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Beautiful Glacier Bay, Alaska

Alaska's Inside Passage

Eastbound - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Quest
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Set sail on the National Geographic Quest for an 8-day cruise from Sitka to Juneau. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Southeast Alaska, where massive glaciers, dense forests, and incredible wildlife surround you. Start in Sitka, a town rich in Tlingit and Russian history. Kayak through icy waters, hike scenic forest trails, and discover hidden coves. Cruise through Icy Strait and the Inian Islands, home to playful sea otters and powerful Steller sea lions. In Glacier Bay National Park, witness massive glaciers breaking into the sea in a spectacular display. Sail through Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait, where orcas and humpback whales glide through the water. Visit Petersburg for a crab feast, explore Tracy Arm's fjords, and end in Juneau, taking in Alaska’s wild beauty.
A Bald Eagle catches a fish.Get up close to amazing glaciers in AlaskaA humpback whale breaches from Alaskan watersExploring Alaska's glaciersZodiac takes travelers out to a glacierAerial view of Juneau, AlaskaBeautiful Glacier Bay, Alaska
Highlights
  • Discover Sitka’s unique blend of Tlingit and Russian heritage
  • Kayak remote Southeast Alaska bays, surrounded by towering cliffs
  • Observe humpback whales feeding in Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait
  • Cruise Tracy Arm’s stunning fjords and see massive tidewater glaciers
  • Explore Petersburg’s Norwegian history and enjoy a fresh crab feast
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Sitka | Embark

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska, located on the western shore of Baranof Island facing the Pacific Ocean. Sitka is recognized for its deep-rooted Tlingit heritage and visible traces of Russian influence dating to the 1800s. Board the vessel this evening and gather for welcome cocktails and a staff and crew introduction.

Arrival Time: Arrive by 3:00 p.m. local time.

Day 2: Southeast Alaska's Islands, Bays & Fjords

Explore the remote wilderness of Southeast Alaska under a special use permit within the Tongass National Forest.

Today’s activities are guided by nature, allowing flexibility to respond to wildlife sightings and changing weather. You may land on a secluded beach to examine tide pools, beachcomb, or hike through scenic forest trails. Watch for well-worn bear tracks as you transition from dense woods to open meadows, and expect frequent sightings of bald eagles. If conditions allow, enjoy kayaking while observing both marine and land-based wildlife.

Day 3: Icy Strait and the Inian Islands

Explore among the Inian Islands, a busy feeding ground for myriad wildlife species including Steller sea lions and sea otters. Search for marine mammals in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around Chichagof Island to hike where sightings of bald eagles are common. 

Day 4: Glacier Bay National Park

Spend the day amid the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. Witness glaciers that end abruptly at the water's edge and observe them calving, when tons of ice separate and crash into the water accompanied by a thunderous sound. You might observe mountain goats scaling the peaks, as well as harbor seals, Steller sea lions and puffins. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of brown bears lumbering up the hillside.

Day 5: Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait

These waters are prime areas for both orca and humpback whales. With luck, guests may observe their fascinating behavior—breaching, tail-slapping and variations on feeding—as you listen to the play-by-play from expert naturalists. Explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, you'll have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up-close exploration.

Day 6: Petersburg

Visit the small Alaska fishing town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, which still retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaska ecosystem, the muskeg, with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. This evening, enjoy a crab feast.  

Day 7: Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise in a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.  

Day 8: Juneau | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark in Juneau and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Departure Time: After 10:30 a.m. local time.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Quest

Guests explore by zodiac from the ship National Geographic Quest in Rudyerd Bay, Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, Ketchikan, Alaska, USA
Captain Cook on the bridge of the ship National Geographic Quest/Venture
A guest enjoys the fitness center on the ship National Geographic Quest/Venture

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • May 25, 2025from $7,182
  • Jun 8, 2025from $9,651
  • Jun 22, 2025from $10,616
  • Jul 6, 2025from $10,511
  • Jul 20, 2025from $10,951
  • Aug 3, 2025from $10,725
  • Aug 17, 2025from $8,188
  • Aug 31, 2025from $8,365
  • May 23, 2026from $7,395
  • Jun 6, 2026from $8,875
  • Jun 20, 2026from $8,875
  • Jul 4, 2026from $9,412
  • Jul 18, 2026from $9,707
  • Aug 1, 2026from $9,062
  • Aug 15, 2026from $8,781
  • Aug 29, 2026from $8,781
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May 25, 2025 Per person starting at
$7,182
Category 1
$7,182
Category 1
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 2
$8,055
Category 2
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 3
$8,530
Category 3
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and a large view window. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 4
$9,476
Category 4
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, sliding glass door, and small, private balcony. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Category 5
$10,478
Category 5
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available, but is subject to availability. 
 
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Crew gratuities
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin

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