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Kayaking Tracy Arm Fjord in Tongass National Forest.

Alaska's Inside Passage

Westbound - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard National Geographic Quest
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Discover a unique, immersive style of travel as you explore Southeast Alaska on this unrivaled expedition. The National Geographic Quest is fully equipped with tools for exploration that enable you to enjoy the magnificent landscapes of coastal Alaska. This voyage brings ample wildlife viewing opportunities including humpback whales, Steller sea lions, bald eagles, and more. Explore remote waterways by Zodiac or kayak for unparalleled views of the coastal landscape. Take a hike for an up close exploration of the coastal forest. This itinerary offers optional activities each day!
Brown Bear sow with cubs fishing for pink salmon.Alaskan zodiac iceberg tour.Three Killer Whales swimming side by side.Humpback whale in Alaska.Kayaking Tracy Arm Fjord in Tongass National Forest.
Highlights
  • Enjoy unique encounters with iconic wildlife such as brown bears and orcas
  • Visit Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular glacially carved fjords
  • Explore Southeast Alaska's ecosystem & the muskeg with carnivorous plants
  • Hike, kayak, and search for whales in the rich waters of Icy Strait
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Juneau, Alaska | Embark

Arrive in Juneau, the capital of Alaska, nestled at the base of the scenic Mt. Roberts. As one of only two U.S. state capitals inaccessible by road, Juneau is a unique destination surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.

Arrival Time: Arrive by 3:00 p.m. local time.

Day 2: Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Explore the remote wilderness of southeast Alaska with a special use permit in the Tongass National Forest. Voyage through Tracy or Endicott Arm, where towering fjords feature cascading waterfalls and glacially carved cliffs. Witness the majestic Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and cruise among sculpted icebergs in a Zodiac for an unforgettable view. Along the way, watch for harbor seals, harbor porpoises, and Arctic terns in their natural habitat.

Day 3: Petersburg

Visit the small, true Alaska fishing town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, which still retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaska ecosystem, the muskeg, with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. This evening, enjoy a crab feast.

Day 4: Frederick Sound | Chatham Strait

These waters are prime areas for both orca and humpback whales. With luck, guests may observe their fascinating behavior—breaching, tail-slapping and variations on feeding—as you listen to the play-by-play from your expert naturalists. Explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, you have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up-close exploration.

Day 5: Icy Strait | Inian Islands

Explore among the Inian Islands, a busy feeding ground for myriad wildlife species, including Steller sea lions and sea otters. Search for marine mammals in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around Chichagof Island to hike where sightings of bald eagles are common.

Day 6: Glacier Bay National Park

Spend the entire day amid the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers, and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. Witness glaciers that end abruptly at the water's edge and observe them calving, when tons of ice separate and crash into the water, accompanied by a thunderous sound. Mountain goats scaling the peaks, as well as harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and puffins, are some of the creatures you may observe. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of brown bears lumbering up the hillside.

Day 7: Southeast Alaska's Islands, Bays and Fjords

Today, nature is your guide as you set forth with the flexibility to take advantage of wildlife and weather conditions. You might stop at an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, and hike stunning forest trails. Keep an eye out for old bear tracks worn into the soil as you move from forest to meadow. Sightings of bald eagles are common. If conditions permit, you'll have the opportunity to do some kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life.

Day 8: Sitka | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark in Sitka and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Departure Time: After 1:00 p.m. local time.

Ship/Hotel

National Geographic Quest

National Geographic Quest
Lounge aboard National Geographic Quest

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Apr 9, 2025from $4,350
  • Apr 19, 2025from $4,350
  • May 7, 2025from $4,350
  • May 28, 2025from $4,350
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  • Nov 26, 2025from $4,350
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  • Dec 24, 2025from $4,350
  • Jan 3, 2026from $4,650
  • Jan 17, 2026from $4,650
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  • Feb 28, 2026from $4,650
  • Mar 14, 2026from $4,650
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  • May 16, 2026from $4,650
  • Jun 6, 2026from $4,650
  • Jun 27, 2026from $4,650
  • Jul 11, 2026from $4,650
  • Aug 1, 2026from $4,650
  • Aug 22, 2026from $4,650
  • Sep 5, 2026from $4,650
  • Sep 26, 2026from $4,650
  • Oct 10, 2026from $4,650
  • Oct 31, 2026from $4,650
  • Nov 21, 2026from $4,650
  • Dec 5, 2026from $4,650
  • Dec 22, 2026from $4,650
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Per person starting at
$4,350
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Select a Date
Category 1
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Select a Date
Category 2
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and two portholes. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
National Geographic Quest Cabin
Select a Date
Category 3
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, and a large view window. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
Select a Date
Category 4
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, sliding glass door, and small, private balcony. Individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available in cabin bathrooms, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.
National Geographic Quest Cabin
Select a Date
Category 5
Cabins feature two lower single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person. Each cabin has individual climate controls. Shampoo, lotion, and hair dryer are all available, as well as an Expedition Essential Kit.

Notes

Single supplement varies by itinerary. A solo traveler matching program may be available, but is subject to availability. 



Rates are capacity-controlled and are subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Assistance by the onboard National Geographic Photography Expert
  • Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet) 
  • Beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits are available aboard the ship. Additionally, a selection of super premium wines and liquors is offered for purchase.
  • Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media.
  • Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes
  • Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary 
  • Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear
  • Guidance and company of leading expedition staff
  • All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
  • 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water
  • Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations
  • The services of a physician, physician’s assistant, nurse practitioner, or paramedic  where available
  • Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available
  • 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces 
  • Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic certified photo instructor
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Crew gratuities
  • Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, Wi-Fi and phone services (except when indicated as included)
  • We strongly recommend our guests to take Travel Protection Plan. A Plan with comprehensive coverage to protect you from cancellation fees, costs incurred due to trip delays/interruption, damaged or lost baggage, medical assistance, and evacuation during your travels
  • Airfare (except flights when indicated as included), pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers (except when indicated as included)
  • Travel protection plans and passport, visa, and immigration fees 
  • Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
  • Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
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