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From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
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This expedition explores the remote waterways and coastal wilderness of Southeast Alaska, travelling from Juneau to Ketchikan, known as the Salmon Capital of the World. Beginning in Juneau, there is time to explore its historic streets or take in views by tram before heading into a landscape shaped by fjords, glaciers and forest. Along the way, you paddle quiet waterways, hike through the Tongass National Forest and explore the backcountry by kayak, skiff or on foot. Wildlife encounters are a highlight, with opportunities to search for bears, deer, sea lions and eagles. The journey features natural landmarks including Dawes Glacier and the cliffs of Misty Fjords, as well as a transit through the narrow Wrangell Narrows. The trip concludes in Ketchikan, offering a strong sense of place at the end of your time in this rugged region.
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Day 1
Embark in Juneau
Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s remote capital surrounded by mountains and coastline. After boarding your small expedition yacht, meet your crew and fellow travellers before setting sail into Alaska’s coastal wilderness. As you leave port, keep watch for your first glimpses of marine life in these rich coastal waters.
Meals: D
Day 2
Endicott Arm Fjord & Dawes Glacier Wilderness Area
Overnight you enter Endicott Arm, where steep granite walls rise above glacial waters and icebergs drift through the fjord. Harbour seals can often be seen resting on the floating ice as you travel deeper into this glacial landscape. The day leads to Dawes Glacier, an active tidewater glacier where you can observe the scale and movement of the ice front. Conditions permitting, you explore the area by skiff or kayak for a closer perspective.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Frederick Sound & Whale Watching
Navigate the waters of Frederick Sound, known for frequent sightings of humpback whales in this marine-rich area. Explore by kayak, skiff or on foot, with options to paddle along the shoreline in search of marine life and birdlife, or join a guided hike into the Tongass forest. Snorkelling may also be available, offering a different perspective on this coastal environment.
Day 4
Thomas Bay & Wrangell Narrows
Explore Thomas Bay, a glacially shaped landscape of moraines, muskeg and tidal flats. Conditions permitting, you travel by kayak or skiff, or join a hike or bushwalk into the surrounding terrain. Depending on the sailing schedule, you may transit the narrow Wrangell Narrows, often referred to as “Christmas Tree Lane” for its red and green navigation markers, offering insight into travel through this coastal region.
Day 5
Blashke Islands
Navigate the remote Blashke Islands, where forested shorelines and rugged terrain offer a range of exploration options. Travel by kayak, skiff or on foot, or join a full-day yak-and-whack expedition to move between land and water. Snorkelling may also be available, providing a view of the intertidal environment. Keep watch for orcas, which are known to frequent these waters.
Day 6
Behm Canal
Enter Behm Canal, a remote waterway of forested bays and narrow inlets. Walk along low-elevation trails beside streams, with opportunities to observe dense forest environments and local wildlife, including black bears, eagles and mink on land, and porpoises, seals and otters in the water. Paddle in the sheltered waters by kayak or explore further by skiff, with the option for longer hikes to experience the quiet character of the canal.
Day 7
Misty Fjords National Monument
Experience Misty Fjords National Monument, where steep cliffs, glacial valleys and rainforest-covered slopes define the landscape. Explore areas such as Walker Cove or Rudyerd Bay by kayak or skiff, with opportunities for extended paddling. Take time to observe the scale and stillness of this remote environment from the water. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner and a presentation of highlights from the journey.
Day 8
Disembark in Ketchikan
After breakfast, disembark in Ketchikan, known as the Salmon Capital of the World, and farewell your crew and fellow travellers.
Meals: B
Embark in Ketchikan
Depart Ketchikan, known as the Salmon Capital of the World, and enter the coastal wilderness of Southeast Alaska.
Navigate the remote Blashke Islands, where forested shorelines and rugged terrain offer a range of exploration options. Travel by kayak, skiff or on foot, or join a fullday yak-and-whack expedition to move between land and water. Snorkelling may also be available, providing a view of the intertidal environment. Keep watch for orcas, which are known to frequent these waters.
Disembark in Juneau
Arrive in Juneau and disembark after breakfast. Your journey concludes in Alaska’s remote capital, set between mountains and sea.
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious, capable travellers—not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and snorkels, it’s essential to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These expeditions are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently on a small vessel—especially in changing weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and activities may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding zodiacs and moving around the vessel may require balance and agility, though assistance is always provided. Our snorkelling and kayaking program is designed for guests looking for a deeper connection with the places we visit. Of course, all activities are optional—and you’re welcome to enjoy the boat at your own pace. Not sure if this trip suits you? Please get in touch with our team—we’re here to help you choose the experience that’s right for you
Wilderness Adventurer is a compact expedition vessel designed for highly active exploration in remote coastal regions. With just 60 guests onboard, she offers an intimate and flexible cruising style, where daily experiences are shaped by the environment rather than a fixed schedule. Recently refreshed, the vessel balances classic small-ship character with a practical, expedition-led layout. Her size and shallow draft allow access to secluded waterways and landing sites well beyond the reach of larger vessels, creating a more immersive connection to the landscapes visited.
Pathfinder– 4 cabins
Our Pathfinder Cabins offer one double bed. Enjoy view windows, a private marine-style bathroom, TV, and DVD player. Amenities include a hair dryer, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, water bottles, and binoculars (one set) for your convenience.
*A private marine-style bathroom is a compact ensuite designed for life at sea. It includes a toilet, basin and shower, typically in a wet-room layout where the shower shares the same space as the rest of the bathroom. Everything is purpose-built to be efficient and easy to use onboard.
Trailblazer - 16 cabins
Our Trailblazer Cabins offer the option of one queen bed or two twin beds. Enjoy view windows, a private marine-style bathroom, TV, and DVD player. Amenities include a hair dryer, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, water bottles, and binoculars (one set) for your convenience.
Navigator - 9 cabins
Our Navigator Cabins offer the option of one queen bed or two twin beds. Enjoy view windows, a private marine-style bathroom, TV, and DVD player. Amenities include a hair dryer, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, water bottles, and binoculars (one set) for your convenience.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
11 Days