Treat yourself to an exclusive rafting and scenic drive through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Begin with a riverside drive along the Haines Highway. The drive is incredibly scenic: glacier-clad mountains thrust to the sky, colorful wildflowers line the road, green riverside channels provide habitat for moose, bear and trumpeter swans. The highway was declared a National Scenic Byway in 2009. Arrive at the river in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, approximately 40 minutes away. Board your raft and enjoy a scenic float down the Chilkat River through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. You will be immersed in the Alaskan wilderness, floating the silent river. Paddling is not required, as your expert guide will push the raft along, leaving your hands free for your binoculars or camera. Along the way, your guide will interpret the natural history of the area, and share some exciting stories from life in the Alaskan wilderness. You will learn to spot bald eagles and gain an appreciation for the challenges that bald eagles face to survive. Early in the summer, resident eagles are often seen coming and going from their nest to feed their young. As the summer continues and the river fills with salmon, more and more eagles arrive to feed.
 
Please note: This tour goes through prime Bald Eagle habitat, however, eagle sightings are not guaranteed. This tour includes a copy of Where Eagles Gather: The Story of The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines, Alaska.
 

 

 

Meet your naturalist guide for a small-group driving tour (14 guests maximum) to scenic and wildlife-rich Chilkoot Lake State Park. This park has it all: a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Depending on the season, bald eagles, harbor seals, and brown bears can be seen here. As you drive through the park, your guide knows the best places to stop for scenery and the possibility of wildlife spotting. Bald eagles nest here and are commonly seen perched in the trees above the river and soaring overhead. Beginning in August, brown bears amble down to the riverbanks to feed on salmon. Supplied with extra binoculars and a powerful spotting scope to bring the wildlife in close, your guide explains how the animals fit into the Chilkoot's complex ecosystem. May, June, and July feature an explosion of wildflowers with bald eagles nesting along the lush river. Beginning in August, pink salmon—the smallest and most abundant of the Pacific salmon varieties—begin their run up the Chilkoot River to spawn. This is the best opportunity to see brown bear as they are often witnessed feeding along the banks of the river. Make sure to bring your camera to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities. 

Please note:  Dress in warm, dry layers and wear closed-toed shoes. This tour goes through prime wildlife habitat, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
 

 

 

This wildlife sanctuary sprawls over 60 acres and will provide you an opportunity for some great photos of orphaned Alaskan animals in a natural setting. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see wild animals as they live out the rest of their lives in their natural habitat.  Steve is their caregiver and talks to the animals like a real Alaskan Dr. Doolittle. Steve was born and raised on a farm in Northern Minnesota and worked with wild, orphaned animals since he was a toddler. From grade school on, he did animal presentations for the public and later, on national television. As an adult, Steve started working with wild animals in the motion picture industry and his first filmwork was with wolves on Walt Disney's Never Cry Wolf in 1981.  Later he started making his own wildlife movies and works on documentaries for National Geographic, and many others which continue to this day.

Please note: Wildlife sightings are guaranteed. This tour is NOT recommended for guests with walking issues or who have trouble walking up steep inclines. No collapsible wheelchairs and no electric scooters.  Okay to bring your camera or video equipment. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a jacket, and wear layered clothing.

Haines is known for its wildlife and stunning natural surroundings. This small-group tour is for every type of photographer - from those who have a professional-level camera to those who primarily use their Smart Phone. Either way, you'll learn how to take better photos. Your professional photographer guide will select the best locations to find the most dramatic light and wildlife activity. Composition tips, camera settings and how to take advantage of available light are discussed, along with how to predict wildlife behavior. Bald eagles are commonly seen and, depending on the time of year, brown bears can sometimes be found feeding on salmon along the Chilkoot River. This tour will go through prime wildlife habitat, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The small-group nature of the tour will allow the guide to spend time with each participant, ensuring you will come away with ideas and goals for your future photography.
 
Please note: This tour requires a minimal amount of walking; however, guests must be able to embark/disembark the vehicles via steps. It is not recommended for guests who utilize a wheelchair. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring rain gear and your camera equipment. Observing bear and other wildlife is the goal but cannot be guaranteed.
 
 

 

 

 

The White Pass Railroad offers a unique 40-mile vintage train ride that climbs from Skagway to the summit of White Pass with an elevation of 2,865 feet. You will begin your journey with a 30-45 minute boat ride via fast ferry from Haines to Skagway.  Once in Skagway you’ll begin your experience onboard one of the yellow 1927 sightseeing buses belonging to the “oldest sightseeing company in Alaska.” Founded in 1923 by former Klondike stampeder, Martin Itjen, your costumed conductor passes on a century of Skagway history, behind the scenes tales, and stories of life in small town Alaska. You’ll explore the waterfront, National Park Historic District and Skagway’s residential area, famous for its flower gardens. Arriving at the railway depot, you’ll board a vintage railcar for your trip aboard the world famous White Pass & Yukon Railroad, retracing the original route of the Klondike Stampeders while enjoying a breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. This narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. It shares this honor with the Panama Canal, the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty, and is truly a world wonder. Upon arrival at Fraser, B.C., you’ll travel back to Skagway via the Klondike Highway by mini-bus. There will be plenty of photo stops along the way. 

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your original passport, camera, and binoculars. Duration of the entire tour is approximately 8 hours; this includes the transfer time on the fast ferry, which is approximately 45 minutes each way and allows free time in Skagway.  The tour might run in reverse order. 

 

 

 

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the true Alaskan Wilderness as you travel about 25 miles of the Chilkat River System, exploring the different channels that this unique, braided river system offers.  Watch for wildlife as they are frequently sighted during the river tour.  The flat bottom river boats are designed specifically to traverse the narrow and sometimes shallow, channels, which is the only way to explore this road-less portion of the Bald Eagle Preserve.  This tour is well known for moose and bear sightings, although not a guarantee, wildlife sightings are quite frequent.  The tour will take off from private property, so all the amenities are available for you to feel comfortable and right at home while the friendly staff will prepare your meal.  Sit around the crackling fire and enjoy the clean fresh air and beauty that surrounds you.  You will come away with a greater appreciation of the wilderness and the people who call this "last frontier" their home.  Your tour will begin at the pier where your ship is docked, with a 30-minute bus ride into the heart of the Bald Eagle Preserve on the Haines Scenic Byway.  Where the road ends, your adventure begins.

Please note: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Bring your camera and/or binoculars. Life jackets will be provided. The boats are open air so ponchos and waterproof blankets will be provided.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your 2.5-hour kayak expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will kayak in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above.  The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as “a wild, unfinished Yosemite.”

Please note: You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will be paddling for about 2 hours.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your 2.5-hour kayak expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will kayak in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above.  The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as “a wild, unfinished Yosemite.”

Please note: You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will be paddling for about 2 hours.

Here’s an opportunity to experience world-class fishing in the abundant waters of the Pacific Ocean along the famed Inside Passage of Alaska.  See spectacular scenery and protected nearby calm waters while fishing for a multitude of sought after species including, salmon and halibut. You will fish “Captain’s Choice” for the best chance to catch based on what “fishy” news the Captain has been hearing and partly, depending on the season. A major difference with fishing in this area is the normally short distance to the fishing grounds.  A quick boat ride will ensure that you will spend most of your time actually fishing rather than just getting there. Adventure awaits you the minute you arrive! Your experienced, licensed captain and guide will greet you as you disembark the ship and see to your needs whether you are a seasoned angler or experiencing this renowned fishing for the first time.  Your catch can be professionally processed and shipped to your home for an additional fee. The purchase of fishing licenses and tags onboard is available for your convenience and to optimize your fishing time. Beverages are available on board.  Fishing gear, tackle and bait are provided.  Bring home a fishing memory that will last a lifetime.

Please note: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and be prepared to get wet if landing a fish. The ramp to and from the boat may be steep depending on tidal conditions. Guests must purchase a Fishing License at the dock. The license is $40 per person, must be paid for in cash and guests must have ID with them.

Journey through the past to the present on a personalized tour experience of Wrangell and its most popular attractions. Your Alaskan Native guide will share the diverse history of Wrangell starting with the first inhabitants, the Tlingit Nation, whose history spans approximately 10,000 years. Sit down as invited guests at Chief Shakes Tribal House to hear stories that have been with us; passed down generation to generation. Learn the story of Fort Wrangell, unearth ancient petroglyphs and explore Wrangell today (from the comfort of your shuttle). Bottled water and a souvenir petroglyph rubbing will be available for you. Three great sites will be visited: Chief Shakes Tribal House, the Wrangell Museum and Petroglyph Beach. Several historic sites are viewed from the shuttle as part of the driving portion of this tour. The tour will depart from and return to your pier. As the third oldest city in Alaska, ruled by four nations, under three flags, Wrangell’s rich and diverse history is sure to captivate you!  

Please note: This is a walking and driving tour.  Much time will be spent on your feet at Petroglyph Beach and the Wrangell Museum. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate attire. You will be transported by shuttle bus to each of the sites. All sites are handicap accessible, although not able to accommodate wheelchairs. 

Discover the highlights of this truly Alaskan town and see its colorful history and native culture come to life while visiting the Wrangell Museum and Petroglyph Beach with Kiks Adi Totem Park view and Alaskan Native interpretation.  Departing the pier, meander to downtown Wrangell to view Kiks Adi Totem Park. Then, learn about fishing and the Stikine River and its significant influence on the development of Wrangell.  Pass through the town and see its historic churches, while on the way, catch a glimpse of a traditional Tlingit Tribal House and Wrangell's oldest harbor. Visit Wrangell's famous anthropological sight, Petroglyph Beach and see ancient rock carvings dating from 4,000 to 6,000 years ago, before the settlement by the Tlingit tribes. Enjoy a petroglyph rubbing demonstration before heading to the Wrangell Museum. The local museum houses a rich assortment of over 5,000 historic photos, native artifacts, a collection of Tlingit petroglyphs, and fishing, mining and logging displays.
 
Please note: The order of sites may vary. Walking is required to and from the sites, especially Petroglyph Beach, a natural beach with rocks, gravel, sand and logs that can be slippery at low tide. There are several steps to Petroglyph Beach, not suitable for those in wheelchairs.  Walkers or canes can do this tour, but you may choose also to stay on the bus where the walking is too much. You may wish to enjoy additional city highlights on their own before returning to the ship. 

 

 

The Stikine River is considered one of the last truly wild rivers in North America, running directly through the nearly ½ million acre Stikine LeConte’ Wilderness area. Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of the world's largest temperate rainforest that is home to a variety of wildlife species and though elusive, you may have a chance of sighting. Add the excitement of an exhilarating jet-boat ride, gold rush history, world renowned scenery, and the most experienced energetic captains, and you have a great excursion. On the pier, you will meet captain and interpretive guide and embark  on the custom-built, heated and covered, jet boat to begin your adventure. Traverse the ever changing river delta, meander through side sloughs and explore the banks of the river. Seek out views of distant mountain peaks, spy on spawning salmon and listen to thundering waterfalls. Your journey will culminate at Shakes Lake with its sparkling blue, crystal clear icebergs. If accessible, you will venture in farther for a view of Shakes Glacier and the ancient ice from which it was created. If conditions allow, come ashore at a wilderness location on the banks of the Stikine and experience the wilderness up close.

Please note: The tour routing and sights may change due to weather, nature and water conditions. Due to the nature of boating in the wilderness on the Stikine River, which sometimes requires travel in shallow water, you may experience quick or sudden stops, starts and turns while underway. Guests should be in good physical health with a full range of motion to get into/out of the vessel and have no motion-related ailments or any other health issues. This tour is not wheelchair or handicapped accessible. This tour departs and returns from the Wrangell city dock, which is a short walking distance (300 ft) from the ship.  At certain tidal conditions the access ramp to the vessels can be very steep.  Facilities are basic in the wilderness location and consist primarily of USFS outhouses.  Although wildlife is seen on many outings, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

John Muir hiked here while using Wrangell as headquarters for his Stikine delta explorations. Participants are assured of wonderful views and a true immersive forest experience with an elevation gain of about 400 feet. This hike will present good views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes and a chance to learn about rainforest ecology. This intimate interpretive tour will be led by two of our experienced onboard Expedition Staff.

Please note: This excursion will depart directly from the ship and will be led by two Expedition Staff. No equipment is required. Guests will need to wear their own suitable footwear and dress according to the prevailing weather conditions. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. The departure time for this tour is subject to change due to the nature of the excursion. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. The walk is mostly on boardwalk which does not have handrails, can become slippery when wet and has approximately 300 steps to the summit of Mount Dewey. This tour is not recommended for those with walking or mobility issues.

Photographers, nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike will thrill to this exploration of Vancouver’s picture postcard scenery. The excitement will begin as you board your air-conditioned coach at the pier and head north out of Vancouver and up along the famed Sea to Sky Highway. Sit back and relax as mile after scenic mile passes by your window. A dramatic landscape of old-growth forest, coastal mountains and ocean will greet you as you steadily climb from sea level to over 2,290 feet. Then, you’ll disembark and step inside the gondola cabin, which travels up to a viewpoint 2,903 feet above sea level. The 8-minute ride to the summit provides sweeping views of Howe Sound, the majestic coastal forest and surrounding mountains. You will have about 2-2.5 hours of free time to enjoy all outdoor adventures such as hiking and interpretive walks. Or if you’re feeling even more daring be sure to check out the “Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge,” at 328 feet long, the bridge offers amazing views. You can stroll over to the Summit Lodge and relax and soak up the views from the viewing deck, a sprawling 5,000-square-foot deck that offers breathtaking views of the famous Co-Pilot and Sky Pilot mountain peaks. Or, you can end your perfect day with an enjoyable self-serve dinner inside the lodge at your own expense. This tour will end at the airport.

Please note: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and don’t forget the camera - this outing will provide camera buffs with one jaw-dropping photo opportunity after another.

Photographers, nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike will thrill to this exploration of Vancouver’s picture postcard scenery. The excitement will begin as you board your air-conditioned coach at the pier and head north out of Vancouver and up along the famed Sea to Sky Highway. Sit back and relax as mile after scenic mile passes by your window. A dramatic landscape of old-growth forest, coastal mountains and ocean will greet you as you steadily climb from sea level to over 2,290 feet. Then, you’ll disembark and step inside the gondola cabin, which travels up to a viewpoint 2,903 feet above sea level. The 8-minute ride to the summit provides sweeping views of Howe Sound, the majestic coastal forest and surrounding mountains. You will have about 3 hours of free time to enjoy all outdoor adventures such as hiking and interpretive walks. Or if you’re feeling even more daring be sure to check out the “Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge,” at 328 feet long, the bridge offers amazing views. You can stroll over to the Summit Lodge and relax and soak up the views from the viewing deck, a sprawling 5,000-square-foot deck that offers breathtaking views of the famous Co-Pilot and Sky Pilot mountain peaks. Or, you can end your perfect day with an enjoyable self-serve dinner inside the lodge at your own expense. This tour will end at the Sheraton Wall Center.

Please note: Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and don’t forget the camera - this outing will provide camera buffs with one jaw-dropping photo opportunity after another.

You will board your motor coach at port to see the exciting sights of Vancouver, a sophisticated, fun-loving city that celebrates the great outdoors, cherishes its history and diverse cultures, and was home to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Vancouver boasts one of North America’s oldest and largest Chinatowns and your tour will take you through its colorful streets. Through the "Millennium Gate" you’ll find a world that is still steeped in tradition and Chinese culture. Asian architecture can be seen around every corner and the alleys teem with restaurants, import shops and exotic delights. Continue on to Vancouver’s Gastown District, a refreshing mix of old and new with cobbled streets, quaint courtyards and Victorian-style buildings. No tour of Vancouver would be complete without viewing world-famous Stanley Park. One of the largest urban parks in Canada, this spectacular spot in the heart of the city is actually a rainforest, teeming with wildlife, magnificent trees and fragrant blossoms.  Within the Park are West Coast Native Totem Poles, elaborately decorated with symbolic images and faces. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the legend and history of these magnificent works of art. From the Prospect Point Lookout, Stanley Park's highest point, you will see spectacular panoramic views of the North Shore Mountains, the Lions Gate Bridge and the Burrard Inlet.  You will discover the popular English Bay Beach, the area’s premier waterfront destination on your way to the airport.

Please note: Have your camera ready, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring bottled water.

You will board your motor coach at port to see the exciting sights of Vancouver, a sophisticated, fun-loving city that celebrates the great outdoors, cherishes its history and diverse cultures, and was home to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Vancouver boasts one of North America’s oldest and largest Chinatowns and your tour will take you through its colorful streets. Through the "Millennium Gate" you’ll find a world that is still steeped in tradition and Chinese culture. Asian architecture can be seen around every corner and the alleys teem with restaurants, import shops and exotic delights. Continue on to Vancouver’s Gastown District, a refreshing mix of old and new with cobbled streets, quaint courtyards and Victorian-style buildings. No tour of Vancouver would be complete without viewing world-famous Stanley Park. One of the largest urban parks in Canada, this spectacular spot in the heart of the city is actually a rainforest, teeming with wildlife, magnificent trees and fragrant blossoms.  Within the Park are West Coast Native Totem Poles, elaborately decorated with symbolic images and faces. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the legend and history of these magnificent works of art. From the Prospect Point Lookout, Stanley Park's highest point, you will see spectacular panoramic views of the North Shore Mountains, the Lions Gate Bridge and the Burrard Inlet.  You will discover the popular English Bay Beach, the area’s premier waterfront destination on your way to the Sheraton Wall Center.

Please note: Have your camera ready, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring bottled water.