Here's my scoop: I only have 1 day (July 4th) to get out on the water. I'm going to be staying both the 3rd and the 4th in Anchorage.
Should I look for a boat trip out of Whittier or Seward? I heard the drive to Seward is worth the trip, but I also know it's a farther drive and that the 4th is crazy around those parts.
Any advice on my options would be appreciated.
By the way, whatever trip we take, we'd certainly prefer a smaller crowd on the boat.

Depends on what you want to do out on the water - the Whittier is the best for the 26 glacier cruise (lots of ice ergs)- full day and chance of seeing seals, whales. If you want a wildlife/glacier tour then the 8 hour Kenai Fjords tours are great - a little of everything. You can expand the crusie and do a couple of hours on Fox Island - kayaking or just walking around the island. All full day cruises include lunch. Remember that July 4 will be over the Marathon race in Seward - so expect some crowds! All the boats that do these day cruises are small - about 80 passengers. email me if you need help

The last time I was in Alaska (1996) you could not drive to Whittier. Was a road built?

A road was recently built through the mountain. It's one-way, so sometimes you have to wait for awhile before you can go through. It also costs money.

I've been to both Seward and Whittier("26-Glacier Cruise"). Given your timeframe, I would do Whittier and the 26-glacier cruise. Don't do any of the other boats out of Whittier. The one with the best route is "26-Glacier Cruise." They serve you lunch too...nothing to write home about, but at least you get fed. Don't be late or you won't get a good seat on the boat.

We are going to be in that area around the same time and I've done some research on it. Seward will be an absolute zoo on July 4th, with the Mount Marathon race. I would recommend the glacier cruise out of Whittier.

To get to Whittier, you have to use a single lane tunnel which alternates usage between each direction of traffic and also an occassional train! The tunnel schedule can be found at: http://www.dot.state.ak.us/creg/whittiertunnel/schedule.htm

Best of luck!

Thanks for your help.
It sounds like Whittier's the way to go this time.
I also came across this option: http://www.soundecoadventure.com.
Anyone have experience with them or Honey Charters?

Only trouble is they need a minimum of 3 passengers - anyone else interested for a trip on the 4th?

The 26 glacier cruise seems pretty pricey, more crowded, and a shorter trip (4.5 hours on the water). Am I missing something?