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Spirit (kermode) bear, Gribbell Island, British Columbia

In the Wake of Pioneers

Example 15 Day Cruise aboard Le Boreal
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Explore Alaska beyond the Inside Passage. Cruise along the east coast of Alaska, whose Inside Passage was crafted by the staggering force of massive glaciers millions of years ago, resulting in vertiginous fjords and lush shorelines. On this exclusive 15-day cruise, discover coniferous forests and myriad islands and islets where the soft light of the midnight sun lights the horizon. This expedition introduces wild and unspoiled nature including hikes and daily outings in zodiac landing craft. Do not miss the magnificent landscapes from wide spaces to gigantic glaciers, steep mountains, infinite tundra and glittering lakes. Alaska invites you to follow in the footsteps of trappers and gold miners. During your trip, discover unique wildlife at some of the sites that have marked the history of Alaska and its environs.
Traveler on a glacier tour of Alaska.A Bald Eagle catches a fish.Alaskan totem poles Adak Island of the Aleutian IslandsSpirit (kermode) bear, Gribbell Island, British Columbia
Highlights
  • Hike the tundra to explore this terrain and view seabirds & wildflowers
  • Discover some of the unique sites that have marked the history of Alaska
  • Enjoy a delightful stop at the heart of the Aleutian Islands archipelago
  • Visit the small town of Unalaska, founded in the 18th century
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Nome | Embark

Located along the Bering Strait at the westernmost point of Alaska, Nome offers the rustic charm of a former gold-mining town, set in the middle of a magnificent wilderness. As you weave in and out of the brightly colored houses, discover the pioneering legacy that is still prevalent in local traditions: fishing, reindeer herding, sled-racing to name a few. Experience the local communities that live from the land and thrive on manual labor. The surrounding plains provide stunning vantage points for observing Arctic fauna.

Day 2: Little Diomede or Savoonga

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Weather and sea conditions determine which of these two islands are explored. In the middle of the Bering Sea lie two remote islands: Little Diomede and Savoonga. Both islands are equally compelling to visit in terms of geology, birding, and hiking opportunities. Dramatic steep cliffs are a wondrous backdrop to the sea. Hike the tundra to explore this terrain further, and view seabirds, wildflowers, lichen, and more.

Day 3: St. Matthew Island (Pribilofs)

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
St. Matthew Island is a most remote island in the Bering Sea, separated by more than 200 miles from nearest landfall. Its most southerly point of Cape Upright features cliff faces which exceed 1,000 feet. Similar heights are found at Glory of Russia Cape on the north, and the highest point, 1,476 feet (450 m) above sea level, lies south from the island center. The entire island's natural scenery and wildlife is protected as it is part of the Bering Sea unit of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Hiking opportunities give you the chance to enjoy the flora, sea birds, and perhaps observe red fox or even the elusive arctic fox.

Day 4: St. George Island (Pribilofs)

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Located in the middle of the Bering sea, Saint-George Island is the second largest island of the Pribilof archipelago. A special atmosphere emanates from this landscape of volcanic craters and tundra: wild lands surrounded by a sumptuous coastline of majestic cliffs. As you hike, spot varied species of migratory birds that come and settle here all year round and enjoy the flora and fauna of this forested island. Also look for World War II relics. This a perfect place for observing fur seals, also called Pribilof seals. Fur seals have made St. George island their home with its rich biodiversity. Mammal sightings may include: sea lions, humpback whales, and perhaps a pod of orca. Birders delight in the opportunity to view eagles, gulls, and murres.

Day 5: Dutch Harbor | Unalaska Bay

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During the cruise, discover an exceptional site: Unalaska Island and its port, Dutch Harbor. Clinging to the southwestern tip of Alaska, between the Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea, the port of Dutch Harbor offers a stopover at the heart of the Aleutian Islands archipelago. A single bridge connects the port to the small town of Unalaska, founded in the 18th century by pioneering Russian fur trappers. Rich in history, Unalaska is home to ancient indigenous cultures and remains from the second world war can be seen and tales told. During your visit hope to meet the locals for such tales and perhaps be treated to a folkloric performance from the local community. With gentle valleys nestling between volcanic peaks, Dutch Harbor reveals a primitive natural beauty which you must explore as you hike with a team of naturalists.

Day 6: At Sea - Sailing Aleutian Islands

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
To the west of Alaska, the Aleutian Islands form an elongated archipelago, marking a natural boundary between the Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea, a veritable natural bridge between Kamchatka and Alaska which extends in an arc over a distance of nearly 2,000 km, home to endless landscapes. Today sail along these islands looking for migratory birds, seals, walrus and whales.

Day 7: Geographic Harbor

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Nearly hidden in the far reaches of Amalik Bay, Geographic Harbor is in southern Alaska’s Katmai National Park. It is flanked by spectacular mountain peaks from which several rivers drain into this shallow harbor. Today venture through the estuary in pursuit of Kodiaks, the majestic Alaskan brown bear. Viewing opportunities are dictated by the tide. The wetland, the tidal flats, and the river basin of Geographic Harbor make for a wonderful haven for the brown bear.

Day 8: At Sea - Alaska Gulf Crossing

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 9: At Sea - Sailing North Pacific Ocean

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 10: Sitka

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Formerly a Russian colony located on Baranof Island, to the west of the Alexander archipelago, Sitka is brimming with history. The historical national park of Sitka shelters totems carved out of red cedar, a tree that is abundant in this region. These totems are testimonials of the former presence of the Tlingit Indians. Hike the Totem Trail in the park or other nature trails or take in the Raptor Rehabilitation Center for a closer look at Alaska’s birds. This place is full of natural wonders. Admire the mountain range around the port. In the distance, the snow-peaked volcano stands majestic. Numerous islands scattered around Sitka stretch out in a vision of idyllic Alaska.

Day 11: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 12: Prince Rupert

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today discover the port city of Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada, situated on an island at the basin of the Skeena River, just 40 miles south of the Alaska border and 65 miles south of Ketchikan. Be out on deck to view the ship’s arrival into port, which is breathtaking. Marvel as Le Boreal skirts hundreds of islands and navigates through a narrow, mist-shrouded passageway to this town of only 13,000 residents. Prince Rupert is one of the oldest continuously occupied region in the world, with a First Nations culture that dates back over 10,000 years. Learn more as you take in the Tsimshian Nation's site and archaeological artifacts as made available to visitors. Enjoy the museum which is dedicated to the First Nations peoples. Prince Rupert is also home to an abundance of wildlife. Highlights include: Canada's only grizzly bear sanctuary, the highest concentration of humpbacked whales in North America, white kermode bears, and soaring eagles.

Day 13: Sailing the Inside Passage

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
As Le Boréal sails through Alaska’s Inside Passage, which is fragmented into numerous islets, take the time to observe the landscapes around you. The majestic fjords contrast beautifully with the snow-topped mountains, while the wildlife brings the conifer forests to life. From the exterior decks of the ship, enjoy the tranquility of this crossing and immerse yourself in the natural environment that teems with wildlife, including humpback whale, orca, seals, and dolphins. Bald eagles have also found refuge here in this sanctuary, so have your cameras ready! The naturalist guides provide enlightening discussions on these creatures and the Alaskan environment during Zodiac excursions.

Day 14: At Sea - Alert Bay | Johnstone Strait

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Be out on deck to view your approach to Alert Bay—sightings may include a pod of Pacific white-sided dolphins. Explore this wonderful bay and small community while studying the totem poles that adorn the cemetery as well as taking a tour of the U’Mista Museum Cultural Centre. Today learn more about the Tsimshian culture. The community typically invites visitors to a rich cultural performance of dance, singing, and drumming with performers in colorful full costume. As you sail down Johnstone Strait in search of wildlife, enjoy plenty of opportunities to view seabirds including storm petrel, auklets, and perhaps peregrine. Other sightings from deck may include: porpoises and groupings of Pacific white-sided dolphins. A keen eye may also sight black bear ashore searching for their dinner — salmon!

Day 15: Vancouver | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Cosmopolitan Vancouver is one of Canadaメs most multi-cultural cities. Located in British Columbia on Canada's west coast, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains and outdoor activities are popular. In the city, you can immerse yourself in the Asian atmosphere of bustling Chinatown, shop for pashminas and silk saris at the Punjabi Market Indian district, and explore the historic area of Gastown. The Vancouver Art Gallery is known for works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology houses important First Nations collections. Granville Island Jetty is a fascinating revitalized industrial area that hosts galleries, restaurants, and a huge produce market.

Ship/Hotel

Le Boreal

Enjoy the pool on the sun deck.
Enjoy the view from the bar.
Enjoy a gourmet meal at the Gastronomic Restaurant.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$11,540
Superior Stateroom
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Superior Stateroom
8 cabins, 226 sq ft, located on Le Champollion Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area and private bath.
Prestige or Deluxe Stateroom
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Deluxe Stateroom
28 cabins, 200 sq ft with private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
Deck 4, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
Deck 5, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
Deck 6, 200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
Deluxe Suite
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Deluxe Suites
3 suites, 290 sq ft with 54 sq ft private balcony, located on the Le France Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, desk, minibar, private bath.
Prestige Suite
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Prestige Suite - Deck 5
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
Prestige Suite
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Prestige Suite - Deck 6
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
Owner's Suite
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Owners Suite
1 suite, 484 sq ft with 97 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living, dining areas, private bath with large tub and shower, minibar, 2 flat screen TVs, DVD, CD, and IPOD, Video on demand, Satellite phone.

Notes

Please Note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle
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