from$ 7710 AUD
Note: Current p/p indicative rate. Final price may change due to currency fluctuations.
Wilderness Explorer
Juneau to Juneau
Overview
Two days in Glacier Bay National Park offer an up-close look at glaciers, old-growth forests, and sea life. Hike remote coastlines and take in diverse birding at South Marble Island.
Departures
Cruise Itinerary
Arriving in Juneau, you will be transferred from the airport to our hospitality area. Upon boarding, your crew greets you with champagne and smiles. Set sail for a week of scenic channels and secluded wilderness. (D)
Just what you need, morning stretches on deck with your guide. Warm those hard-at-play muscles. You know firsthand conditions in Southeast change one inlet to the next. Your captain is at the helm and picks just the right spot. So many hidden pockets in the Tongass National Forest. Give your paddle board skills a glide. Watch for big-eyed harbor seals from a kayak. Bushwhack into the forest of giants. Your guides know the area’s history and keep it lively. (BLD)
The center of adventure. Tucked beneath snowcapped peaks, Haines has it all. Hiking, biking, rafting, and history. One thing’s for sure—the trails are irresistible. Go easy, or feel the burn—whatever your speed, the views reward in spades. Your expedition team shares the city’s captivating history. A trading outlet for Chilkat Tlingit, they called it “Dtehshuh”—the end of the trail. European explorers, the Klondike gold rush, a U.S. Army outpost—influences still apparent today. What holds your interest? Follow your curiosity on a self-led tour. (BLD)
Before you do anything, look out the window. From kelp-lined channels to hemlock and spruce forests, every inch of this far northwest corner is worth exploring. And if the tides are right, head out in the skiff with one of the guides for a closer exploration of the rugged shore. Seals and sea lions haul out on rocky outcroppings, resting before they disappear in the water to search for food. On the famed “George Island”, hike with a close-up opportunity for sea otters and a World War II cannon that sits in the wilderness today. Whatever you do—wilderness trekking, skiffing, or paddling—your expedition team guides the way. (BLD)
The tiny fishing community (75 year round residents) of Pelican plays host to sport fishermen and kayakers in the summer. Join your guide for a 6 mile hike on the Lisianski trail, or a 4-mile trek through old-growth forest and an historic mining area on Bohemia Basin. Take a skiff or kayak along the coast in search of brown bears, Sitka black-tail deer, whales, orca, sea lions, or rafts of sea otters. (BLD)
Your camera’s memory card needs plenty of room. South Marble Island is abuzz with activity. Rare sea birds, black oystercatchers, and orange-beaked tufted puffins can’t be missed. A colony of raucous sea lions adds to the hubbub. They add a distinct aroma to the air, too. Tucking into silent Tidal Inlet—the stomping grounds for bears, wolves, mountain goats, eagles—the backdrop is spectacular. At the end of the western-most arm of the bay sits Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers. And possible views of glacial calving. (BLD)
Remote passages offer more opportunities for you to search for the mighty humpback whale. Keep your binoculars at hand and watch for the misty spout of these gentle giants as they feed in the waters around you. Anchor in a remote Chichagof Island inlet. Backpacks loaded and adventure toys lowered (skiffs, paddle boards, kayaks), it’s time to go play. Stick to the water in a kayak excursion, and don’t forget to look above and below the surface. A nosy seal could be watching your every stroke. Beachcomb rocky shores. Tiny creatures cling to rocks. Tonight, it’s a festive Farewell Dinner. A “photo journal” of your trip by your expedition team is the cherry on top. (BLD)
Linger over breakfast this morning cruising into Juneau. Wish your crew and new friends goodbye. Then it’s off to the airport or begin your UnCruise hotel stay or land tour. (B)
Passport required (non USA citizens). Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.
Wilderness Explorer
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 186 feet Passenger Capacity: 76 guests Built: 1976, renovated in 2012 To complement the wild, natural surroundings, the interior of the 74-guest Wilderness Explorer has intentionally been designed with a Pacific Northwest feel including the nautical-themed main lounge. The open-seating format of the dining room and ample space on deck encourage guest-to-guest interaction on this small ship. This expedition vessel has three accessible decks; enjoy over-the-top views from the bow, watch sparkling stars from the upper deck hot tub, and relax in the sun lounge. The Wilderness Explorer is equipped for active adventure and is outfitted with kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, and yoga mats, a hydrophone for listening below the water, and a bow-mounted underwater camera for viewing in-water action. An EZ Dock launch platform allows for easy access into the water. Onboard wellness amenities include fitness equipment and hot tub. There are three cabin categories aboard the Wilderness Explorer: Trailblazer; Pathfinder; and Explorer. Explorer accommodates single and double accommodations. Common to all cabins are: Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; private bath with shower; view windows.
Highlights
• Glacier Bay National Park - active exploration in the outback • Maximum adventure ashore and afloat • Tidewater glaciers: Margerie and Grand Pacific • Haines - hiking, biking, kayaking, local brews/spirits, and history • Bushwhack and hike in old-growth forest and glacial outwash fields • Whales and wildlife - bears, sea lions, seals, porpoises, eagles • Birding at South Marble Island - puffins, oystercatchers, cormorants, and kittiwakes • Corner Bay, brown bear county and hikes. Stories of select logging by Alaskans.
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