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.

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.

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.

Here's an opportunity to experience world-class fishing in the abundant waters of the Pacific Ocean along the famed Inside Passage of Alaska. See spectacular scenery and protected nearby calm waters while fishing for a multitude of sought after species including, salmon and halibut. You will fish "Captain's Choice" for the best chance to catch based on what "fishy" news the Captain has been hearing and partly, depending on the season. A major difference with fishing in this area is the normally short distance to the fishing grounds. A quick boat ride will ensure that you will spend most of your time actually fishing rather than just getting there. Adventure awaits you the minute you arrive! Your experienced, licensed captain and guide will greet you as you disembark the ship and see to your needs whether you are a seasoned angler or experiencing this renowned fishing for the first time. Your catch can be professionally processed and shipped to your home for an additional fee. The purchase of fishing licenses and tags onboard is available for your convenience and to optimize your fishing time. Beverages are available on board. Fishing gear, tackle and bait are provided. Bring home a fishing memory that will last a lifetime. Please note : Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and be prepared to get wet if landing a fish. The ramp to and from the boat may be steep depending on tidal conditions. Guests must purchase a Fishing License at the dock. The license is $40 per person, must be paid for in cash and guests must have ID with them.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Haines is known for its wildlife and stunning natural surroundings. This small-group tour is for every type of photographer - from those who have a professional-level camera to those who primarily use their Smart Phone. Either way, you'll learn how to take better photos. Your professional photographer guide will select the best locations to find the most dramatic light and wildlife activity. Composition tips, camera settings and how to take advantage of available light are discussed, along with how to predict wildlife behavior. Bald eagles are commonly seen and, depending on the time of year, brown bears can sometimes be found feeding on salmon along the Chilkoot River. This tour will go through prime wildlife habitat, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The small-group nature of the tour will allow the guide to spend time with each participant, ensuring you will come away with ideas and goals for your future photography. Please note : This tour requires a minimal amount of walking; however, guests must be able to embark/disembark the vehicles via steps. It is not recommended for guests who utilize a wheelchair. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring rain gear and your camera equipment. Observing bear and other wildlife is the goal but cannot be guaranteed.

Meet your naturalist guide for a small-group driving tour (14 guests maximum) to scenic and wildlife-rich Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all: a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Depending on the season, bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears can be seen here. As you drive through the park, your guide knows the best places to stop for scenery and the possibility of wildlife spotting. Bald eagles nest here and are commonly seen perched in the trees above the river and soaring overhead. Beginning in August, brown bears amble down to the riverbanks to feed on salmon. Supplied with extra binoculars and a powerful spotting scope to bring the wildlife in close, your guide explains how the animals fit into the Chilkoot's complex ecosystem. May, June, and July feature an explosion of wildflowers with bald eagles nesting along the lush river. Beginning in August, pink salmon-the smallest and most abundant of the Pacific salmon varieties-begin their run up the Chilkoot River to spawn. This is the best opportunity to see brown bear as they are often witnessed feeding along the banks of the river. Make sure to bring your camera to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities. Please note: Dress in warm, dry layers and wear closed-toed shoes. This tour goes through prime wildlife habitat, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.

Treat yourself to an exclusive rafting and scenic drive through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Begin with a riverside drive along the Haines Highway. The drive is incredibly scenic: glacier-clad mountains thrust to the sky, colorful wildflowers line the road, green riverside channels provide habitat for moose, bear and trumpeter swans. The highway was declared a National Scenic Byway in 2009. Arrive at the river in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, approximately 40 minutes away. Board your raft and enjoy a scenic float down the Chilkat River through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. You will be immersed in the Alaskan wilderness, floating the silent river. Paddling is not required, as your expert guide will push the raft along, leaving your hands free for your binoculars or camera. Along the way, your guide will interpret the natural history of the area, and share some exciting stories from life in the Alaskan wilderness. You will learn to spot bald eagles and gain an appreciation for the challenges that bald eagles face to survive. Early in the summer, resident eagles are often seen coming and going from their nest to feed their young. As the summer continues and the river fills with salmon, more and more eagles arrive to feed. Please note : This tour goes through prime Bald Eagle habitat, however, eagle sightings are not guaranteed. This tour includes a copy of Where Eagles Gather: The Story of The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines, Alaska.

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the true Alaskan Wilderness as you travel about 25 miles of the Chilkat River System , exploring the different channels that this unique, braided river system offers. Watch for wildlife as they are frequently sighted during the river tour. The flat bottom river boats are designed specifically to traverse the narrow and sometimes shallow, channels, which is the only way to explore this road-less portion of the Bald Eagle Preserve. This tour is well known for moose and bear sightings , although not a guarantee, wildlife sightings are quite frequent. The tour will take off from private property, so all the amenities are available for you to feel comfortable and right at home while the friendly staff will prepare your meal . Sit around the crackling fire and enjoy the clean fresh air and beauty that surrounds you. You will come away with a greater appreciation of the wilderness and the people who call this "last frontier" their home. Your tour will begin at the pier where your ship is docked, with a 30-minute bus ride into the heart of the Bald Eagle Preserve on the Haines Scenic Byway. Where the road ends, your adventure begins. Please note : Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Bring your camera and/or binoculars. Life jackets will be provided. The boats are open air so ponchos and waterproof blankets will be provided.

Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at the dock in Haines. A scenic 26-mile drive along the National Scenic Byway and through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve will bring you to a remote staging area. At the staging area, you'll receive an orientation and safety briefing on the Arctic Cat and Kawasaki side-by-side ATVs from your guides. Guests wishing to drive must be at least 21 years old and bring a valid driver's license. There are a combination of 2-person and 4-person machines to accommodate varying group sizes and families. There will be several spots along the tour where you can swap drivers to give everyone some time at the wheel. The ATVs are automatic transmission and drive similar to a car for ease of operation. These high performance ATVs are fun to drive and a great way to explore the Alaska wilderness. Over the next 12 miles of gravel road, your guide will lead you through a series of remote areas, and you'll explore the wilds of Alaska! As you drive along beaver ponds and mountain meadows you may spot swans, salmon, eagles, bears or moose along the way. You'll cross over Little Salmon Creek and ascend to a series of viewpoints overlooking the Klehini, Tsirku and Chilkat River Valleys . From your high point, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch while you bask in the surrounding mountain views. After lunch, descend the mountain and make your way back to the private staging area before returning by bus back to Haines. Please note : Dress in warm, dry layers and wear closed-toed shoes. You will be provided with a helmet, goggles and a rain poncho.

Haines, Alaska is where two important rivers, the Chilkat and Chilkoot, meet the sea. This small town (2,500 residents) is located on a peninsula flanked by mountain ranges and these two glacial-fed rivers. This 2.25-hour small group (14 guests maximum) tour provides a chance to get to know both important rivers. Start with a short drive through Historic Ft. Seward and make your way to the Pyramid Island Lookout. This wide delta is where the braided Chilkat River drops tons of glacial silt every day into the ocean. Continue along the edge of the salt water to the Letnikof Cove Cannery Lookout. Here, the Rainbow Glacier and Chilkat Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the red buildings of this historic salmon cannery. You'll retrace your steps back towards downtown Haines and travel in the opposite direction to the mouth of the Chilkoot River. The road winds along the salt water. Keep your eyes open for birds like surf scoters and marine mammals like harbor seals. Your next stop will be where the Chilkoot River flows into the sea. This is a peaceful location where "all things Alaskan" come together- the river, the ocean, the mountains, and the forest. Bald eagles are often spotted here soaring and calling to each other above the spruce trees. Return to Haines with a final stop at Picture Point, where you can photograph your ship with the iconic white buildings of Historic Ft. Seward and the Chilkat Mountain behind. Please note : Wear layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Cameras and or binoculars are suggested but are optional.

The White Pass Railroad offers a unique 40-mile vintage train ride that climbs from Skagway to the summit of White Pass with an elevation of 2,865 feet. You will begin your journey with a 30-45 minute boat ride via fast ferry from Haines to Skagway. Once in Skagway you'll begin your experience onboard one of the yellow 1927 sightseeing buses belonging to the "oldest sightseeing company in Alaska." Founded in 1923 by former Klondike stampeder, Martin Itjen, your costumed conductor passes on a century of Skagway history, behind the scenes tales, and stories of life in small town Alaska. You'll explore the waterfront, National Park Historic District and Skagway's residential area, famous for its flower gardens. Arriving at the railway depot, you'll board a vintage railcar for your trip aboard the world famous White Pass & Yukon Railroad, retracing the original route of the Klondike Stampeders while enjoying a breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. This narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. It shares this honor with the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty, and is truly a world wonder. Upon arrival at Fraser, B.C., you'll travel back to Skagway via the Klondike Highway by mini-bus. There will be plenty of photo stops along the way. Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your original passport, camera, and binoculars. Duration of the entire tour is approximately 8 hours; this includes the transfer time on the fast ferry, which is approximately 45 minutes each way and allows free time in Skagway. The tour might run in reverse order.