Set sail on a remarkable journey to Alaska’s Inside Passage and British Columbia, and experience the extraordinary biodiversity and cultural riches of the Haida Gwaii archipelago. Encounter ancient totem poles, and kayak or cruise in motorized landing crafts along wild shores shrouded with old-growth forest. Continue to the dramatic fjords and inland waterways of southeastern Alaska, on the lookout for orcas, humpback whales and Steller sea lions. Then listen for the thunder of calving glaciers while exploring the stunning wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park.

Trip Highlights

• Explore the Haida Gwaii islands, known as the Canadian Galápagos, for endemic plants, land mammals and birds.

• Peer up at the ancient totem poles of SGang Gwaay (Ninstints), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls.

• Spot incredible marine life, including orcas and humpback whales, from the prow of the National Geographic Sea Lion or Sea Bird

• Learn from National Geographic photographers aboard a photo expedition on all 2016 departures.

Itinerary - 15 Days

Days 1 & 2 — Seattle, Washington and Gulf Islands, British Columbia
Arrive in Seattle in the afternoon and embark our ship. The next day, search for orcas and cruise around forested islands.(B,L,D)

Days 3, 4 & 5 — Alert Bay and Johnstone Strait, Canada/British Columbia’s Inside Passage
In the village of Alert Bay, visit the U’Mista Cultural Centre to watch a traditional performance by the Kwakwaka’wakw people and learn about their culture. Then head north along the unspoiled coastline, looking for whales, dolphins, bears and other wildlife. We’ll stop to explore the many bays and inlets by kayak and on foot. (B,L,D)

Days 6, 7 & 8 — Haida Gwaii
Discover the wildlife and cultural sites of the Haida Gwaii archipelago, including the magnificent Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Join a traditional dance performance and feast, gaze up at the totem poles of SGang Gwaay, and experience the islands’ rich biodiversity while exploring by kayak and motorized landing craft. (B,L,D)

Days 9, 10 & 11 — Alaska’s Inside Passage
Spend three days encountering spectacular scenery and wildlife along Alaska’s coast. Visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg; cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm spotting orca, humpback whales and Steller sea lions; and go ashore for walks through the forest. (B,L,D)
 

Days 12, 13 & 14 — Glacier Bay National Park/Inian Islands/Chichagof Island
By special park permit, spend the day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us to share the lore and legend of the area. Then spend two days kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Enjoy a farewell dinner. (B,L,D)
 

Day 15 — Sitka/Seattle, Washington
In Sitka, visit Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, and at the Alaska Raptor Center, see rehabilitated eagles up close.  Transfer to the airport for the flight to Seattle. (B,L,D)

Price

Pricing starts at $11,000 per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $5,450 in Category 1 and $6,230 in Category 2. Airfare to/from Sitka is not included in the expedition cost.

Solo Travelers

Accommodations (hotels, tents and cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. If you prefer single accommodations, and if such are available, you can pay a single supplement fee. If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we can assign a roommate of the same gender. If there is no one with whom you can share, a single supplement fee will apply.

See special terms and conditions that apply to this adventure.

Journey to Alaska, BC and Haida Gwaii

Starting at $11,000 Per Person