Alaska Epic Escape: Complete Inside Passage

Arrive in Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of forested slopes on Revillagigedo Island. Known as the “salmon capital of the world," it's famous for colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Embark the ship<i> </i>in time for cocktails and an introduction to the staff and crew.<b>Arrival Time: </b>Arrive by 3:00 p.m. local time.<br /><b>Arrival City: </b>Ketchikan, Alaska

Wake up this morning to catch the sunrise over the stunning cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument, rising more than 2,000 feet above the deep blue waters of the fjord. Watch wisps of cloud drift down the winding waterway and drape over green peaks as you cruise through the mists that give this extraordinary landscape its name. Set out by Zodiac and kayak to get close to the forested banks and the many dramatic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. 

This morning, arrive in the small town of Wrangell. The Tlingit and their ancestors have made this island their home for thousands of years. Take an optional jet boat journey up the Stikine River or explore the town, including a visit to Chief Shakes Tribal House and Petroglyph Beach, home to ancient rock carvings. This afternoon, cruise Eastern Passage and Blake Channel, narrow waterways on the backside of Wrangell Island where other ships rarely venture. <i>On select departures, choose an optional day trip to Anan Creek Bear Observatory to witness black and brown bears feasting on salmon runs (additional $390 per person). Speak with your expedition specialist for details.</i>

Navigate the stunning Wrangell Narrows, an area inaccessible to larger ships, and then cruise into the Sumner Strait, keeping watch for orcas and humpback whales surfacing and sea otters gliding through the clear water around the ship. Explore the coast by kayak or Zodiac and go ashore to trace bear trails through forests intersected by crystalline salmon streams. Along the way, learn about the rainforest ecosystem from your naturalists. Fix your binoculars on the banks to search for Sitka black-tailed deer and moose as well as black bears, wolves and bald eagles that frequent the shoreline in search of plentiful salmon. 

Today, you'll explore either LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm. These areas feature some of the most active glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Icebergs regularly break off from glaciers, getting caught in shallow moraines and along the shorelines as they float out of the bay. Your experienced captain will evaluate the underwater moraine outside of LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, where you'll set out by Zodiac to navigate among these surreal floating sculptures. Take advantage of spectacular photographic opportunities, practicing tricks and tips from your certified photo instructor.

Spend the day in Juneau, Alaska's capital city—one of only two U.S. capitals inaccessible by car. Explore the city independently with an all-day Mt. Roberts tram ticket for panoramic views. Today marks a transition, as some guests conclude their voyage while others embark to begin their adventure. <i>Note: some staff may rotate, bringing fresh energy and expertise for the journey ahead.</i> 

Wake up in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness. Cruise through this glacier-sculpted fjord, then set out to explore by Zodiac. View the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close—and keep an eye out for the dramatic sight of huge slabs of ice breaking off and crashing into the water below. If conditions permit, paddle a kayak below the steep walls of the fjord.

A paradise for adventure seekers, Haines offers the chance to cycle along the edge of a glacial fjord, go fly fishing for salmon and Dolly Varden trout, or choose from an array of world-class hikes. Other options include a visit to the ancient Tlingit village of Klukwan for a dance demonstration and cultural interpretation before rafting down the Chilkat River. This day brims with options.

Spend today searching for wildlife in nutrient-rich waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Inside Passage. Options include a Zodiac cruise among the Inian Islands, home to a sizeable population of Steller sea lions; kayaking in the protected coves of Chichagof Island; or hiking in lush temperate rain forest where bald eagles dot the canopies.

Explore the breathtaking bays of Baranof or Chichagof. Both islands are part of the ancient Tongass National Forest. Chichagof harbors one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world, and both islands are home to diverse wildlife. Kayak or paddleboard along rugged coastlines and go hiking through the temperate rainforest, listening for bald eagles calling out from the tops of towering spruce and hemlock trees.

Disembark in Sitka and transfer to the airport for flights home. Situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Sitka is known for its Tlingit culture and remnants of its Russian heritage which date back to the 1800s.  <b>Departure Time: </b>After 1:00 p.m. local time.  <br /><b>Departure City: </b>Sitka, Alaska