OVERVIEW

This unique Alaska excursion explores the historical highlights of this former "Russian" capital city and includes a wildlife tour through the Alaska Raptor Center, a guided walk-through Sitka National Historical Park, and a visit to Fortress of the Bear. The Raptor Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. After your introduction to the center, time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window and gift shop. Guests can also stroll the outside deck habitat areas for an up-close look at bald eagles, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey in residence. Next, you'll visit the Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska", was fought. The park hosts totem lined trails, cultural exhibits, and carving rooms where Native Alaskan artisans demonstrate their totemic art form. The final stop is visiting the Fortress of the Bear, which allows you to get within 25 feet of Alaska’s brown and black bears in a naturalized setting. You will enjoy observing 3 populations of bears from a covered viewing platform and interact with an experienced naturalist.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Get an up-close look at a variety of birds of a prey at the Alaska Raptor Center.
• Photograph Alaskan brown and black bears up close at a rescue facility.
• Delve into the history of Sitka at a park that recounts the watershed Battle of 1804.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise the pristine waters off Sitka in search of marine life such as sea otters while listening to a naturalist elaborate on the most intriguing characteristics of the species. You may settle into a comfortable seat in the boat’s main cabin or remain topside on the observation deck. Either way, you will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sea. As you scan the waters for marine life, the naturalist will describe how humpback whales feed here in the summer and how animals such as sea otters now thrive. The animals were nearly extinct due to aggressive fur hunting in the early 1800s, and their comeback is a wonderful success story. Other creatures commonly spotted include sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals and a huge variety of seabirds. Puffins are particularly easy to identify because of their bright orange beaks.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scan the waters off Sitka for marine life such as whales and sea otters.
• Look along the shore for brown bears and skyward for bald eagles.
• Listen to the naturalist describe the animals’ unusual habits and habitats.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

OVERVIEW

Experience the ultimate treetop adventure and come away with a newfound confidence in your physical abilities, mental fortitude and sheer willpower to push yourself to new heights. These aerial ropes adventure involves traversing swinging ropes, balance bridges and daring climbs into the tree canopy while wearing a harness and using a smart belay system. An orientation and practice run on the ground will help prepare you for the fun and challenges that lie ahead. Afterwards, you will warm up on the easy Squirrel Course, move on to the moderate Fox Course and then pull yourself along a rope while hanging high above the forest floor on a Tyrolean Traverse. That’s the Bear Course. With your confidence now soaring, you will be ready for the high-flying Eagle Course, which ends in the treetops 50 feet above the ground. The descent will be just as exhilarating as you soar back to earth on an auto-descent device, called the “Eagle’s Flight”.

HIGHLIGHTS

• These aerial ropes adventure will have you swinging, scrambling, and climbing through multiple elements.
• Climb high into the tree canopy by negotiating a series of aerial ropes courses.
• Prepare for the ultimate challenge by warming up on easier aerial ropes courses.
• Enjoy literal bird’s-eye views of the forest from high above.
• Gain newfound confidence in your abilities to meet new challenges.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Delve into the gastronomy of Sitka, which reflects the rich heritage of this city once known as the “Paris of the Pacific" As the second largest exporter of seafood in the state with a rich history of diverse cultures, Sitka has become a mecca for the culinary arts. Sitka’s breweries use the local naturally filtered glacial water to produce their hand-crafted beers, several of which you will sample at a popular tap room. Similarly, during a tasting of Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company, you will discover how the salt extracted from the local waters is used in various foods, chocolates, sauces and seasonings. The versatility of sea salt may surprise you. The restaurant Sitka Pelmeni serves Russia food that pays homage to the city’s past as the capital of Russian America. Pelmeni means “dumplings” in Russia so they are a likely choice for your sampling there. The guide will bring you to other venues for tastings that may include cod tips, reindeer hot dogs, ceviche and chowder, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Sample a variety of delicious seasonal foods and beverages unique to Sitka.
• Meet restaurateurs and food vendors and learn how their unique products are made.
• Enjoy a selection of craft beers made with glacial water at a local brewery.
• Discover the versatility of sea salt as a seasoning in foods and beverages.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Follow a nature trail through Sitka National Historical Park that showcases totem poles just like the ones that were exhibited at the 1904 World’s Fair. Created in 1910 to commemorate the Battle of 1804 between the Tlingits and the Russians, the forested park is Alaska’s oldest and is rich in history. During this self-guided walk, you will learn about the many ecosystems in the surrounding rainforest and the unusual tale of how Alaska’s first governor gathered the original totem poles to promote the state. The indigenous Tlingit people carved and painted the totems, which feature stylized human, animal and supernatural forms that are highly symbolic. Some of the totems honor important people or events, such as the Bicentennial Pole of 1976, which was carved under the direction of the park’s first Native American superintendent. When crossing the bridge over Indian Creek, you can see the salmon spawning during the months of mid-July into September. At the conclusion of the walk you’ll have the option to either enjoy the short walk along the waterfront back into downtown on your own or board again the motorcoach to be dropped off at Centennial Hall. From here, you can make your way back to the ship on your own via the free shuttle, which also departs from Centennial Hall.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meander along an easy trail lined with totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park.
• Gain an understanding of the symbolism and history of the hand-carved totem poles.
• Learn about the park’s creation and the flora and fauna that thrive in the rainforest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable adventure into Alaska’s stunning wilderness with a family-owned, Tlingit operated company. For over 50 years, we’ve proudly shared Southeast Alaska with guests from around the world. Cruise into the pristine waters off Juneau, an ideal area to spot humpback whales voraciously feeding to fatten up for their winter migration south. After settling into a spacious catamaran that has been specially designed with large windows for wildlife viewing, you will cruise into the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage. Against a majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist will describe the habits of the wildlife you may encounter, including humpback whales, the main attraction in these waters. Chances are, you will see these majestic creatures breaching the water’s surface and waving their flukes up and down as they dive for food. You may even spot the whales bubble-net feeding, a curious technique in which they force small fish upwards by blowing bubbles beneath them, which makes for easy feeding. Other frequently seen wildlife includes orcas, Stellar sea lions, Dall’s porpoise and bald eagles.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch humpback whales gorging on food at the water’s surface.
• Look for other marine creatures including orcas and harbor seals.
• Scan the shoreline for bears and Sitka blacktail deer.
• Listen to an onboard naturalist describe the animals’ behaviors.
• Explore with the locals. For over 50 years this tour operator has proudly shared Southeast Alaska with guests from all over.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles.

OVERVIEW

Follow an old logging road through the wilds of Tongass National Forest to a camp near Eureka Falls, where you can participate in all sorts of fun activities. Your group of no more than six hikers will take a scenic boat ride to Camp Coogan Bay, where you will have the option to stop at a Historic 1920’s era float house for rain gear, boots, and snacks. The woodlands adventure then begins in earnest as you will hike through dense forest, across a small stream and on to Eureka Falls and the Camp Coogan Bay Estuary. Eureka Falls is a beautiful cascade in America’s largest national forest and the Estuary offers views of eagles, wildlife, and salmon. Feel free to gather around the crackling fire at the campsite and cook hot dogs and make s’mores over the open flame. You could also pan for gold like the prospectors in the Gold Rush that began near Sitka in 1872. Be sure to keep an eye out for deer and bald eagles in the forest and for sea lions and otters while cruising.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Look for marine life on a scenic boat ride to and from Camp Coogan Bay.
• Hike through America’s largest national forest on an old logging road.
• Pan for gold, cook hot dogs over the campfire and admire the beauty of Eureka Falls.
• Enjoy a level of personal attention only possible in a small group of no more than six.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise along the shores of Sitka Sound on a custom-built expedition vessel and look for iconic Alaska wildlife on land and in the sea. The captain will determine the exact route based on the weather and tidal conditions, animal migration patterns and recent wildlife sightings. That way, your chances of seeing wildlife will be maximized. Whether you take a seat inside the vessel or find a prime spot out on the open deck, you will enjoy spectacular coastal views of the west side of Baranof Island, which was named for the first governor of Russian Alaska. Mount Edgecumbe, Sitka’s iconic dormant volcano, and Annahootz Mountain, named for a Tlingit chief, are some of the many majestic mountains that can be seen along the way. Commentary will describe the glacial and volcanic activity that created them and the surrounding landscape. Harbor Porpoise and sea otters are frequently spotted and at times humpback whales can be seen breaching the water’s surface. It is an unforgettable spectacle.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through pristine Sitka Sound on a sleek expedition vessel and take in the natural beauty.
• Look for whales, porpoise, sea otters and bald eagles soaring overhead.
• Hear enlightening commentary about the area’s history, geology and animal life.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Paddle a two-person kayak around the sheltered waters of Sitka Sound, an area teeming with wildlife. After an orientation and a few minutes to practice paddling, you will skirt along the stunningly beautiful coastline. The guide will lead the way and acquaint you with the marine environment. The backdrop of towering forest-blanketed mountains will be absolutely inspiring, If the weather is clear, you will see Mount Edgecumbe, a massive but dormant volcano that dominates Kruzof Island. While scanning the water’s surface, you may spot Stellar sea lions, harbor seals and porpoise. Humpback whales voraciously feed in the sound before migrating to Hawaii to breed and calve, and the sight of one breaching the water is a mesmerizing spectacle. Be sure to look skyward as bald eagles are commonly sighted.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Paddle a two-person kayak through the sheltered bays and inlets along Sitka Sound.
• Look for humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles.
&buEnjoy the inspiring scenery and, if the day is clear, the volcano Mount Edgecumbe.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Venture into the pristine wilds to look for iconic Alaskan animals such as humpback whales and grizzly bears in their natural habitats. Your adventure will begin aboard a whale-watching boat accompanied by a naturalist that will describe the creatures that you may soon observe. The nutrient-rich waters here are teeming with humpback whales that come to feed each summer before heading south to their breeding grounds. What a sight to watch these behemoths, which grow to about 50 feet long, as they breach the water’s surface and then dive down to feed again. Chances are, you will also catch sight of porpoises, sea lions and seals. After disembarking, you will drive deep into the remote Spasski River Valley to a raised observation platform to look for brown bears. Bald eagles and Sitka black-tailed deer are also commonly spotted here.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise waters teeming with humpback whales and watch them breaching the surface.
• Become familiar with the habits of humpback whales by listening to the onboard naturalist.
• Behold the glorious natural beauty in remote Spassky River Valley.
• Look for brown bears and other wildlife from the comfort of a raised platform.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in layers in case of cool temperatures.
• Wear flat comfortable water-resistant hiking shoes.
• Don’t forget binoculars and a camera.

OVERVIEW

Watch a film about bald eagles on a large high-definition screen, followed by a real-life encounter with raptors and the chance to see Alaska’s most iconic animals in the wild. The film will be shown in the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal on a 5-story high, 180° dome screen for an immersive experience that is as close to reality as possible. After the show, a professional raptor handler will bring in a real bird of prey and talk about its behavior and characteristics. It may be a peregrine falcon, a snowy owl or golden eagle as all reside at the nearby Alaska Raptor Center, which rehabilitates injured birds. You will then head outdoors for a leisurely hike in the Sitka National Historical Park. The trail is lined with colorful totem poles that the indigenous Tlingits carved and painted. Bald eagles are frequently spotted in the forest, preying on salmon in the river that you will cross there.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch a film about bald eagles on a high-def screen so large, the images appear lifelike.
• See a real bird of prey up close in the theater following the show.
• Keep an eye out for bald eagles while hiking in Sitka National Historical Park.
• Cross a river where bald eagles often prey on fish, especially spawning salmon.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Fish for salmon from the comfort of a 26-foot Hewescraft or a 28’ North River boat with all the bait and tackle you need for a successful outing on Sitka Sound. It won’t take long to reach these prime fishing grounds, so you can make the most of your half day on the water. To increase your chances of catching the salmon, the captain will offer valuable tips tailored to your fishing skills. Salmon are highly prized sportfish, so be prepared for a hard fight. You might reel in a coho salmon or a king salmon depending on the season, the largest and most powerful fighter in the sound. King and Coho salmon are both very tasty, so if you want your catch to be cleaned, vacuum-sealed and shipped to your home, it can be arranged.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend a full day fishing for hard-fighting salmon in Sitka Sound.
• Follow the captain’s tips to ensure the best chance of catching salmon.
• Enjoy the comfort and amenities of the boat, a 26-foot Hewescraft or 28’ North River.
• Ship your catch home if you choose.
• Enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and look for wildlife, which is abundant.
• Snacks, water, and soda are available on the boat.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles or rubber boots.
• A rain jacket is recommended