Alaska's Inside Passage

Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.

Day 1

Sitka, Alaska / Embark Ship

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska. 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. Embark this evening in time for cocktails and an introduction to the staff and crew.Arrival Time: Arrive by 3:00 p.m. local time.
Arrival City: Sitka, Alaska

Day 2

Southeast Alaska's Islands, Bays & Fjords

Explore the wild and remote areas of southeast Alaska by special use permit with the Tongass National Forest.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 3

Icy Strait and the 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 4

Glacier Bay National Park

Spend a full day exploring the spectacular wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve*. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the dramatic landscapes that define Southeast Alaska—from towering mountains and deep fjords to pristine coastlines and diverse ecosystems. Gain insight on the natural history and geology, while keeping watch for wildlife.

**The following 2026 departures will not enter Glacier Bay National Park proper, but will instead actively explore its scenic outer bays by kayak, Zodiac or on foot: May 9, 16; Sep. 6, 12, 13, 19.

Day 5

Frederick Sound and 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 expert naturalists. Explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, you'll 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 6

Petersburg

Visit the small 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 7

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise in a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.

Day 8

Juneau, Alaska / Disembark Ship

Disembark in Juneau and transfer to the airport for flights home. Departure Time: After 10:30 a.m. local time.
Departure City: Juneau, Alaska

Ship

Your cruise ship

About this ship

National Geographic Venture

Purpose-built for exploring the wild coastlines of North America, the National Geographic Venture is a modern expedition ship that blends adventure-ready design with comfort and style. Launched in 2018 and measuring 238 feet in length, this nimble vessel accommodates just 100 guests—offering a spacious yet intimate platform for immersive travel in regions like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Baja California, and Central America.

The ship’s 50 outward-facing cabins are thoughtfully designed with large windows or sliding glass doors, en-suite bathrooms, and a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. Select cabins feature step-out balconies, ideal for private wildlife viewing or enjoying a quiet moment of reflection. Connecting and triple-occupancy rooms make the Venture a great option for families or small groups.

Life onboard is relaxed and enriching. Guests gather in the Expedition Lounge for expert-led presentations, photography talks, and daily briefings. The dining room serves locally inspired, sustainable cuisine with an open-seating layout that encourages conversation and camaraderie. The ship also features a well-equipped gym, a sundeck for scenic cruising, and a welcoming bar and library.

Outfitted with a full suite of exploration tools—including Zodiacs, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear, an undersea camera, and a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)—the Venture is designed to deliver close-up experiences with nature. Led by Lindblad’s renowned expedition team, guests enjoy expertly guided hikes, marine wildlife encounters, and cultural visits, all enhanced by the insights of naturalists, marine biologists, and a National Geographic-certified photo instructor.

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