Ah, the Emerald City! Upon checking in at the hospitality center, guests can later board their ship and settle in. Depending on the vessel, departure is from Downtown Seattle, cruising along the city’s picturesque waterfront, or from Fishermen’s Terminal with transit through historic Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, where there is a 20-foot drop into the Salish Sea. Farewell, Seattle.

Sculpted sandstone formations, lush trails, and emerald waters make this a very special and magical island. Only available by boat, earn bragging rights by visiting this jewel of the Pacific Northwest.

Mountains rise higher. Fjords get deeper. A day of intricate waterways and cruising for critters unfolds, keeping watch for black bears on shore, including the elusive spirit bear. Civilization slips away as the journey enters remote waters leading north through British Columbia. Surf-happy dolphins and porpoise often catch a ride on the bow wave. The captain and crew are on the lookout and provide the call of a sighting. A waterfall and an old abandoned cannery come into view - that’s Butedale. Take a moment to slow down and absorb everything as forested fjords roll by. The expedition team aims to entertain and educate over the next days, being ready with natural history, Native influences, and their favorite trivia games as well.

Take a cup of joe to the bow. The world wakes up with the scenery. Bald eagles watch the ship along its course from tree tops. Islands lie to the west, inlet-etched mainland to the east. The captain and mates navigate twisting passages. Harbor seals spend their days on rocky islets. Breathe in the fresh air and absorb miles of forested wilderness. In the lounge, the bartender mixes up the daily special. Take the challenge and play a few friendly hands of cards with a shipmate.

Today, sailing takes you through the northern-most portion of Canada's wild Inside Passage and into Alaska's. The bridge is an ideal spot to look for whales and other wildlife. Discover what the crew has planned for the day. Perhaps there's a cooking or cocktail demonstration or a galley tour. Alternatively, you might have the opportunity to learn more about navigation from the crew and practice tying knots. Anticipation builds as the Alaska portion of the adventure begins tomorrow.

Certain places on the planet have an overwhelming effect. This is one of those locations. The beauty, peace, and strong sense of place envelop you. Misty Fjords National Monument encompasses nearly every ecosystem present in Southeast Alaska, and that alone presents a lot to contemplate. Glacial valleys filled with sea water and sheer 3,000-foot cliffs define the landscape. Various sea birds, brown and black bears, mountain goats, and Sitka black-tailed deer all find a secure haven here. Kayaking in Walker Cove or Rudyerd Bay reveals that paddling and moving are just as effortless as sitting, floating, and absorbing everything. Alternatively, skiffing to the base of a waterfall allows for a refreshing fjord-released shower. The area's affectionate nickname, "The Yosemite of the North," is certainly well-deserved.

In Ketchikan, connect with the Tlingit Culture. Tribal leader and local legend Joe Williams, known as Ka Xesh X’e in his native language, guides you on a walking tour. With a rich oral tradition, the Tlingit passed stories from generation to generation—and Joe’s storytelling is captivating! Amble through the surrounding forest on a moderate to easy trail or challenge yourself to a hard-charger hike along trails and boardwalks past cedar, spruce, streams, and waterfalls.

When you come this far, you’ll want to keep going. This is the way back - backcountry of Alaska’s wilderness seldom seen. Glacial landscapes marked by moraines, mud and a lush Forest. This day is for you to choose your own adventure: kayak or even paddle board in calm protected waters, hike to find a snow-melt waterfall in Cascade Creek. Whatever you decide, you’ll definitely have bragging rights when you return home.

Spend some time on the bow as you glide through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. Then anchor for more activities. Time to lower the kayaks and skiffs and get up close and personal with a sea otter or wildlife watching from your kayak. Camera in hand, set off on land and sea explorations. Closer inspection by skiff, moss-dripping trees run right down to the water. Any bears in there? With one of the world’s largest populations of bears, it’s possible. Go searching for giant trees and tidal pools. Hiking in the Tongass, it won’t take long to find them. Your eagle-eyed guides lead the pack—and pull up the rear.

Bull whip kelp threads through nearby channels like deep, twisted mangroves. And you know better, but orange and purple starfish and jellyfish make it hard to believe you’re not in the tropics. Follow the currents out to where the sea lions flock to remote rock formations. Your captain is on the bridge, the expedition team on deck, and all eyes are on the water and the shore. Everyone is on-watch for the telltale blow of humpbacks. Come closer to the shoreline by skiff, kayak, or on foot. Sometimes the smallest things are the biggest wonders. Take in the evening solitude from the bow, or the hot tub. Or both—why choose just one?

A cool factor exists beyond just the glaciers' appearance. Encompassing 3.3 million acres, this park was under ice until 1795. Since then, glacier recession has opened access to inner areas. Onboard naturalists provide insights into glacial history and wildlife, while South Marble Island hosts nesting spots for various birds and Steller's sea lions. Explore Muir's legacy, from Taylor Bay to Grand Pacific and Margerie Glaciers. Keep an eye out for wildlife in Dundas Bay. Kayak, hike, or join the Farewell Dinner tonight, followed by an expedition team slideshow.

Transfer to the Juneau airport or commence the UnCruise overnight stay, or proceed with an extended land tour for your ongoing adventure.