Small expedition ship with dark blue hull & white upper decks sits in calm blue water in Alaska while a Zodiac cruises beside.
3 orca whales come to the surface of glassy water, spraying through their blow holes, seen on the Treasures of the Inside Passage cruise.
Man stands atop a paddleboard in turquoise water in front of tall waterfalls cascading over a large rock cliff wall in Alaska.
Man in red jacket stands in grass & photographs weathered totem poles on an Alaska, BC & Canada small ship cruise.
Close up of a bald eagle's head, taken at the Sitka Raptor Center in Alaska
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North America Alaska Cruise

A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

Explore some of the Pacific Northwest’s most wild and pristine regions on a 15-day adventure between Sitka, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia. By special invitation, discover a nearly lost First Nations culture in the remote, moss-draped archipelago of Haida Gwaii. Sail the Inside Passage of Alaska and British Columbia, rich with marine life, including whales and dolphins. Spend a full day among the towering glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park. Walk in silent old-growth forests, kayak in secluded coves, and search for foraging bears and soaring eagles in mist-shrouded fjords.

There are numerous highlights on this odyssey between British Columbia and Alaska. Spend 4 days in Haida Gwaii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, learning from Haida interpreters about their nearly lost ancient culture and exploring these remote islands. Sail deep into fjords, narrow channels and hidden coves and bays, searching for humpback whales, dolphins, bears and eagles. Kayak in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm for an up-close view of calving glaciers, towering forests, and seals afloat on iridescent icebergs. In wild, roadless places, see spectacular fjords with cascading waterfalls and soaring old-growth forests of spruce and cedar. Explore the picturesque fishing village of Petersburg, and by special permit, spend a full day exploring Glacier Bay National Park.

Travel aboard the 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion sister ships. Explore under the sure guidance of an expedition leader and five veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor, plus a wellness specialist. The expedition staff’s knowledge and passion for Alaska is the key to this once-in-a-lifetime, active cruise experience.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska tripsAlaska small ship cruises and the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay cruises.



Itinerary

Main A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii Itinerary

The main Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise begins in Vancouver, British Columbia, and ends in Sitka, Alaska.

Route map of main A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise from Sitka, Alaska to Vancouver with visits to Gulf Islands, Johnstone Strait, Alert Bay, Misty Fiords, Frederick Sound, Petersburg, Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait & the Inian Islands.
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Day 1
Embark Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Arrive in Vancouver, Canada, British Columbia’s largest city and the major port for all of western Canada. Embark the ship in the early evening and set out on your expedition.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

dinner

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Day 2
Gulf Islands, British Columbia

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.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea BirdNational Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Johnstone Strait & Alert Bay, British Columbia

Visit the U’mista Cultural Center in Alert Bay and watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 5
Inside Passage of British Columbia

Sail northward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 6 - 9
Haida Gwaii

With very special permission, explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park & Haida Heritage Site. Be joined by a Haida Interpreter for these days among the islands, wildlife and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, be welcomed into a 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), kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 10 - 12
Alaska's Inside Passage

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.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Days 13 - 14
Glacier Bay National Park, Inian Islands & Chichagof Island

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications. Enjoy a farewell dinner on this final night.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 15
Disembark Sitka, Alaska

Disembark in the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

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 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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 main Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise begins in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (YVR), and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). Plan flights to arrive to Vancouver by 2:00pm for a 5:30pm embarkation on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Sitka no earlier than 12:00pm on Day 15.

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, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and practicing photography.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

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

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Reverse A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii Itinerary

The reverse Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska and ends in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Route map of reverse A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise from Vancouver to Sitka, Alaska, with visits to Gulf Islands, Johnstone Strait, Alert Bay, Misty Fiords, Frederick Sound, Petersburg, Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, Glacier Bay National Park, Icy Strait & the Inian Islands.
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Day 1
Embark Sitka, Alaska

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska, situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in the early afternoon and embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 3
Glacier Bay National Park, Inian Islands & Chichagof Island

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 4 - 6
Alaska's Inside Passage

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.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 7 - 10
Haida Gwaii

With very special permission, explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park & Haida Heritage Site. Be joined by a Haida Interpreter for these days among the islands, wildlife and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, be welcomed into a 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), kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 11 - 12
Inside Passage of British Columbia

Sail northward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 13
Johnstone Strait & Alert Bay, British Columbia

Visit the U’mista Cultural Center in Alert Bay and watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 14
Gulf Islands, British Columbia

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.

Accommodations

National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 15
Disembark Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Arrive in Vancouver, Canada, British Columbia’s largest city and the major port for all of western Canada. After breakfast, disembark for transfer to airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

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 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

(For expeditions booked prior to May 1, 2023: Please refer to your invoice for your payment and cancellation terms.)

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 Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT), and ends in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (YVR). Plan flights to arrive to Sitka by 2:30pm for a 5:30pm embarkation on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Vancouver no earlier than 1:00pm on Day 15.

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, snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, wildlife observation and practicing photography.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Travelers under the age of 18 at time of travel save $500, at double occupancy. Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

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

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

May 02 - May 16, 2024
National Geographic Sea Bird • 15 days
From $13459USD
Per Person
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Sep 03 - Sep 17, 2024
National Geographic Sea Bird • 15 days
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From $13317USD
Per Person
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Sep 11 - Sep 25, 2024
National Geographic Sea Lion • 15 days
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From $12785USD
Per Person
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Apr 15 - Apr 29, 2025
National Geographic Sea Lion • 15 days
From $10649USD
Per Person
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Apr 29 - May 13, 2025
National Geographic Sea Bird • 15 days
From $10649USD
Per Person
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Aug 31 - Sep 14, 2025
National Geographic Sea Bird • 15 days
arrows going opposite directions
From $13449USD
Per Person
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Sep 09 - Sep 23, 2025
National Geographic Sea Lion • 15 days
arrows going opposite directions
From $10649USD
Per Person
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arrows going opposite directions Reverse
Accommodations

Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Lion

National Geographic Sea Lion is a tried and true educational-based 62-guest expedition ship. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship, and its twin the National Geographic Sea Bird, unique.

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Sea Bird

National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates 62 guests with special features including a hydrophone and Splash-Cam. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship and its twin sister, the Sea Lion, an extra special experience.

Deals

Current Deals on This Trip

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Kids Save $500 On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Add to Wishlist
Offer expires May 31st, 2024
Groups Save 5% On Select 2024 & 2025 Nat Geo Expeditions Worldwide

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Expert Review

Reviews from our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Mary Montalbano • August 17th, 2023
Expert Review: Lindblad Alaska

Compare and contrast the various Lindblad Alaska cruises and ships from an expert who's been aboard. Learn what stands out about Lindblad's Alaska programming, guides and crew.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Recommend Without Hesitation"

Exceeded expectations. We would recommend AdventureSmith to friends and family without hesitation.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
4 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"Haida Gwaii In Canada Made It Extra Special"

5th trip to Alaska but with the addition 1st nation of Haida Gwaii in Canada made it extra special. Lots of Humpback Wales bubble feeding, breaching and bears in Inian inlet.

Overall
5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
4.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
4.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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"Very Informative & Educational"

This was a very informative and educational expedition, which we have come to expect from the NatGeo expeditions. The naturalists, marine biologists and botanists were exceptionally qualified, friendly and patient in responding to the passengers' questions. Witnessing Humpback whales repeatedly bubble net feeding and watching other whales including, killer whales.

Overall
4 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Accommodations
3.5 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
Meals
3 /5 Star Created with Sketch.
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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

Choose from a wide variety of other AdventureSmith Alaska trips to extend your journey, or opt for a pre- or postcruise extension with your fellow passengers on this cruise. Consult the following for prices and further details: 

A pre-cruise 7-day extension to Denali is also offered in conjunction with this cruise. From the Grand Denali Lodge, explore the park via a tundra wilderness and wildlife tour; river-rafting on the Nenana River; pup-cuddling at a sled dog training facility; or an optional flightseeing tour (added cost). Call for pricing. You may also wish to consider one of AdventureSmith Explorations’ more affordable independent tours Denali Backcountry Explorer or Camp Denali Adventure. Our Alaska experts will help you customize your Alaska adventure, call today.

Add to Wishlist
8 - 9 Day Land Tour
Camp Denali Adventure

This premier Denali National Park base camp, in view of Denali, is located near Wonder Lake at the end of the 92-mile Denali Park Road and offers expert guided explorations and unique hikes.

From $6700USD
Jun Jul Aug Sep
Add to Wishlist
7 - 8 Day Land Tour
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. Easy access from Anchorage, short travel times, fun activities and special youth rates make this a great family travel option.

From $5145USD
May Jun Jul Aug
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7 Day Land Tour
Kenai Fjords Backcountry Explorer

The ultimate of all Kenai Fjords tours, this trip offers active exploration from the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, the only lodge located within Kenai Fjords National Park. Enjoy a more in-depth exploration—think kayaking, hiking, relaxing—and less overland travel.

From $4395USD
Aug Sep
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A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

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