Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your 2.5-hour kayak expedition through Misty Fjords National Monument you will see 3,000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs with numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, wildlife like bald eagles, and perhaps brown and/or black bears and mountain goats. Throughout the forest you will find western hemlock, Sitka spruce and western red cedar. Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather condition; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will be paddling for about 2 hours. - The departure times for the Signature Expedition tours are subject to change due to the nature of these excursions. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. - All kayaks used for the Signature Expedition tours are 2-person tandem kayaks.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac expedition through Misty Fjords National Monument you will see 3,000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs with numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, wildlife like bald eagles, and perhaps brown and/or black bears and mountain goats. Throughout the forest you will find western hemlock, Sitka spruce and western red cedar. Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather condition; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. - The departure times for the Signature Expedition tours are subject to change due to the nature of these excursions. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. - Please inform the Destination Services team if you are travelling in a group of 4-6 people and booked on the same expedition as the zodiac boat tours can only accommodate 6 guests at a time.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac expedition through Misty Fjords National Monument you will see 3,000-foot glacier-sculpted cliffs with numerous waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, wildlife like bald eagles, and perhaps brown and/or black bears and mountain goats. Throughout the forest you will find western hemlock, Sitka spruce and western red cedar. Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather condition; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. - The departure times for the Signature Expedition tours are subject to change due to the nature of these excursions. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. - Please inform the Destination Services team if you are travelling in a group of 4-6 people and booked on the same expedition as the zodiac boat tours can only accommodate 6 guests at a time.

Join your captain and biologist guides on a magical discovery of wildlife in the protected waterways of the Inside Passage. Travel to nearby feeding grounds on a covered jet boat and find whales chasing after schools of small fish, otters frolicking playfully in the kelp beds, sea lions fighting over the best spot on a perch, seals basking on a rock or peeking at you from the water. Sometimes you may find Orca cruising the waterways in search of food or porpoises following the boat to play in the wake. Eagles fish to feed their young and seabirds look to take advantage of the leftovers from feeding mammals. This day is about animals. Where they go, you will go. The biologist guides will decide the best itinerary for the day based on the conditions and the behavior of the animals at the time of year. This 5- hour tour includes a sandwich and snack lunch, water and a brief stop on the beach. Please note: Your captain and guides strive to include as much wildlife as possible, however wildlife sightings of all species are not guaranteed. Weather, sea conditions and safety are important factors in where the captain chooses to go. Wear weather-appropriate clothes and shoes for boating.

Discover the highlights of this truly Alaskan town and see its colorful history and native culture come to life while visiting the Wrangell Museum and Petroglyph Beach with Kiks Adi Totem Park view and Alaskan Native interpretation. Departing the pier, meander to downtown Wrangell to view Kiks Adi Totem Park. Then, learn about fishing and the Stikine River and its significant influence on the development of Wrangell. Pass through the town and see its historic churches, while on the way, catch a glimpse of a traditional Tlingit Tribal House and Wrangell's oldest harbor. Visit Wrangell's famous anthropological sight, Petroglyph Beach and see ancient rock carvings dating from 4,000 to 6,000 years ago, before the settlement by the Tlingit tribes. Enjoy a petroglyph rubbing demonstration before heading to the Wrangell Museum. The local museum houses a rich assortment of over 5,000 historic photos, native artifacts, a collection of Tlingit petroglyphs, and fishing, mining and logging displays. Please note : The order of sites may vary. Walking is required to and from the sites, especially Petroglyph Beach, a natural beach with rocks, gravel, sand and logs that can be slippery at low tide. There are several steps to Petroglyph Beach, not suitable for those in wheelchairs. Walkers or canes can do this tour, but you may choose also to stay on the bus where the walking is too much. You may wish to enjoy additional city highlights on their own before returning to the ship.

Journey through the past to the present on a personalized tour experience of Wrangell and its most popular attractions. Your Alaskan Native guide will share the diverse history of Wrangell starting with the first inhabitants, the Tlingit Nation, whose history spans approximately 10,000 years. Sit down as invited guests at Chief Shakes Tribal House to hear stories that have been with us; passed down generation to generation. Learn the story of Fort Wrangell, unearth ancient petroglyphs and explore Wrangell today (from the comfort of your shuttle). Bottled water and a souvenir petroglyph rubbing will be available for you. Three great sites will be visited: Chief Shakes Tribal House , the Wrangell Museum and Petroglyph Beach . Several historic sites are viewed from the shuttle as part of the driving portion of this tour. The tour will depart from and return to your pier. As the third oldest city in Alaska, ruled by four nations, under three flags, Wrangell's rich and diverse history is sure to captivate you! Please note : This is a walking and driving tour. Much time will be spent on your feet at Petroglyph Beach and the Wrangell Museum. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate attire. You will be transported by shuttle bus to each of the sites. All sites are handicap accessible, although not able to accommodate wheelchairs.

The Stikine River is considered one of the last truly wild rivers in North America, running directly through the nearly 1/2 million acre Stikine LeConte' Wilderness area. Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of the world's largest temperate rainforest that is home to a variety of wildlife species and though elusive, you may have a chance of sighting. Add the excitement of an exhilarating jet-boat ride , gold rush history, world renowned scenery, and the most experienced energetic captains, and you have a great excursion. On the pier, you will meet captain and interpretive guide and embark on the custom-built, heated and covered, jet boat to begin your adventure. Traverse the ever changing river delta, meander through side sloughs and explore the banks of the river. Seek out views of distant mountain peaks, spy on spawning salmon and listen to thundering waterfalls. Your journey will culminate at Shakes Lake with its sparkling blue, crystal clear icebergs. If accessible, you will venture in farther for a view of Shakes Glacier and the ancient ice from which it was created. If conditions allow, come ashore at a wilderness location on the banks of the Stikine and experience the wilderness up close. Please note : The tour routing and sights may change due to weather, nature and water conditions. Due to the nature of boating in the wilderness on the Stikine River, which sometimes requires travel in shallow water, you may experience quick or sudden stops, starts and turns while underway. Guests should be in good physical health with a full range of motion to get into/out of the vessel and have no motion-related ailments or any other health issues. This tour is not wheelchair or handicapped accessible. This tour departs and returns from the Wrangell city dock, which is a short walking distance (300 ft) from the ship. At certain tidal conditions the access ramp to the vessels can be very steep. Facilities are basic in the wilderness location and consist primarily of USFS outhouses. Although wildlife is seen on many outings, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

John Muir hiked here while using Wrangell as headquarters for his Stikine delta explorations. Participants are assured of wonderful views and a true immersive forest experience with an elevation gain of about 400 feet . This hike will present good views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes and a chance to learn about rainforest ecology. This intimate interpretive tour will be led by two of our experienced onboard Expedition Staff. Please note : This excursion will depart directly from the ship and will be led by two Expedition Staff. No equipment is required. Guests will need to wear their own suitable footwear and dress according to the prevailing weather conditions. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. The departure time for this tour is subject to change due to the nature of the excursion. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. The walk is mostly on boardwalk which does not have handrails, can become slippery when wet and has approximately 300 steps to the summit of Mount Dewey. This tour is not recommended for those with walking or mobility issues.

Your 4-hour fishing excursion will depart from the Lightering Dock on covered sport-fishing vessels (28-33') with indoor seating. Your guides will get you outfitted with a pole and gear to target the fish of the day. Inland waters assure a comfortable ride without ocean swell. Operating rain or shine, you'll have the opportunity to catch salmon, halibut or rock fish as indicated by your guide. Your Alaskan Sportfishing License is included. After the excursion, your guide will help you connect with a local fish processor who will prepare your fish for storage and shipment directly to you after your cruise at your expense. Please note : Dress appropriately for the weather and bring rain gear if desired and bottled water.

Mitkof Island Panoramic tour starts as you shuttle to the Whale Observatory at Outlook Park. Enjoy the short drive along Sandy Beach Road through the community to the Whale Observatory, a covered Nordic-themed timber framed shelter with spotting scopes overlooking Frederick Sound. Perhaps you'll spot a humpback whale, orca or an iceberg from nearby LeConte Glacier. You'll board back onto the bus and drive "out the road" as locals call it to Falls Creek and Blind River Rapids trailhead. Your driver and guide, born and raised in SE Alaska, will explain life in a small town along the way. Falls Creek has a beautiful waterfall and salmon fish ladder. Your guide will explain the life cycle of salmon, their role in the local environment, and their importance to the local economy. Continue out the road to Blind River Rapids. You will walk 1/4 mile on the flat boardwalk (handicap accessible) to Blind River Rapids. The boardwalk allows your feet to stay dry as you observe the local ecosystem. You will see muskeg, bear's-favorite Skunk Cabbage, Alaska wildflowers and berries, and lodgepole pines. The rapids are a popular spot for fishing and salmon viewing. Your guide will explain the various types of salmon that are found in the area. Bald eagles are also common in the area. You will return to the bus with your guide and make your way back to town. Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothings and bring your camera, water and rain gear.

On this tour you will get a close look at Petersburg and the history of Alaska's Little Norway, including the importance of the fishing industry. Small groups of 12 offer you an excellent way to ask questions and get a personalized experience. The tour will take you along Sing Lee Alley and Nordic Drive to the Clausen Museum where you will have time to explore the current exhibits. Photographs and fishing industry-related items are among the collection's strengths. Other represented areas include Tlingit artifacts and art, logging and woodworking tools, domestic items, natural resource displays, an extensive rock collection, and artifacts documenting early 20th century businesses and societies. Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothings and bring your camera, water and rain gear.

Your 2-mile (3.5-km) hike on the Raven's Roost Trail will start as you shuttle to the trailhead past picturesque Hammer's Slough. You'll drive past Totems and through the town's Main Street shopping area with its rosemalled storefronts. Enjoy the short drive along Sandy Beach Road through the community to Outlook Park, a covered Nordic-themed timber framed shelter with spotting scopes overlooking Frederick Sound. The shelter was built by a local shipwright and is reminiscent of Norwegian Longboats and stave churches. Perhaps you'll spot a humpback whale, orca or an iceberg from nearby LeConte Glacier. You'll continue to the trailhead at Raven's Roost. Your guide will escort you along the 6-foot (2-meter) wide gravel trail through muskeg and rainforest, including a moderate rise in elevation to the overlook and seating area at the top of the trail. Look for Alaska wildflowers and the bear's-favorite, Skunk Cabbage along the trail. Great views of Frederick Sound and the Alaska's Inland Passage archipelago await. You'll find seating areas along the trail as well. You'll return with your guide and continue in the shuttle on a different route back to Main Street to continue your adventure in Alaska's Little Norway. Please note : Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, dress for the weather and bring your camera, water bottle and rain gear.

LeConte Glacier is the southernmost tidewater glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. As the face of the glacier is so massive (up to 1,200 feet) the glacier advances and breaks off huge blocks of ice that either tumble into the ocean or shoot up from the depths from below the face. The glacier moves downhill constantly, providing a steady stream of icebergs that fill the surface of the ocean in the towering fjord. T he bay is full of ice bergs and bergy bits , creating a challenge to navigation. We may see ice calving off of the glacier and you're sure to see icebergs and bergy bits on the way into the bay. Harbor seals haul out on the floating ice to raise their pups and to stay away from predators like Orca (Killer Whales), their natural enemy. Humpback whales are sometimes seen near the mouth of LeConte Bay in Frederick Sound, rich in schools of krill and herring, their primary food source. Dall's sheep are often seen on the surrounding cliffs. In the narrow fjord with towering granite walls that make up LeConte Bay you can see how the glacial action has carved the landscape. The closer you get to the face of the glacier, the less vegetation you'll see on the newly exposed land. Please note : Bring your camera, water bottle, rain gear optional if you wish to spend time on the outside deck, hat and gloves optional as well.

Explore ~Stretch ~ Twist ~ and pull your very own colorful Venetian glass cane , ~ one of the oldest methods of working in glass! After your hands-on experience in the glass studio, you will explore a beautiful part of the Sitka Community that most do not get to see - local art and traditions. Local glass artist Michelle Barker will welcome you into her studio. Although she works in many methods of glass, she has a love for the unique history and techniques developed centuries ago in Italy. On this tour you will watch as these beautiful glass canes are made, and have the opportunity to gently stretch, twist, and pull your own vibrant cane. Sitka has a long history of cultivating the fine arts. In the early 1800's Sitka was home to the first opera house, first performing arts theater, and had the first piano on the west coast. With many famous artists such as E.W. Merrill - a well-known glass plate photographer who lived in Sitka from 1819 through the 1840's - to present day artists, your guide will explore all Sitka has to offer for art enthusiasts. Walk the city, the galleries, and see local artwork such as silver and wood carving, ceramics, regalia beading, kiln formed glass, ceramics, and pulling Venetian glass canes ... maybe even try your hand at one. This tour will include a number of galleries and a hands-on art demonstration . You will meet several local artists and have the opportunity to visit with each of them, receive a wealth of information on the many different forms traditional and local artwork. Learn why this unique city in Southeast Alaska has grown into the beautiful artist community that it is today. You will have opportunity to purchase locally made and custom made art pieces on this tour as well as make something beautiful of your own! Please note : All guests will be provided with safety glasses, leather aprons, and gloves while in the glass studio. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Discover why Sitka is one of Southeast Alaska's best places for salmon fishing during this memorable fishing experience. Upon your arrival, you will take a short walk to board your fishing boat and proceed to Sitka Sound and its adjacent waters to fish for king, silver, chum, and pink salmon, depending on the month. Salmon fishing is performed via "trolling," or "mooching." When trolling two or four lines are fishing off downriggers while the boat is underway and hooked fish are played on a rotational basis. When mooching you will hold a rod and work the bait while the boat is anchored. Your captain will decide which method he feels is the most effective given the conditions of the day. Your fishing boat will be a cabin cruiser style sport fishing boat that averages 24-30 feet in length and 4-6 guests will be assigned to each boat. After approximately 3 hours of fishing , your boat will return back to the pier. If you wish, meet with local fish processors to have your catch sent to your home (within the continental U.S.A.). Please note : Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and a light jacket. Wear close-toed, comfortable shoes. Fishing License must be purchased at time of shore excursion, $40 in cash only and bring your photo ID with you.

This unique Alaska excursion explores the historical highlights of this former "Russian" capital city and includes a wildlife tour through the Alaska Raptor Center . The Bald Eagle Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. After your introduction to the center, a presentation with one of the Center's educational birds will take place. Time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window, outside deck habitat areas and gift shop. Next, you'll visit the Sitka National Historical Park , where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska," was fought. The park hosts totem-lined trails, cultural exhibits and carving rooms where native Alaskan artisans demonstrate their totemic art form. Walk the nature trail, view cultural exhibits and video presentations, or talk with local native artists about their cultural art form. The final stop will be visiting the Fortress of the Bears , which will allow you to get within 25 feet of Alaska's brown and black bears in a naturalized setting. You will enjoy observing the bears from a covered viewing platform and interact with an experienced naturalist. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and bring a light rain jacket, ID,you're your camera. The order of sites visited may be reversed.

Discover Alaska's abundant natural beauty and wildlife during this award-winning cruise through Sitka Sound, one of the world's most beautiful coastal environments. Search for local marine life on this half-day, scenic excursion. Depart the pier in your waterjet-driven tour vessel which has been specially designed to navigate Southeast Alaska's narrow island passages and bays, permitting spectacular wildlife viewing at close range. The vessel features a warm and comfortable cabin with indoor seating, large windows, a snack bar and restrooms. Or you may opt to visit the upper observation deck for unparalleled photo opportunities, and to experience the surroundings. Be on the lookout for sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of wildlife species during this jet-boat excursion. Observe and photograph sea otters as you learn about their recovery following near extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the 1800s. Your onboard naturalist guide will offer commentary about this remarkable ecosystem throughout the tour. Your captain will vary the route to find the best wildlife viewing opportunities and guarantees you will see an otter, a whale, or a bear on the sea portion of your excursion. If not, you will receive $100 cash refund at the end of the voyage. Please note : Dress in layers, waterproof jacket (if guests would like to go outside), camera, warm hat, gloves.

The ultimate Alaska experience begins as soon as you board our Alaskan-built expedition vessel in Sitka. While you settle into the comfortable cabin, your knowledgeable captain and crew will provide a safety briefing and orientation. Once underway, feel free to move about the vessel, including the spacious outside viewing deck. An onboard naturalist will provide narration regarding the remarkable ecosystem of the area and point out places of interest and wildlife throughout the voyage. Sea otters, whales, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds are all commonly seen in the tour area. Your captain has the local knowledge and experience to deliver the best possible viewing experience on any given day throughout the season. At Fin Island Lodge, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Alaska feast! Alaskan crab, wild salmon, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are all-inclusive with the tour. In addition, coffee, tea, cocoa, lemonade, and water are complimentary. Soft drinks are available for purchase. A breakfast twist on our signature Fin Island feast is featured for guests arriving before 10 a.m. Vegan and gluten free options are available, regardless of tour time. After the meal, you may beachcomb, explore the beautiful grounds of the exclusive island, or relax next to the cozy beach fire. When the adventure concludes, your vessel will await to provide the short cruise back to Sitka. Please note : Dress in layers, wear a waterproof jacket (if you would like to go outside), good walking shoes, and bring your camera, warm hat, and gloves.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship . Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will ride in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above. The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as "a wild, unfinished Yosemite." Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your 2.5-hour kayak expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will kayak in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above. The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as "a wild, unfinished Yosemite." Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will be paddling for about 2 hours.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship . Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will ride in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above. The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as "a wild, unfinished Yosemite." Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists.