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Three Killer Whales swimming side by side.

A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii - Northbound

Vancouver - Sitka - Example 15 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
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Embark on a 15-day adventure between Sitka, Alaska, and Vancouver, exploring three of the most appealing wild regions in the Pacific Northwest: Alaska’s Inside Passage, coastal British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii. Sail into mist-shrouded fjords and past crashing glaciers, see brown bears stalking shores, and watch eagles flying. In Haida Gwaii meet artisans and experience the resonance of their cultural heritage and artwork. With special access to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site, see ancient village sites, and the endemic species that make Haida Gwaii the “Canadian Galápagos.”
Traveler on a glacier tour of Alaska.Cruising the arctic watersBrown Bear sow with cubs fishing for pink salmon.Brilliant lights of Aurora Borealis.Three Killer Whales swimming side by side.
Highlights
  • Sail deep into Northwest fjords and narrow, wildlife-rich channels
  • Encounter and observe abundant and varied wildlife
  • Visit Haida Gwaii, the ancestral home of the Haida people
  • Kayak in Misty Fjord's forested backwaters
Activities
Places Visited
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: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | Embark

Arrive in Vancouver, Canada, British Columbia’s largest city and the major port for all of western Canada. Embark in the early evening and set out on your expedition.

Day 2: Gulf Islands, British Columbia

Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands that dot the Strait of Georgia, situated between the mainland of British Columbia and Vancouver Island. These waters are a nature lover's paradise. Keep an eye out for harbor seals and an array of seabirds, shorebirds, and birds of prey.  

Day 3: Johnstone Strait and Alert Bay, British Columbia

Sail through scenic Johnstone Strait, offering stunning views and extraordinary marine mammals and bird-watching opportunities. Today we visit one of the oldest First Nations village sites in British Columbia: Alert Bay, home of the Kwakwaka'wakw people. Visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre, which houses one of the Northwest Coast’s finest collections of elaborately carved potlatch masks, regalia, and coppers. Then stop to visit the Big House a short distance away where the T’sasala Cultural Group continues the sharing of culture, “educating the world about their songs, dances, teachings, and values.”

Day 4-5: Inside Passage of British Columbia

Sail northward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer, and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak among the many bays and inlets.  

Day 6-9: Haida Gwaii

With very special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. We are joined by a Haida interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife, and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into the home of a local carver for a feast of traditional food and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Centre at Ḵay 'Llnagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and their renowned artwork, a spiritual endeavor. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—in the village of Ninstints, and kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas.

Day 10-12: Alaska's Inside Passage

With special permission from the U.S. Forest Service, explore the forested backwaters of Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest by kayak or Zodiac. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or enjoy an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm–both spectacular fjords that are home to orcas and harbor seals. See the soaring Dawes Glacier or South Sawyer Glacier up close, and take a Zodiac cruise for unparalleled views of sculpted iridescent icebergs. 

Day 13-14: Glacier Bay National Park/ Inian Islands/ Chicagof Island

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Then, experience the active wildlife of the Inian Islands by Zodiac, or hike and kayak Chichagof Island. Later cruise through Icy Strait in search of marine mammals, perhaps lowering the hydrophone to listen for whale communications. Enjoy a farewell dinner on our final night. 
 

Day 15: Sitka | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark after breakfast in picturesque Sitka on the western coast of Baranof Island. Schedules permitting, walk among Tlingit and Haida totem poles at Sitka National Historic Park and visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska's birds of prey. Transfer to the airport for flights home.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Sea Bird

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Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

2026-2027 Early Booking Offer 25662
Book by November 1, 2024, to lock in current rates on all 2026 and 2027 departures. The deposit must be made by Nov. 1, 2024. Valid for new bookings only on departures from Jan. 1, 2026, through Mar. 31, 2027, subject to availability, may not be combinable with other offers, and not applicable on airfare or extensions. Pricing will increase on Nov. 2, 2024. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
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Per person starting at
$8,542 2-3 travelers
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 1 and Category 1 Single Cabin.
Cat 1
Main Deck Cabins #300-305. Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a large window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 1 and Category 1 Single Cabin.
Cat 1 Single
Main Deck Cabins #300-305. Conveniently positioned between the dining room and lounge, these cabins feature two lower single beds, a writing desk and a large window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 2 and Category 2 Single Cabins.
Cat 2
Bridge Deck cabins #100-104 and Upper Deck cabins #200-212, 215. These well-located cabins include two lower single beds, outside access and a window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 2 and Category 2 Single Cabin.
Cat 2 Single
Bridge Deck cabins #100-104 and Upper Deck cabins #200-212, 215. These well-located cabins include two lower single beds, outside access and a window.
Sea Bird & Sea Lion's Category 3 Cabins.
Cat 3
Bridge Deck cabins #105, 106 - These cabins include two lower single beds. Upper Deck cabins #214, 216, 217, 219 - These cabins include two lower single beds that can convert to a double bed and a pullout single bed for a third person. All cabins include a small table, two chairs, and two windows. Cabin doors open to the outside.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available but is subject to availability.
Kids under age 18 save $500 per person

Rubber boots are not included on your cruise; please supply your own. Rubber, waterproof boots that are mid-calf or higher, with a strong, ridged non-skid sole (essential for wet landings) are highly recommended.  Click  here for information about rubber boots rental.

Rates are capacity-controlled and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
  • 14 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
  • Use of Kayaks
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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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
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