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.
The 8-day Glacier Bay & Island Adventure begins in Sitka, Alaska, cruises northbound to Glacier Bay, and ends in Juneau, Alaska.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Day 1
Embark Juneau, Alaska
Arrive to Alaska’s capital city of Juneau and embark.
Accommodations
Alaskan Dream
Meals
dinner
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
May 18 - May 25, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
May 25 - Jun 01, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jun 01 - Jun 08, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jun 22 - Jun 29, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jun 29 - Jul 06, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jul 13 - Jul 20, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jul 20 - Jul 27, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Jul 27 - Aug 03, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Aug 03 - Aug 10, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Aug 10 - Aug 17, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Aug 31 - Sep 07, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Sep 07 - Sep 14, 2025
Alaskan Dream • 8 days
From $5495USD
Per Person
Reverse
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
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
"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
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
"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.
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
Read More
Nick M. - Colchester, UK
Traveling on a Boat This Size Was a Lot of Fun
Overall
5/5
Accommodations
5/5
Meals
5/5
This trip fell into the “trip of a lifetime” category with ease. The weather, which cannot be controlled, was perfect from start to finish. The sea was, at times, like a mill pond. Snow-covered peaks surrounded us at all times. I recall seeing only a handful of other boats while we were away from ports, and I loved the feeling of seclusion looking out over such vast land and seascapes.
Meeting my fellow travelers was anther highlight I cannot overlook. Everyone was charged by Alaska and open to making new friends. We shared experiences we will never forget. We shared the feeling of wonder on a daily basis. Traveling on a boat this size was a lot of fun. We were 40 guests on Baranof Dream, and the full bar that served itinerary-themed cocktails was always buzzing at social hour, when it wasn’t being interrupted by wildlife. Small ship cruising is truly a wonderfully social way of traveling.
Meals Review
The food was delicious. Combine that with excellent service and the dining room was always filled with smiling faces—though we were an easy crowd to please, with all the good wildlife and the weather.
All meals were plated, except for the day we had a barbeque buffet. Expect to eat a lot of Alaskan seafood on this trip. We even ate a King salmon that our guide Lee had filleted in front us earlier that day.
There was always a meat or vegetarian option if you didn’t want seafood, as well as soup, salad and dessert. All allergies and food requests were catered to. Bread was baked daily. There was even a baking class. The final night's Captain’s Dinner started with Tom, a guest from San Jose, singing a song about our week, accompanied on guitar by Silka, one of the stewards. It culminated in a nineteen-dessert extravaganza and a slideshow of our week.
The buffet dinner at Orca Point Lodge was my favorite. It consisted of leg after claw, after leg of King crab, King salmon and prime rib, as well as salads and vegetables, all enjoyed on the deck overlooking glass-flat water at sunset. For dessert we had s’mores around a campfire. Hard to beat that.
Crew & Guides Review
Lee, our cultural guide, was from Ketchikan and Tlingit. He often entertained us with Tlingit folklore, anecdotes of encounters with bears and Robert Service poetry. He was a talented storyteller, and every evening we would all easily suspend our disbelief and allow ourselves to get swept along as he told us folklore of the Tlingit people.
He told us how storytellers were singled out for that profession as young men and instilled with the tenet that stories must be recited word for word without deviation. To test their memory, they would recite stories in harsh conditions, such as while sitting in freezing water, to ensure the purity of the tale for generations to come.
Our Alaskan captain was experienced and negotiated ice chunks and brought us close to the calving Sawyer Glaciers. We took turns to go out on a skiff and get even closer. He even put the bow of the boat into one of the waterfalls that came down the granite walls towering above us.
Steph, our enthusiastic and experienced scientific expedition leader, kept a list of wildlife sightings on the wall by the bar that included a coastal brown bear, puffins, seal lions, mountain goats, sea otters, a porcupine (!) and too many humpback whales to keep track of. Thanks to her, we all became experts in when a whale was going to dive, all of us pointing out when its back arched and it was about to go down deep. As its tail fin, or fluke, stood upright and sank slowly underwater, we would all cheer.
Accommodations Review
The Baranof Dream had plenty of communal space, up on deck for wildlife viewing and for socializing and dining below. I also 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. Also, we didn’t need to bring rain gear, boots or binoculars. Living the “Baranof dream,” we had it all covered for us.
Itinerary Review
The cultural element felt authentic. In Sitka we had tours of the Bishop’s House, the Sheldon Jackson Museum and the St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox cathedral. Our day in Juneau coincided with the vibrant dedication ceremony of the new Walter Soboleff Building. We were treated to a performance of Norwegian folk dancing in the fishing port of Petersburg, by school children happy to be skipping a math test. At the Tlingit village of Kake, we learned about totem pole carving and basket weaving from local guides. We even had the chance to dance with the people of Kake.
Those who wanted to enjoyed a peaceful kayak a few days. A family of four, among others, was cheered on by onlookers, as they jumped into in the cold water together.
The whale watching was phenomenal. One day in Stephen's Passage, Steph, our scientific leader informed us we were following a well spread-out pod of about 20 to 30 orca.
The bulls kept their distance, their giant triangular dorsal fins rising 6 feet out of the water. We got much closer to the cows and calves, with their smaller, curved fins. Mothers and calves stayed together, and the inquisitive nature of the younger orca brought them much closer.
When the mothers and calves, in groups of three or four, came up to breathe, they were often all touching, rolling and swimming over each other. Every five minutes or so an orca’s head would pop up to see what those strange creatures on the boat were up to.
Steph lowered the hydrophone and we were able to hear them clicking and whistling for a few moments. A mother and calf came in for a breath and a look-see no more than 15 feet off the port bow and moments later, the same calf spy hopped about 20 yards in front of us.
We saw orca on two more occasions. Each time was just as amazing as the first. Seeing orca so close was my personal highlight of the whole trip.
The boat was perfect for our family - lots of opportunities to do things and learn a lot. Glacier Bay was spectacular and we loved having the ranger along. Tracy Arm was the next best day - we loved the feeling of isolation we got by being a small boat where others couldn't get to. We met really interesting people. I think a small boat attracts like minded people. They were also really welcoming and open to chatting with our kids.
Accommodations Review
The boat was really comfortable and had everything we needed.
Meals Review
Every meal was great - if anything there was just too much food! Don't think we needed 4 course lunches when dinner was so delicious.
Crew & Guides Review
Loved having [guide] Mark along on the trip - he was so knowledgeable and really inspired the kids on all the walks we went on with him.
Please note: The primary ship operating the mentioned itinerary can change from year to year, so the ship this guest cruised on may no longer be sailing this exact route.
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. The Tracy Arm, to see the Sawyer Glacier, was truly extraordinary. I also loved our visit to Kake, to visit with Tlingit tribe members. Because I was unable to kayak due to recent surgery, the Taku Harbor stop was not as fun for me as it was for others, but that is not Alaskan Dream's fault!
Alaskan Dream was a good choice for us because of their focus on Alaskan culture as well as outdoor adventure. I recently had surgery, and my mother is almost 80, so we would not have enjoyed a trip with a heavy focus on strenuous athletic activities. My mom is about to turn 80, and I turned 50 in April, so we were looking for a landmark adventure. We found it!
Accommodations Review
We stayed in a deluxe cabin aboard the Admiralty Dream. It was quite spacious for an onboard accommodation. The beds were VERY comfortable, with a plush yet supportive mattress and crazy-soft sheets. The bathroom was set up in a way that made showering easier than it has been on other, bigger ships. The ship's common spaces were very comfortable - a lounge with great windows for viewing passing sights and a dining room with plenty of space for the 54 of us.
Meals Review
The food was creative and delicious. There were certain back-up foods that were always on the menu (burgers at lunch, fish or chicken at dinner), but we almost always chose one of the specials of the day, which included (for lunch) halibut tostadas and venison chili and (for dinner) rack of lamb and cioppino. A heavy focus on local Alaskan products (salmon and halibut, spruce tips, elk) was very appropriate.
Crew & Guides Review
Captain Gavin ran the ship and was completely dedicated to giving us the best experience possible. Erin was our naturalist, and she was top-notch (she got her master's in environmental science at Duke's top-rated environmental school, so they definitely hired for killer qualifications). Erin gave short, info-packed presentations most evenings after dinner, which were well-conceived and presented. We were joined by Ranger Cindy at Glacier Bay, who is also a naturalist, so we received tons of valuable information from her too. Our Tlingit cultural guide, Mary, gave an exciting story of the Tlingit origin story of the Raven, as well as a lot of interesting information about Tlingit culture. She left the ship halfway through to go to the Celebration in Juneau (First-Nations dancing groups from all over the world), so then we were joined by Joe, who was also great. We were also joined by Tlingit Elder Alice at Glacier Bay, who told us of the special history of the Tlingit who lived in the valley before the glacier expanded in the 18th century.
AdventureSmith Explorations Review
Nick was tremendously helpful in our selecting which trip to go on, and then in handling all the lead-up organizing. We also received assistance from Justin when we needed to change our plans by a week and Nick was on a trip in Mexico. I handled all our transportation apart from booking the cruise, but AdventureSmith was very helpful booking us into the Admiralty Dream trip.
Traveler Advice
Follow the instructions about bringing warm and waterproof clothing! The ship provided us with waterproof jackets, pants, and boots, but they were not insulated, so our own layers were essential. It was often down in the 40s (F) in the morning and evening. And it rains off and on every day.
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Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
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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 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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From $5345USD
May Jun Jul Aug
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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.
When is the best time to visit Alaska? Consult this month-by-month guide for help planning your Alaska travel with tips on everything from weather, wildlife, daylight and the benefits of each month.
Travel Essential • August 15th, 2019
The Achievable Alaska Bucket List
From classic grizzly bears and glaciers to float planes and totem poles, this Alaska bucket list of must see and dos is designed to be do-able by the average traveler. No extreme fitness or special access required, just a ticket to Alaska and a readiness for adventure.
Travel Essential • November 17th, 2021
Whale Watching in Alaska Aboard Small Ships
Our guide to whale watching Alaska from small overnight ships will help you plan and prepare, with tips on whale types, visitor sites and packing tips. Maximize your chances of close encounters with whales in Alaska.
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