This eco-adventure will explore the rainforest canopy with a flight across 7 ziplines, 3 aerial bridges and down a rappel element. A 4x4 Unimog will transport you to the mountaintop outfitting shelter where you will be fitted with safety equipment and taught the basics of ziplining. From 135 feet above the forest floor, you'll traverse zip lines ranging from 175 feet to the 850-foot pulse-pounding "Ben's Revenge." Treetop platforms and 3 hanging sky bridges will offer breathtaking views of the forest and frequent wildlife sightings, especially wild black bears.  After completing the zipline course, end your adventure by rappelling to the ground. Time permitting you will be invited to tour the historic Fleenor Sawmill, explore a garden of completed totem poles and visiting the Alaska Raptor Center's Ketchikan Exhibit to see their amazing birds of prey up close.

Please note: Minimum weight is 90 lbs. maximum weight is 250 lbs. Minimum height is 5 ft. Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by a guardian.  Pregnant women and guests with medical conditions should consult with their doctor prior to participating.  All guests will be required to complete a medical waiver form. Closed-toe shoes are required; long pants recommended. Zipline equipment (helmet, gloves, seat harness, chest harness), rain jacket, and storage for your personal items will be provided. Bring your camera, cash / credit card and sun protection.

Cooking your Catch allows you to indulge in the unparalleled flavor of freshly caught Alaskan seafood featuring fish and shellfish that you will catch in the wilderness of the Tongass National Forest. Your fishing and culinary journey will begin at a private marina in downtown Ketchikan, where you’ll be completely outfitted in quality raingear, boots, socks, and hats and board your 30-foot Cabin Cruiser. The fishing part of your day will be spent in the protected waters of the pristine wilderness. You will enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Tongass National Forest where whales, bald eagles and numerous Alaskan seabirds are often seen. An experienced Alaskan fishing guide will take you to his favorite fishing destinations. You’ll have the opportunity to reel in Pacific halibut, rockfish, lingcod, Pacific cod, and salmon if during the salmon runs. The fishing goal for the day will be to catch as many different species as possible to make your meal interesting and enjoyable. You will have a light lunch featuring smoked salmon. After a few hours of fishing, you will cruise back to the private marina where you can take a classic Alaskan picture next to your day's catch. You will meet the Baranof fish monger and the Alaska Fish House Chef as you identify the different species and their importance to Ketchikan, decide which fish you’ll dine on and discuss your chef's cooking recommendations. At the Alaska Fish House, you will have an intimate, chef-hosted dinner featuring your catch of the day. This is a uniquely hands-on dinner featuring flavors and ingredients from the day’s fishing exploration. There’s no fresher seafood than the fish you catch yourself.   

Please note: Guests must bring currency ($25 per person for fishing license and $15 per person for optional King Salmon stamp) and are encouraged to carry credit cards to purchase extras, such as souvenirs or snacks. For safety reasons, this excursion is not available to expectant mothers, guests with back or neck injuries or those who have undergone recent surgeries. The weather can change rapidly, forcing the vessel to navigate through some sea swell. Wheelchairs need to be standard size and collapsible; no electric wheelchairs/scooters will be permitted. Guests must be able to board and disembark the motor coach and vessel on their own. Each Guest fishes with a provided Penn rod and reel. Guests do the fishing, not the guides. Dress warmly in layers. Sunscreen is also recommended for sunny days. You should never feel that gratuities are expected, but it is customary to leave a tip in recognition of exceptional service in restaurants, taxis and for excursion guides and drivers. It is always up to you to determine the amount.

Treat yourself to an action packed rowdy good time at The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Southeast Alaska’s rich logging history comes to life in this thrilling display of woodsmen skills. The world’s best lumberjacks go head to head in more than a dozen exciting events such as chopping, sawing, relay races, axe throwing, log rolling and of course the 50-foot speed climb. Your colorful host will not only introduce the events, but will also offer a historic view of the Alaskan timber industry which has shaped this rugged land. Located a short walk from your cruise ship pier, this celebration of a bygone era is a rip roaring good time and quality entertainment for all ages. A must-do in Ketchikan! Covered, heated and cushioned grandstands make this a great choice on rainy days. Videotaping is not permitted but guests can participate in our annual photo contest. 

Please note: Dress in layers. Concessions are available inside the arena. Shopping is available before and after the show. This show operates rain or shine in heated and covered grandstands.  The show site is just a short walk from your ship and is suitable for guests using a wheelchair or scooter.  Video recording is not permitted but still photos are encouraged!

Gain a unique understanding of Ketchikan and its Tlingit culture on this guided walking tour of Alaska’s “First City.” Your guide will be of Tlingit descent and will share personal knowledge of the many changes Ketchikan has experienced over the years. The significance of totem poles within Native culture will be explained as you encounter them on your journey.  You will walk up infamous Creek Street, the former red light district, and learn of its important economic roll in Ketchikan’s early history.  See the historic “Married Man’s Trail” and hear how it received its name. Discover the amazing journey salmon must endure as they head to their spawning ground when you visit a salmon ladder. Trees, shrubbery and flowers are plentiful along the route and your guide will share their importance to the Tlingit’s food gathering practices. Your guide will return you to the downtown shopping area near the cruise ship pier after this easy walk of approximately nine blocks. Questions are encouraged, as your hosts want you to leave Ketchikan with a better understanding of the community and its Native culture.

Please note: Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Discover Ketchikan’s breathtaking natural sights and tasty flavors at the historic George Inlet Lodge. Begin your tour with a scenic drive to the lodge and encounter canneries, an old sawmill, and decorative totem poles along the way.  Upon your arrival, board a fully enclosed, heated vessel for a narrated 7-mile cruise through George Inlet and the Tongass National Forest. You will see snow-capped mountains and waterfalls, and learn about the area’s crabbing history. You will even pull crab pots and check out the catch. Next, relax at the charming George Inlet Lodge, a historic cannery building converted into this elegant ocean-side lodge. Enjoy a mouthwatering feast of Dungeness crab, romaine salad with Asian vinaigrette, steamed baby red potatoes and blueberry cheesecake.

 

Please note:  There is a restroom available on board the vessel. There are 79 steps down the hill from the parking lot to the lodge and a complimentary shuttle available for those guests who need assistance down the hill and back up. One Beer or wine is included in the price. Alternative menu items include grilled, cajun, or lemon-peppered chicken and pasta with pesto sauce. Bring your camera and your appetite! Tour may operate in reverse order.

 

 

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.

Explore ~Stretch ~ Twist ~ and pull your very own colorful Venetian glass cane, ~ one of the oldest methods of working in glass!  After your hands-on experience in the glass studio, you will explore a beautiful part of the Sitka Community that most do not get to see – local art and traditions. Local glass artist Michelle Barker will welcome you into her studio.  Although she works in many methods of glass, she has a love for the unique history and techniques developed centuries ago in Italy.  On this tour you will watch as these beautiful glass canes are made, and have the opportunity to gently stretch, twist, and pull your own vibrant cane. Sitka has a long history of cultivating the fine arts.  In the early 1800’s Sitka was home to the first opera house, first performing arts theater, and had the first piano on the west coast. With many famous artists such as E.W. Merrill – a well-known glass plate photographer who lived in Sitka from 1819 through the 1840’s – to present day artists, your guide will explore all Sitka has to offer for art enthusiasts. Walk the city, the galleries, and see local artwork such as silver and wood carving, ceramics, regalia beading, kiln formed glass, ceramics, and pulling Venetian glass canes … maybe even try your hand at one. This tour will include a number of galleries and a hands-on art demonstration. You will meet several local artists and have the opportunity to visit with each of them, receive a wealth of information on the many different forms traditional and local artwork.  Learn why this unique city in Southeast Alaska has grown into the beautiful artist community that it is today. You will have opportunity to purchase locally made and custom made art pieces on this tour as well as make something beautiful of your own!

Please note: All guests will be provided with safety glasses, leather aprons, and gloves while in the glass studio. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

This unique Alaska excursion explores the historical highlights of this former "Russian" capital city and includes a wildlife tour through the Alaska Raptor Center. The Bald Eagle Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. After your introduction to the center, a presentation with one of the Center's educational birds will take place. Time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window, outside deck habitat areas and gift shop. Next, you'll visit the Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska," was fought. The park hosts totem-lined trails, cultural exhibits and carving rooms where native Alaskan artisans demonstrate their totemic art form. Walk the nature trail, view cultural exhibits and video presentations, or talk with local native artists about their cultural art form. The final stop will be visiting the Fortress of the Bears, which will allow you to get within 25 feet of Alaska’s brown and black bears in a naturalized setting. You will enjoy observing the bears from a covered viewing platform and interact with an experienced naturalist. 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing and bring a light rain jacket, ID,you’re your camera. The order of sites visited may be reversed.

Discover Alaska's abundant natural beauty and wildlife during this award-winning cruise through Sitka Sound, one of the world's most beautiful coastal environments. Search for local marine life on this half-day, scenic excursion. Depart the pier in your waterjet-driven tour vessel which has been specially designed to navigate Southeast Alaska's narrow island passages and bays, permitting spectacular wildlife viewing at close range. The vessel features a warm and comfortable cabin with indoor seating, large windows, a snack bar and restrooms. Or you may opt to visit the upper observation deck for unparalleled photo opportunities, and to experience the surroundings. Be on the lookout for sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of wildlife species during this jet-boat excursion. Observe and photograph sea otters as you learn about their recovery following near extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the 1800s. Your onboard naturalist guide will offer commentary about this remarkable ecosystem throughout the tour.  Your captain will vary the route to find the best wildlife viewing opportunities and guarantees you will see an otter, a whale, or a bear on the sea portion of your excursion. If not, you will receive $100 cash refund at the end of the voyage.

Please note:  Dress in layers, waterproof jacket (if guests would like to go outside), camera, warm hat, gloves.

Discover why Sitka is one of Southeast Alaska’s best places for salmon fishing during this memorable fishing experience. Upon your arrival, you will take a short walk to board your fishing boat and proceed to Sitka Sound and its adjacent waters to fish for king, silver, chum, and pink salmon, depending on the month. Salmon fishing is performed via “trolling,” or “mooching.” When trolling two or four lines are fishing off downriggers while the boat is underway and hooked fish are played on a rotational basis. When mooching you will hold a rod and work the bait while the boat is anchored. Your captain will decide which method he feels is the most effective given the conditions of the day. Your fishing boat will be a cabin cruiser style sport fishing boat that averages 24-30 feet in length and 4-6 guests will be assigned to each boat. After approximately 3 hours of fishing, your boat will return back to the pier. If you wish, meet with local fish processors to have your catch sent to your home (within the continental U.S.A.). 

Please note: Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and a light jacket.  Wear close-toed, comfortable shoes. Fishing License must be purchased at time of shore excursion, $40 in cash only and bring your photo ID with you.

The ultimate Alaska experience begins as soon as you board our Alaskan-built expedition vessel in Sitka. While you settle into the comfortable cabin, your knowledgeable captain and crew will provide a safety briefing and orientation. Once underway, feel free to move about the vessel, including the spacious outside viewing deck. An onboard naturalist will provide narration regarding the remarkable ecosystem of the area and point out places of interest and wildlife throughout the voyage. Sea otters, whales, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds are all commonly seen in the tour area. Your captain has the local knowledge and experience to deliver the best possible viewing experience on any given day throughout the season. At Fin Island Lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Alaska feast! Alaskan crab, wild salmon, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are all-inclusive with the tour. In addition, coffee, tea, cocoa, lemonade, and water are complimentary. Soft drinks are available for purchase. A breakfast twist on our signature Fin Island feast is featured for guests arriving before 10 a.m. Vegan and gluten free options are available, regardless of tour time. After the meal, you may beachcomb, explore the beautiful grounds of the exclusive island, or relax next to the cozy beach fire. When the adventure concludes, your vessel will await to provide the short cruise back to Sitka.

 

Please note: Dress in layers, wear a waterproof jacket (if you would like to go outside), good walking shoes, and bring your camera, warm hat, and gloves.