There is no place in the world like Alaska, a wilderness so special that many of our guests return here again and again. Enjoy a fabulous week cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage and visiting Glacier Bay National Park, a bucket list trip featuring whales, puffins, glaciers, icebergs, and possible Grizzly and Black Bear, all under a midnight sun.

We spend a full day in glorious Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and another amid the towering Hemlocks and Spruce in Tongass National Forest, with optional bushwhacking hikes that yielded sweet wild blueberries and bear tracks for our 2022 group!

Large pods of Orca and bubble-feeding Humpback Whales can be spied from the ship, as well as Brown and Black Bear moving onshore. Our time passing among the fjords in glacial waters is unforgettable and beachcombing shore excursion opportunities are plentiful. Our premier small ship, Safari Endeavor, serves lovely chef-prepared meals with local seafood options and features a hot tub and gym, depending on your relaxation style! Kayak, skiff, or even take a polar plunge if you dare.

You will not soon forget your time among the fjords and glaciers. Our adventure starts in historic and culturally rich Sitka, first settled by the Tlingit people and later a Russian fur-trading post — picturesque and fascinating and worth an extra day if you choose to come early.

Why travel with Naturalist Journeys and not just book your own cruise? Because you won’t pay any more than you would to the operator, and you will get a much more personal experience. You will be part of a smaller, like-minded group, led by our personable host and experienced naturalist, in 2024 the charming Ann Bugeda. We will also send you a species list at the end of the tour, a final memento of our time kayaking, watching birds, and spotting whales aboard ship!

Tour Highlights

• Experience Alaska’s rich abundance on long summer days, perfect for exploring
• Embark on a tour of Glacier Bay National Park guided by a National Park ranger; search for both Marbled and Kittlitz Murrelets, other wildlife and watch ice calving into the water
• Visit lush forests of Tongass National Forest as we cruise narrow passages through towering Hemlock and Spruce
• Spot Humpback, Orca, and Minke Whales on a whale-watching cruise on Icy Strait … marine mammals galore!
• Be part of a smaller, like-minded group, and enjoy the benefit of a Naturalist Journeys leader who serves as a host and additional naturalist, facilitating interactions and acting as an additional attentive guide.
• Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay aboard the Safari Endeavor, our premier small ship with terrific chef-prepared meals, a bar, hot tub, exercise equipment, and more

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Sat., June 29 : Arrivals in Sitka | Embarkation from Baranof Island

Hello, historic Sitka! First settled by Tlingit Indians, then a Russian fur trading post, Sitka is not only picturesque, but also has a rich cultural heritage. We suggest you arrive early to explore ahead of the start of our voyage. Sitka has scenery, history, a raptor center, a National Historic Park, and a fine local museum. It is a small city and one that is easy to get around.

Today, it’s all aboard! There is nothing like a hearty greeting from your guide and the crew, and some bon voyage bubbly as we start our adventures.

The Safari Endeavor’s sundeck, bar, and bridge areas allow us commanding views of lush forest and endless shorelines in the maze of islands we navigate. Whales may appear at anytime, often close enough to the ship that we can hear them breathe. Mainland Baranof is said to have a higher population of bears than humans, so we watch the shorelines for our first possible sightings. Birding is varied and fun, including regular sightings of several species of loons, Tufted Puffin and other seabirds, and ever present Bald Eagle. The scale of scenery in Alaska is profound, starting with Baranof’s big and wild country; this island is almost as large as the state of Delaware.

Sun., June 30 : Krestof & Nakwasina Sounds

Today brings a rich taste of Southeast Alaska’s iconic beauty with secluded coves and lush, tree-covered islets. We are in the Alexander Archipelago of Alaska’s long panhandle and you find that there aren’t many straight lines along Baranof Island. Its western side is spattered with remote, uninhabited islands. In these quieter, protected from the wind waters, we explore via kayak, paddle board, or comfortable skiff. On the water we are on the level with curious sea lions and possibly whales. Ashore, rocky intertidal zones make good beach combing. Turn a stone or two to see what’s underneath as we listen to the “chirp” of Bald Eagles overhead. There are no groomed trails here, but we can explore with our ship naturalists on guided hikes that John Muir would approve of. Skiffs are always at the ready to take us out to explore.

With luck today we may spot Harlequin Duck, three species of scoters (White-winged, Black, and Surf), Common Merganser perhaps with chicks, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfisher, and while ashore, tiny and busy Golden-crowned Kinglet and with them, beautiful breeding plumage Townsend’s Warbler.

Back aboard ship there are always treats; you can watch our progress with charts from the bridge, spot wildlife, sip your favorite beverage, and celebrate that you are here in the long days of sunlight. In the evenings naturalist guides offer presentations.

Mon., July 1 : Sergius Narrows | Neva Strait

Listen to calls of Swainson’s and Varied Thrushes as we cruise within the eerie, enigmatic feeling of these mature northwest woods. Morning fog catches like cotton balls on trees. The aptly named narrows we navigate today squeeze to only 300 feet wide in one spot and are a shallow 24 feet deep.

The shorelines are close and it’s good territory to go ashore—to walk, play, or study the region’s intriguing natural history. The forest floor is an elfin realm of fascination with mosses, liverworts, lichen, and wildflowers. As we skiff ashore, we pass Sea Otters, floating on their backs as they crack snacks rested on their bellies. Marbled Murrelet feed close to shore, while Glaucous-winged Gull swirl overhead.

Opening at Hoonah Sound, the squeeze is back on. We wind into Neva Strait, watching for Pelagic Cormorant, Pigeon Guillemot, Barrow’s Goldeneye, and Red-necked Grebe. Watch the scenery change in the late fading light, perhaps from your perch in the hot tub!

And meal time each day is a special treat, with big windows so we can watch wildlife and scenery while sampling fresh local seafood, a variety of international dishes, homemade pastries, and other treats. Celebrate Independence Day in a far-flung fjord of the 49th state. This is an all-inclusive voyage so drinks are on us— enjoy!

Tues., July 2 : Peril Strait | Chichagof Island

If you like, kick off the morning by joining your ship guides on-deck for some yoga stretches. Today we follow a twisting channel known for dramatic currents. Peril Strait runs 50 miles to Salisbury Sound. It holds sublime beauty and some tricky navigation. We should see working fisherman, and perhaps flocks of Brant Geese, Long-tailed Duck, Horned Grebe, and the ever-present Mew Gull are joined by Black-legged Kittiwake and Bonaparte’s Gull.

Meander through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. Then stop. It’s a prime time to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Along the beaches we may spy Black Turnstone, Rock Sandpiper, or at a stream crossing, American Dipper. In the woods, listen for the call of tiny but vocal Pacific Wren. Offshore, watch for both Pacific and Common Loon.

Binoculars and cameras in hand, we set off on land and sea explorations, searching for giant trees and tidal pools. Closer inspection by skiff, moss-dripping trees run right down to the water and we scan the shorelines for birds. Any bears in there? Salmon streams dot the coastline—and where there are salmon, there are bears—both black and grizzly, which grow huge on this rich and abundant diet. With one of the world’s largest populations of these coastal grizzlies, also known as brown bears, it’s quite possible to see them. Experienced guides give safety guidelines as they explore and observe with us.

Wed., July 3 : Icy Strait

Nearly to the open waters of the Pacific Ocean, Icy Strait is remote and wild. Welcome the morning with a hot cup of coffee as you take in the grand views from the deck.

The plan today? Whales, seabirds, and marine mammals—Icy Strait, with its rich ocean upwelling, is a wildlife admirer’s dream. Alaska is known for whale viewing, and Icy Strait is the best of the best! Enjoy magnificent scenery as we watch for pods of Humpback that have swum back from Hawaii (and farther!) to feed in these nutrient-rich waters.

Spouts and fin slaps are certain giveaways and where whales feed there are often dense feeding flocks of kittiwakes, gulls, and alcids. We have excellent opportunity here, and in Glacier Bay tomorrow, to view Horned and Tufted Puffins, Rhinoceros and Cassin’s Auklets, Common Murre, Ancient Murrelet, and Red-necked Phalarope in good numbers.

We look for Orca, Minke Whale, and Dall and Harbor Porpoises, as well as Steller Sea Lion and Sea Otter. As we see the whales, we interpret their behaviors. We have great hopes of seeing them bubble-feed?grouping up under a school of fish, diving down, and rising to surround them while making a “net” of bubbles. Our ship’s naturalists are versed in everything Alaska—marine biology, plants, and even geology—a perfect topic today with such grand views.

Perched above around the bend, watch for mountain goats, and lower along shore, foraging bears. Up bay, glacial silt turns the water a milky white. Lounging Harbor Seal laze on bits of bergs. And if time allows, we tuck up in Tidal Inlet. End this very full day with your feet up, taking in the enormity of it all.

Thurs., July 4 : Glacier Bay National Park

Today we’re in for a real treat. What a privilege. At 3.3 million acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve is massive. At Bartlett Cove, a national park ranger comes aboard to share expert insight as we explore Glacier Bay National Park. The park service describes Glacier Bay National Park as a “land reborn, a living lesson in resilience.” And who wouldn’t be inspired by this stunning park? From ground-hugging plants that began on land scraped bare by glaciers, to roaring blocks of ice calving from tidewater glaciers and crashing into the sea, a day on the water in Glacier Bay is a thrill. For birders it’s also a great chance to see Kittlitz Murrelet, rare to see but much at home in this glacial realm where they breed high up on mountain hillsides. We often find them where glacial streams meet the fjord and we get fantastic views.

Have your binoculars handy: Bald Eagle patrol the skies, and smaller seabirds like Pigeon Guillemot are ever watchful. Throughout the day we may spy Orca, Minke, and even Humpback Whales. On land we look for Mountain Goat—one year we were incredibly lucky to spy a pack of wolves down on the distant beach stones. We cruise by South Marble Island, a birder’s slice of heaven. See Tufted and Horned Puffins, Common Murre, Pelagic Cormorant, and Black-legged Kittiwake. The sights and sounds (and smells) are amazing! Over 300 Steller Sea Lion use the island to haul out and pup—you can hear and smell them before you see them!

We cruise to the far end of John Hopkins or Tarr Inlet where glaciers calve into the water. Compare Margerie to Grand Pacific Glacier—one holding steady, the other retreating. Back at Bartlett Cove, if time and daylight allow, we may opt to take a forest hike around the park’s headquarters; and take a peek at some of the new cultural demonstrations as we say farewell to our ranger.

Fri., July 5 : Chatham Strait or Lynn Canal—Captain’s Choice

In this intricate part of the Inside Passage, long navigable passages stretch between island reaches of the Tongass National Forest. Chatham Strait and Lynn Canal both offer adventure aplenty and we go with our captain’s choice today. In deep, rugged fjords, we anchor on remote beaches to hike through moss-covered trees and rain-fed waterfalls. Or, some may stick to the water on a kayak excursion—don’t forget to look above and below the surface. A nosy seal could be watching your every stroke. Some may simply choose to birdwatch or beachcomb along the rocky shores—a final day to savor the splendor of Southeast Alaska. Black Oystercatcher may put on a show along the shoreline, in forests we look for Red-breasted Sapsucker, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Steller’s Jay, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Fox Sparrow, and possible White-winged Crossbill.

Tonight, we toast another grand day in Alaska. Then, we celebrate with a festive farewell dinner and “photo journal” from our expedition team. You Naturalist Journeys guide helps tally up the final bird and wildlife list for our voyage.

Sat., July 6 : Juneau | Disembarkation

We enjoy a final breakfast of fresh baked pastries before disembarking and saying a goodbye to the crew and friends, old and new. This morning, you transfer to the Juneau Airport, or alternately you may wish to stay on and explore a bit, take in local sites and Juneau’s excellent museum. Note that several flights back to “mainland” USA do not leave until midnight, giving you much of the day to explore. There is a nice waterfront area to stroll, and a tram that takes you up to tree line.

Cost of the Journey

Costs are as follows: 

2 Navigator Cabins ($7000 DBL / $12,300 SGL) located on the main deck with an inside entrance, which features a queen bed, two porthole windows and a private bath.

2 Navigator Cabins ($7000 DBL / $12,300 SGL) located on the upper deck with an outside entrance, two fixed twin beds, a view window and a private bath.

5 Trailblazer Cabins ($7700 DBL / $13,500 SGL) located on the upper deck with an outside entrance, two fixed twin beds, a view window and a private bath.

There is an additional $375 port tax/fee per person. The tour cost includes 7 nights aboard the Safari Endeavor, all meals onboard the voyage including alcoholic beverages, all excursions with professional guides, and miscellaneous program expenses, transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark days; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-ship adventure activities and equipment; wellness amenities: fitness equipment, and yoga mats. A photo slide show will be provided with images from your trip as a voyage keepsake. Not included is the flight into Sitka and out of Juneau. The tour cost also does not include items of a personal nature such as telephone charges or optional activities. We highly recommend a gratuity for local guides and the ship crew, which is recommended at $250 per participant.

Please note: Cruise payments are subject to the terms and conditions of the cruise company, UnCruise Adventures, we contract with and may be fully non-refundable. These terms and conditions are primary over those of Naturalist Journeys.

Naturalist Journeys’ Added Value: Why cruise with Naturalist Journeys? First and foremost, it doesn’t cost you more to cruise with us. You pay the same rate you would if you booked directly through the operator. That’s where the perks come in! When you book with Naturalist Journeys, you’re part of a group. We send a leader with you who adds excellent hosting and interpretation skills, and facilitates group interaction. We also send you a species list and trip report once the trip is over. So really, you get the benefit of a small-group guide without the added cost!

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival Airport: Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT)

Arrival Details: Plan flights to arrive June 29, 2024 no later than 2:30 PM.

Departure Airport: Juneau International Airport (JNU)

Departure Details: Plan flights to depart July 6, 2024 after 11:30 AM.

Travel Tips: We strongly encourage you to arrive a day early, on June 28, to ensure you do not miss the ship due to flight delays or cancellations. If you dxo arrive early, we recommend booking a room at the Westmark Sitka Hotel. If you want to explore Sitka, there is picturesque scenery, culture and history, a fine local museum, and the Sitka National Historic Park. It’s a small town that is very easy to get around.

If you want to stay in Juneau a little longer to explore or rest up before flying home, we recommend the Four Points by Sheraton Juneau. There are lots of things to do in Juneau including the Mendenhall Glacier, many hiking trails, and the Alaska State Museum. The waterfront area has many shops and restaurants and is nice to walk around. There is also a tram that takes you up to Mt. Roberts for scenic views of Juneau and the Gastineau Channel. Juneau is easy to get around with taxis or Uber.

Items of Note

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.

The Safari Endeavor
Polished, unwavering, and upscale, the Safari Endeavor may be the workhorse of the fleet but it’s her zest-for-life persona that’s remembered most. She looks sharp—a nod to the crew who work hard to keep her that way. Wood fixtures and accents shine and artwork highlights the warm and cool waters where she sails. No other UnCruise vessel covers more territory, and like her namesake, Captain Cook’s Endeavour, both the ship and crew are true explorers. Her roomy lounge, dining room, and sun deck are undisputed, but the Safari Endeavor claims to have the biggest heart, too.

Four decks are fully equipped for comfort and action. From the exercise equipment and lounge chairs in the Bridge deck, to the twin hot tubs on the Upper deck, to the Bow viewing area on the Cabin deck, to the library and dining room on the Main deck, everything you need is easy to reach.
The Lounge has a large flat-screen TV featuring closed-circuit channels which include a GPS map of the location of the ship and an under-bow camera. The lounge also has a limited library, filled with wildlife encyclopedias and binoculars are available for wildlife-spotting.

The Dining Room features open seating. Meals are served at table at set times, unless the activities have taken you far afield - in which case you will take a boxed lunch with you. Unlimited beverages, alcoholic and non, are included in the price of the cruise. Vegetarian options are always available. Dietary restrictions are happily accommodated with advance notice.

Onboard Features: EZ Dock launch platform; kayaks, paddleboards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles; underwater bow-mounted camera; two on-deck hot tubs; fitness equipment and yoga mats; DVD and book library; wine bar.

Cabin Features: TV/DVD player; Tempur-Pedic mattresses; heated tile floor in all bathrooms; hair dryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo, body wash; binoculars; reusable water bottles

— 84 guests
— 42 cabins
— 230 feet in length
— 40 foot beam
— Cruising speed of 12 knots
— Built in 1983
— Registered in United States
— 2.5:1 Guest-to-crew ratio

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

• Stephen Grace
  

  Stephen is an award-winning author, natural history educator and conservationist. He has also contributed to documentary films, and his nature photography has been widely published. Over the past two decades, he has introduced groups of travelers to nature and culture in destinations as varied as Uganda, New Zealand and Alaska.
  
  After moving from Colorado to the Oregon coast, Stephen was captivated by the sight of a Tufted Puffin carrying fish back to its burrow, and the first time he heard a Swainson’s Thrush sing, he knew his life would never be the same. He has been studying birds and sharing their beauty with people ever since.
  
  Formative experiences during Stephen’s journey as a naturalist have included tagging along as a teenager with his grandparents in Madera Canyon, where he absorbed their love of Arizona’s sky islands; helping people with different ability levels experience the Yellowstone ecosystem when he lived in Jackson Hole, Wyoming; and sailing aboard a historic schooner to share the wonders of the Salish Sea with students.
  
  Now based in Port Townsend, Washington, Stephen explores the Pacific Northwest by backpacking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, biking, trail running, and skiing. His wide-ranging natural history pursuits include coring trees to count their growth rings, identifying bats by analyzing their biosonar signals, hunting mammoth tusks in Pleistocene bluffs, searching for the elusive Rubber Boa, preserving native prairie, raising awareness about plankton, and leading sea slug safaris.

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