periods especially dynamic, as millions of birds pass through or settle in for the summer breeding season. And thanks to the Nordic Endeavor’s access to secluded bays, offshore islands, and hard-to-reach coastline, even casual observers can experience rare and intimate bird encounters.
Birds to Watch for While Fishing (or Simply Cruising)
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular birds visitors can expect to see on an adventure through Southeast Alaska.
1. Bald Eagles
No list of Southeast Alaska birds would be complete without the iconic bald eagle. With more bald eagles per square mile than anywhere else in the U.S., Southeast Alaska is the best place to observe these majestic raptors up close. Look for them perched on treetops, swooping over the water, or feeding along the shore.
Where to see them: Nearly everywhere! Sitka, Juneau, and the islands around Wrangell are prime spots. You'll frequently see them from the deck of the Nordic Endeavor.
2. Tufted Puffins and Horned Puffins
These clown-faced seabirds with vibrant beaks and comical waddles are a crowd favorite. Tufted Puffins nest along rocky coastal cliffs, digging burrows or using crevices for nesting. Horned Puffins, slightly smaller and with dramatic facial plumes, can be spotted in similar areas.
Where to see them: Puffin colonies are often found on offshore islands and cliffs that are best accessed by boat—yet another reason to board the Nordic Endeavor tour.
Perfect for: Fishermen and birders alike—these majestic raptors never go unnoticed.
3. Marbled Murrelets
This mysterious seabird nests in old-growth forests yet spends most of its life at sea. Marbled Murrelets are short, stubby birds with a mottled brown appearance, often seen skimming low over the water.
Where to see them: Inlets and coastal waters, especially early in the morning.
Tip: Keep your camera handy while en route to the next fishing location.
4. Common Loons
Known for their eerie and beautiful calls, loons are often seen floating serenely on lakes and protected bays. Their breeding plumage—black head, white collar, and checkerboard back—is especially striking.
Where to see them: Inland lakes and quiet saltwater bays.
For the non-fishing companion: Early mornings on deck offer peaceful birdwatching and incredible photography opportunities.
5. Black Oystercatchers
These dramatic shorebirds sport a glossy black body with a long, bright orange bill. Their loud, whistling calls echo across the rocky coastlines where they forage for mussels and clams.
Where to see them: Rocky intertidal zones, particularly visible during low tide.
6. Northern Goshawks
A masterful hunter of the temperate rainforest, the Northern Goshawk is an elusive prize for birdwatchers. This large raptor with striking red eyes and a gray back often glides silently through forested corridors.
Where to see them: Deep forest areas and edges of old-growth stands near the coast.
7. Red-breasted Sapsuckers and Hummingbirds
While Southeast Alaska is best known for seabirds and raptors, it also hosts vibrant forest species. The Red-breasted Sapsucker leaves neat rows of sap wells on trees, while Rufous Hummingbirds dazzle with their coppery flashes during the summer months.
Where to see them: Forested trails, especially around Sitka spruce and western hemlock.
8. Harlequin Ducks
Colorful and distinctive, male Harlequin Ducks have bold white stripes on a dark slate-blue body, while females are more subtly marked. They prefer fast-flowing streams and rocky shorelines.
Where to see them: Coastal rivers and rocky beaches.
A Nordic Endeavor Wildlife Bonus
While the focus of your journey might be reeling in a prize catch, the experience aboard the Nordic Endeavor delivers far more than just fish. The boat’s knowledgeable crew is well-versed in local ecology and can help identify species and habitats. Even better? You don’t need to go far—many birds can be seen right from the deck between casts or while sipping coffee in the morning mist.
And for the non-anglers in your party? This immersive birdwatching opportunity ensures everyone onboard has something spectacular to look forward to.
Book Your Multi-Interest Tour Today!
If you're passionate about wildlife, photography, or simply immersing yourself in nature, a birdwatching adventure aboard the Nordic Endeavor in Southeast Alaska is an unforgettable experience. Come face-to-beak with some of North America's most stunning and iconic birds—and enjoy the grandeur of Southeast Alaska's coastline in a way few ever do.
Visit Nordic Endeavor today to book your wildlife tour and experience birdwatching in Southeast Alaska from the best seat on the water.