Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

Nothing compares to a hearty greeting from the crew and some bon voyage bubbly. With all souls settled in on board, the journey begins. From the bow, Southeast Alaska welcomes visitors with Coast Mountain views.

Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait, the captain makes the call. Either choice, go with the flow. The water is fine. The guides help visitors gear up and lead their adventure along the rocky outcroppings. By kayak or paddle board, take in the size of this wilderness. Bald eagles dot the tree tops. Harbor seals bob up and under. Pods of orcas—the largest in the dolphin family—skim along the water’s surface.

What a privilege. At 3.3 million acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve is massive. Orange-beaked puffins, guillemots, marbled murrelets are just a few possible sightings. Keep a tally—the list will grow. Arriving at South Marble Island, visitors can hear and smell the sea lions before seeing them—it's a haulout for them. Perched above around the bend, watch for mountain goats, and lower along the shore, foraging bears. Up bay, glacial silt turns the water a milky white. Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers—one holding steady, the other retreating. Lounging harbor seals laze on bits of bergs. And if time allows, tuck up in Tidal Inlet. End this very full day with feet up for the sail into Icy Strait.

Nearly to the Pacific Ocean, Icy Strait is remote and wild. The plan? Whales and marine mammals. Spouts and fin slaps are certain giveaways. More rollicking sea lions and birds. But don't forget to look straight down. Porpoises and dolphins may hitch a ride on the bow wave. And don't worry about missing any wildlife; it's a favorite mission of the crew to point out any creatures they spot. Make a break for it and head for a quiet pocket along the rugged coastline. A different sort of wild than the open strait, muskeg leads to forest bushwhacks. Skiff the shore and down along kelp-threaded channels.

Kick off the morning with on-deck yoga stretches (the guides love it when guests join them). Meander through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. Then stop. It's prime time to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Camera in hand set off on land and sea explorations. Closer inspection by skiff, moss-dripping trees run right down to the water. Any bears in there? With one of the world's largest populations of bears, it's possible. Go searching for giant trees and tidal pools. Hiking in the Tongass, it won't take long to find them. The eagle-eyed guides lead the pack—and pull up the rear. Later, wend along a twisting channel known for dramatic currents.

Wind along a twisting channel known for dramatic currents. Peril Strait runs 50 miles to Salisbury Sound. The shorelines are close, and it's good territory for play. Skiff ashore and hike into the backcountry. Otters back float working to crack snacks resting on their bellies. Opening at Hoonah Sound, the squeeze is back on. Wind into Neva Strait. Watch the scenery change in the late fading light—from the hot tub, of course.

There aren't many straight lines along Baranof Island. Its western side is spattered with remote, uninhabited islands. These features mean endless opportunities for adventure. Secluded coves. Tree-covered islets. Drop anchor, pick your modus operandi, and get going. Kayak, paddleboard, or skiff—you're on the level with curious sea lions and possibly whales. Rocky intertidal zones make good beach combing. Turn a stone or two to see what's underneath. There are no groomed trails here—get out on a guided hike John Muir would approve of. Toast with a Farewell Dinner and a "photo journal" of the trip. A gift to you, from the expedition team.

Cruise into Sitka this morning over breakfast. Farewell, new friends! Disembark and transfer to the airport or UnCruise hotel stay or land tour.