Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka to Juneau

Arrive in downtown Juneau and take in the incredible view of the Gastineau Channel from the top of Mt. Roberts. Embark National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion in the early evening.

Wake up in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, part of the Tracy Arm–Fords Terror Wilderness. Cruise through this glacially carved fjord, then set out to explore by expedition landing craft. View the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close—and keep an eye out for the dramatic sight of huge slabs of ice breaking off and crashing into the water below. If conditions permit, paddle a kayak below the steep walls of the fjord. Celebrate with a farewell dinner on board.

Known as the “adventure capital of Alaska,” Haines is situated on a scenic peninsula between the Chilkoot and Chilkat Rivers. Hike one of the many world-class trails in the area, enjoy an optional flight-seeing tour over Glacier Bay National Park or cycle along the edge of a glacial lake. Visit the ancient Tlingit village of Klukwan and enjoy a traditional dance and cultural performance before setting off on a rafting excursion, keeping an eye out for bald eagles, bears and moose as you float through the spectacular Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.

Spend today searching for wildlife in rich waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Inside Passage. Options include an expedition landing craft cruise among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions reside; kayaking in the calm outer waters of Glacier Bay; or hiking in lush temperate rain forest.

Explore the breathtaking bays of Baranof or Chichagof Islands, both part of the ancient Tongass National Forest. Chichagof Island harbors one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world, and both islands are home to diverse wildlife. Kayak or paddleboard along rugged coastlines, and in the afternoon, go hiking through the temperate rain forest, listening for bald eagles calling out from the tops of towering spruce and hemlock trees.

Disembark in Sitka, situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Take a walk in Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit and Haida totem poles tower over coastal trails. Visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska’s birds of prey. Transfer to the airport for flights home.

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; flightseeing.

Exclusions

Air transportation; voyage DVD; personal items such as alcoholic beverages, emails, etc.; discretionary tips to naturalist staff and 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 penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – $350 of deposit retained (may be applied to future trip by trip operator)
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 Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau to Sitka cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU), and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). Embarkation time on day 1 may vary based upon arrival of group flights. Disembarkation is after breakfast on day 6 of the outlined itinerary; departure times may vary depending on group flights. In general, plan to arrive to Juneau 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

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable skiff excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching, wildlife observation and included flightseeing.

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.