North America Alaska Cruise

Sea Wolf Southeast Alaska Adventure

Explore, discover and learn about the magical rainforest and ocean ecosystems of Southeast Alaska on this 10-day expedition. Choose from the main fall departure or the reverse itinerary that sails in the spring. This glacial wilderness supports a diversity of wildlife as varied as the landscape. September is a terrific time to watch bears fishing in salmon streams, humpback whales feeding in preparation for migration to warmer waters and birds migrating from arctic to southern climes. In April the annual early spring herring migration makes for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, hungry bears awake from hibernation and go looking for food. Snowcapped peaks drive mountain goats and other creatures to the shoreline to forage.

Humpback whales, orcas, harbor porpoise and Dall’s porpoise, white sided dolphins, Stellar sea lion and numerous sea birds are just some of the species sighted frequently on this cruise. In the rainforest, also hope to see black bear, brown bear and mountain goats. Enjoy an average of three to four hours of cruising each day.  The rest of each day is spent exploring the glacial fjords and bays by kayak or hiking on shore. On this flexible Alaska small ship cruise, routes and anchorages are chosen to optimize opportunities to experience the rich and diverse environment of this temperate rainforest. Prepare to learn the full story of this place–the spiritual, cultural and natural history as well as the current threats and their possible solutions.

Passage on this exploration is aboard the historic 12-passenger small ship M/V Sea Wolf, a historic wooden World War II minesweeper featuring beautiful lines, stability, maneuverability and special accessibility equipment; all qualities that make her an AdventureSmith favorite for private Alaska yacht charters. On a charter or a set departure with soon-to-be friends, venture to unique sites that big ships can’t reach and enjoy the knowledge of your local captain–a naturalist who owns and operates the vessel. The captain hosts local school children on a private departure annually and can help your own children see Alaska in a special way, making this trip a prime selection for our Alaska family cruises. Sea Wolf may set sail for the Tongass to capitalize on active fish populations, or Chichagof Island to view active bears.

In addition to cruising between Juneau and Ketchikan, the Sea Wolf also operates two other itineraries. One explores between Juneau and Gustavus, including time around Chichagof and Admiralty Islands, and 5 days inside both arms and the outer coast of Glacier Bay National Park. The other cruises between Juneau and Petersburg, focusing along the eastern waters of Admiralty Island and stunning fjords such as Ford’s Terror.

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