Wilderness Explorer Safari In Alaska - North America

Today you will arrive in Sitka, Alaska, where you will be met and driven to your hotel. Relax and prepare for your boat departure tomorrow, or explore the Russian heritage of Sitka on a walking tour, including a visit to Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

This morning you will board the Wilderness Explorer, your home for the next two weeks, and embark on your Alaskan adventure! Meet the crew and settle in, before beginning your cruise along the picturesque channels of the Inside Passage.

(B, L, D)

There are endless opportunities to drop anchor and adventure around the many remote, uninhabited islands along the western side of Baranof Island. When you are not exploring the secluded coves and islands of the intertidal zone, look out for whales and sea lions from your skiff or kayak. You will also have the opportunity to journey ashore for a guided hike through the expansive Tongass National Forest.

(B, L, D)

Explore the beaches on foot and see them putting on a show as they fill up on enough protein-rich food to prepare them for a long winter in hibernation. Depending on the time of your visit, you may see large groups of bears up to 30 or 40 and perhaps even bears mating or cubs gallivanting on the shore. In coastal Katmai you will travel on foot rather than using vehicles which allows much more exciting wildlife encounters. Carefully wander the area in your small group under the cautious guidance of your Expedition Leader. On Day 7 you will return to Kodiak by floatplane.

(B, L, D)

Today you will be winding through the Peril Strait – a 50 mile twisting channel from Channel Strait to Salisbury Sound - known for its dramatic currents. Cruise along the coast of Chichagof Island through the stunning glacier-carved fjords. The anchor is then lowered to provide you with the opportunity to kayak and skiff in the remote coves and explore the shoreline on a forest hike with your guides.

(B, L, D)

Head off in search of whales and marine mammals in some of the most remote waters in Alaska. Have your camera ready as you explore the wilderness on land and sea. Hop on a skiff for a closer inspection of the rugged coastline, keeping an eye on the shore for the chance of grizzly bear sightings.

(B, L, D)

Today you will travel to Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. Here you will find puffins and sea lions, mountain goats and bears, moose, eagles, and scenery more spectacular than any place on Earth. You will be guided by an experienced Park Ranger, who will show you the hidden coves and corners of the park that are rarely seen by visitors.

(B, L, D)

Depending on the weather conditions, your captain will set course today for either the Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait. Kayak or paddleboard along the beautiful rocky outcrops of these protected waters, accompanied by your expert guides who will point out wildlife, including harbour seals and bald eagles.

(B, L, D)

Your ship will takes port to allow others to end their adventure and new guests to embark. You will spend the day off the boat, exploring the mountains around Juneau with local guides. Start the day with a driving tour, learning about the history and culture of the city, before heading to the Mt. Roberts tram. Climb 1,800 feet through temperate rainforest with views of Juneau and Gastineau Channel stretching far below. Step off to be greeted by your naturalist guide who will introduce you to the raptor programme - where you can measure your wingspan against a bald eagles! A half mile hike to “The Cross” provides stunning views, and you have the option of extending your hike 7.6 miles to reach the snowfields.

(B, L, D)

Visit the breathtaking Dawes Glacier, a striking blue glacier set against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains. Sail through Endicott Arm, likely spotting harbour seals and their pups lounging on glacial islands in the surrounding waters. Tides permitting, you will also have a chance to explore the narrow passageway of Fords Terror where you can marvel at the many waterfalls that flow down the towering walls.

(B, L, D)

As you make your way through Stephen’s Passage, look out for the frequent residents of these waters, humpback and orcas, who reside in the remote fjords of Alaska. Step into another world with a hike through the verdant green landscape, dotted with picturesque waterfalls. You may prefer to journey into the inner reaches of a salt chuck, a tidal salt-water lake, with your kayak or paddle board - making sure to lookout for bears, heron, moose, mink, and seals.

(B, L, D)

Journey through the back country of Alaska’s wilderness, known for its glaciers and gold and quartz deposits. You will have the option to explore this area of incredible natural beauty by kayak, paddle board or on foot. In the evening, sail along the winding Wrangel Narrows, guided by the bright red and green navigation lights that have given it the nickname “Christmas Tree Lane”.

(B, L, D)

Wrangell is one of the oldest towns in Alaska and has a rich cultural history. Local islanders will join you on board your ship for an insightful presentation on the Haida and Tlingit cultures, before you venture into the town to view the totem poles of Kiksetti Totem Park and visit the Chief Sakes Tribal House.

(B, L, D)

Visit the wildlife-rich Behm Canal and the surrounding Tongass National Forest, the largest National Park in the US. Resident wildlife includes orca, porpoise, sea lions, brown and black bears, mink, eagles and otters. Kayak down the canal or head onto shore for an intertidal hike along the Cleveland Peninsula.

(B, L, D)

Today you will visit Misty Fjords National Monument, a diverse national park referred to as “The Yosemite of the North”. The park is a haven for sea birds, bears and Sitka black-tailed deer, with striking landscapes of 3,000 foot cliffs and glacial valleys. Head out on your kayak once again to explore this remote region, sailing through Walker Cove or Rudyard Bay. In the evening, you will join the crew and your fellow passengers for a Captains Dinner and a farewell toast.

(B, L, D)

On your last morning aboard the ship, enjoy a final breakfast before disembarking at Ketchikan. Transfer directly to the Ketchikan airport in time for your onward flight.