Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness

Day 1 : Juneau, Alaska/Embark Ship

Our Forest Service Special Use Permit for Tongass National Forest enables you to hike and kayak in wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska. Explore Juneau and the Alaska State Museum with its sprawling collection of natural history and cultural artifacts. Settle into your cabin before dinner. Later, explore the port of Juneau on your own. (D)

Day 2 : Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise in an expedition landing craft for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns. (B,L,D)

Day 3 : Petersburg

Visit the small, true Alaskan fishing town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, which still retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaskan ecosystem, the “muskeg,” with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity for bike riding and an optional flightseeing excursion. Enjoy a crab feast this evening. (B,L,D)

Day 4 : Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait

Explore along the rugged coast seeking out humpback whales in their summer feeding grounds. Expert staff will interpret their life histories and behaviors as we cruise the nutrient rich waters. Later we will explore the shoreline by kayak or go ashore to explore the rainforest ecosystem. (B,L,D)

Day 5 : Icy Strait and the Inian Islands

Explore among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea otters reside. We’ll search for marine mammals in the rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around Chichagof Island to hike where sightings of bald eagles are very common. (B,L,D)

Day 6 : Glacier Bay National Park

By special permit, we explore Glacier Bay. Wildness abounds—glaciers calving, mountain goats roam the steep cliffs and brown bears patrol the shore; Steller sea lions and puffins live in the icy waters. A native Tlingit cultural interpreter joins us to share the lore and legend of the area. We will also be joined by a National Park Service Ranger. (B,L,D) Please note: Select departures do not call at Glacier Bay National Park. Alternate options are provided on this day. Call for details.

Day 7 : Southeast Alaska’s Islands, Bays and Fjords

Today, nature is our guide. We may explore an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, hike stunning forest trails, or see bear tracks worn into the soil while walking an isolated meadow. If conditions permit, we will do some kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life. (B,L,D)

Day 8 : Sitka/Disembark

After breakfast we disembark in Sitka, Southeast Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. At the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, we enjoy close-up views of bald eagles, owls and other species normally seen at a distance. (B)