Explore the stunning coast of British Columbia and Alaska on this 12-day Authentic Alaska expedition cruise between Vancouver, BC and Sitka, AK aboard Ocean Victory. Along the way, cruise the Inside Passage, Baranof Island's Waterfall Coast, and Tracy Arm Fjord, and explore Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg. Take guided Zodiac expeditions and participate in graduate-level experiments. Listen to the language of gray whales, and be an honored guest in a Tlingit Tribal House. Discover the region's stunning natural beauty, rich Indigenous culture, and endless opportunity for adventure.
Highlights
Explore the picturesque waters of the Canadian Passage
Visit an intricate network of waterfalls and glaciers
Discover the history and culture of Ketchikan
Enjoy the scenic geological wonder of Misty Fjords
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Enjoy a wonderful interlude in this cosmopolitan city with a complimentary overnight stay before your cruise embarks. Experience European charm and Canadian warmth.
Vancouver is the third-biggest city in Canada and the largest city in the western province of British Columbia. From the shopping delights of Robson Street to the lively energy of Granville Island Public Market, this city brings a unique European flair to Canada’s western coast. Survey it all from atop the 553-foot Vancouver Lookout – which offers a 360-degree view or Gastown, Coal Harbour, North Vancouver and the downtown Vancouver skyline. Vancouver’s natural and urban highlights start in the West End. From Robson Street work your way through vibrant neighborhoods heading downtown. You’ll pass Canada Place, with its white sail-like roof, built to celebrate Vancouver’s centennial in 1986, en route to Stanley Park at the tip of the peninsula. The largest park in the city, mostly covered in dense forests, boasts a 14-mile seawall.
The first people to explore these picturesque waters did it in hand-carved cedar dugout canoes. You will enjoy an intimate connection to this place as Ocean Victory takes you through a narrow maze of channels, passages, and reaches from Vancouver Island to the northern edge of British Columbia. Whether you’re in the expansive Observation Lounge, on deck or on the one-of-a-kind viewing platform, keep your eye out for whales and dolphins in Queen Charlotte Sound – and watch for bears as we glide along pristine island shorelines.
In the spectacular setting of this provincial park, you’ll discover a kayaker’s paradise, with inlets, bays, islands, and fjords that reveal an intricate network of waterfalls and glaciers. Old growth Sitka spruce and dense coastal western hemlock forests shelter black bears and grizzlies along the rugged coastline. This is a day that will stretch all your senses. Granite cliffs over 3,000 feet high drop straight into seemingly bottomless water – and waterfalls cascade from dizzying heights into glacial inlets. You’ll explore unique coastal marine life in an area accessible only by sea.
The totem poles of Ketchikan and Saxman welcome you this morning to Alaska’s southernmost city. Standing tall and noble, each hand-carved pole tells a silent story. This afternoon in Metlakatla, the first thing you’ll notice are the smiles. They are wide, warm, and genuine – welcoming you to the only settlement of indigenous Tsimshian people in the United States.
Included Shore Excursions:
Ketchikan City Highlights
Learn the history and culture of Ketchikan as you are entertained by a lively city tour via motorcoach along Ketchikan’s busy waterfront. You’ll pass by some of its most colorful landmarks through downtown Ketchikan and the Ward Cove area while viewing the bustling boat harbors, lush City Park and beautiful Ketchikan Creek.
Next, you'll have an opportunity to stretch your legs on a brief photo and shopping stop. Photograph majestic totems up close, and shop at the Saxman Village Store to purchase authentic Native-made items as well as curios.
Finally, it is off to Creek Street – Ketchikan’s Historical “Red Light” District. Those who wish to will have an opportunity to explore Creek Street on your own. Your Trolley driver will offer you a return to the ship at that point or you may leisurely enjoy the many shops and eateries of the downtown area and make your own way back.
Timing Description of Activity
0:00 to 0:55 Scenic coastal drive and city loop from the pier to Totem photo stop at Saxman Village
0:55 to 1:40 Photo stop & gift shop at Saxman Totem Park
1:40 to 1:50 Scenic drive from Totem Park to Creek Street
1:50 to 2:00 Optional return to ship or explore Creek Street and make own way back to the ship
Walking Town Tour & Totem Pole Journey
Get an up-close, personalized view of these amazing, handcrafted cedar carvings located all around Metlakatla. The Totem Exploration Journey is a path that will guide you to 14 of the standing totem Poles in Metlakatla and featured along the path are several historical & cultural Points of Interest, including the William Duncan Memorial Church, the Metlakatla Indian Community Longhouse, and the Artist Village. End your time ashore at our community Long House where a presentation about the traditional building will take place along with a dance performance by a traditional Tsimshian dance group.
The soaring granite cliffs that greet us this morning are 50 to 70 million years old. Yes, million. Ancient glaciers scrubbed deep troughs through this wilderness, leaving a scenic geological wonder. New Eddystone Rock is a remnant of long ago volcanic activity that left the iconic basalt pillar as a testament to the power of this place. Humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, bears, wolves, moose, and hundreds of species of sea and shorebirds await as we spend most of today exploring the shoreline with our team of marine biologists from Cal Poly.
Wrangell is the perfect spot for an optional jet boat excursion to explore the dramatic Stikine River – what the Tlingit people call “the Great River.” The picturesque town of Wrangell is the gateway to the river, perched at the very tip of rugged Wrangell Island. You are most welcome here, as native Alaskans whose ancestors have lived on this island for thousands of years open their tribal home, their culture, and their magnificent river for your exploration. Take home your own petroglyph rubbing to remember your time among more than 40 ancient petroglyphs on the 8,000-year-old site of Petroglyph Beach.
Today’s challenge is trying to keep track of the number of waterfalls we’ll encounter as we glide along Baranof Island’s beautiful eastern coast, the little known “waterfall coast.” Some trickle, some thunder, some simply splash merrily to the sea. Exploration is the order of the day, and you choose your point of view – from any of Ocean Victory’s observation perspectives, or right at water level by kayak or Zodiac. This almost hidden shoreline is perfect for discovery. Watch for seals, deer, and tidepools ready to reveal their secret treasures.
We’ll dock right beside Alaska’s largest home-based halibut fleet, who call this shallow, protected harbor home. These abundant waters and an endless supply of ice from nearby LeConte Glacier led Norwegian fisherman Peter Buschmann to build the region’s first cannery and invite his fishing countrymen to join him. Hence the town’s name and its strong Norwegian culture. Large cruise ships cannot come into Petersburg, so you’ll be among a privileged few to be in this charming, authentic Alaskan village.
Nature will dictate our route here. Northbound cruises will explore one of these spectacular fjords. Both are deep, narrow, and host to distinct marine environments we’ll explore with experts via a Zodiac or kayak. Southbound voyages will spend two days here, with the opportunity to explore both fjords with equal curiosity and expertise.
The towering totem pole, the largest ever carved from a single tree, stands sentinel over this ancient village on the tip of Kupreanof Island. The Kake tribe of the Tlingit people still observe a subsistent lifestyle here, the harshness of its demands belied by the warmth of their welcome. In adjacent Frederick Sound, we’ll explore by Zodiac, led by our team of naturalists.
Day 12: Sitka, AK | Disembark
1 Breakfast
As your American Queen Voyages journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town -- whether it's an optional premier post-cruise experience or a quick transfer to the airport for your final trip home
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.
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
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Category F
Stateroom with French Balcony, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship,
Panoramic view
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Category E
Stateroom with Private Balcony, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view
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Category D
Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
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Category C
Deluxe Stateroom with Private Balcony, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
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Category BB
Private Balcony Suite, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe
Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
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Category B
Private Balcony Suite, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe
Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
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Category A
Deluxe Suite with Private Balcony, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
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Premium Suite
Premium Suite with Private Balcony, Private bath with spacious shower and beautiful finishes, Complimentary designer amenities, Large storage spaces for luggage, clothing, and personal items, Hair dryer, Mini refrigerator, Bathrobes and slippers, In room safe, Onboard laundry service, Your personal water bottle for use at refillable stations throughout the ship, Panoramic view.
Notes
PLEASE NOTE:All fares, itineraries, special interest series, entertainment, shore excursions and other voyage attributes are subject to change without notice, and we reserve the right to not honor any published prices that we determine were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error.
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
11 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Unlimited Wifi
Gratuities to Onboard Crew
Port Taxes & Fees
Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
In-Room Dining
Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
Unlimited Expedition Adventures by Zodiac or Kayak
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
TrustScore 4.8 | 176 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 176 reviews on
9 hours ago
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
2 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
4 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
5 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.