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, expedition vessel 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.

The remarkable fjord that is Glacier Bay 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. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a stop at Bartlett Cove for a rainforest walk and visit to the Huna Tribal House.

Just like the first day, the second day promises an up-close and personal experience of Glacier Bay National Park that very few visitors get to enjoy. After all, the park encompasses 3.3 million acres of stunning fjords, rainforests, and rugged mountains (2.7 million of which is designated as wilderness area) and the adventure options aboard our shallow-draft vessels are truly countless. Your captain and expedition team may select a secluded cove in the “outer bay” for a paddle or excursion aboard our smaller expedition craft, or perhaps lead a shoreline expedition to observe the phenomenon of glacial succession and the beautiful flora of the park.

Disembark in Juneau, the beautiful capital city of Alaska. Transportation to your hotel or the airport is complimentary on the day of disembarkation. We encourage you to spend some time exploring the capital on your own. The town boasts a vibrant culinary scene, local breweries, distilleries, cultural centers, museums, a tram, the Mendenhall Glacier, and more. Check out excursion offerings from our sister company, True Alaskan Tours. Alaskan Dream Cruises guests are eligible for a 15% discount—inquire with our reservations team for the code.