Explore beautiful Sitka, the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Visit fascinating sites that highlight the community’s rich Alaska Native and Russian history. Embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife. Anchor for the evening in a protected body of water in Peril Strait or eastern Baranof Island.

This region includes many secluded coves and inlets, making it ideal for exploration. Kick off the day with a guided hike on the Lake Eva Trail on remote northern Baranof Island. As you walk through beautiful old growth forest, your naturalist will point out local flora and fauna encountered along the way. After lunch and scanning for Alaska’s famous wildlife in Chatham Strait, paddle a kayak or enjoy a Zodiac ride in a quiet cove or bay of Chichagof Island. 

Follow in the footsteps of the famous naturalist John Muir as you explore the wildlife-rich, pristine waters of Icy Strait. As a modern-day explorer, you’ll find that there are countless opportunities for kayaking, Zodiac excursions, paddleboarding and shoreline trekking in this pristine and remote environment. Your captain will select ideal areas based on the day’s weather. Throughout this strait, and especially as you near the entrance of the park, keep your eye out for sea otters.

Depending on permit availability, we may enter Glacier Bay National Park this afternoon (before our full day of park exploration the following day). Unique opportunities during our voyage through Glacier Bay include a beach trek near the Reid or Lamplugh Glacier (or other remote location), a visit to the new Huna Tribal House, and rainforest trails surrounding Glacier Bay Lodge.

This remarkable national park fjord covers 3.3 million acres, contains eight tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions, and humpback whales. The highlight for many is the Margerie Glacier, which is known for its dramatic calving displays.

On the final day of the adventure, your route will take you through Lynn Canal and Saginaw Channel en route to Juneau. These bodies of water are renowned as feeding grounds for humpback whales. Orcas are also often sighted in these stretches of water—though they can be elusive. Our expert shipboard team and knowledgeable captain will spot for wildlife and allow ample time for photography and viewing.

Disembark in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau. Transfer to your hotel or the airport is complimentary.