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Traveler on a glacier tour of Alaska.

In the Wake of Pioneers

Example 15 Day Cruise aboard Le Soleal
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On this exclusive 15-day cruise of Alaska and the Bering Sea aboard luxurious Le Soleal, discover coniferous forests and myriad islands and islets where the soft light of the midnight sun lights the horizon. Cruise along the east coast of Alaska and the renowned Inside Passage, crafted by the staggering force of massive glaciers millions of years ago, resulting in vertiginous fjords and lush shorelines. This expedition introduces wild and unspoiled nature including hikes and daily outings in zodiacs. From wide spaces to gigantic glaciers, steep mountains, infinite tundra, and glittering lakes, Alaska invites you to follow in the footsteps of trappers and gold miners on this stunning northern exploration.
A Bald Eagle catches a fish.Alaskan totem poles Spirit (kermode) bear, Gribbell Island, British ColumbiaAdak Island of the Aleutian IslandsTraveler on a glacier tour of Alaska.
Highlights
  • Hike the tundra to explore this terrain and view seabirds & wildflowers
  • Discover some of the unique sites that have marked the history of Alaska
  • View St. George's rich biodiversity, including humpback whales and orcas
  • Visit the small town of Unalaska, founded in the 18th century
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Nome | Embark

Located along the Bering Strait at the westernmost point of Alaska, Nome offers the rustic charm of a former gold-mining town, set in the middle of a magnificent wilderness. As you weave in and out of the brightly colored houses, discover the pioneering legacy that is still prevalent in local traditions: fishing, reindeer herding, sled-racing to name a few. Experience the local communities that live from the land and thrive on manual labor. The surrounding plains provide stunning vantage points for observing Arctic fauna.

Day 2: Savoonga

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During one of your Zodiac outings, discover the village of Savoonga. Located on St. Lawrence Island, at the southern entrance of the Bering Strait, it provides a great glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of the Yupik people. Be greeted by a number of smiling villagers, happy to spend a few hours with you. Savoonga’s 800 inhabitants mainly subsist on walrus and bowhead whale hunting. Traditional singing and dancing are also part of daily life for the villagers, who are masters at the art of walrus tusk sculpture.

Day 3: St. Matthew Island (Pribilofs)

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Part of the earth’s history was written between Alaska and Russia. Aboard your ship, discover the origins of the world, a unique environment that seems to stretch out to infinity. Lost in the middle of the Bering Sea, the Pribilof archipelago is made up of four volcanic islands where nature has crafted exquisitely beautiful landscapes. Here, on the islands, find majestic volcanoes, lava deserts, and crater lakes, offering travelers a magnificent vantage point from which to observe a fauna composed almost exclusively of fur seals.

Day 4: St. George Island (Pribilofs)

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Located in the middle of the Bering sea, Saint-George Island is the second largest island of the Pribilof archipelago. A special atmosphere emanates from this landscape of volcanic craters and tundra - wild lands surrounded by a sumptuous coastline of majestic cliffs. As you hike, spot varied species of migratory birds that come and settle here all year round and enjoy the flora and fauna of this forested island. Also look for World War II relics. This a perfect place for observing fur seals, also called Pribilof seals. Fur seals have made St. George Island their home with its rich biodiversity. Mammal sightings may include: sea lions, humpback whales, and perhaps a pod of orca. Birders delight in the opportunity to view eagles, gulls, and murres.

Day 5: Dutch Harbor

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During the cruise, discover an exceptional site: Unalaska Island and its port, Dutch Harbor. Clinging to the southwestern tip of Alaska, between the Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea, the port of Dutch Harbor offers a stopover at the heart of the Aleutian Islands archipelago. A single bridge connects the port to the small town of Unalaska, founded in the 18th century by pioneering Russian fur trappers. Rich in history, Unalaska is home to ancient indigenous cultures and remains from WWII can be seen and tales told. During your visit hope to meet the locals for such tales and perhaps be treated to a folkloric performance from the local community. With gentle valleys nestling between volcanic peaks, Dutch Harbor reveals a primitive natural beauty which you must explore as you hike with a team of naturalists.

Day 6: Delarof Harbor | Unga Island

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
After a short Zodiac journey between the rocks in the company of your naturalist-guides, land in this former village of which many vestiges remain. Originally called Ougnagok by the Aleuts, this small hamlet, which was home to some 100 inhabitants in the 19th century, was renamed Delarof, after Evstratii Ivanovich Delarov. While working for the Shelikhov-Golikov Company, he was the first Greek mariner to discover the Aleutian Islands. These days, this small ghost-village now overrun by willowherb is called Unga. When your cruise calls here, you have the opportunity to visit the Aleutian Islands’ forest and perhaps explore the former gold mine.

Around you: run-down wooden houses scattered around a flowery meadow, a church with crumbling walls but a roof that still stands, a cemetery… You are in the ghost-village on Unga Island, on the southern cost of the Alaska Peninsula, on the edge of the string of Aleutian Islands. Created in the mid-19th century, this village was abandoned in 1969 after having served as a trading post for sea otter fur, and then as a fishing port. Nature now reigns supreme on this island measuring a little over 400 km2. Puffins, great horned owls, black-legged kittiwakes, stoats and otters live here in harmony, surrounded by a wide variety of seaside flora.

Day 7: Geographic Harbor

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Here you are in the heart of Katmai National Park and Preserve. Here, the rocky cliffs are punctuated with white marks. These are the remains of ash deposits that accumulated following a volcanic eruption in the past. Board your Zodiac and, a little further south, explore every part of Geographic Harbor and its tall cliffs covered in vegetation and plunging into the sea. Along the sandy beach, grizzly bears improvise hunting sessions, in search of fish and clams. In the thickets, these omnivores eat berries, roots, and grasses. Brown bears are at home here and the presence of humans doesn’t seem to disturb them. This makes for a fascinating and unforgettable show.

Day 8: At Sea - Alaska Gulf Crossing

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 9: At Sea - Sailing North Pacific Ocean

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 10: Sitka

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Formerly a Russian colony located on Baranof Island, to the west of the Alexander archipelago, Sitka is brimming with history. The historical national park of Sitka shelters totems carved out of red cedar, a tree that is abundant in this region. These totems are testimonials of the former presence of the Tlingit Indians. Hike the Totem Trail in the park or other nature trails or take in the Raptor Rehabilitation Center for a closer look at Alaska’s birds. This place is full of natural wonders. Admire the mountain range around the port. In the distance, the snow-peaked volcano stands majestic. Numerous islands scattered around Sitka stretch out in a vision of idyllic Alaska.

Day 11: Hoggatt Bay

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Situated on Baranof Island, Hoggatt Bay’s landscapes are exactly what most people expect to see on a picture-postcard of Alaska. Surrounded by mountains, it is home to very dense forests where the vegetation is subject to the evapotranspiration phenomenon (emission of water vapor resulting from evaporation and plant transpiration). In this enchanting setting, some grizzly bears feast on seaweed, shellfish and even grass that they find along the beaches, while others prefer simply to fish for salmon in the river.

Day 12: Prince Rupert

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Wild and extraordinary, Prince Rupert is a dynamic town where the open spaces are “larger than nature”. Located on the remote Kaien Island, off the coast of British Columbia, this little town founded in 1910 witnessed the history of the Northwest Pacific with the birth of American Indian nations, such as the Haida and Gitksan. During this port of call, make a point of admiring its grandiose landscapes where more than 300 pairs of bald eagles have made a home; its picturesque residential districts where the sea mist often lingers; and its famous Museum of Northern British Columbia, home to a large collection of ancient totems.

Day 13: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 14: Alert Bay | Seymour Narrows

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Right near the north coast of Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, hides the small wooded island of Cormorant. Surrounded by pebble beaches, it offers wonderful opportunities for hikes and for whale watching. The surrounding waters are also home to harbor seals, orcas, Steller sea lions, dolphins, and a multitude of seabirds. When your ship calls at Alert Bay, a small sheltered fishing port located in the island’s south, set off to discover the indigenous culture and its traditions. The ‘Namgis community, which is part of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations, lives here in harmony with the other village inhabitants.

Your ship sails along Discovery Passage, between Vancouver Island and Quadra Island. As the channel tapers, arrive at Seymour Narrows, a narrow, 5-km-long passage which, in the past, posed a significant challenge for sailors. Between 1850 and 1950, some one hundred ships hit the rocks hidden under the water, and the outcome was often fatal. At the time, due to the strong currents that run through Seymour Narrows, it was considered to be one of the most dangerous waterways in British Columbia. But in 1955, the decision was made to blow up Ripple Rock, two submerged rocks responsible for most of the shipwrecks. This historic explosion made access to this passage much safer.

Day 15: Vancouver | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Cosmopolitan Vancouver is one of Canada's most multi-cultural cities. Located in British Columbia on Canada's west coast, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains and outdoor activities are popular. In the city, you can immerse yourself in the Asian atmosphere of bustling Chinatown, shop for pashminas and silk saris at the Punjabi Market Indian district, and explore the historic area of Gastown. Say farewell to your fellow passengers and crew and start your journey back home. 

Ship/Hotel

Le Soleal

Enjoy a show in the movie theater.
Bar and lounge with a view.
Restaurant aboard the Le Soleal.

Dates & Prices

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Per person starting at
$10,720
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Superior Stateroom
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Superior Stateroom
The Superior Stateroom has a capacity of up to 3 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds.
Deluxe Stateroom
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Deluxe Stateroom
The Deluxe Stateroom has a capacity of up to 2 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and a private balcony.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
The Prestige Stateroom on Deck 4 has a capacity of up to 2 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and a private balcony.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
The Prestige Stateroom on Deck 5 has a capacity of up to 2 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and a private balcony.
Prestige Stateroom
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
The Prestige Stateroom on Deck 6 has a capacity of up to 2 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and a private balcony.
Deluxe Suite
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Deluxe Suite
The Deluxe Suite has a capacity of up to 2 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and a private balcony.
Prestige Suite
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Prestige Suite Deck 5
The Prestige Suite on Deck 5 has a capacity of up to 4 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and an 8m² private balcony.
Prestige Suite
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Prestige Suite Deck 6
The Prestige Suite on Deck 6 has a capacity of up to 4 passengers per cabin, with a king-sized bed or twin beds and an 8m² private balcony.
Owner's Suite
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Owner Suite
The Owner's suite is situated on Deck 6 with a capacity up to 2 passengers per cabin. With a king-sized bed, it has been decorated by French interior designers and provides you with a breathtaking panoramic sea view.

Notes

Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and are subject to change without notice.

Discounts are available for children sharing a cabin with two adults and third adult passengers in select cabin categories. Please contact us for details.

Single travelers can opt for a solo cabin - supplements start at 50%.
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
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

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