Grand Alaska National Parks

Upon your arrival in Fairbanks, Alaska's largest interior city, you'll be greeted by our knowledgeable guides who will accompany you on your exploration to some of the world’s most untouched landscapes. The charm of this city stands out amidst its icy landscapes with a warm community spirit. Be treated to an included Hotel Stay in this exciting city.

After breakfast, gather with fellow explorers for an exciting, guided tour of Fairbanks with our Adventure Guides.

First experience the Museum of the North. Located at the University of Alaska, this museum features a wide range of exhibits, including Alaskan artifacts, contemporary Native art, and stunning displays of the state's unique wildlife.

Be treated to lunch at a local restaurant before traveling to the view the engineering marvel known as the Trans Alaska Pipeline. Next, explore the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, which features a world-class collection of vintage automobiles and period fashions, from Victorian times through the Art Deco era.
Round off the day with a Welcome Reception, where everyone can taste the flavors of the area and come together before sailing begins.

Following breakfast, set out on a captivating, narrated exploration along Denali Park Road, a journey that promises to unveil the park's wonders in all their glory. Accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist as you navigate the park, each turn reveals remarkable wildlife, geological marvels, and diverse ecosystems. Take a break for lunch, amongst the truly stunning views of the park around you.

As twilight descends upon Denali, the golden hues of the sunset cover the rolling hills and icy peaks, illuminating the diverse wildlife that calls this wilderness home. Amidst the emerald forests and alpine meadows, bears roam freely, while moose graze alongside the calm rivers.

Upon reaching Denali, prepare to be enchanted by a landscape that unfolds like a masterpiece, with thick forests giving way to alpine terrain and snow-capped peaks, including the silhouette of Mount Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, dominating the horizon. With a trained naturalist by your side, you’ll receive a comprehensive tour of the park’s history and the ecosystem you see working around you. 

After a day of exploring the park, get ready for an exciting show at Alaska Cabin Nite Dinner Theatre. Be treated to hearty local cuisine as well as a true-to-life Gold Rush tale of adventure set in early 1900s Alaska. This humorous cast of colorful characters retells one of America’s greatest stories. 

In the morning, hop aboard a deluxe dome rail car departing from the Denali area, bound for Anchorage. 

With the energy of the Last Frontier, Anchorage is situated between the Chugach Mountains and the sparkling waters of Cook Inlet. The cityscape is a blend of modern buildings and teeming wilderness, with Mount McKinley covering the horizon and can be seen on a clear day. In the winter, a blanket of snow transforms the city into a winter wonderland, while the summer sun casts a  summer sun casts a golden glow over the wildflower-filled meadows.

Kenai Fjords National Park is a realm where nature's grandeur unfolds in a mesmerizing display of icy wonders and expansive beauty. Towering mountains rise from the crystalline waters, their peaks covered by eternal snow and ice. Glaciers, ancient and formidable, carve their path through the landscape. Wildlife thrives in this lush wilderness, with whales breaching, sea otters playing among the kelp forests, and bald eagles soaring high above. All the while, your experienced captain will carefully navigate you through it all and offer insight throughout the journey.

After your incredible day, enjoy a relaxing hotel stay in Seward, a small, remote community with a laid-back atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the traditional Alaskan lifestyle.

Journeying northward to Anchorage, a must-visit destination is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, an expansive sanctuary spanning 200 acres. Here, injured and orphaned animals find refuge in spacious habitats, allowing them to thrive in a safe environment. Encounter a diverse array of Alaska's native wildlife, from mighty bears and bison to graceful reindeer and elusive wolves. You may even have the opportunity to hand-feed a gentle moose.
After a day of exploration, return to your hotel in Anchorage for a good night's sleep before beginning your Alaska cruise.

After an exhilarating journey through Alaska's breathtaking national parks, hop on a short flight from Anchorage to Juneau, the charming capital of the Last Frontier. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel, where views of misty mountains and sparkling waters greet you at every turn. Within the Tongass National Forest lies Juneau, a city unlike any other, boasting the title of the United States' only state capital inaccessible by road. Framed by towering peaks and the icy waters of the Gastineau Channel, it's a place where nature and civilization intertwine seamlessly. As evening descends, experience Juneau's lively culture, perhaps catching a performance at the iconic Alaska State Capitol or simply strolling along the waterfront, where the calm nature meets the buzz of city life.

Hotel Stay
Enjoy a premium hotel stay, a guided exploration of the city of Juneau, and transportation to the ship. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

Once you board the next section of your tour of the 49th state, it’s another beautiful day on Alaska’s blue waters. Keep a keen eye on the horizon as you depart the dock, for these waters are renowned for their abundance of whales. With luck, you may catch sight of these magnificent creatures breaching the surface, a fitting finale to this portion of your trip. Settle into your stateroom—the largest in the industry—and join us for an array of onboard activities. Don’t miss cocktail hour and our engaging entertainment for the night. 

Welcome Aboard
As you embark upon your journey, enjoy a Welcome Aboard Reception with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. Meet the crew, your onboard experts, and fellow guests. Learn more about the wonderful adventure ahead of you.

At the northern tip of the Lynn Canal, Haines is cradled by mountains that soar from the water's edge, enveloping the town in beauty. Along the riverbanks on the outskirts of Haines, witness a captivating sight as bears congregate to feast on the abundant salmon run.

In the adjacent Chilkat Valley, bald eagles reign supreme among the more than 260 species of birds that call this region home. Choose from an array of activities, from immersive wildlife expeditions guided by experts to private excursions kayaking or rafting through pristine waters. Don't miss the chance to visit a bald eagle rehabilitation center, where these magnificent birds find sanctuary and care.

Valley of the Eagles Nature & Wildlife Expedition - Complimentary Excursion
Knowledgeable and enthusiastic naturalists will guide you through the "Valley of the Eagles" to experience Alaska's magnificent nature and wildlife in 5 different wildlife habitats (ocean, estuary, river, lake, and rainforest) via coach. The fertile Chilkoot Valley provides an abundance of potential wildlife highlights including bald eagles, mountain goats, salmon, harbor seals, migratory birdlife, and brown bears. This exploratory journey is a great opportunity to photograph the stunning scenery and wildlife in their natural habitat. Before or after the nature exploration, enjoy a visit to the American Bald Eagle Foundation, a raptor center, natural history museum, and gift shop.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Partial

Haines Shuttle - Complimentary Excursion
This convenient shuttle will transport you from the ship to the center of Haines and back. At your leisure, explore the rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture of this enchanting Alaskan town. Wear your lanyard for complimentary access to the Haines Sheldon Museum and the Hammer Museum, a small museum tracing the global history of the hammer.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Sail leisurely through the tranquil waters of the Inside Passage, embracing a day of relaxation and discovery. As your modern vessel expertly navigates the waters, take pleasure in the comforts and conveniences it offers, including spacious lounges with panoramic views and inviting staterooms with wall-to-wall windows or private verandas.

Keep watch for the mesmerizing sight of humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, dolphins, and porpoises, all drawn to the nutrient-rich waters of the region. Witness the rare spectacle of whales breaching or engaging in the coordinated feeding technique known as "bubble-net feeding." Along the shoreline, catch glimpses of black and brown bears, as well as Sitka black-tailed deer.

A Day of Cruising
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

Glacier Bay National Park stands as a singular marvel, spanning an impressive 3.3 million acres of ever-changing terrain. Within its expansive borders, thousands of glaciers cascade towards the bay, encircled by the formidable Fairweather Mountain Range, an annual recipient of over 200 feet of snowfall.

Among the few cruise lines granted access to this natural treasure, American Cruise Lines offers an exclusive journey through the 60-mile expanse of Glacier Bay. Glide through the icy waters, enveloped by a panorama of breathtaking scenery. Savor the warmth of cocoa as the ship navigates beneath towering glaciers, witnessing the dramatic spectacle of icebergs calving and seals lounging atop floating floes.

Engage in the narrative of this remarkable place as onboard presenters share tales of its unique attributes. From the sanctuary of your private balcony, keep a vigilant eye for the diverse array of marine and terrestrial wildlife all around you. Spot otters, seals, sea lions, bears, mountain goats, and an abundance of bird species, each adding their own enchanting presence to this unparalleled wilderness.

Interpretive Glacier Bay Program - Complimentary Excursion
The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is like no place else on earth. The park includes magnificent glaciers, towering snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and miles of pristine coastline. Experience all of Glacier Bay’s beauty from the comfort of the American Constellation. A National Park Service Ranger will board the ship for the day and will provide expert narration as we cruise through Glacier Bay, identifying wildlife including orcas, humpback whales, brown bears, and bald eagles. Your tour will include a stop at a majestic tidewater glacier where you may hear the sounds of a calving glacier. American Cruise Lines has also made special arrangements to have an Huna Tlingit Cultural Interpreter join us on board who will share with you the fascinating human history and family stories of Glacier Bay’s native clans and people.

ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Explore Bartlett Cove – Complimentary Excursion
Nestled within Glacier Bay National Park, Bartlett Cove serves as a stunning gateway to the breathtaking wilderness of the area. Stretch your legs and go for a morning hike along the forest trails of this serene cove. View wildlife including seals, sea lions, and diverse bird species as you enjoy a picturesque backdrop of towering mountains and lush forests. Visit the Glacier Bay Lodge and have a bite to eat or explore the bookstore and second-floor exhibits depicting the natural and cultural wonders of Glacier Bay.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Explore this distinctive Alaskan town, gracefully ascending the hillside with a harbor adorned by picturesque islands. Visit local museums brimming with artifacts and exhibits chronicling the area's past, from its origins as an ancestral home of the Tlingit natives to its pivotal role as a hub for Russia's fur-trading empire. Experience the historic significance of October 18, 1867, when the town witnessed the formal transfer from the Russian empire to the United States.

With dozens of attractions listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including seven designated as National Historic Landmarks, this island community offers a wealth of cultural treasures to explore. Enveloped by rainforests and embraced by the encompassing mountains and sea, the town hosts diverse wildlife, from gentle brown bears to soaring bald eagles and the iconic Pacific salmon.

Sitka National Historical Park - Complimentary Excursion
Explore the Visitor Center and trails of this beautiful location, which preserves the site of a battle between invading Russian traders and indigenous Tlingit peoples. A unique totem pole collection from the Tlingit and Haida areas lines the park's scenic trail. Interpretive displays and knowledgeable rangers offer insights into the cultural and historical significance of the conflict and the surrounding landscape. As you walk the trails, experience the natural beauty of the coastal rainforest while reflecting on the resilience of the Native communities.

Activity Level: Moderate | ADA Accessible: Yes

Downtown Sitka Shuttle – Complimentary Excursion
Explore Sitka at your leisure by taking this convenient shuttle into town. This shuttle will bring you to Harrigan Centennial Hall, home of the Sitka Historical Society, and within walking distance to many shops and museums.  

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Following several days of roaming, a day spent sailing offers the ideal chance to unwind and recharge while taking in the sights of Alaska's natural beauty. Navigate through fjords shaped by glaciers, encased by towering mountains that outline our sailing path, offering a stunning contrast as they ascend from the ocean's edge to heights exceeding 15,000 feet. Observe a myriad of islands, their landscapes extending down to the water's edge.

The captain will steer the vessel to ensure prime viewing the incredible landscapes at close range. You may also catch sight of bald eagles and various seabirds soaring above.

As your vessel pulls into Petersburg, take a moment to watch as the mountains encircle the area, their peaks white and radiant against the sky. Established over a century ago by Norwegian fishermen, Petersburg stands as a genuine Alaskan fishing community, with the majority of its residents earning their livelihoods from the ocean. 

For an unforgettable perspective, climb aboard on a flightseeing tour to soar above vast glaciers, regal valleys, and enigmatic bays. Wander through the charming boutiques and cozy museums downtown or stroll beside the water to absorb the natural beauty that surrounds the town. If you want to stay close to the water, a fishing trip for the day in the nearby Frederick Sound is a perfect option or enjoy a jet boat trip to the adjacent LeConte Glacier Bay for more adventure.

Petersburg Dock Walk - Complimentary Excursion
Petersburg’s location is in the heart of southeast Alaska, making it ideal for major industry, commercial fishing. Led by local fishermen and fishery biologists, enjoy a one-hour narrated dock walk through Petersburg’s boat harbors. Enjoy a discussion of various fishing boats, methods of fishing, permits, processing and more.

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Petersburg Shuttle - Complimentary
This convenient shuttle allows you to discover Petersburg independently as you shop and stroll through this charming fishing town. At your leisure, explore this island community which continues to make a living from the sea.  Wear your lanyard for complimentary access to the Clausen Museum, dedicated to the preserving the histories of those who have lived and worked in Petersburg and the surrounding areas.  
 
Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Partial

Sailing from Wrangell to Petersburg, the vessel navigates the Wrangell Narrows – a slender, deep channel reminiscent of a fjord, with steep banks that seem to escort the ship. 

As you cruise along, see the ice formations, a sequence of tumbling waterfalls, and an array of wildlife, including marine creatures and diverse bird species from waterfowl to shore and sea birds. Participate in onboard activities, attend an informative talk by a visiting lecturer, and taste the culinary delights inspired by local flavors prepared by the ship's chef.

Wrangell's inviting bay presents a panoramic view of the charming town set against the lengthy valley that stretches from the coastal mountains. To the town's north, the Stikine River flows into the sea, spreading out in braided streams across a broad delta. The salmon migrations here draw an array of wildlife, and designated lookout spots allow you to observe eagles, seals, black bears, and brown bears as they gather to feed on the spawning fish.

Join us for a jet boat excursion up the river, a historic pathway during the frenzied Gold Rush days. As you wander through the town, enjoy the taste of freshly caught salmon and halibut, engage with the indigenous Tlingit culture, or gather wild blueberries and huckleberries right from the bush.

Wrangell Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Discover the highlights of this truly Alaskan town and see its colorful history and native culture come to life while visiting the Petroglyph State Historic Site and the Wrangell Museum with its 5,000+ historic photos, native artifacts, Tlingit Petroglyphs, and fishing, mining and logging displays.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

This region remains virtually as it was when naturalist John Muir explored it in 1879, captivated by its "shut in by sublime cliffs, nobly sculptured, and adorned with waterfalls and fringes of trees, bushes, and patches of flowers." 

Today is an itinerary highlight as our signature small ship winds its way through the slender passage of Tracy Arm Fjord. Over the course of 25 miles, the channel maintains a narrow width of roughly a mile, bounded by precipitous cliffs that soar upwards of 3,000 feet. Valleys, nestled among these heights offer glimpses of grander. With snow-draped summits, mountains guarded by age-old forests, and stretches of gleaming ice formations, this is a once in a lifetime experience.

Countless waterfalls spill over the cliffs, plunging into the fjord below. This extraordinary passage culminates upon reaching the astonishing twin Sawyer Glaciers, which together sculpted this remarkable channel. Seals and their offspring drift upon ice rafts. As guests marvel at the glaciers, the crew serves our signature decadent hot chocolate bar, enhanced with a selection of toppings and liqueurs.

After a thrilling journey through our Grand Alaska National Parks cruise, conclude your expedition back in Juneau. Savor one last breakfast onboard prior to leaving the ship. Whether you choose to extend your stay in Juneau or head home, you’ve conquered the Last Frontier.