Embark on a 7-night wildlife journey amid stunning landscapes. Encounter iconic wildlife on Admiralty Island, boasting the world’s highest brown bear concentration, Glacier Bay National Park teeming with marine life, and bird-rich South Marble Island.
This superb wildlife safari explores the authentic wilderness of Alaska, offering a glimpse into the natural wonders of Alaska's Glacier Country. Travel in comfort on your small expedition vessel, allowing you access to waters that are off-limits to larger vessels. Accommodating just 22 guests across 11 cabins, this ship offers an intimate and personalised voyage experience. With a variety of onboard amenities, you can spend time socialising in the dining room, wildlife-watching on deck, or relaxing in the on-deck hot tub.
Expect encounters with a plethora of iconic wildlife. Spend a full day exploring Admiralty Island, known locally as the "Fortress of the Bears", home to the highest concentration of brown (grizzly) bears in the world, with approximately one bear per square mile! You also spend a full day in Glacier Bay National Park and visit South Marble Island, a birder's paradise with numerous seabird species, including ground-nesting crested puffins, gulls, murrelets, loons, cormorants, jaegers, and phalaropes.
The nutrient-rich waters of this region create a thriving ecosystem, drawing an array of marine mammals. Several species of cetacean can be seen, including humpback, minke, and orca. It is possible to witness these majestic mammals displaying an array of behaviours, ranging from breaching to bubble-net feeding. On rocky outcrops and floating icebergs, seals and sea lions can often be seen basking in the sun. Your small group size allows for a flexible itinerary, maximising your chances of unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Daily excursions include shore landings, guided hikes, nature walks, and exploration by skiff (small, inflatable boats). You’ll also have opportunities to witness marine life beneath the surface on kayak or paddleboard excursions.
Prefer two day exploring Glacier Bay National Park? Consider our Whales & Glaciers Expedition.
Typical Itinerary
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Day 1:
Embark in Juneau
This afternoon, board your expedition vessel and set sail on your adventure through the picturesque channels and remote wilderness of Alaska's Inside Passage.
Accommodation: Safari Quest, 7-nights
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Day 2:
Icy Strait
Today, explore the secluded bays of Icy Strait. You may like to embark on a kayak excursion or perhaps opt for a skiff ride to observe playful sea lions on rocky outcrops. Alternatively, enjoy a guided forest hike. Tonight, sail into the magnificent
Glacier Bay National Park.
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Day 3:
Glacier Bay National Park
Today, discover the delights of Glacier Bay National Park. Visit the birder’s paradise of South Marble Island home to several species of seabird, including ground-nesting crested puffins, gulls, guillemots and bald eagles. Snoozing sea lions also add to the enchanting atmosphere. Later, cruise towards Johns Hopkins Inlet or Tarr Inlet, where colossal glaciers await. Against the backdrop of jagged glacier peaks, look out for bears and mountain goats foraging along the shore.
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Day 4:
Admiralty Island
Explore by kayak, skiff, and ship cruise along the intricate network of bays and islets today. Majestic brown bears and nesting bald eagles can be seen here. Revered by the Tlingit people as Kootznoowoo, meaning "Fortress of the Bear," Admiralty Island boasts a remarkable concentration of brown bears.
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Day 5:
Frederick Sound
Today, in these pristine waters, you might find yourself amidst a congregation of humpback whales feeding. Sail past Five Fingers Lighthouse, a historic beacon standing as Alaska's oldest light station, and observe sea lions basking on the rocky outcrops. Whether you opt to paddle into the depths of Port Houghton or Windham Bay or embark on a hike, expect to be greeted by charming black oystercatchers.
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Day 6:
Windham Bay & Stephens Passage
Navigate through the scenic Wyndham Bay and Stephens Passage. Majestic humpback whales and striking orcas are frequently seen in this region. A misty spout on the horizon is a signal of their nearby presence. Today you can choose a leisurely kayak excursion, paddling along the shoreline while spotting sea stars and coastal birds, or if you're eager for a more challenging endeavour, kayak towards the salt chuck at the end of the inlet. Alternatively, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Tongass National Forest with a guided hike amidst cascading waterfalls.
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Day 7:
Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier
If the tides align, venture into the awe-inspiring Fords Terror, where the towering walls of this narrow passage are adorned with cascading waterfalls. Back in the arm, the highlight of Dawes Glacier awaits. Witness vibrant blue ice descending majestically from the towering mountains and cruise past harbour seals basking on ice floes. This evening, enjoy a Captain's dinner and post-dinner cocktails.
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Day 8:
Disembark in Juneau
After breakfast, bid farewell and disembark in Juneau.
Please note: Exact itinerary and duration will depend on your chosen vessel, departure date and local conditions.
LUXURY VESSEL
