Zodiac dinghy with Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia cruise guests motors past a massive piece of glacier ice.
Kids working on Global Explorers field notebook on the Lake Eva Trail in SE Alaska.
Small expedition ship with dark blue hull & white upper decks cruises in glassy water at sunset in the AK & BC inside passage.
Humpback whale leaps out of calm blue sea with forested hills behind, seen on the Treasures of the Inside Passage cruise.
The Kwakwaka'wakw people in full dance regalia in Alert Bay, Cormorant Island, British Columbia, Canada.
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North America Alaska Cruise

Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia

This 14-day comprehensive itinerary between Seattle, Washington, and Sitka, Alaska, offers an educational and inspirational voyage aboard the National Geographic fleet of small expedition ships. All departures include an in-depth exploration of the San Juan and Gulf Islands, British Columbia’s Inside Passage and Alaska’s national parks and wilderness areas.

Linger in the temperate rainforests and wildlife-rich channels of British Columbia, discovering the cultural facets of this coast during captivating performances and interactions with the Kwakwaka’wakw people of Alert Bay. Explore breathtaking fjords and towering glaciers in Southeast Alaska, including Misty Fiords, whale-rich Icy Strait and a special permitted sailing into Glacier Bay National Park. This Alaska small ship expedition is active travel at its best, with kayaking, beachcombing and exploring forest trails under the guidance of expert naturalists. Photograph with and learn from Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructors on board and experience the surprisingly colorful undersea through video shot by the ships’ undersea specialist on every expedition. This recipe for adventure makes this itinerary a prime selection for our Alaska family cruises.

Choose from the main northbound itinerary, from Seattle to Sitka, or the reverse southbound cruise, from Sitka to Seattle, aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest or Venture expedition ships. Both of these sister ships are an ideal basecamp for luxury Alaska cruises due to their upscale amenities and thoughtful design. 

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska tripsAlaska small ship cruises and the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay cruises.



Itinerary

Main Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia Itinerary

The main, northbound Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia Cruise begins in Seattle, Washington and travels north to Glacier Bay, then cruises south to end in Sitka, Alaska.

Route map of Northbound Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia cruise from Seattle, Washington to Sitka, Alaska.
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Day 1
Embark Seattle, Washington

Arrive in Seattle this afternoon and embark the ship.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
San Juan Islands, Washington

Spend a full day exploring the San Juan Islands via Zodiac, kayak and naturalist-led hikes. Search for whales, seals and sea lions in rocky inlets, and marvel at bald eagles while walking through lush forests.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Victoria, British Columbia

Clear into Canada in the charming city of Victoria and choose from several tailor-made options to explore based on your interests. Visit private gardens, bike along the waterfront, take a stroll through history in Old Town, or discover James Bay on an architecture tour. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Gulf Islands

Located in the Strait of Georgia, between the mainland of British Columbia and Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands are a kayaker’s paradise. Explore the myriad islets and rocky coasts and keep an eye out for harbor seals and an array of seabirds, shore birds and birds of prey.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Alert Bay & Johnstone Strait

Sail through Johnstone Strait, a waterway cut through a magnificently wild and scenic area of mountains and islands. These ocean waters are also home to extraordinary marine mammals and bird watching. Visit the Big House in the First Nations village of Alert Bay, Canada and gain insight from the Kwakwaka’wakw people who will share their art, music and regional knowledge.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 6 - 7
Inside Passage of British Columbia

Cruise northward along the pristine coastline in search of whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak among the many bays and inlets.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Misty Fjords, Alaska

Enjoy the day soaking up the spectacular scenery of Alaska’s Misty Fjords National Monument, a 2.3-million-acre wilderness of shear rock walls, temperate rainforest and glacier-sculpted waterways. Kayak in the still, forested backwaters of this protected national treasure and discover a pristine habitat for brown bears, bald eagles, harbor
seals and more.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 9
Petersburg

Search for humpback whales on the approach to picturesque Petersburg, a small fishing village on Alaska’s Mitkof Island that retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaska ecosystem, the muskeg, with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. This evening, enjoy a crab feast.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Tracy Arm-Ford's 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 a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Glacier Bay National Park

Spend the entire day cruising amid the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. See glaciers that end abruptly at the water’s edge and observe them calving, when tons of ice separate and crash into the water accompanied by a thunderous sound.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Inian Islands & Icy Strait

Cruise among the Inian Islands, where Steller sea lions and sea otters abound. Hike nearby islands, kayak and search for whales in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
Explore Baranof or Chichagof Island

Spend a full day kayaking, hiking and searching for bubble-net feeding or breaching humpback whales.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 14
Disembark Sitka, Alaska, Town Tour & Depart

Disembark after breakfast in scenic Sitka on the western coast of Baranof Island. Schedules permitting, walk among Tlingit and Haida totem poles at Sitka National Historic Park and visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska’s birds of prey. Transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation 

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.) 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The main Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia cruise begins in Seattle, Washington (SEA), and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). Plan flights to arrive to Seattle by 2:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart Sitka no earlier than 1:00pm on Day 14.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and practicing photography.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia Itinerary

The reverse, southbound Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia Cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska and travels north to Glacier Bay, then cruises south to end in Seattle, Washington.

Route map of Southbound Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia cruise from Sitka, Alaska to Seattle, Washington.
Read More
Day 1
Arrive Sitka, Alaska, Town Tour & Embark

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska, situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Schedules permitting, walk among Tlingit and Haida totem poles at Sitka National Historic Park and visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska’s birds of prey. Embark this evening in time for cocktails and an introduction to the staff and crew.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Explore Baranof or Chichagof Island

Spend a full day kayaking, hiking and searching for bubble-net feeding or breaching humpback whales.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Inian Islands & Icy Strait

Cruise among the Inian Islands, where Steller sea lions and sea otters abound. Hike nearby islands, kayak and search for whales in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Glacier Bay National Park

Spend the entire day cruising amid the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. See glaciers that end abruptly at the water’s edge and observe them calving, when tons of ice separate and crash into the water accompanied by a thunderous sound.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Tracy Arm-Ford's 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 a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Petersburg

Search for humpback whales on the approach to picturesque Petersburg, a small fishing village on Alaska’s Mitkof Island that retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaska ecosystem, the muskeg, with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. This evening, enjoy a crab feast.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Misty Fjords, Alaska

Enjoy the day soaking up the spectacular scenery of Alaska’s Misty Fjords National Monument, a 2.3-million-acre wilderness of shear rock walls, temperate rainforest and glacier-sculpted waterways. Kayak in the still, forested backwaters of this protected national treasure and discover a pristine habitat for brown bears, bald eagles, harbor
seals and more.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 8 - 9
Inside Passage of British Columbia

Cruise southward along the pristine coastline in search of whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak among the many bays and inlets.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 10
Alert Bay & Johnstone Strait

Visit the Big House in the First Nations village of Alert Bay, Canada and gain insight from the Kwakwaka’wakw people who will share their art, music and regional knowledge. Sail through Johnstone Strait, a waterway cut through a magnificently wild and scenic area of mountains and islands. These ocean waters are also home to
extraordinary marine mammals and bird watching.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 11
Gulf Islands

Located in the Strait of Georgia, between the mainland of British Columbia and Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands are a kayaker’s paradise. Explore the myriad islets and rocky coasts and keep an eye out for harbor seals and an array of sea birds, shore birds and birds of prey.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 12
Victoria, British Columbia

In the charming Canadian city of Victoria, choose from several tailor-made options to explore based on your interests. Visit private gardens, bike along the waterfront, take a stroll through history in Old Town, or discover James Bay on an architecture tour. In the evening, enjoy a private reception at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
San Juan Islands, Washington

Spend a full day exploring the San Juan Islands via Zodiac, kayak and naturalist-led hikes. Search for whales, seals and sea lions in rocky inlets, and marvel at bald eagles while walking through lush forests.

Accommodations

National Geographic Quest

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 14
Disembark Seattle, Washington

Enjoy breakfast aboard ship. Transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation 

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.) 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The reverse Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT), and ends in Seattle, Washington (SEA). Plan flights to arrive to Sitka by 2:30pm for a 5:30pm embarkation. Plan flights to depart Seattle no earlier than 12:00pm on Day 14.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and practicing photography.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Sep 08 - Sep 21, 2024
National Geographic Quest • 14 days
arrows going opposite directions
From $11995USD
Per Person
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Apr 27 - May 10, 2025
National Geographic Venture • 14 days
From $9902USD
Per Person
Read More
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May 12 - May 25, 2025
National Geographic Quest • 14 days
From $10571USD
Per Person
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Sep 14 - Sep 27, 2025
National Geographic Quest • 14 days
arrows going opposite directions
From $12226USD
Per Person
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arrows going opposite directions Reverse
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Quest

Purpose built to cruise coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels, the 100-guest National Geographic Quest is a luxurious and state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for supreme comfort and enhanced wildlife viewing.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Venture

The 100-guest National Geographic Venture is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built expedition vessel made for exploring coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels while sailing with the luxury of supreme comfort.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Kids Save $500 On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Reviews

Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Mary Montalbano • August 17th, 2023
Expert Review: Lindblad Alaska

Compare and contrast the various Lindblad Alaska cruises and ships from an expert who's been aboard. Learn what stands out about Lindblad's Alaska programming, guides and crew.

Mary Montalbano • August 1st, 2023
Expert Aboard: Venture & National Geographic Quest Reviews

Learn from two AdventureSmith experts about identical sister ships Nat Geo Venture and Quest. Tips on choosing your cabin, what the food is like and why choose to sail aboard.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Add to Wishlist
8 - 9 Day Land Tour
Camp Denali Adventure

This premier Denali National Park base camp, in view of Denali, is located near Wonder Lake at the end of the 92-mile Denali Park Road and offers expert guided explorations and unique hikes.

From $6700USD
Jun Jul Aug Sep
Add to Wishlist
7 - 8 Day Land Tour
Alaska Wildland Collection

The 7- or 8-day Alaska Wildland Collection is a seamless Alaska adventure promising remote and in-depth exploration of the Kenai Peninsula. Easy access from Anchorage, short travel times, fun activities and special youth rates make this a great family travel option.

From $5145USD
May Jun Jul Aug
Add to Wishlist
7 Day Land Tour
Kenai Fjords Backcountry Explorer

The ultimate of all Kenai Fjords tours, this trip offers active exploration from the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, the only lodge located within Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy a more in-depth exploration—think kayaking, hiking, relaxing—and less overland travel.

From $4395USD
Aug Sep
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Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia

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