Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the M/V Sea Quest?

The vessel is a 50-foot catamaran Coast Guard certified for 48 passengers, with daily fishing operations accommodating 18 anglers spread across the deck for comfort.

What makes the experience different from a small boat charter?

Passengers benefit from a smooth ride, indoor comfort, panoramic viewing areas, full bathroom, and dedicated crew support designed to maximize both comfort and fishing opportunity.

Do larger boats actually affect fishing success?

Yes. More lines in the water means increased bait and scent attracting fish. The Sea Quest uses unlimited bait with constant refreshing, plus experienced crew actively managing lines and assisting guests.

Are there safety advantages to being on a larger boat?

The custom-built catamaran offers enhanced stability, Coast Guard inspection, EPIRB and life raft equipment, plus 24/7 access to medical consultation through Alaska Maritime Physicians.

Do you offer non-fishing ride alongs?

Yes, non-fishing companions may join for $175 per person plus tax and port fees. Minimum age is 5 years; not available on Kenai Fjords Sightseeing trips.

What is the "halibut stamp" that's required in 2026?

It’s an electronic daily permit that Charter Halibut Permit holders must have for each angler to comply with NOAA Fisheries regulations.

Where can I get the halibut stamp?

Alaska Northern Outfitters handles validation for each angler. Only anglers 18 and older require the stamp.

What is included in the price of the charter?

All top-of-the-line fishing tackle, endless supply of bait, high-end tournament rod and reel, filleting of your catch, the halibut stamp, and complimentary coffee.

What is your cancellation policy?

Standard charters: 100% deposit refundable with written notice 3+ weeks before. Within 21 days, clients pay full price unless seats are filled. Private charters require 30 days’ notice for a full refund.

What is the best time of year for different types of fish?

Halibut and rockfish run May–September. Silver salmon peak late June/early July. Ling cod opens July 1st. May–June suits trophy halibut; July–August targets halibut/salmon combos.

What is the minimum age to sign up for a fishing trip?

Minimum age is 5 years old. Children 12 and under must wear life jackets while on deck by law.

Can I be added to a waiting list if the trip I want is full?

Yes, though waiting for cancellations isn’t recommended; advance confirmation is preferable.

Is there a fuel surcharge?

Yes, for summer 2026 a $25 per person surcharge is added automatically when fuel prices exceed $4.50 per gallon.

Where should I stay in Seward?

Harbor 360 Hotel, Breeze Inn, and The Gateway Hotel are located in the harbor area. Additional options are available through the Seward Chamber of Commerce at www.seward.com.

What should I bring?

A fishing license (purchased online through Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game), food and drinks for the day, warm layered clothing with rain gear, camera, sunscreen, and motion sickness medicine if prone to seasickness.

What does the company provide?

The M/V Sea Quest vessel, experienced captain and crew, guaranteed indoor seating, coffee and hot water, all fishing gear and lures, high-quality Okuma equipment, fishing instruction, abundant bait and chum, and a marine bathroom.

Where do I get a fishing license?

Purchase 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day licenses through the Alaska Department of Fish & Game website. Non-resident 1-day licenses cost $15 and are required for ages 16+. Ages 15 and younger don’t need one. Licenses must be purchased before charter day and can be digital.

How do I get to your location? Is parking available?

From Anchorage, travel south on Seward Highway, turn left on South Harbor Street, then immediately right on 4th Avenue. Park at the South Parking lot behind Subway ($10 all day). Check in at M/V Sea Quest on Dock E, Slip-8 — the large aluminum catamaran is the fourth boat on the right.

Do you have beginners on your fishing trips?

Yes, every charter accommodates experienced and novice fishermen alike. The captain and crew provide all necessary instruction for landing fish.

How do you ensure safety on the fishing trip?

The captain conducts a pre-departure safety briefing on life jackets,exits, and emergency procedures. The vessel is Coast Guard-inspected with EPIRB and life raft equipment. The captain and crew are all First Aid certified with 24/7 medical consultation access.

What happens if I get sea sick?

The vessel won’t return to dock early. Passengers susceptible to seasickness should take motion sickness medicine like Bonine or Dramamine the night before or morning of the trip. Those extra sensitive should consult their physician for prescription alternatives.

Is alcohol permitted aboard?

Beer and wine are allowed in cans (no glass). Hard alcohol is prohibited. Passengers are encouraged to drink responsibly given the moving vessel and safety priorities.

How far offshore do you go?

Depending on target species, the boat travels 1–3 hours each way from port.

Are there bathrooms on the catamaran?

Yes, one marine head is aboard. These toilets are made for human waste only — any other items, including all paper, go in the trash.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The captain evaluates conditions and makes judgment calls, preferably the night before. Weather cancellations result in full refunds of charter fees only — not fishing licenses or hotel costs. The company recommends trip insurance. Fishing grounds beyond Resurrection
Bay may have different weather than Seward itself.

Will I see other wildlife while on the trip?

Yes. Steller sea lions, seals, humpback whales, orcas, minke whales,Dall’s porpoises, puffins, cormorants, Dall sheep, Alaskan mountain goats, and possibly black bears may be observed.

Can I smoke on the boat?

Cigars, marijuana, and marijuana devices are prohibited. Cigarette smoking is permitted only on the top deck away from seasick passengers and children; dispose butts in designated buckets. Drugs, firearms, and GPS tracking devices are strictly prohibited.

What do I do if I don't want to keep my fish?

Release fish you won’t eat. Halibut is federally regulated and cannot legally be given to other clients.

What happens to my fish?

Deckhands fillet fish free of charge onboard. At the docks, J Dock offers processing services — cutting fillets, vacuum packing, and freezing for $1.70 per pound, plus flat-rate FedEx shipping options.

Do you recommend shipping my fish home?

Depending on your travel plans, having J Dock box fish with gel packs for your flight is typically more economical than FedEx shipping, which charges steep flat rates.

My flight doesn't leave Anchorage until late — where do I store my fish?

Ted Stevens International Airport has freezer lockers available for storing fish until your departure. Details are available at the airport’s traveler information website.

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