Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness: Sitka to Juneau

Day 1: Sitka Embarkation

Arrive in Sitka, southeastern Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Sitka has a strong Russian heritage, which is readily apparent as you visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. At the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, we have close views of species normally seen at a distance in the wild—bald eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Gather for a welcome dinner this evening.

Day 2: Southeast Alaska's Island, Bays and Fjords

Today, nature is our guide as we set forth with the flexibility to take advantage of wildlife and weather conditions. We may stop at an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, and hike stunning forest trails. Keep an eye out for old bear tracks worn into the soil as you move from forest to meadow. Sightings of bald eagles are very common. If conditions permit, we'll do some kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life.

Day 3: Icy Strait and the Inian Islands

Cruise among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions reside. Hike bearby islands, kayak, and search for whales in the rich waters of Icy Strait. Conditions permitting, we'll lower the ship's hydrophone to listen in on the whales' communication.

Day 4: Glacier Bay National Park or Outer Bays

We spend the entire day amidst the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic moutains of Glacier Bay National Park. You'll see glaciers that end abruptly at the water's edge and observe them "calving" -tons of ice crashing into the sea -accompanied by an exhilarating thunderous sound. Mountain goats scaling the peaks as well as harbor seals, Steller sea lions and puffins are some of the creatures we may observe. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of brown bears lumbering up the hillside. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us onboard to share the legend of the area.

Day 5: Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait

These waters are prime areas for both killer whales and humpback whales. It's not uncommon to observe their fascinating behavior — breaching, tail-slapping and variations on feeding — as we fill the deck and listen to the play-by-play from our expert naturalists. We'll explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, we’ll have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up close exploration.

Day 6: Petersburg

Search for humpback whales as we head towards the small, true Alaskan town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island. Explore a unique Southeast Alaskan ecosystem, the "muskeg," with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity for optional flightseeing or bike riding. Enjoy a Dungeness crab feast this evening.

Day 7: Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular glacially carved fjords. We’ll also pass the Sawyer Glacier, which has been described as bluer than any blue on earth, or the towering Dawes Glacier. If conditions permit, we'll use our expedition landing craft to provide unparalleled up close views of the glacier. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, porpoises and arctic terns.

Day 8: Juneau Disembarkation

Disembark this morning in downtown Juneau. Take time to visit the local shops before exploring the Alaska State Museum, with its sprawling collection of natural history and cultural artifacts. Transfer to the airport for connecting flights home.

• All meals and non-alcoholic beverages on board
• Cappuccinos, lattes and filtered water
• 24-hour coffee, tea and soda on demand
• Hors d'oeurves and snacks during recap
• Guidance of the experienced expedition staff
• Park fees and port taxes
• All excursions
• Zodiac and kayak explorations
• Presentations

• International and internal airfares
• Travel Protection Plan
• Passport, visa and immigration fees
• Gratuities
• Alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Laundry, internet and telephone
• Gift shop items and any other items of a personal nature