EXPLORING ALASKA'S COASTAL WILDERNESS
May 31, 2009

Journey with us to Southeast Alaska, a land of humpback whales, soaring bald eagles, thundering glaciers, pristine islands and dramatic fjords. As we explore Alaska’s majestic Inside Passage, we’ll walk among magnificent spruce forests, explore the picturesque coves of Baranof Island, view up-close the spectacular waterfalls and sheer granite walls of Tracy Arm fjord, and see local communities indelibly linked to the history of this region. Experience firsthand the Alaska most people bypass when they travel on large cruise ships. Plus, traveling now provides even greater rewards: take advantage of our round-trip complimentary airfare between Seattle and Alaska.

Aboard the comfortable, 62-guest expedition ship, Sea Bird, we’ll experience the freedom that only a small ship can provide — the freedom to be flexible, permitting us to follow a pod of humpback or orca whales or to go ashore and examine the flora of a particular cove. From the unique vantage of sea kayaks and motorized Zodiac landing craft, you’ll observe Alaska up close and land to explore remote islands. The Sea Bird is equipped to bring the underwater realm to you in a fascinating, close up way. The hydrophone will be lowered into the water to allow us to hear live vocalizations of whales. The video microscope will transmit microscopic images to monitors in the ship’s lounge and allow us to view an otherwise largely unnoticed world.

You’ll be in good company with a group of like-minded travelers interested in adventure and discovery and accompanied by a team of dedicated Naturalists who tell you about the wildlife, plants, native cultures and history of this region. They’ll answer your questions and help you make the most of your journey. And you’ll travel informally. A good pair of walking shoes, binoculars, a camera and a sense of spontaneity and fun are the basic gear you’ll need.

Search for whales, bears, sea lions, otters and puffins in a place where eagles outnumber people and where no two days will be alike. You’ll come away refreshed and renewed, and with a much deeper understanding of the great land that is Alaska.

2008 Brochure (Requires an Adobe pdf reader to view)