Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness

Arrive in Sitka, southeastern Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Sitka has a strong Russian heritage, which is readily apparent while visiting the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. At the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, enjoy 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.

Today, nature is the guide. Hope to explore an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beach walk, 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.

Explore among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea otters reside. 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.

Today, explore Glacier Bay. Wildness abounds—glaciers calve, 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 onboard to share the lore and legend of the area. Also be joined by a National Park Service Ranger.

Please note: Departures aboard National Geographic Sea Bird visit Dundas Bay, the outer bay of Glacier Bay National Park, and do not enter the permitted part of the Bay.

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

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.

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.

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

Included

Accommodations aboard vessel and hotels ashore as indicated in itinerary; all meals as indicated in itinerary; non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship, including cappuccinos, lattes, filtered water, and 24-hour coffee, tea and soda on demand; hors d’oeuvres and snacks during Recap; fitness center or exercise equipment, depending on ship; fully-stocked library and other public spaces; shore excursions; sightseeing and entrance fees; special access permits; transfers to and from group flights; use of kayaks; expedition staff expertise and services including presentations with guest speakers; gratuities (except to the ship’s crew); port taxes and service charges; services of a ship physician on most voyages.

Exclusions

Air transportation; private transfers; additional hotel nights; expedition extensions; passport, visa and immigration fees; spa treatments; meals not indicated; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; gift shop items and any other items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages; scuba diving; internet and phone access; laundry; gratuities to the ship’s crew.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $750 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. 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 – $350 in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate
119 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 25% of total trip cost
59 to 45 days – 50% of total trip cost
44 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

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 Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT) and ends in Juneau, Alaska (JNU). Embarkation time on day 1 may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is after breakfast on day 8 of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights. In general, plan to arrive into Sitka in the early afternoon of day 1 at the latest, and depart on the final day of the cruise no earlier than 2:00pm.

Activities

Opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography exist on and off the ship. On board, a wellness specialist offers wellness treatments, massages and complimentary morning stretching. Off-vessel activities can be tailored to most activity levels and may include hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions.

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. You must purchase your travel insurance policy within 15 or 21 days of booking (depending on plan) for it to cover pre-existing medical conditions; 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.