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Kruzof Explorer
Sitka to Yakutat
Overview
The sea, rivers, forests, and shorelines were teeming with wildlife and vegetation, providing an abundance of all the necessities of life. Villages were established in strategic locations for trade, security, and food. Eventually, nations around the world heard whispers of the remarkable region and explorers from all walks of life sailed to the area, drawn by the allure of rich natural resources. Fur traders sought valuable pelts – most notably the prized pelt of the sea otter. Fishermen devised methods of harvesting the vast resources of salmon, halibut, king crab, and other species. Others followed dreams of striking it rich in the gold fields, or of frontier lifestyles in floating timber camps. Once such adventurous spirits experienced a taste of Alaska they often stayed, establishing small communities in the shadows of massive glaciers, along salmon-laden rivers, and unspoiled islands. Today, the communities of the Inside Passage are as diverse as her striking landscapes. Our all-inclusive, small-ship itineraries offer a mix of excursions in these intriguing towns and Native villages, and adventures in raw wilderness bays and glacial fjords. This approach offers travelers a comprehensive look at all the Inside Passage has to offer. Every Alaskan Dream Cruises experience is hand-picked for its value in immersing you in True Alaska. This itinerary has a special focus on bear viewing and photography. However, hallmarks of every Alaskan Dream Cruises experience, including glacier viewing, kayaking, hiking, and other wildlife viewing will also be enjoyed.
Departures
Cruise Itinerary
Explore beautiful Sitka, the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Visit fascinating sites that highlight the community's rich Alaska Native and Russian history on an exclusive tour guided by an Alaskan Dream Cruises expedition leader. Embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife.
Navigate the remote west coast of Chichagof Island in the West Chichagof-Yakobi Wilderness—a stretch of Southeast Alaska that few travelers have a chance to experience. The pristine coastline is adorned by miles of stunning cliffs, narrow passages, and towering rainforest. The vessel’s high-speed Zodiac and kayaks provide an opportunity for in-depth exploration of the region. In the evening, explore along the boardwalk “road” of Pelican, Alaska during a port call to this unique and charming community in Lisianski Strait.
Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Glacier Bay National Park. Highlights include South Marble Island—a nesting area for puffins, a myriad of other birds, and Steller sea lion haul-out; Gloomy Knob—a dramatic rocky outcropping known to be excellent mountain goat habitat; and the mighty Margerie Glacier—famous for spectacular displays of calving. During your park visit, keep an eye out for bears, wolves, moose, whales, and more.
Venture through the narrow entrance of Lituya Bay for exploration by Zodiac, kayak, and paddleboard. This bay has a fascinating history and is the site of one of Alaska’s most incredible tales. In 1958, a major earthquake in the area triggered a massive landslide, resulting in a “megatsunami.” The subsequent wave washed out trees and vegetation up to 1,720 feet in elevation. Astonishingly, a local fishing family safely “rode” the wave. After shooting skyward and looking down from the deck of their fishing vessel at the trees far below, they safely fell back to normal sea level. As you explore Lituya Bay, you’ll witness evidence of this catastrophic natural phenomenon.
Sail north along Southeast Alaska’s “outer coast,” enjoying the beautiful sight of the Gulf of Alaska to the west and the jagged peaks of the Fairweather Range, including several glaciers, to the east. Enjoy in-depth exploration of the untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife of Yakutat and Disenchantment bays. Cruise in comfort amidst beautiful icebergs en route to close-up views of the massive Hubbard Glacier--the largest tidewater glacier in North America. On a clear day in this temperate rainforest, you may even have the opportunity to view stunning Mount St. Elias, the second tallest peak in the United States. The Malaspina Glacier, a river of ice roughly the size of the state of Rhode Island, will also be in view.
Disembark in Yakutat, a small fishing community situated on a glacial moraine and set against an impressive mountain backdrop. Transport to the airport and/or lodging is complimentary. Yakutat receives flight service through Alaska Airlines
Itineraries are subject to change.
Kruzof Explorer
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 128 feet / 39 meters Passenger Capacity: 12 The Kruzof Explorer, a Bering Sea crab fishing boat turned premier expedition vessel, was constructed to be among the toughest hulls on the planet, capable of exploring remote areas and bodies of water where few venture. The unparalleled seaworthiness and performance, coupled with modern renovations and elegant furnishings results in a craft that stands alone in its expedition capabilities. The vessel carries a sport fishing vessel, high-speed Zodiac, kayaks, and paddleboards. The vessel's five-ton crane, which once hauled king crab pots, easily handles loading and unloading of these expedition craft.
Highlights
• Enjoy West Chichagof Island/Pelican • Explore Glacier Bay National Park • Discover Yakutat Bay/Disenchantment Bay & Hubbard Glacier
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