2022-09-29
2025-01-01
from$ 15200 AUD
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Ship
National Geographic SeaBird & SeaLion
National Geographic SeaBird & SeaLion
City
Seattle to Sitka
Seattle to Sitka
Special Offers
2022-09-29
2025-01-01
Overview
Embark on a 15-day adventure between Sitka, Alaska and Seattle, Washington exploring three of the most appealing wild regions in the Pacific Northwest: Alaska’s Inside Passage, coastal British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii. You’ll sail into mist-shrouded fjords and past crashing glaciers, see brown bears stalking shores, and eagles flying. And in Haida Gwaii you’ll meet artisans and experience the resonance of their cultural heritage and artwork. With our special access to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site, you’ll see ancient village sites, and the endemic species that make Haida Gwaii the “Canadian Galápagos.”
Departures
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive in Seattle this afternoon and embark the ship. (D)
Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia—which runs between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island—and search for some of the many marine mammals that inhabit these waters. (B,L,D)
Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, where we’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. (B,L,D)
Head northward along the untouched coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the many bays and inlets. (B,L,D daily)
With very special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve & Haida Heritage Site. We will be joined by a Haida interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife, and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into the home of a local carver for a feast of traditional foods and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Center at Kay Llnagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and their renowned artwork, a spiritual endeavor. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay (Ninstints), and kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas. (B,L,D)
With special permission from the U.S. Forest Service, explore the forested backwaters of Misty Fjords National Monument and the Tongass National Forest by kayak or Zodiac. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or enjoy an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm—both spectacular fjords that harbor orcas, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a Zodiac cruise for unparalleled views of sculpted iridescent icebergs. (B,L,D)
By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A national park ranger joins us to interpret the area geology and ecosystems, and a native Tlingit interpreter will share the lore and legend of the area. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, we’ll lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications. Enjoy a farewell dinner on our final night. (B,L,D)
See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center. (B)
All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.
National Geographic SeaBird & SeaLion
Vessel Type: Comfortable Expedition Length: 52 metres Passenger Capacity: 62 (in twin cabins) Built: 1982 / Refurbished 2015 Twin Expedition ships, National Geographic Sea Bird & Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to their small size, yet each can comfortably accommodate 62 guests. The feeling, is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. Accessibility means freedom. Our captains have decades of sailing experience in the regions we explore. They know when and where to navigate so that you feel the places we visit are all ours. Full interior renovations have been completed on these twin 62-guest ships, National Geographic Sea Lion and National Geographic Sea Bird. The extensive renovation to guest cabins, the lounge and bar, dining room, public areas and spa has transformed the ships to provide the ultimate in expedition hospitality and comfort. Nothing has been left untouched, from the sleekly framed wall photos, to the fresh paint, and new carpets throughout the ships. - The lounge and bar have been completely redesigned and reconfigured to provide an open, enhanced environment with additional seating and better flow. The modern design features new tables and chairs, upholstery of settees, overhead ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The lounge also hosts a new food & beverage area, library, and Global Market. - The dining room’s upgrade features all new tables, chairs, ceiling panels, and LED dimmable lighting. The wine bar has been replaced and features a display showcasing selections from the regions explored. - Every cabin has been completely redone and all furnishings have been replaced. Modern aged cherry bed boxes, faux leather headboards, Lindblad signature bed linens, new windows, lighting, and additional USB outlets provide a dramatic makeover for a relaxing guest experience. Bathrooms now feature new shower doors and all new hardware. - Exterior renovations include new deck furniture and outdoor awning.
Highlights
• Sail deep into the fjords and narrow, wildlife-rich channels • Encounter abundant and varied wildlife; spend time observing them • Enjoy privileged access to Haida Gwaii, the ancestral home of the Haida people, which contains Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the first ship with over 22 guests permitted in 20 years) • Shoot with and learn from a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor • Experience the surprisingly colorful undersea through video shot by our undersea specialist on every expedition • Benefit from our 30+ years of experience and relationships in Alaska to see all you came for & more
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