The unyielding forces of nature are on full display throughout Alaska’s Inside Passage. Mountains erode by the crushing force of massive glaciers, icebergs drift across aquamarine waters, and the life cycles of flora and fauna are compressed into the scant weeks of an arctic summer. During this expedition cruise, navigate narrow channels and waterways with skilled naturalists at your side—ready to encounter Alaska’s abundant wildlife, breathtaking peaks and fjords, and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions.
See the spray of whales only yards away and venture into secluded inlets as you get up close to nature, whether from the decks of the Chichagof Dream or aboard its skiffs and kayaks.
Accompanied by expert naturalists, including an Orbridge Expedition Leader, learn surprising details about animal behavior, glacier activity, and the wealth of natural spectacles along these protected waters.
This program also offers an optional pre-extension to Denali National Park. Explore this vast and stunningly beautiful wilderness—home to Mt. Denali, the highest mountain in North America. Ride the Alaska Railroad, stay in a hilltop lodge with panoramic views located inside the park, and learn how this magnificent area became one of our nation’s most breathtaking conservation areas.
Trip Itinerary:
July 1
Arrive in Juneau – Embarkation
Today, travel to Juneau from your home city or from Anchorage if you visited Denali National Park on the six-day Orbridge Pre-Tour.
For those arriving by the suggested time, join an included excursion to explore the Alaska State Museum—renovated in 2017. Peruse the museum's artifacts and art objects that tell the tale of Alaska's history. Then visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to view the fascinating glacial mass.
Afterward, take a short bus ride to the Chichagof Dream for embarkation. Enjoy your first dinner on board as you get to know your Expedition Leader, naturalists, crew, and travel companions.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (D)
July 2
Icy Strait / Chichagof Island
Relax on deck with your binoculars and a hot cup of cocoa as you sail through Icy Strait in search of wildlife, including orcas (killer whales), Steller sea lions, seals, porpoises, and magnificent humpback whales. Along the shore, perhaps catch sight of bald eagles in the treetops. Choose from activities like kayaking, skiff rides, and hiking.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 3
Glacier Bay National Park
Arrive in Glacier Bay National Park, where scientists have found exposed rock that's believed to be more than 200 million years old. While at Bartlett Cove, visit the park lodge and visitor center or participate in a guided forest walk. Meet a National Park Service Ranger and a Native Huna Tlingit Cultural Heritage Guide, who will come aboard and accompany you during your time in Glacier Bay National Park. Watch for puffins, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, mountain goats, bears, and eagles, and take in some of the most spectacular scenery in Alaska.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 4
Tracy Arm Fjord
This morning, experience Tracy Arm, a narrow fjord that winds through towering mountains and massive glaciers. Witness the “calving” of glaciers as gigantic chunks of ice break and crash into the water. Watch for harbor seals that often dot the ice floes and mountain goats on nearby perches. In the afternoon, if conditions permit, glide through and discover coves or bays by kayak or skiff, soaking in the splendor of some of the most untouched wilderness in the world.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 5
Petersburg / Frederick Sound
This morning, visit charming Petersburg, a fishing village founded by a Norwegian fisherman in the late 1800s. At the Sons of Norway Hall, see customary Norwegian dances and taste traditional home-made pastries and cookies. After lunch on board or in town, take a skiff across Wrangell Narrows for a beautiful hike on the Petersburg Creek Trail.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 6
Eastern Baranof Island / Hidden Falls
Experience a rare tour of the Hidden Falls Hatchery and learn about the release of Chinook, coho, and chum salmon fry and smolts, and the vital role fishing has played in Alaska for centuries. In the evening, share the day's adventures with your fellow travelers over dinner.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 7
Lake Eva
Spend the morning cruising to Lake Eva to kayak, take a guided hike, or join a skiff excursion. Recount your trip highlights with fellow travelers tonight during a Captain's Farewell Dinner.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)
July 8
Sitka – Disembarkation
Disembark this morning after breakfast. Take a complimentary shuttle to your accommodation if you reserved a post-night in Sitka or to the airport for your flight home or to join the Denali post-tour. (B)
Map:
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