AdventureSmith Explorations
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Wilderness Passages of Discovery
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trip specifics

price
2012
 
Adventurer
Cabin Ctgy
Price
Single
Navigator
$3295
$4945
Trailblazer
$4695
$7045
Pathfinder
$5395
$8095
* April 28 departure
* September 15 departure

Discoverer
Cabin Ctgy
Price
Single
Navigator
$3295
$4945
Trailblazer
$4695
$7045
Pathfinder
$5395
$8095
Explorer
$7795
n/a
* September 8 departure
 
Explorer
Cabin 
Price
Single
Trailblazer
$4695
$7042
Pathfinder
$5395
n/a
Explorer
$7995
n/a
*August 25 departure

Taxes & Port fees of $334 per person not included
 
duration
15 days
trip dates
Apr 28 - May 12, 2012
Aug 25 - Sep 08, 2012 *
Sep 08 - Sep 22, 2012 *
Sep 15 - Sep 29, 2012 *
* Reverse Itinerary
trip level
Adventure Level 1 - OnAdventure Level 2 - OffAdventure Level 3 - Off
view explanation
highlights
Seattle, Washington
The San Juan Islands
Friday Harbor
Canada’s Inside Passage
Ketchikan, Alaska
El Capitan Passage
Devilfish Bay
Klawock
Little Port Walter
Mist Cove
Patterson Bay
Deep Cove
The Brothers Island
Frederick Sound
Endicott Arm
Ford’s Terror Wilderness
Juneau, Alaska
accomm types
Small Ship


carbon free cruising
Cruising the 900 nautical miles between Seattle and Juneau, you will be exhilarated by snow-capped mountains, wildlife and birds, waterfalls, tree-lined narrow passageways and surprises at every turn. Whether you choose May or September, it is an optimal time for cruising with vivid foliage, fewer boats and people, and active bears and other animals foraging along the shoreline.

Day 1 - Sail from Seattle, Washington
After transfering from the airport, cruise northward from Seattle's historic Fishermen's Terminal passing through the Hiram-Chittenden Locks and into Puget Sound. Continue on through Deception Pass - a dramatic and narrow cut between two islands before dropping anchor in a quiet cove for the night.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: dinner

Day 2 - San Juan Islands & Friday Harbor
Misty, deeply forested islands dot the seascape of this yachter’s paradise. Explore Friday Harbor, a quaint sailing town and its fascinating Whale Museum.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 - San Juan Islands
The Pacific Northwest is where the term "gunkholing" originated. Today "gunkhole" close to shore, spending hours getting even closer by skiff, kayak and by foot on islands such as tree-lined Sucia. As we depart for Canadian waters in the afternoon, all eyes are needed on deck to keep lookout for orca whales!

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Days 4-7 - Canada’s Inside Passage & Misty Fjord National Monument
As we head northward, fishing communities give way to forested mountains and intricate waterways. Search for orca whales, seals and sea lions, dolphins and porpoise and observe migratory birds. Learn about native influences which shaped the history of these remote and sparsely-populated islands such as Cormorant Island, home to the tiny community of Alert Bay and the world's largest totem pole. Pause for an up-close view of the dilapidated buildings of the former cannery town of Butedale as they silently and slowly edge toward the icy waters of Princess Louisa Channel. A short distance beyond Prince Rupert, B.C. lies the U.S./Canadian border. The first night in the United State's continuation of the Inside Passage will be spent anchored near Misty Fjords National Monument.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 8 - Ketchikan, Alaska
Whether it is the Saxman Totem Village or the shops along Creek Street, the rich, cultural heritage of Alaska's Tlingit Indians provide insightful experiences and a good dose of local color.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 9 - El Capitan Passage and Devilfish Bay
The El Capitan Passage, dividing Prince of Wales and Kosciusko Islands, offers many ways to get closer to nature. Drop crab pots en route to prime fishing waters. Wind through the high forests of on an old logging trail and paddle around Devilfish Cove. Later, we visit Marble Island, named for the famous Tokeen Marble Quarry, to pick up freshly harvested oysters and fish from a local family. During cocktail hour, family members join us to share their Alaska experience.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 10 - Klawock Native Village
As the sun rises over the Tlingit village of Klawock, the living history of native Alaska lies in wait. Spend the morning gaining a better understanding about the importance of carving in Alaskan culture, mixing with the locals and gazing up at the twenty-one restored totem poles that color the town. Before lunch, make our way to beautiful Klawock. Explore the Klawock area on foot or by kayak,  keeping an eye out for bears, eagles, sea birds and whales.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 11 - Baranof Island & Port Walter
An active day is in store on the smallest of Alaska's ABC islands. Take to the water kayaking or snorkeling. Push your limits with a rigorous hike in Alaska’s back reaches to an enormous waterfall. And located on the southeastern side of Baranof Island, explore the former herring community of Port Walter, the rainiest place in all of Alaska.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 12 - Patterson Bay & Deep Cove
While you sleep soundly, we will slip through the waters between Little Port Walter for Patterson Bay. Leisurely explore the bay by skiff or kayak while watching the coastline for wildlife and enjoy a guided hike in the Tongass National Forest.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 13 - The Brothers Island, Frederick Sound and Whale Watching
Enjoy a guided kayak trip or skiff tour to the southern end of the island where the sea lions bark commands and pal around. Later, sail into Frederick Sound - the summer feeding ground for humpback whales.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 14 - Endicott Arm and Ford’s Terror Wilderness
On the last full day of your journey, prepare to have your breath taken away by sculptural glacial views and snow-covered mountains. Endicott Arm frequently offers respite to seals on the smaller ‘bergy bits’ and sometimes, it gets a little crowded. Kayak toward the glowing blue of Dawes Glacier's face or see it all from the ease of a skiff. Tides permitting, the ship will move up to Ford’s Terror, a narrow passage named after a naval crew member who was stranded in the turbulent tidal water for six hours. Armed with tide tables, we can safely skiff through Ford’s Terror and admire the magnificent domes, hanging valleys and pristine wilderness that surround it.  Back aboard, you will be greeted with cocktails and a cheery camaraderie as you join the Captain in a farewell toast.   Anchored at Woods Spit, enjoy a wonderful dinner and even better conversations with all the new friends you’ve made on your journey.

Accommodations: M/V Wilderness Adventurer,
M/V Wilderness Discoverer or M/V Wilderness Explorer
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 15 - Juneau — Disembark
Enjoy a Bon Voyage breakfast before disembarking the ship this morning. Transfer directly to the Juneau airport or arrange for an add-on overnight stay or an extended land tour.

Accommodations: n/a
Included Meals: breakfast


Reverse Itinerary - Juneau to Seattle:
Day 1 - Juneau, Alaska - Embark
Day 2 - Chuck River Wilderness & Frederick Sound
Day 3 - Thomas Bay, Cascade Creek & Baird Glacier
Day 4 - LeConte Bay, Ideal Cove & Wrangell Narrows
Day 5 - Wrangell
Day 6 - Yes Bay
Day 7 - Misty Fjords National Monument
Day 8 - Ketchikan
Days 9-12 - Canada’s Inside Passage
Day 13 - San Juan Islands, Washington
Day 14 - San Juan Islands & Friday Harbor
Day 15 - Seattle, Washington — Disembark

Notes on Itinerary: We may occasionally alter itineraries slightly for safety, or to take advantage of weather, wildlife, and unplanned discoveries. Our ability to be spontaneous makes our style of cruising unique.

A Different Experience: "Un-Cruise" Adventure - InnerSea Discoveries pride itself on the people they bring onboard - the finest chefs, knowledgeable, friendly and personable crew members, experienced expedition leaders and leading naturalists. One of the primary features of these "un-cruises" is the ability to cater to individual needs.

Built on a unique reputation for luxury, these "un-cruises" pamper up to 76 guests with a three-to-one guest/crew ratio, fresh, healthy meals, creature comforts like DVDs and iPod docks, experienced Expedition Leaders/Naturalists who know Alaskan culture and topography, high-end expedition gear plus a wide variety of excursions to suite any activity level.

Single Travelers: Single rates listed as is for Wilderness Adventurer & Discoverer. For the Wilderness Explorer - Trailblazer cabins 103, 104, 105 and 106 are priced at a single rate of 150% of the double occupancy rate. Any other stateroom on the vessels can be booked as a single. Take the double rate x 175% to get the single supplement for the other staterooms.

Land Cost Includes: Your accommodations aboard the specific vessel, All meals aboard the ships, naturalist guided activities, use of kayaking equipment, national park entrance fees and transfer from vessel to airport on day of embarkation/disembarkation.

Not Included: Airfare to Alaska, excess baggage charges, taxes and port fees of $334 per person, gratuities to Naturalist Staff and crew, items of a personal nature such as alcoholic beverages, and insurance of any kind.

Arrival/Departure: Your Wilderness Passages of Discovery cruise begins in Seattle, Washington and Ends in Juneau, Alaska. Please plan flights to arrive by 2:30pm on day 1 of the cruise. On day 15, the final day of the cruise departure flights should be planned to depart no earlier than 11:30.

Adventure Vessels: The small ships used on these adventures are expedition ships capable of nimble exploration through nature's most dramatic hideaways. The shallow draft and hull design allow easy access to Southeast Alaska's wildlife-rich shores and glacially-fed inlets and serve as ideal "launching pads" for an exciting array of daily adventure excursions. Newly-refurbished, the interior spaces offer contemporary colors that complement the wilderness outside and the public and private spaces are loaded with amenities.

Your Choice of Activity Level: In a land where it is common to see whales, bears and sea lions all in one day, InnerSea Discoveries is focused on providing guests with a multitude of meaningful was to experience Southeast Alaska and its surrounding waterways in small doses. Whether you are looking for moderate activity or vigorous, extended and challenging outdoor pursuits, we can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level.

Adventure activities included:
* Whale-watching * Beachcombing
* Kayaking * Snorkeling
* Paddle Boarding * "Polar bear club" swims
* Inflatable boat excursions * Birding
* Wilderness hiking * Glacier viewing
* Shorter hikes * Friendly sporting contests

Optional activities available as add-on:
* Caving
* River rafting and jet boat excursions
* Glacier Float Plane tour
* Overnight wilderness backpacking
* Overnight kayaking Adventure

Leisurely activities offered onboard:
* Lectures about the surrounding environment
* Scenery Viewing
* Yoga
* Massage (additional charge)
* Hot tub and sauna with a view
* Relaxing lounges and deck areas

Children's Policy: Our small ships and style of cruising are designed to bring you up-close to the scenic beauty of our adventure destinations. Children receive exposure to nature that is unique and engaging. Kayaking, hiking and activities organized by the crew keep children enthralled. For families with kids under 12, private charters or "Family Discoveries" departures provide an excellent family bonding experience. It is the parents' or guardians' responsibility to supervise their children. On select “Family Discoveries” departure dates, children 12 years or younger travel at a 25% savings.

Deposit & Final Payment: A deposit of $1200 per person is required to secure a reservation. The deposit/payment must be received within three business days of your reservation. Reservations are not confirmed until a deposit is received. If you choose to purchase our Travel Protection Plan, the premium payment must be paid within 14 days of the initial deposit/payment (see Travel Insurance).
Final payment must reach our office 90 days prior to your cruise departure or in full at the time reservations are confirmed if less than 60 days prior. If this payment is not received in time, your space may be released; rebooking will then be subject to final availability. Deposits may be made by personal check, wire transfer, money order or credit card with final payment preferred in the form of a check, wire transfer or money order.

Deposit & Final Payment for Private Charter: A deposit of $1,200 per person is due at the time of booking for the Wilderness Explorer. For a full-ship charter, a deposit equal to one-third of the total charter cost is due within (10) business days of the reservation.
At 270 days (9 months) before departure, a second payment equal to one-third of the total charter cost is due.
Final payment for a full-ship charter is due 120 days (4 months) prior to departure.

Payment and Cancellation Policy:
Up to 91 days - 50% of initial deposit
90 to 61 days - Forfeiture of full deposit
60 to 46 days - 50% of gross fare
45 to 31 days - 75% of gross fare
30 to 0 days - 100% of gross fare
Please see AdventureSmith ExplorationsTerms and Conditions.

Travel Insurance: We highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with Travel Insurance. Please note that you must purchase your Travel Insurance policy within 14 days of booking your trip for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions.
TraveEx Insurance

Qualifications: This trip is available to any traveler with a love of nature and sense of adventure. Off vessel activities including hiking and kayaking excursions range from 2-4 hours each day.

Extending Your Trip: Call AdventureSmith Explorations about the possibilities of combining the two trips: Eastern Adventure and Western Adventure for an ultimate Southeast Alaska Adventure.

General Information: This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations ‘Terms & Conditions’. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A packing list, extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information is sent upon confirmation. We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Insurance through AdventureSmith Explorations. If purchased within 14 days of sign-up, the pre-existing condition exclusion is waived.

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Call today.

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