Explore beautiful Sitka, the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Visit fascinating historical sites that highlight the community’s rich Alaska Native and Russian history, including the Sheldon Jackson Museum, Russian Bishop’s House, and St. Michael’s Cathedral. Embark the Chichagof Dream for the winding narrows north of town while spotting for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife.

Enjoy kayak and DIB (shallow water expedition craft) exploration in northern Kuiu Island’s Saginaw Bay. Beach comb or hike along the beautiful secluded coastline of the area, where marine fossils are sometimes found. View the world’s tallest totem pole and a carving demonstration, and experience the intriguing culture of the Tlingit in the Native village of Kake.

Discover the charming Mitkof Island fishing town of Petersburg. Founded by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1800s, Petersburg is nicknamed Alaska’s “Little Norway.” Experience this Scandinavian culture with a folk dance show by local youth at the iconic Sons of Norway Hall. Later, enjoy a narrated bus tour and take time to explore the vibrant community at your own leisure.

Scout for humpback whales and other marine mammals in the world-renowned whale waters of Frederick Sound. Humpbacks are famous for behavior that lends itself to incredible viewing and photography, such as tail lobbing, lunge feeding, pectoral slapping, breaching, and picturesque dives that showcase their massive flukes. Enjoy an exciting afternoon of Alaska adventure in a wilderness bay for DIB excursions, kayaking, and hiking. Some options include Thomas Bay, Port Houghton, or Hobart Bay.

Journey through Tracy Arm Fjord, an area the famous naturalist John Muir referred to as, “a wild, unfinished Yosemite.” This glacial fjord is renowned for its pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet. At 32 miles long and averaging just a mile wide, the unique features of Tracy Arm are contained in a relatively small geographical space, adding to the dramatic beauty of the area. As ice conditions permit, navigate the entire length of the arm, stopping in view of both the Sawyer and South Sawyer Glaciers. DIB excursions provide the opportunity to view the majesty of the area in even greater detail.

Savor the serenity of raw wilderness on an unscripted morning and afternoon of Southeast Alaska discovery. The options are countless, dictated by the day’s unique circumstances. Opportunities may include a coastline kayak paddle, up-close whale encounters, or a hike through an alluring old-growth forest. You may do a beach landing on an unspoiled shoreline to explore a tidal flat or track along with a foraging bear from the safety of your DIB. Regardless of the activity, experience the magic of the archipelago’s many remote coves, bays, and inlets. End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge, an exclusive day-lodge on Colt Island. Enjoy the beautiful grounds, beach, and marine life touch-tank. Dine on Alaskan salmon, Alaskan king crab, or prime rib from the warmth of the lodge, or nestled next to a beachside bonfire.

This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains eight tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide-array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions, and humpback whales. The highlight for many is the Margerie Glacier, known for its dramatic calving displays. A Glacier Bay National Park Service Ranger narrates the day’s program and a Native Huna Tlingit interpretive naturalist joins the expedition to reveal traditional cultural ties to this ancient treasure.

Disembark in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau. A transfer to the airport or your hotel is complimentary.