Our morning flight north to Alaska is only about 2 hours. Today is gorgeous with bright blue sky, crystal blue water and bright sun. Even the locals have spring fever as they are excited to see the sun.
Ketchikan is a small seaside town that caters to fishermen and cruises alike. We spend the day previewing activities to do here prior to embarking on cruise.
You can rent a skiff with Ketchikan Outdoors and skiff about the sea to spot wildlife. You can also snorkel. Yes that's right I said snorkel. Snorkel Alaska suits clients up with 7 mil wet suits and then drop you off in 50-65 degree water. Spend the next two hours exploring the deep blue where you will see star fish, sea cucumbers and much more.
This afternoon we have lunch at the Cape Fox hotel where we have a presentation from Joe. Joe is the former mayor of Saxman village, a local native american village near Ketchikan.
He explains the history Tlingit indians. I am in awe of his vast knowledge the history of this surviving culture.
After lunch we explore Creek street. It looks like a ghost town. However only hours early, the 700 plus people from the Norweign Pearl flooded the streets.
Right before we board the boat, we get to board the Aleutian Ballard, one of the boats used on the Discovery Channels the 'Deadliest Catch'. We learn about the crew and their former lives as seamen on the show. They have turned the adventures into educational activities for cruisers who want to learn about the fishing industry.
Then we are off to our boat. We are exploring this new itinerary on the Safari Quest. This boat operates with American Safari Cruises, InnerSea Discoveries sister company. This is a 22 passenger boat and there are a total of 15 passengers on board. It is gorgeous. I get my own king bed! And my own bathroom and closet. I won't know what to do with all the space.
As we watch the town of Ketchikan disappear in background, my mates and I get to know each other a little better. It is going to be a fun week with this gang!
Captain Dan Blanchard, owner/operator of American Safari Cruises and InnerSea Discoveries is a treat. He will be known as "Capn Dan" the rest of the week.
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
1 day ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
2 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
2 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
3 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.