Wilderness Passages of Discovery

Sail from Fishermen's Terminal, through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, and on to Deception Pass—a dramatic and narrow cut between two islands.

Forested islands dot the seascape of this yachter’s paradise. You’ll "gunkhole" close to shore by skiff or kayak. Explore quaint Friday Harbor and its fascinating Whale Museum. Keep watch for the resident orca pods.

Spend another day weaving through the islands of Washington state before entering Canadian waters.

Intricate waterways and fjords alongside temperate rainforests and mountains are ideal for sightings of orca, seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoise, and birds. Native influences have shaped these sparsely-populated islands and communities. Keep your eye out for orcas and other wildlife as you make your way north through Canada's Inside Passage. Pass the ghost town of Butedale, on British Columbia’s Princess Royal Island, before reaching Prince Rupert, BC and again crossing the US/Canadian border.

Home to nearly every ecosystem found in Southeast Alaska—glacial valleys filled with sea water, and steep walls are a haven for wildlife. Glide through Walker Cove soaking in the splendor of this largely forgotten corner of the world.

Alaska’s southernmost city and “salmon capital of the world” also claims fame to having the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles. Explore the Saxman Totem Village, Tlingit culture, and the notorious Creek Street, once a red-light district. Watch for eagles as we cruise out of Ketchikan.

Get closer to nature in El Capitan Passage. Hike through high forest on an old logging trail or trek to El Capitan Cave. Stop at Marble Island for freshly harvested oysters and fish from a local family.

Discover living history in Klawock—one of Alaska’s most authentic Tlingit villages. Locals share stories and the importance of carving in Alaskan culture. Visit the carvers' shed where the art of carving and restoring totems is passed on to the local youth.

It’s Captain’s Choice today as you explore the intricate passages and shores along Chatham Strait’s Kuiu or Baranof Islands. Join your expedition team on (or in!) the water. Conditions permitting, take to the water by kayak, skiff, or snorkel. Snorkeling is optional, but hidden beneath the surface lies a magical array of sea life only seen with a snorkel swim. Take a deep breath and go for it! Today’s discoveries will be within some of the most un-touched wilderness of the Tongass National Forest.

Lush forest, spectacular views, play time, and wildlife – they are all in abundance in Frederick Sound. Keep watch along the coastline for birds, wolves, and black bears. With many secluded coves to choose from, you may slip into the waters of Deep Cove, Patterson or Saginaw Bay, or perhaps another hidden gem to explore by skiff or paddle a kayak. Gear up for snorkeling or guided hikes. This evening, toast another day of amazing adventure with a cold microbrew or cocktail.

There’ll be plenty of wildlife viewing today. The Brothers, a pair of islands at the confluence of Stephen’s Passage and Frederick Sound, are home to some of Alaska’s most abundant wildlife. The area is the summer feeding ground for the largest concentration of humpback whales in the northern hemisphere. Keep watch for frolicking orca, humpbacks, and sea lions. Tonight, anchor in quiet bay and listen for the call of the wild.

Be awed by blue ice and the white thunder of calving ice at Dawes Glacier. Tides permitting, explore the narrow passage of Ford’s Terror to admire magnificent domes, hanging valleys, and pristine wilderness. Join the Captain in a farewell toast this evening.

Disembark the ship after breakfast. Transfer directly to the Juneau airport or begin your add-on overnight stay or extended land tour.