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Alaska Small Cruise: Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

Alaska Small Cruise: Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

8 Days from $5,290 USD / person
Your Vacation. Your Way.

This itinerary can be customized for you. Get in touch with our experts for your personalized vacation plan.

Itinerary Details

Day 1 – 1

International Arrival

You will be transferred from Sitka Airport to Sitka Port in a shared vehicle

Sitka

Sitka lies along the Pacific Ocean on the western shore of Baranof Island in Alaska and is a popular destination on the cruise circuit. The former capital of Russian Alaska, the city sits in the shadow of the majestic Mount Edgecumbe and offers visitors a blend of heritage and natural wonders. For those interested in local history, there are museums and landmarks to explore such as the Russian Bishop’s House, Baranof Castle State Historic Site, and Saint Michael’s Cathedral. For cultural experiences, there is the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi Community House offering Tlingit dance performances and Sitka National Historical Park with its collection of hand carved totem poles. The region is an outdoor lover’s paradise with its many forests, lakes, and alpine landscape. You could go hiking along the network of trails that pass through the Tongass National Forest. The waterways here are abundantly stocked with salmon, char, and trout assuring a rich haul for fly fishing enthusiasts. Sitka is also a takeoff point for whale watching and wildlife viewing cruises. When it comes to dining, enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties at venues ranging from fine dining restaurants to food trucks.
Day 1 – 8

Board the Safari Endeavour

7 Nights

Alaska Cruise

Cruises are an excellent way to explore the rugged and untamed wilderness of Alaska, the largest American state by area. Small or big, cruise ships provide easy accessibility in this region that is sparsely populated by humans but abundant in natural wonders, flora and fauna. Choose from multi-day itineraries themed around glaciers, wildlife, and the Northern Lights. Glacier Bay National Park, Endicott Arm, and Tongass National Forest are just some of the sights you could see. Sail past glacier-rimmed fjords, snow-capped peaks and the dense forestland as you relax on-board and take in the views. Soak in the culture and history of the region with frequent stops along the way. Get up close with endemic species of wildlife in their natural habitat via unique activities and excursions. Large cruise ships dock at popular ports of call and are equipped with plenty of dining and entertainment options. You can look forward to fun activities such as flightseeing jaunts, whale watching and panning for gold. Smaller cruise ships, with fewer passengers, promise a more personalized nautical experience. Look forward to exploring less-traveled routes and more adventure activities. Kayaking, hiking, and skiff rides await. You can also participate in hands-on learning sessions on the ship with expert naturalists and artists offering guidance.

Included activities

Sitka

Arrive in the port city of Sitka, which lies between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean in southeast Alaska. Make your way to the cruise ship terminal, located near the downtown area. As you board the ship, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the crew. Settle in with a refreshing beverage as your voyage to Juneau gets underway.

Krestof & Nakwasina Sounds

Today, as the ship traverses the Krestof and Nakwasina sounds, you will pass the Baranof Island and a number of secluded and uninhabited islets. These waterways offer excellent opportunities for exploration. Once the ship drops anchor, choose from a variety of land and water based activities. You could go kayaking or paddle boarding, while accompanied by a guide. Paddle past kelp forests and moss-draped trees. Alternatively, hop into a skiff and set off in search of sea lions. If you’re lucky, you may chance upon whales in their natural habitat. Along with an expedition team, walk the sandy stretches of the coastline and go beachcombing. Then, enjoy a guided hike across the undulating terrain for a closer look at endemic species of flora and fauna. Back aboard the ship, join your captain for a farewell dinner where the crew will present you with a photo journal of the voyage.

Sergius Narrows / Neva Strait

On the third day of your Alaskan cruise, your ship will navigate the waters of the Sergius Narrows and the Neva Strait. The aptly named Sergius Narrows is a narrow waterway located at the southern end of the Peril Straits, through which cruise vessels can only pass during slack tide. Take in the dark woods along the shoreline as your captain expertly maneuvers the ship along the tapered channel. The area is an excellent spot for outdoor adventures. After the ship drops anchor, set off on backcountry hikes and skiff rides to explore the uninhabited environs. Try to spot humpback whales and orcas, and sea otters sunning themselves on the rocks or floating in the water. Watch for bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer and bears that live amid the lush forested islands. During a guided hike in the backcountry, take in the gorgeous alpine scenery. As you follow a trail through an ancient forest of giant trees, your naturalist guide will point out unusual plants and flowers. Back onboard, watch the sunset from the hot tub, or with a refreshing drink in your hand, as the ship sails into Neva Strait.

Chichagof Island / Peril Strait

Begin your day with a guided yoga session, as the vessel glides along the glacier-carved fjords off the coast of Chichagof Island. Drop anchor near a remote cove and set off to explore the area on skiffs and tandem kayaks, or take to the sea. As you paddle on the waters, scan the waves for seals and whales. The island is known for its bear population and you may spot grizzlies and other wildlife species along the shore line. On a guided nature walk, head into the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. This temperate rainforest is home to Sitka black-tailed deer, Haida ermine and bald eagles. Pass tidal pools as your guide tells you about old-growth forests and points out interesting trees. Back on-board, relax as the ship makes its way to Peril Strait.

Icy Strait

Remote and wild, the Icy Strait is located in the Alexander Archipelago. Accompanied by an expedition team member, head out in a tandem kayak to explore this pristine bay. Along the way, you may see majestic orca and humpback whales. Paddle through the channels with their dramatic landscape and try to spot sea otters. Later, ride a skiff to a rocky outcrop where sea lions are often found lazing. Alternatively, go on a naturalist-led hike through the rainforest. Bushwhack through the hemlock and spruce forest, and walk along bog meadows filled with wildflowers. As you wind your way past ponds, your guide will point out birds like the marbled murrelet and Pacific loon. Learn about the area’s ecosystem before you head back to the ship. Back on-board, take in a beautiful sunset and watch for porpoises and dolphins swimming alongside the vessel.

Glacier Bay National Park

Venture into the sprawling Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises majestic mountains, glaciers, a rainforest and more. At Bartlett Cove, a park ranger will tell you about the local environment and share insight into eco tourism. As you sail, keep an eye out for orange-beaked puffins, guillemot and marbled murrelets. At South Marble Island, you may even spot the endangered Steller sea lions if you are lucky. From a vantage point, watch for bears along the shore line. Afterward, get up close to the tidewater glaciers, Grand Pacific and Margerie. If you’re lucky, you may even see massive chunks of ice plunging into the sea. Time permitting, pass Tidal Inlet, where you’ll notice the effects of deglaciation that have resulted in barren scars of sediment and steep rocky slopes. Then, while you dine on-board, your captain will navigate the vessel into Icy Strait.

Captain’s Choice

Today, you will sail either to Lynn Canal or Chatham Strait. Your captain will decide the destination, depending on the weather conditions and tides. Both channels pass through picturesque surroundings and have played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economy. The expedition team will assist you as you spend the day kayaking or paddle boarding on the pristine waters. Take in views of snow capped peaks and rocky cliffs. Scan the treetops for bald eagles and watch for harbor seals frolicking in the water. The icy waters are also home to orcas, humpback whales and sea lions. Later, as the ship traverses the remote channels sit on the deck and watch a magical sunset.

Juneau

Your cruise culminates in Juneau, the capital of Alaska. After a leisurely breakfast on the ship, it is time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers. Disembark, transfer to Juneau International Airport and head back home with great memories.

Hotel options

Safari Endeavour – Opt 1
Room Navigator
Meals Full Board and Activities
Style Cruise
Safari Endeavour – Opt 2
Room Pathfinder
Meals Full Board and Activities
Style Cruise
Day 8 – 8

You will be transferred from Juneau Port to Juneau Airport in a shared vehicle.

Juneau

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, sits ensconced between wilderness and water. This gives it the distinction of being one of the few cities in the United States that is inaccessible by road! A popular stop on cruise ship itineraries, the city is best known for its proximity to Mendenhall Glacier. Active recreational pursuits such as glacier hiking, dog sledding, and kayaking await the adventurous in Juneau. The harbor is also the starting point for exciting whale watching tours into Auke Bay as well as fishing excursions. Take a seaplane tour to spot bears in the region and for breathtaking aerial views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. For culture enthusiasts, Juneau’s historic district boasts some of its oldest establishments which find mention on the National Register of Historic Places. Art galleries and an ice skating rink that doubles as a concert venue in summer are some other attractions in the city. Evenings are meant for live performances at the nationally-acclaimed Perseverance Theatre and fresh seafood dinners at your choice of great downtown restaurants.

International Departure

This eight-day cruise aboard the Safari Endeavour promises some of the most magical experiences. Glide along the frigid waters past glacier carved fjords, remote islands and deep, dark woods. Spot puffins and sea lions at the expansive UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park, go on guided hikes on Baranof Island and bask in the changing scenery from the comfort of your cruise liner. If you’ve been dreaming of a cruise vacation in Alaska, this could be a great option. Speak to our travel experts about customizing this itinerary, and get started on planning your trip of a lifetime with us!

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $5,290 USD / person

Option 2

From $5,790 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation and meals, as specified in the itinerary
  • Activities and excursions, as specified in the itinerary
  • Transportation services, as specified in the itinerary
  • Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone
Not Included
  • Entrance fees and meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Visa and tourism fees
  • Travel, health, and cancellation insurance
  • International airfare

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