Thank you for your interest! This journey is either underway or complete, but we do have many other tour options for you to choose from.

This cruise is designed perfectly to align with our Alaska Sampler tour for the Ultimate Alaskan adventure!

Surround yourself with glittering glacial beauty on this luxury nature cruise to one of the wildest, least-visited places in Alaska: Prince William Sound. Gulls and Kittiwakes call as you paddleboard, kayak or skiff among centuries-old glaciers, encountering puffins, eagles, otter, and sea lions that wait around every cove. Thrill to the sight of towering icebergs as our captain skillfully navigates the 32-mile length of Colombia Glacier, their source, with the dramatic Chugach Mountains as a backdrop. Dip a paddle in Unakwik Inlet and kayak alongside Meares Glacier spotting seabirds or opt to be a passenger on our faster-moving skiff in glacier country, where we may see dozens of these impressive ice giants.

Shore expeditions during the week include the opportunity for a guided glacier hike or a day at leisure in Cordova, a small native fishing village and home to the Prince William Sound Science Center, and a visit to Salmon hatchery. Enjoy a sunset soak in the ship’s hot tub and savor farm-to-table chef-prepared meals between outings on our well-appointed yacht. Watch sea otters loll in kelp beds and fish alongside Horned and Tufted Puffin during our spectacular College Fjord finale day of this unforgettable cruise.

Tour Highlights

  • Witness dozens of glaciers including Chenega, Columbia, Meares, and Sheridan
  • Enjoy island discoveries on Knight and Montague Islands
  • Visit the tiny fishing town of Cordova
  • Explore College and Harriman glacial fjords
  • Beachcomb rocky shorelines and hike beneath a glacier
  • Navigate along the least visited shores in coastal Alaska
  • Search for wildlife—whales, orcas, eagles, puffins, sea otters, seals, and sea lions
  • Kayak, paddle board, and skiff in hidden coves and narrow fjords

Trip Itinerary

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

Fri., Aug. 2 : Whittier | Embarkation


Welcome to Whittier, the gateway to Prince William Sound! Your transfer meets you at the airport in Anchorage, whisks away your luggage, and drives you and your fellow adventurers through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier; at 2.5 miles, this is the longest highway tunnel in North America. Meet your crew and tour the Safari Explorer, our operator’s flagship vessel and your home for the week. After champagne and a safety demonstration, enjoy your first of many farm-to-table gourmet meals! Adventure here we come. (D)

Sat., Aug. 3 : Icy Bay Glaciers


Wake up in the glacial waterways of Icy Bay. Flowing down from the 4,000 foot surrounding peaks, Chenega, Tigertail, and Tiger glaciers are all options this morning. Hop in a skiff, and if conditions are right, kayak in a remote cove tucked into the shoreline. Your expedition team shares how glaciers sculpt and alter the landscape on a daily basis. Feel the essence of this land of the Chenega people, meaning “beneath the mountain,” as you weave through these deserted islands by kayak, skiff, and yacht. Be on the lookout for Brown Bears, Mountain Goats, ever-present Bald Eagles, and myriad gulls, guillemots, oystercatchers, phalaropes, and more. (B,L,D)

Sun., Aug. 4 : Captain's Choice


Tuck into the southern reaches of Prince William Sound, exploring its sculpted islands. Some call it “gunkholing”—nosing around the next cove—and there’s plenty to see. Search for whales, seals, sea lions, and seabirds from the bow or opt to kayak or beachcomb for a closer look at island life with natural and cultural history notes from your guides. (B,L,D)

Mon., Aug. 5 : Cordova


Accompanied by guides, head out for a hike below Sheridan Glacier this morning with an afternoon on your own to explore the town of Cordova. Or, join your shipmates on a walking tour of this tiny fishing town at the mouth of the Copper River. With a population of 2,300 and no roads connecting to other towns, Cordova is only accessible by air or water. Take in the town’s Native history by nature walk, hard charger hike, an Eyak Tribe cultural program, or Prince William Sound Science Center exploration before settling back on board for a quiet overnight anchorage. (B,L,D)

Tues., Aug. 6 : Columbia Glacier & Valdez


Options aplenty this morning. Hike, kayak, skiff, or try your hand at standup paddle boarding in a quiet cove before a hearty lunch back onboard. Next up: towering icebergs born from the approaching Columbia Glacier. Winding its way 32 miles back through the Chugach Mountains and with constantly changing conditions, your captain finds the best route to view this massive glacier. (B,L,D)

Wed., Aug. 7 : Unakwik Inlet & Meares Glacier


Arctic Terns and Bald Eagles, Harbor Seals resting on icebergs, and the massive Meares Glacier as your backdrop, Unakwik Inlet is the perfect place to dip your paddle in the water for a kayak. Or, join a skiff tour to get farther faster in glacier country. This is wilderness at its wildest. Feel the mountains closing in as you cruise through Esther Passage. View a fish hatchery and learn about Alaska’s salmon species. Tonight, join your expedition leader for an interpretive presentation before a relaxing soak in the hot tub under the fading sun. (B,L,D)

Thurs., Aug. 8 : College Fjord & Barry Arm


Today is a day of grand finales. Big mountains, big ice, and big smiles keep us company as we wind down our adventure in the company of all that is quintessentially Alaska. Sea Otters float on their backs on beds of kelp. Watch them lounge before diving and rising with puffins in search of food. Take it all in from a kayak or skiff before capping off your week with a celebratory Farewell Dinner and slideshow. (B,L,D)

Fri., Aug. 9 : Whittier | Disembarkation


Indulge in one last breakfast with new friends before your coach transfer from Whittier along Turnagain Arm on your way back to Anchorage. Then transfer back to the Anchorage airport. (B)

  • Kayaking, Alaska, Southeast Alaska, Southeast Alaska Cruise, Alaska Birding, Alaska Nature, Alaska Nature Tour, Alaska Birding Tour, Alaska Nature Cruise, Naturalist Journeys

Cost of the Journey

Cost of the journey is based on cabin type, per person:

Single Navigator (1 available): $13,100 featuring a queen bed, a private bath and a view window.

Trailblazer: $9500 featuring a king bed or two twin beds, a private bath and a view window.

Navigator: $8700 featuring a queen bed or two twin beds, a private bath and a view window.

There is an additional $375 port tax/fee per person. The tour cost includes 7 nights aboard the Safari Explorer, 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 your flight into and out of Anchorage. The tour cost also does not include items of a personal nature such as telephone charges, optional activities, or gratuities. 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 and Departure Airport: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)


Arrival Details: Plan to arrive August 1, at your leisure


Departure Details: Plan to depart August 9, in the afternoon. More precise departure times will be confirmed closer to departure, but with enough time to book your flight. 


Travel Tips: We strongly encourage you to arrive a day early, on August 1, to avoid missing embarkation due to flight delays or cancelations. For early arrivals, we recommend booking a room at the Copper Whale Inn. If you want to do some sight-seeing around Anchorage, there are plenty of things to do! The hotel is situated in the downtown area, which is great for dining and shopping. It’s also close to the Coastal Trail, which is a paved trail along the Cook Inlet that is great for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It’s not uncommon to see eagles or moose from the trail. If you want to learn more about art, history, science, and culture in Alaska, then plan a visit to the Anchorage Museum. It’s located in the downtown area and has many fascinating exhibits. Transportation around Anchorage is easy with Uber and taxis.

Items of Note

Our Ship: The Safari Explorer
Safari Explorer is designed for upscale comfort in the pursuit of adventure.

This high-end SUV of a yacht is nimble, strong, and loving. The Safari Explorer has what mariners call “feet” that take her into wild areas big ships can’t visit. Her performance-built rugged construction means access to faraway regions. But it’s what’s on the inside that makes this vessel the prize of the fleet. And with only 36 guests on board, the feel is decidedly exclusive.

Lovingly called “the Bulldog,” she’s poised, her interior is a pearl, and the general mood is down-to-earth. In the winter, she bops around the islands of Hawaii soaking up the laid-back aloha spirit—weaving through the islands, ready for bow-riding dolphins. In the summer, she follows the Humpbacks north to Alaska, navigating the inside passage and taking in The Great Land. A protective spirit is infused in every part of the ship, and within the crew. She’s made for adventures after all and with them comes inevitable fun and folly.

Onboard Features: Full-beam swim step; kayaks, paddleboards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, snorkel gear; on-deck hot tub; fitness equipment and yoga mats; DVD and book library; wine library.

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

Alaska

Southeast Alaska Cruise

  • Hugh Simmons

    Hugh Simmons' interest in photography began when he was a young boy, as did his love of nature. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology during which he was “sparked” by a chance encounter with an Eastern Towhee. Not long after college he took up birding with, of course, a desire to photograph birds. Today he enjoys sharing his decades of photographic knowledge to help others get the most out of their photography whether it be of birds, landscapes, flowers, other wildlife or people. Hugh is a founding member of the North American Nature Photographers Association and served on the board of directors of the National Audubon Society. He is a long time board member of the Chesapeake Audubon chapter in Maryland and is the Audubon Climate Watch Coordinator for his area. Hugh also volunteers with the Cape May Bird Observatory and the Phoenix Wildlife Center.

    Photo credit: Mike West

    Other trips with Hugh Simmons

Map for Prince William Sound Explorer

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have Read more

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of Your Tour

  • Please talk with your doctor about general health needs. We trust that you have talked with your doctor about general travel vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel. See the “General Health Information” section.
  • Travel insurance in case of serious medical emergency is strongly recommended. Full health coverage is available through Allianz Travel Insurance, agent number 176098.
  • Plan your flight reservations arriving and departing into Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC). Send a copy to the Naturalist Journeys office please.
  • Soft sided luggage/duffel bags is easiest for packing. Pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Arrival into Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC)

Please note. If you are delayed in travel, please FIRST call the number of your Guide. As a backup, contact our office (both numbers are on your emergency contact list).

Please plan to arrive a day early; this additional night in Anchorage is not included in the cost of your cruise, but is essential to be ready and on time to embark on the first day of the cruise.

Departures from Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC)

Please plan your departure for afternoon. Check the travel details section for additional information and updates.

Passports and Identification

The U.S. Coast Guard requires each passenger to provide identification & emergency contact information.

U.S. citizens or permanent residents may use a driver's license or other accepted government-issued ID. Passengers from outside the U.S. will need a valid passport to board the vessel. Passport and visa requirements are dependent on your nationality.

General Health Information

We will share your health information with your guide. This information will be kept confidential but is very important as we want to be best prepared in case of medical emergency. Do bring any prescription medications with you and its best if you have a copy of the prescription in case of loss. The crew is trained in both first aid and CPR and there are first aid supplies on board. There is not a physician on board.

Weather & Climate

The summertime climate in Southeast Alaska is usually quite mild, and there is a high chance of a high cloud cover during the day that keeps the heat at bay. Daytime temperatures range from the low 50s to high 60s, and at night and early mornings it will dip into the 40s. Since the journey takes place primarily on protected waters, windy conditions are not usually an issue. Additionally, rain is infrequent this time of year. However, it is always good to come prepared with rain gear that can double as a wind breaker layer.

Annoyances & Hazards

While the areas and waters we travel are mostly protected, in the event of high winds or open passageway crossings you may encounter rough water. Seasickness medication is kept on board all of our vessels. If you are prone to seasickness, you should consult your physician prior to your departure. The captain will update you when there might be extra motion so you can take the medication in enough time to be effective.

Good news! There aren’t mosquitoes in most of the areas we cruise in Southeast Alaska. If we do encounter them, your vessel crew can provide you with insect repellent. Mosquitoes are present in the Interior of Alaska and are most numerous in June and July. If you are concerned about mosquitoes while on a pre- or post-cruise land package, you should pack insect repellent.

For the protection of all guests, your onboard guides are equipped with bear spray during outings. Guests are not allowed to store bear spray in their cabin or carry it with them. If you are extending your Alaska travels pre- or post-cruise and bear spray is necessary, you may bring it onboard, but you MUST surrender it for safekeeping to the captain for the duration of your cruise.

Food & Drinks

The food on board has been described as pretty incredible. Expect handcrafted meals made from fresh ingredients showcasing the flavors of the region. Wherever possible, ingredients are sourced locally. Our operator is committed to sustainability and is proud to be the first cruise partner of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program.

Most special dietary needs can be accommodated. To help us out, please alert us of any food allergies or other dietary requirements you may have and to ensure the chef has enough notice. We recommend that you check in with the chef or hotel manager after boarding the ship to confirm your request.

Onboard water is treated and filtered. Re-usable water bottles are available on board if you didn't bring one along.

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

Please pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Dress is informal and is casual even at meals. Layering is a great way to stay comfortable during this trip. We suggest packing a medium/heavy jacket and layers. In Southeast Alaska, the wilderness areas we explore on foot can get pretty muddy, plus skiff landings may be wet landings where there's no dock at all. Having proper footwear and ankle support is absolutely essential. Both hiking and rubber boots are good, but if we had to choose, we'd lean towards the rubber boots (aka the "Alaska tennis shoe," also known as Xtratufs, Wellingtons, gum boots). Many guests add insoles for support and hike in their rubber "mud" boots!

Laundry service will not be offered on the ship. You may want to pack clothes that are easy to hand wash.

Spending Money

Many people ask how much money to plan to bring for spending money. While most all is inclusive on the ship, charges for personal items, gear shop purchases, and crew gratuities can be easily charged to your personal shipboard account and settled with one payment at the end of your cruise. Payment can be made by credit card or cash (USD) in all of our destinations. U.S. travelers' checks and personal checks are also accepted on cruises in our U.S. destinations.

If you plan on spending extra time either at the beginning or the end of the trip, the amount of spending money you bring depends on how much you want to shop. Where you do encounter them, shops will take VISA and MasterCard or American Express. Typical items people purchase include local souvenirs and T-shirts, caps, and natural history books.

Gratuities

Tipping is optional and completely at your discretion. If you would like to show our appreciation to your guides, the ship crew or anyone associated with this tour, it is entirely appropriate. Know that they appreciate anything you care to give and of course you can do more if you wish! We hope that you will be pleased with all professional services.

Here is a standard suggestion for tipping on birding trips:

  • Gratuities for group meals are included
  • Birding tour guide: US $10.00 - $15.00 per day per guest
  • Note: If there is more than one guide, this can be split among them, so that is a total, per person, per day
  • Transfer (airport shuttle) driver: US $2.00 - $3.00 per person

Gratuities will be shared among your onboard crew and are paid at the end of your cruise. Our operator recommends $250 per week per guest ($35/day per guest). Gratuities can be added to your tab along with any onboard purchases. For travel in the U.S., gratuities may be paid by cash (USD), check, travelers’ check, or credit card.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

The ship is equipped with communication devices designed to conduct the ship's business and for emergency purposes but wifi is not available for passenger use. Cell phones sometimes work near more populated areas. A satellite phone is available on the bridge of each ship for emergency use at additional cost.

In an emergency, family and friends can call 888-862-8881 Monday-Friday 6:00 am-6:00 pm or Saturday 7:00 am-4:00 pm. We will send you contact information for location-specific after-hours numbers closer to your departure.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Vaping or smoking tobacco products is prohibited anywhere inside the ship. Vaping or smoking is only allowed on the outer aft deck in a designated smoking area. To protect the environment, guests should use the ashtrays provided and never toss cigarettes/cigars overboard.

Transportation

For this tour, the crew will offer trips ashore in either a skiff, or you can opt to take a sea kayak or paddle board. Please listen to the crew to advise on conditions and safety.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and share photos with the group. Please note that this is our policy, if you have an exception to it, we need to know ahead of your tour. And at the end of your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representative’s permission to record on photography film and/or video, pictures of your participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys or telephone at our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey!

 

Packing List +

Please Pack Light! Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid Read more

Please Pack Light!

Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use your soft luggage. Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on the luggage tag on the handle. It is our hope that you can pack in one checked suitcase that does not exceed 45 pounds. Be sure to pack your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your carry-on bag. You will want a day pack for field trips, so this is an ideal carry-on. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

Southeast Alaska's weather will be a big influence on your packing plan. Summers are mild. Long days extend to 15-18 hours of daylight. Here in the heart of Earth's biggest temperate rainforest, precipitation is common. May-September, temps range from 55-65?F (12-18?C) but can soar to 70?F (27?C). Evenings dip to 40-50?F (4-10?C). If you're tempted to take the "polar plunge", the water will be mid-40s? to low-50s?F (7-10?C). Conditions change week-to-week and historic averages are changing. Check the weather forecast via your preferred weather source such as the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov for your cruise dates before packing.

Whatever the weather, each day brings adventures—kayaking, hiking, and skiffing about. Bring clothing that layers easily so that you can add or remove layers as conditions change throughout the day. It can be chilly near glaciers and on deck when the ship is underway, then much warmer when you go ashore. While you want to be sure you bring your "Alaskan Tennis Shoes," storage space in your cabin is limited, so pack efficiently. Watch this helpful video from our operator about Alaskan Sneakers.

Dress, Layering & Fabrics

Dress is casual. While on board, that means t-shirts, sweaters, sweatshirts, jeans, khakis, even shorts. For outdoor activities, pack clothes that layer: convertible hiking pants, moisture-wicking base layers, and thermal underwear (top to bottom). Multiple thin layers are better than one or two thick ones.

A note on fabrics: moisture-wicking/quick-drying (wool, polyester, etc.) fabrics are most effective in keeping you warm and dry, especially when participating in off-vessel activities. Cotton absorbs moisture and is slow to dry in Alaska's damp environment, so keep cotton to a minimum.

Outerwear

Chances are it will rain and be windy. A heavy-duty, waterproof rain jacket and rain pants with waterproof, taped seams (made of Gore-Tex, Pertex, or a similar waterproof fabric) are highly recommended. Fleece jackets/pullovers and zip-up vests will be good for layering and warmth. Bring a scarf, gloves, and warm, water-resistant hat that covers your ears.

Footwear

Whether it's heavy rain, ankle-deep water, or mud... the "Alaskan tennis shoe" (aka a pair of calf-high rubber boots, Wellingtons, or gummies) is a must. Consider replacing the insoles with a padded set for more comfort. Hiking in Alaska is best in rubber boots, but you may also want to bring a pair of waterproof hiking boots. Water socks or multi-sport shoes are handy for paddle boarding. On board, a skidproof deck shoe is a good idea. Bring lots of moisture-wicking, quick-dry (synthetic or wool) socks.

It is best to bring your own rubber boots for best fit and availability. The ship will have a very limited supply aboard their vessels and youth sizes are not available.

Provided on Board

  • Adventure gear & yoga mats
  • Hairdryer, towels, toiletries (eco-friendly shampoo/conditioner/body wash)
  • Refillable water bottles*
  • Sunscreen & insect repellant*
  • Fun and adventure!

*Please note: if you are going on a pre- or post-cruise land tour, be sure to bring your own refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellant.

Clothing and Gear

  • Full-length or convertible hiking pants
  • Moisture-wicking long & short sleeved shirts (polypropylene, merino wool, etc.)
  • Thermal top & bottom base layers
  • Sweaters, sweatshirts, long-sleeve fleece
  • Casual t-shirts, blouses, jeans/khakis, shorts for on board
  • Socks (synthetic or wool) for all activities
  • Personal underclothing and pajamas (consider what dries quickly if you plan to do laundry)
  • Bathing suit (optional)
  • Heavy-duty, waterproof rain jacket and pants with waterproof, taped seams (made of Gore-Tex, Pertex, or a similar waterproof fabric)
  • Fleece or hooded jacket/pullover
  • Scarf, gloves, and warm hat
  • Water-resistant hat that covers your ears
  • Calf-to knee-high rubber boots for wet landings & walking in mud
  • Waterproof hiking boots with tread or rubber boots with good insoles
  • Comfortable deck style walking shoes for on board
  • Hat with broad brim that covers ears/neck

Equipment and Miscellaneous

  • Airline tickets or e-ticket verification
  • Photo identification
  • Passport (needed if your Alaska cruise route sails through Canadian waters)
  • Money pouch, or someplace to carry your money and identification
  • Binoculars with safety strap (a shower cap is great to cover these when raining)
  • Camera, extra batteries/chargers, memory cards, lens cleaning supplies, instruction manual, safety lanyard
  • Daypack for hiking and skiff rides
  • Dry bag for camera, binoculars, snacks, etc. (optional, but strongly recommended)
  • Flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries
  • Walking stick – collapsible (optional)
  • Sunscreen/lip balm with SPF (ideally waterproof)
  • Sunglasses with neck strap
  • Insect repellent
  • Toiletry articles
  • Paddling gloves (optional – for kayaking)
  • Water bottle (can easily be bought in the airport and refilled daily)
  • Notebook or journal and pen (optional)
  • Field guides (optional)
  • Heavy-gauge gallon-size ziplock bags for keeping things dry during transfers if raining
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Rechargeable power bank (optional)

 

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing - your mind will be at ease!

Medical and First Aid Items

  • Personal medication (and copy of vital prescriptions, including glasses)
  • Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on boat, bus, van, etc.
  • Personal first aid kit including medications for general and stomach ailments (Band-Aids or Elastoplasts, Imodium or Lomotil, antihistamine cream or tablets, eye drops, etc.)
  • Insurance information
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts

 

Suggested Reading List +

  There are many titles of interest for Alaska; the following are a few that we Read more

 

There are many titles of interest for Alaska; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

Top Picks

Merlin App. A phone-based birding app from Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology. Before departing the U.S., download the app for free, then from within the app, download the “pack” for Alaska

Kayaking the Inside Passage: A Paddling Guide from Olympia, Washington to Muir Glacier, Alaska

Coming into the Country John McPhee

Guide to the Birds of Alaska

A Guide to Alaskan Seabirds

General Reading

The Alaska Cruise Explorer

The Alaska Almanac: Facts About Alaska

Interior and Northern Alaska: A Natural History

Alaska (Traveller’s Wildlife Guides)

The Great Alaska Nature Factbook: A Guide to the State's Remarkable Animals, Plants, and Natural Features. Susan Ewing

Alaska Wildlife: Through the Seasons

The Nature of Alaska: An Introduction to Familiar Plants and Animals and Natural Attractions

Field Guides

The Sibley Field Guide to the Birds of Western North America

Field Guide to the Birds of North America

A Birder’s Guide to Alaska

Wildlife & Nature

Alaska Park Science: Scientific Studies on Climate Change in Alaska’s National Parks

Nature of Southeast Alaska: A Guide to Plants, Animals, and Habitats

The Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast: Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, & Alaska

Natural History

Alaska: Travelers Wildlife Guide

Alaska Trees and Wildflowers: An Introduction to Familiar Plants (a Pocket Naturalist Guide)

Field Guide to Alaskan Wildflowers: Commonly Seen Along Highways and Byways

Guide to Marine Mammals of Alaska

A Naturalist’s Guide to the Arctic

Roadside Geology of Alaska

Gulf of Alaska

Gulf of Alaska Biology & Oceanography

Exploring the Eastern Gulf of Alaska: From Cape Spencer to Cordova

History & Culture

Looking for Alaska

Alaska’s History: The People, Land and Events of the North Country

Klondike: The Last Great Gold Rush The Only Kayak: A Journey into the Heart of AlaskaThe Blue Bear

Passage to Juneau: A Sea and Its Meanings

Where the Sea Breaks Its Back: The Epic Story of Early Naturalist Georg Steller and the Russian Exploration of Alaska

Travels in Alaska by John Muir

Guardians of the Whales: The Quest to Study Whales

Salmon in the Trees: Life in Alaska's Tongass Rain Forest

Your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

 

Useful Links +

Learn more about your destination at these external websites, carefully researched for you. Read more

General

Prince William Sound – Encyclopedic Overview

Anchorage, AK

Whittier, AK

Valdez, AK

Cordova, AK

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

Audubon Alaska

Alaska Birds Checklists

Birds of Prince William Sound – iNaturalist.org

Endemic Animals of Alaska

Wildlife Viewing Sports of Prince William Sound

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

Prince William Sound Stewardship Foundation

“A Wild Promise for Prince William Sound” – Excerpt from the Book “A Wild Promise” about the Exxon Valdez disaster and recovery

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Alaska Conservation Foundation

The Nature Conservancy in Alaska

Alaska Wildlife Alliance

Geology & Geography

Geology of Alaska

“Geologist digs into the rocky history of Southeast Alaska” – Interesting Article, KTOO.org

Geography of Alaska

Icy Bay

Meares Glacier

College Fjord

Barry Arm Landslide

“World of Change: Columbia Glacier” – Article, Nasa’s Earth Observatory

History & Culture

Alaska Native Peoples

Native Cultures of the Valdez Area

Alutiiq Museum – People of Prince William Sound

Museums & Cultural Centers of Prince William Sound

Cuisine in Alaska

“A History of Grandeur: A Short History of Glaciers in the Prince William Sound” – Article, U of Oregon

Helpful Travel Websites

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)

National Passport Information Center

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

ATM Locator

Date, Time & Holidays


Photo credits: Photo Credits Coming Soon!

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