7 Nights
Alaska Cruise
Cruises are an excellent way to explore the rugged and untamed wilderness of Alaska, the largest American state by area. Small or big, cruise ships provide easy accessibility in this region that is sparsely populated by humans but abundant in natural wonders, flora and fauna. Choose from multi-day itineraries themed around glaciers, wildlife, and the Northern Lights. Glacier Bay National Park, Endicott Arm, and Tongass National Forest are just some of the sights you could see. Sail past glacier-rimmed fjords, snow-capped peaks and the dense forestland as you relax on-board and take in the views. Soak in the culture and history of the region with frequent stops along the way. Get up close with endemic species of wildlife in their natural habitat via unique activities and excursions. Large cruise ships dock at popular ports of call and are equipped with plenty of dining and entertainment options. You can look forward to fun activities such as flightseeing jaunts, whale watching and panning for gold. Smaller cruise ships, with fewer passengers, promise a more personalized nautical experience. Look forward to exploring less-traveled routes and more adventure activities. Kayaking, hiking, and skiff rides await. You can also participate in hands-on learning sessions on the ship with expert naturalists and artists offering guidance.
Included activities
Sitka
Arrive in the port city of Sitka, which lies between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean in southeast Alaska. Make your way to the cruise ship terminal, located near the downtown area. As you board the ship, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the crew. Settle in with a refreshing beverage as your voyage to Juneau gets underway.
Krestof & Nakwasina Sounds
Today, as the ship traverses the Krestof and Nakwasina sounds, you will pass the Baranof Island and a number of secluded and uninhabited islets. These waterways offer excellent opportunities for exploration. Once the ship drops anchor, choose from a variety of land and water based activities. You could go kayaking or paddle boarding, while accompanied by a guide. Paddle past kelp forests and moss-draped trees. Alternatively, hop into a skiff and set off in search of sea lions. If you’re lucky, you may chance upon whales in their natural habitat. Along with an expedition team, walk the sandy stretches of the coastline and go beachcombing. Then, enjoy a guided hike across the undulating terrain for a closer look at endemic species of flora and fauna. Back aboard the ship, join your captain for a farewell dinner where the crew will present you with a photo journal of the voyage.
Sergius Narrows / Neva Strait
On the third day of your Alaskan cruise, your ship will navigate the waters of the Sergius Narrows and the Neva Strait. The aptly named Sergius Narrows is a narrow waterway located at the southern end of the Peril Straits, through which cruise vessels can only pass during slack tide. Take in the dark woods along the shoreline as your captain expertly maneuvers the ship along the tapered channel. The area is an excellent spot for outdoor adventures. After the ship drops anchor, set off on backcountry hikes and skiff rides to explore the uninhabited environs. Try to spot humpback whales and orcas, and sea otters sunning themselves on the rocks or floating in the water. Watch for bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer and bears that live amid the lush forested islands. During a guided hike in the backcountry, take in the gorgeous alpine scenery. As you follow a trail through an ancient forest of giant trees, your naturalist guide will point out unusual plants and flowers. Back onboard, watch the sunset from the hot tub, or with a refreshing drink in your hand, as the ship sails into Neva Strait.
Chichagof Island / Peril Strait
Begin your day with a guided yoga session, as the vessel glides along the glacier-carved fjords off the coast of Chichagof Island. Drop anchor near a remote cove and set off to explore the area on skiffs and tandem kayaks, or take to the sea. As you paddle on the waters, scan the waves for seals and whales. The island is known for its bear population and you may spot grizzlies and other wildlife species along the shore line. On a guided nature walk, head into the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. This temperate rainforest is home to Sitka black-tailed deer, Haida ermine and bald eagles. Pass tidal pools as your guide tells you about old-growth forests and points out interesting trees. Back on-board, relax as the ship makes its way to Peril Strait.
Icy Strait
Remote and wild, the Icy Strait is located in the Alexander Archipelago. Accompanied by an expedition team member, head out in a tandem kayak to explore this pristine bay. Along the way, you may see majestic orca and humpback whales. Paddle through the channels with their dramatic landscape and try to spot sea otters. Later, ride a skiff to a rocky outcrop where sea lions are often found lazing. Alternatively, go on a naturalist-led hike through the rainforest. Bushwhack through the hemlock and spruce forest, and walk along bog meadows filled with wildflowers. As you wind your way past ponds, your guide will point out birds like the marbled murrelet and Pacific loon. Learn about the area’s ecosystem before you head back to the ship. Back on-board, take in a beautiful sunset and watch for porpoises and dolphins swimming alongside the vessel.
Glacier Bay National Park
Venture into the sprawling Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises majestic mountains, glaciers, a rainforest and more. At Bartlett Cove, a park ranger will tell you about the local environment and share insight into eco tourism. As you sail, keep an eye out for orange-beaked puffins, guillemot and marbled murrelets. At South Marble Island, you may even spot the endangered Steller sea lions if you are lucky. From a vantage point, watch for bears along the shore line. Afterward, get up close to the tidewater glaciers, Grand Pacific and Margerie. If you’re lucky, you may even see massive chunks of ice plunging into the sea. Time permitting, pass Tidal Inlet, where you’ll notice the effects of deglaciation that have resulted in barren scars of sediment and steep rocky slopes. Then, while you dine on-board, your captain will navigate the vessel into Icy Strait.
Captain’s Choice
Today, you will sail either to Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait. Your captain will decide the destination, depending on the weather conditions and tides. Both channels pass through picturesque surroundings and have played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economy. The expedition team will assist you as you spend the day kayaking or paddle boarding on the pristine waters. Take in views of snow capped peaks and rocky cliffs. Scan the treetops for bald eagles and watch for harbor seals frolicking in the water. The icy waters are also home to orcas, humpback whales and sea lions. Later, as the ship traverses the remote channels sit on the deck and watch a magical sunset.
Juneau
Your cruise culminates in Juneau, the capital of Alaska. After a leisurely breakfast on the ship, it is time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers. Disembark, transfer to Juneau International Airport and head back home with great memories.
