Welcome to beautiful Sitka—the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. We encourage you to arrive early and explore the community’s rich culture, history, and biodiversity. Then embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife.

Spend the day exploring remote, Inside Passage wilderness. Hike a rainforest trail featuring towering spruce and hemlock trees and lush undergrowth. Your knowledgeable guide will provide commentary on the indigenous plants and wildlife of the area. Explore Baranof Island’s charming shoreline dubbed “The Waterfall Coast” and savor an opportunity to kayak a protected bay in the area.

Scout for humpback whales and other marine mammals in Frederick Sound. Humpbacks are famous for behavior that lends itself to incredible viewing and photography, such as tail lobbing, lunge feeding, pectoral slapping, breaching, and picturesque dives that showcase their massive flukes. Other opportunities for in-depth exploration included the protected waters or shores of Security Bay, Skanax Bay, Pybus Bay, The Brothers islands, or another beautiful wilderness location.

View the community’s remarkable, 132-foot totem pole, an artist demonstration, and experience the inspiring culture of the Tlingit in the Alaska Native village of Kake. Later, take in the beautiful sights of Keku Strait and enjoy opportunities for kayaking, ocean inflatable adventures, or beachcombing. Options include such picturesque locations as Hamilton Bay, Port Camden, and more.

Journey through Tracy or Endicott Arm in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness—a place the famous naturalist, John Muir, called, “a wild, unfinished Yosemite.” Renowned for its glaciers, pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet, this wilderness is often referred to by locals as one of the most scenic areas in the state.

Begin the day with unscripted exploration of Southeast Alaska. Your captain and crew will search for wildlife, including the area’s famous humpback whales, or brown bears along Admiralty Island National Monument.

End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge, our own exclusive day lodge on Colt Island*. Enjoy the beautiful beach and a marine life viewing tank. Alaska crab and other delicious fare are served in the lodge, while s’mores are available at our beachside campfire.

*The lodge stop is subject to availability. If scheduling conflicts preclude the lodge, an alternative evening activity will be determined by your captain and guide staff.

This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains 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 Margerie Glacier or John Hopkins Glacier, which have been known for their dramatic calving displays.

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