Join the Wilderness Explorer for this 8-day voyage that takes you into the jewel of the US National Park System. Kayak, paddle board, and skiff to explore this majestic region and Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hikes ashore in Glacier Bay National Park and along Chichagof Island’s waterfall coast as well as visits to South Marble Island to view sea lion haul-outs are just a few of the many highlights on this spectacular cruise.
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Welcome aboard! Meet the crew, settle in, and relax with your shipmates. Within minutes find yourself cruising the scenic channels of the Inside Passage.
Plying the remote waterways of Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait, your captain sets the course for adventure today! Wake up at anchor and kick off your morn with on-deck morning yoga stretches, then slip into a kayak or try out your skills paddle boarding and gliding along rocky outcroppings with your guides. While you keep watch for harbor seals who frequently play in these protected waters, bald eagles will likely keep an eye on your improving paddling skills from the treetops.
One of America’s crown jewel national parks is yours to explore—Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. A National Park Ranger joins you to uncover coves and corners of the bay that most visitors miss. Linger near South Marble Island to spot the many species of rare sea birds that call this area home. Keep your eyes on the water and the island for brightly-colored puffins and black oystercatchers. With much to see all around you, find sea lions, mountain goats, bears, eagles, and spectacular scenic backdrops. Tidewater glaciers sweep like rivers of ice down massive mountain valleys, terminating before you in the waters of Glacier Bay. Your day is complete with a stop in Bartlett Cove for a visit to the Park Service's Headquarters.
Set your course for arguably the richest whale waters in Southeast Alaska. Join the Captain on the bridge or the Expedition Leader out on deck in search of marine mammals. Camera in hand, begin your land and sea exploration of these remote reaches. Ride the skiffs for a closer inspection of the rugged and wild coastline with eyes set on the shore for possible bear sightings.
Meander along the spectacular waterfall coast of Chichagof Island. Marvel at the grand scenery as your crew expertly guides you through unsung, glacier-carved fjords. Anchor in remote waters for an opportunity to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Explore the shoreline on an intertidal walk or forest exploration with your guides.
There aren’t many straight lines along the shores of Kuiu Island and with many secluded coves to choose from, discover the region’s intertidal zones, or from your skiff or kayak, watch for whales and sea lions. Gear up for a guided hike with your expedition team for a new perspective of the vast, stunning Tongass National Forest. This evening, toast another day of amazing adventure with a frosty microbrew or hot toddy.
Peril Strait runs 50 miles from Chatham Strait to Salisbury Sound. This haven for small boats is scenically highlighted by a very narrow connecting passageway called Sergius Narrows and an opening at Hoonah Sound. This historic and wildlife-rich waterway is a great place to watch the shoreline for bears, the waters for otters and whales, and to look skyward for eagles. The passage narrows to only 300 feet in one spot (24 feet deep). After an adventurous, but “un-perilous” day, toast your voyage with a festive Farewell Dinner and a “photo journal” of your trip presented by your Expedition Leaders.
Day 8: Disembark in Sitka, Alaska
1 Breakfast
Gather for breakfast this morning as you cruise into Russian-influenced Sitka for disembarkation. Transfer to the airport or begin your hotel stay or land tour.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
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Navigator Cabin
#215; 302. Queen or twin beds, view window, and private bath with shower.
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Trailblazer Cabin
#105-106; 207-214; 303; 305-306; 309-312. Queen or twin beds, view window, and private bath with shower.
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Pathfinder Cabin
#107-114; 202-206. Queen or twin beds, view window, and private bath with shower.
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Admiral Cabin
#301, 304, 313-314. Sitting area, refrigerator, fixed queen bed, large picture window, and private bath with shower.
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Navigator Single
#104. L-shaped twin beds; view window; private bath with a shower
Notes
- All rates are in USD, per person, based on double occupancy.
- Rates do not include port taxes and fees, which vary by itinerary.
- Children 8-13 years of age are welcome on all sailings and will received a $500 per child savings
Due to the nature of your explorations, itineraries are guidelines and may change in order to maximize wildlife and natural encounters. Variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur.
Initial deposit is $950 for one week cruises, $1700 for two or three week cruises, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by Visa, Mastercard, Discover or AmEx
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Jack Charney
TrustScore 4.8 | 183 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 183 reviews on
23 hours ago
Prompt, professional and friendly service!
Jimmie
1 day ago
Easiest trip to plan ever. We received quick answers and Mary was very knowledgeable about different areas of the world that we had questions about.
We have book 2 trips, FABULOUS trip to Antartica which we have already taken and just booked for a future trip to Africa.
Michelle
1 day ago
Planning service is personal. people actually listening to you and using that information constructively to help you plan a great trip. They have extensive travel knowledge and experience in the area they cover. The planning is detailed and comprehensive in meeting your needs. It makes a difference!
Allison Wynn
1 day ago
The pre-planning and execution of the plan was excellent. They were even able to help get glasses returned when a member or our party left them in a hotel.
Roger
2 days ago
What made our Costa Rica experience great was the wonderful places we stayed and transportation to get to our different areas to visit was excellent! The white water rafting and the snorkeling & dolphin watching were really fun!