Welcome to College Fjord! If you're planning a trip to Alaska, College Fjord in Prince William Sound should be on your must-visit list. This incredible location boasts a collection of tidewater glaciers named after, you guess, prestigious Ivy League and women's colleges!
This Fjord offers some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world with many beautiful glaciers. Let's see the 3 must-see glaciers in this icy wonderland and how to do it!
<h3>How to Get There</h3>
Most visitors arrive at College Fjord via a cruise ship, as it's nestled between Whittier and Valdez, and is not directly accessible by road.
<b>By Cruise:</b> This is the primary way to experience College Fjord and its glaciers, these cruises typically embark from major Alaskan ports such as Anchorage, Whittier, or Seward. Cruises can range from luxury liners to smaller expedition ships, each offering unique perspectives and experiences. Major lines like Princess Cruises and Holland America frequently include this fjord in their Alaska itineraries.
<b>By Air:</b> Some travelers fly into Anchorage and then take a scenic train or drive to the port of embarkation. This option provides an opportunity to explore more of Alaska’s interior before heading to the fjord.
<b>By Tour:</b> For a more intimate experience, consider booking a smaller boat tour or an expedition cruise, which allows closer access to the glaciers and the opportunity to explore less accessible areas of the fjord.
<h3>1. Harvard Glacier</h3>
Harvard Glacier is located at the head of College Fjord in Prince William Sound and is one of the most prominent and breathtaking in College Fjord. It is the largest glacier in the fjord, with a face stretching approximately 1.5 miles wide and rising 200 feet above the waterline! Harvard Glacier is a tidewater glacier, meaning it directly meets the sea, which allows for spectacular calving events where chunks of ice break off and crash into the water. The sheer size and activity of the glacier make it a must-see for visitors.
<h3>2. Yale Glacier</h3>
Yale Glacier, located near Harvard Glacier, is known for its striking blue ice and is a bit smaller and less active than Harvard Glacier, offering a contrasting experience. Its deep, vivid blue color comes from the glacier's dense ice, which absorbs red light and reflects blue. The glacier’s serene beauty and the quieter surroundings make it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. Some smaller boat tours may also offer closer access, allowing for a more intimate experience with the ice and surrounding wildlife.
<h3>3. Vassar Glacier</h3>
Vassar Glacier is situated on the northeastern side of College Fjord and is particularly noteworthy for its unique position among the numerous glaciers named after prestigious colleges. It's one of the more easily observable glaciers from the water due to its steep, rugged appearance and the dramatic ice falls that occasionally occur. The glacier is part of the stunning backdrop of College Fjord, showcasing the interplay of ice and mountain landscapes. Most cruise lines that include College Fjord in their route will pass by Vassar Glacier, offering excellent views.
The cruise season typically runs from May to September, with the best weather and wildlife sightings occurring in mid-summer, and cruise prices vary depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation. Expect to pay from $1,000 to $3,000 per person for a comprehensive Alaskan cruise package. Although a little bit expensive, they are worth your time and money! Enjoy!