Tip of red kayak points to a small ship flaked by foresed green hillsides in Alaska.
Two women wearing yellow life jackets pose with their paddles in a red double kayak in front of an teal blue iceberg in Alaska.
pod of humpback whales bubblenet feed on a calm cloudy day in alaska
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North America Alaska Cruise

Glacier Bay & Island Adventure

The 8-day Glacier Bay & Island Adventure small ship cruise aboard the 40-guest Alaskan Dream begins in Sitka and ends in Juneau, or reverse. Along the way around Alaska’s Admiralty, Chichagof and Baranof Islands, encounter all the highlights of Southeast Alaska, including many lesser-known ports and wilderness areas. Cruise to Sitka, Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, Tracy Arm, Petersburg and Frederick Sound. Explore remote gems such as Tracy Arm-Ford’s Terror Wilderness, Orca Point Lodge, Kake, Wrangell and Pelican, and a transit of the Lisianski Inlet.

Enjoy opportunities to explore hidden coves and shoreline by kayak or inflatable watercraft. View the world’s tallest totem pole and a carving demonstration. Take in Petersburg, Alaska’s “Little Norway” via a narrated bus tour, followed by a folk dance that displays Scandinavian culture. Scout for humpback whales in the whale-rich waters of Frederick Sound. Be awed by the cliffs that rise 4,000 feet above the water in Tracy Arm-Ford’s Terror Wilderness. Enjoy a dinner of Alaskan salmon, Alaskan king crab or prime rib at the exclusive Orca Point Lodge.

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking an easy and affordable Alaskan small ship cruise. Operated by an Alaskan family-owned company, Glacier Bay & Island Adventure has a focus on Alaska’s nature, history and First Nations culture and is an ideal option among our Alaska family cruises

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips, small ship Alaska cruise options and Glacier Bay cruise and Inside Passage cruise itineraries.



Itinerary

Alaska's Glacier Bay & Island Adventure Itinerary

The 8-day Glacier Bay & Island Adventure begins in Sitka, Alaska, cruises northbound to Glacier Bay, and ends in Juneau, Alaska.

Route map of Glacier Bay & Island Adventure small ship cruise, operating from Sitka to Juneau or reverse, with visits to Wilderness Bay, Kake, Wrangell, Petersburg, Thomas Bay, Baird Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, Orca Point Lodge, Glacier Bay National Park, Lisianski Inlet & Pelican.
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Day 1
Embark Sitka, Alaska

Arrive in beautiful Sitka, the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales and other wildlife.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Kake & Frederick Sound

View the world’s tallest totem pole, a carving demonstration, and experience the inspiring culture of the Tlingit in the Alaska Native village of Kake. Later, explore the Alaska wilderness in picturesque Frederick Sound—an area humpback whales and other wildlife frequent. Humpbacks are famous for behavior that lends itself to incredible viewing and photography, such as tail lobbing, lunge feeding, pectoral slapping, breaching, and graceful dives that showcase their massive flukes. Other opportunities for in-depth exploration may include the protected waters or shores of Security Bay, Skanax Bay, Pybus Bay and The Brothers islands.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Wrangell

Home to a little over 2,000 permanent residents, Wrangell is the only town in Alaska to have been under the jurisdiction of three flags and ruled by four nations: the Tlingit, Russia, England and the United States. Enjoy several options to explore this colorful history, including a guided tour and a trip to the Wrangell Museum. Visit the intriguing state historic park, Petroglyph Beach, which contains the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska.

There is also an optional opportunity to board a high-speed jet boat and navigate through a maze of glistening icebergs en route to the LeConte Glacier. This excursion is available at an additional cost and is dependent on space/permits.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Petersburg & Wilderness Exploration

Discover the charming Mitkof Island fishing town of Petersburg. Founded by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1880s, Petersburg is nicknamed Alaska’s “Little Norway.” Experience this Scandinavian culture with a folk dance show by local youth at the iconic Sons of Norway Hall.

Later, explore the Alaska wilderness on the eastern side of Frederick Sound. Your captain and expedition team will choose an exciting activity based on the day’s circumstances and weather. Options may include trekking ashore, kayaking, or wildlife viewing in the sound.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Tracy Arm Fjord & Orca Point Lodge

Journey through Tracy or Endicott Arm in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, a place the famous naturalist, John Muir, referred to as, “A wild, unfinished Yosemite.” Renowned for its pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet, this wilderness is often referred to by locals as one of the most scenic areas in the state.

End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge, an exclusive day-lodge on Colt Island. Enjoy the beautiful grounds, beach, and marine life touch-tank. Dine on wild Alaska salmon, Alaska crab (subject to availability), or prime rib from the warmth of the lodge, or nestled next to a beachside bonfire.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Glacier Bay National Park

This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains eight tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions and humpback whales. The highlight for many is the Margerie Glacier, known for its dramatic calving displays. Enjoy a stop at Bartlett Cove for an evening rainforest walk and Huna Tribal House visit or kayak paddle.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Lisianski Inlet & Pelican

Transit Lisianski Inlet, a narrow body of water between Yakobi Island and Chichagof Island. These islands are home to dense populations of coastal brown bears and other Alaska wildlife species. Explore the unique boardwalk “road” of Pelican, Alaska, during a port call to this small fishing community of just 60 to 70 year-round residents.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Disembark Juneau, Alaska

Disembark in Alaska’s capital city of Juneau and be transferred to the airport or your hotel.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Selected guest cabin facilities; all meals aboard the vessel or where otherwise indicated; selected shore excursions as indicated in itinerary; ground transportation to and from the vessel and airport or select Sitka and Juneau hotels; use of recreational equipment as indicated in itinerary; all standard onboard services; complimentary glass of wine or beer with dinner; all alcoholic beverages for Vista View, Deluxe and Suite categories.

Exclusions

Airfare to and from Alaska; pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations; non-complimentary beer, wine or alcohol selections; discretionary gratuities to crew; travel insurance (recommended); all taxes and port fees (calculated upon booking).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date.  Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 50% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 45 days – 50% of total trip cost
44 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Glacier Bay & Island Adventure Cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT), and ends in Juneau, Alaska (JNU). Plan flights to arrive to Sitka on Day 1 ahead of the 4:00pm embarkation. Disembarkation is at 8:00am on Day 8; plan flights to depart Juneau no earlier than 10:00am. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking, shallow-water expedition craft excursions, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and a remote beach campfire experience. The Alaska’s Glacier Bay & Island Adventure itinerary also offers an added-cost high-speed jet boat ride to LeConte Bay and the spectacular LeConte Glacier.

Room Configuration

Single supplement rates are 150% of the double occupancy rate. Single supplement rates are capacity controlled and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Third and fourth guests booking into a stateroom will receive a 15% discount after 2 full-price guests or after 1 full-price adult and 1 discounted child are booked.

Families & Children

Children (15 and under) receive 15% off double occupancy rate when sharing a cabin with 1 or 2 full fare adults. Programming is tailored for children ages 7 and up.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Itineraries may occasionally alter slightly for safety, or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. Your ability to be spontaneous makes this style of Alaska small ship cruising unique. Please note that because of Glacier Bay National Park permits, some departures will cruise into Glacier Bay aboard Glacier Bay day tour boat the Baranof Wind. The 149-passenger high-speed catamaran operates a seven-hour glacier cruise that begins and ends in Bartlett Cove. Please contact AdventureSmith’s Alaska cruise experts for more information.

Reverse Alaska's Glacier Bay & Island Adventure Itinerary

The 8-day Reverse Glacier Bay & Island Adventure begins in Juneau, Alaska, cruises northbound to Glacier Bay, then turns southbound to end in Sitka, Alaska.

Route map of Glacier Bay & Island Adventure small ship cruise, operating from Sitka to Juneau or reverse, with visits to Wilderness Bay, Kake, Wrangell, Petersburg, Thomas Bay, Baird Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, Orca Point Lodge, Glacier Bay National Park, Lisianski Inlet & Pelican.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Juneau, Alaska

Arrive to Alaska’s capital city of Juneau and embark.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Lisianski Inlet & Pelican

Transit Lisianski Inlet, a narrow body of water between Yakobi Island and Chichagof Island. These islands are home to dense populations of coastal brown bears and other Alaska wildlife species. Explore the unique boardwalk “road” of Pelican, Alaska, during a port call to this small fishing community of just 60 to 70 year-round residents.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Glacier Bay National Park

This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains eight tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions and humpback whales. The highlight for many is the Margerie Glacier, known for its dramatic calving displays. Enjoy a stop at Bartlett Cove for an evening rainforest walk and Huna Tribal House visit or kayak paddle.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Tracy Arm Fjord & Orca Point Lodge

Journey through Tracy or Endicott Arm in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, a place the famous naturalist, John Muir, referred to as, “A wild, unfinished Yosemite.” Renowned for its pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet, this wilderness is often referred to by locals as one of the most scenic areas in the state.

End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge, an exclusive day-lodge on Colt Island. Enjoy a Tlingit cultural presentation, as well as the beautiful grounds, beach, and marine life touch-tank. Dine on wild Alaska salmon, Alaska crab (subject to availability), or prime rib from the warmth of the lodge, or nestled next to a beachside bonfire.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Thomas Bay

Visit Thomas Bay, a wilderness location shrouded by curious Alaska Native legends and mysterious stories told by early gold miners. Enjoy a trekking option, such as the Cascade Falls trail, Scenery Cove or the outwash plain leading to the terminal moraine of Baird Glacier. Witness the power of glacial ice in shaping even the most rugged landscapes.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Petersburg & Wrangell

Discover the charming Mitkof Island fishing town of Petersburg. Founded by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1880s, Petersburg is nicknamed Alaska’s “Little Norway.” Experience this Scandinavian culture with a folk dance show by local youth at the iconic Sons of Norway Hall.

Home to a little over 2,000 permanent residents, Wrangell is the only town in Alaska to have been under the jurisdiction of three flags and ruled by four nations: the Tlingit, Russia, England and the United States. Enjoy several options to explore this colorful history, including a guided tour and a trip to the Wrangell Museum. Visit the intriguing state historic park, Petroglyph Beach, which contains the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska.

There may be an optional opportunity to board a high-speed jet boat and navigate through a maze of glistening icebergs en route to the LeConte Glacier. This excursion is available at an additional cost and is dependent on space/permits.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Kake & Wilderness Bay

View the world’s tallest totem pole, a carving demonstration and experience the intriguing culture of the Tlingit in the Native village of Kake. Explore by kayak and skiff in a northern Kuiu or Kupreanof Island bay. Beachcomb or hike along a secluded coastline of the area.

Accommodations

Alaskan Dream

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Sitka, Alaska

Disembark in beautiful Sitka, the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. Be transferred to the airport or your hotel. Those with more time may choose to visit the sites that highlight the community’s rich Alaska Native and Russian history.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Selected guest cabin facilities; all meals aboard the vessel or where otherwise indicated; selected shore excursions as indicated in itinerary; ground transportation to and from the vessel and airport or select Sitka and Juneau hotels; use of recreational equipment as indicated in itinerary; all standard onboard services; complimentary glass of wine or beer with dinner; all alcoholic beverages for Vista View, Deluxe and Suite categories.

Exclusions

Airfare to and from Alaska; pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations; non-complimentary beer, wine or alcohol selections; discretionary gratuities to crew; travel insurance (recommended); all taxes and port fees (calculated upon booking).

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date.  Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 120 days – 50% of deposit
119 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 45 days – 50% of total trip cost
44 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Reverse Glacier Bay & Island Adventure cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU) and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). Plan flights to arrive to Juneau on Day 1 ahead of the 4:00pm embarkation. Disembarkation is at 8:00am on Day 8; plan flights to depart Sitka no earlier than 10:00am. We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking, shallow-water expedition craft excursions, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and a remote beach campfire experience. The Alaska’s Glacier Bay & Island Adventure itinerary also offers an added-cost high-speed jet boat ride to LeConte Bay and the spectacular LeConte Glacier.

Room Configuration

Single supplement rates are 150% of the double occupancy rate. Single supplement rates are capacity controlled and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Third and fourth guests booking into a stateroom will receive a 15% discount after 2 full-price guests or after 1 full-price adult and 1 discounted child are booked.

Families & Children

Children (15 and under) receive 15% off double occupancy rate when sharing a cabin with 1 or 2 full fare adults. Programming is tailored for children ages 7 and up.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Itineraries may occasionally alter slightly for safety, or to take advantage of weather, wildlife and unplanned discoveries. Your ability to be spontaneous makes this style of Alaska small ship cruising unique. Please note that because of Glacier Bay National Park permits, some departures will cruise into Glacier Bay aboard Glacier Bay day tour boat the Baranof Wind. The 149-passenger high-speed catamaran operates a seven-hour glacier cruise that begins and ends in Bartlett Cove. Please contact AdventureSmith’s Alaska cruise experts for more information.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

May 11 - May 18, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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May 18 - May 25, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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Per Person
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May 25 - Jun 01, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jun 01 - Jun 08, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jun 22 - Jun 29, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jun 29 - Jul 06, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jul 13 - Jul 20, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jul 20 - Jul 27, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Jul 27 - Aug 03, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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From $5495USD
Per Person
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Aug 03 - Aug 10, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Aug 10 - Aug 17, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
arrows going opposite directions
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Aug 31 - Sep 07, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
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Sep 07 - Sep 14, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
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Per Person
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Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Catamaran
Alaskan Dream

A streamlined catamaran design, accommodating 40 guests in 20 cabins, has made the Alaskan Dream a delight in small ship cruising. Cruising at 13 knots, she is one of the fastest small ships in Alaska.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Arielle Lightcap • January 16th, 2018
Expert Review: Glacier Bay & Island Adventure

AdventureSmith's Arielle Lightcap reviews her 8-day small ship cruise aboard the Chichagof Dream where culture, bubblenet-feeding whales and icebergs gave her the Alaska experience she'd been waiting for.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

Traveling on a Boat This Size Was a Lot of Fun

This trip fell into the “trip of a lifetime” category with ease: authentic culture, great fellow travelers & incredible wildlife - 3 orca pods! Traveling on a boat this size was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed how there was no bag-packing all week, and as everything was planned, there was no time spent thinking about what to do tomorrow. Small ship cruising is truly a wonderfully social way of traveling.

Overall
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Accommodations
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Meals
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"Perfect for Our Family"

The boat was perfect for our family - lots of opportunities to do things and learn a lot. We loved the feeling of isolation we got by being a small boat where others couldn't get to.

Overall
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Accommodations
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Meals
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"This Truly Was the Trip of a Lifetime"

This truly was the trip of a lifetime. Captain Gavin took advantage of the small ship size to take us to places that the big ships can't see. We overnighted in a peaceful inlet, got within a quarter mile of a gorgeous glacier, visited Tlingit cultural sites, and more. The staff on the ship was cheerful and dedicated, and everything ran smoothly.

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Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

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Alaska Wildland Collection

The 7- or 8-day Alaska Wildland Collection is a seamless Alaska adventure promising remote and in-depth exploration of the Kenai Peninsula for up to 10 or 16 guests. Easy access from Anchorage, short travel times, fun activities and special youth rates make this a great family travel option.

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