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

Arrive in Seattle this afternoon and embark National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion.

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.  

Visit the U'mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay to watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka'wakw people. 

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.  

Explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Joined by a Haida interpreter for the days among the islands, wildlife, and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, you 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 Kay 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 in the village of Ninstints, and kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas. 

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. 

Spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A native Tlingit interpreter joins to share local Indigenous knowledge, culture, and history of the area. 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 the final night. 

See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center. Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking.