ON SALE
Read 0 review
Share this trip with a friend
From
From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Share this trip
Journey deep into the untouched wilderness of Alaska’s Prince William Sound, where towering tidewater glaciers, forested islands and quiet fjords create one of the most pristine coastal environments on earth. Travelling by small expedition vessel, access remote anchorages far beyond the reach of larger ships and experience this extraordinary landscape up close. Each day brings the opportunity to explore actively and spontaneously—kayak through iceberg-dotted bays, hike along rugged shorelines and skiff into hidden inlets in search of wildlife. Encounters with whales, sea otters, seals and seabirds are part of daily life, while a visit to the remote fishing town of Cordova offers insight into the region’s resilient coastal culture. Guided by an expert expedition team, this is a flexible and immersive journey designed to maximise time in nature, delivering a raw and authentic Alaskan experience.
Read more...
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Arrive Anchorage, embark ship in Seward
Arrive in Alaska and board your expedition vessel, settling in as you meet your crew and fellow travellers. After a welcome briefing and safety orientation, enjoy your first evening onboard with a beautifully prepared dinner showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. As the vessel departs, your journey into the wild landscapes of Prince William Sound begins.
Meals: D
Day 2
Icy Bay Glaciers
Wake to a world of ice and towering peaks as you enter the glacial waterways of Icy Bay. Surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery, explore by skiff along the shifting faces of nearby glaciers, where ice meets sea in a constantly evolving landscape. Conditions permitting, kayak into quiet coves for a close-up perspective of floating ice and sheer scale, or join a guided hike for a more immersive on-foot experience. Throughout the day, your expedition team brings the environment to life, sharing insights into the powerful forces shaping this remarkable region.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Knight Island
Spend the day exploring the rugged beauty of Knight Island, where sheltered coves, forested shorelines and glacially carved landscapes invite discovery. This remote setting offers excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters, with whales, seals, sea lions and seabirds often seen in the surrounding waters. Choose your own pace of adventure—kayak along the coastline, explore by skiff or head ashore for a guided hike through dense coastal forest. For those seeking a more immersive experience, bushwhacking inland reveals a raw and untouched wilderness. With a full day dedicated to exploration, Knight Island showcases the very best of Prince William Sound’s wild and remote character.
Day 4
Cordova
Arrive in the remote coastal town of Cordova, a true Alaskan community accessible only by air or sea. Set against a backdrop of mountains, rivers and wetlands, this working fishing town offers a glimpse into life on the edge of the wilderness. Explore at your own pace or join a guided walk to learn about the town’s history and connection to the surrounding landscape. For those seeking a more active option, hike into the hills for sweeping views over the Copper River Delta and beyond. After a day ashore, return to the vessel and enjoy a relaxed evening onboard.
Day 5
Columbia Glacier & Glacier Island
Witness the immense scale of Columbia Glacier, one of the largest and most dynamic tidewater glaciers in Alaska. Icebergs fill the surrounding waters as this powerful glacier continually calves and reshapes the landscape. Explore the area by skiff or kayak, navigating carefully through shifting ice for an unforgettable close-up experience. Later, continue to nearby Glacier Island, where the pace softens and the wilderness invites deeper exploration. Choose from a range of activities—kayaking along quiet shores, skiff cruising through sheltered waters or heading ashore for a relaxed hike. Together, these contrasting environments highlight both the raw energy of Alaska’s glaciers and the calm beauty of its coastal landscapes.
Day 6
Unakwik Inlet & Meares Glacier
Experience two contrasting glacier-carved landscapes as you explore deep within Prince William Sound. Begin at Meares Glacier, a rare advancing tidewater glacier, where the raw forces shaping this region are on full display. Discover the area by skiff or kayak, or stretch your legs on a guided hike for a closer, more immersive perspective. LaLater, continue into a quiet, sheltered inlet where steep valley walls and calm waters create a striking sense of isolation. Here, classic expedition activities take centre stage—kayaking along quiet shores, skiff cruising through narrow passages or venturing inland on a bushwhack. In the evening, unwind onboard and reflect on the day’s discoveries as the light fades over this remote wilderness.
Day 7
Barry Arm & Esther Island
Your final full day blends wildlife encounters, local insight and dramatic scenery. Begin at Esther Island, where rich marine life and coastal habitats create excellent opportunities for exploration. Cruise by skiff through sheltered waters, keeping an eye out for sea lions and other wildlife, or head ashore for a short guided walk if conditions allow. In the afternoon, continue into Barry Arm, a striking fjord framed by steep mountains and hanging glaciers. Best experienced from the ship, this scenic passage offers a powerful sense of scale and a fitting finale to your journey. Back onboard, gather for a farewell dinner and reflect on the week’s adventures as your expedition team shares highlights from the voyages.
Day 8
Disembark in Seward
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard as you reflect on your journey through Prince William Sound. Disembark in Seward and transfer to Anchorage, travelling along one of Alaska’s most scenic routes as your expedition comes to a close. NB* Itineraries are a guideline and are subject to weather conditions, tides and wildlife opportunities. Your expedition leader and captain will keep you informed during the voyage.
Meals: B
Arrive Dutch Harbor embark ship
Arrive into Dutch Harbor and in the afternoon board your expedition vessel and settle in ahead of your first evening onboard. Meet your expedition team and fellow travellers as your journey begins. *Please note that arriving in Dutch Harbor the day before embarkation is strongly recommended due to weather concerns.
Unalaska & Dutch Harbor
Remain in Dutch Harbor, located on Unalaska Island in the heart of the Aleutian Islands. Explore ashore with options to visit local historic sites, discover the region’s cultural heritage or take in expansive views on a guided hike. Activities may include a town tour or further exploration by zodiac, offering insight into life in this remote and storied part of Alaska.
Akutan Island
Explore Akutan Island, home to one of Alaska’s most active volcanoes and a striking mix of rugged coastline, sheltered coves and open hillsides. Activities may include hiking, kayaking or zodiac exploration, with the day shaped by local conditions. Keep watch for wildlife along the way, with opportunities to spot sea otters, eagles and, at times, whales in the surrounding waters.
Captain’s Choice
Today’s destination is guided by conditions, allowing for a flexible approach to exploration in this remote region. Whether hiking along exposed coastlines, paddling beneath volcanic cliffs or exploring by zodiac, each experience is shaped by the environment. This area is also known for its birdlife, with opportunities to spot a variety of seabird species depending on location and conditions.
Unga Island
Step ashore on Unga Island, where traces of past settlement remain scattered along a remote coastline. Explore the abandoned village, with weathered structures offering insight into life in this isolated region. The island’s shoreline is marked by ancient petrified forest remains, preserved by volcanic activity over millennia. Explore by zodiac or kayak, keeping watch for marine life in the surrounding waters near the Shumagin Islands.
Aniakchak National Monument & Preserve
Explore one of Alaska’s most remote and least-visited protected areas, where a vast volcanic caldera defines the landscape. Formed by a powerful eruption thousands of years ago, this dramatic terrain offers a rare glimpse into the region’s geological forces. Weather permitting, explore by zodiac or step ashore to experience this stark and seldom-visited environment, where the scale and isolation of the landscape are a defining part of the journey.
Alaska Peninsula (Ugashik National Wildlife Refuge)
Discover the wild landscapes of the Alaska Peninsula, where volcanic peaks, open tundra and rugged coastline meet. Explore by zodiac, kayak or on foot, with activities shaped by conditions and opportunity. This remote region is rich in wildlife, with salmon-filled rivers attracting brown bears, alongside a variety of birdlife and marine species that thrive in this untouched environment.
Katmai National Park
Explore the remote wilderness of Katmai National Park, a landscape shaped by volcanic forces and rich in wildlife. Venture ashore or explore by skiff in areas such as Kukak Bay or Geographic Harbor, depending on conditions. This region is renowned for its high concentration of brown bears, often drawn to salmon-filled rivers, alongside bald eagles and other wildlife that thrive in this dynamic environment.
Day 9
Kodiak Island
Explore Kodiak Island, where rugged landscapes and wildlife-rich waters define the experience. Paddle sheltered bays, hike forested terrain or explore by zodiac, with each outing shaped by conditions. This region supports an abundance of wildlife, from sea otters and bald eagles to thriving seabird colonies, offering a rewarding day of exploration both on land and water.
Day 10
Kenai Fjords National Park
Wake to a landscape shaped by ice and sea as you explore Kenai Fjords National Park. This vast protected region is defined by tidewater glaciers flowing from the Harding Icefield into deep, narrow fjords. Spend the day cruising dramatic coastlines, with opportunities to explore by zodiac or kayak. Keep watch for harbour seals, sea otters and seabirds, with puffins often seen along the cliffs.ska’s marine and shoreline ecosystems.
Day 11
After breakfast, disembark the Safari Explorer and transfer to Anchorage for onward travel, concluding your Aleutian adventure. NB* Itineraries are a guideline and are subject to weather conditions, tides and wildlife opportunities. Your expedition leader and captain will keep you informed during the voyage.
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
Safari Explorer is an intimate expedition yacht offering a highly personalised small-ship experience in Alaska and Hawaii. Carrying just 36 guests, the vessel delivers a relaxed and social onboard atmosphere while retaining the capability to access remote bays, shallow inlets and rarely visited coastal regions. Originally built as a research vessel and later transformed into a boutique expedition yacht, Safari Explorer combines rugged capability with refined onboard comfort. Spacious decks, an open bridge policy and a welcoming lounge and wine library keep guests closely connected to the surrounding environment throughout the journey. With a strong focus on active exploration, the vessel is equipped for kayaking, snorkelling, skiff excursions and guided hikes, making it ideal for travellers seeking immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences in remote marine environments.
Commodore Suite - 2 cabins
Size: approx. 24–26 sqm / 255–275 sq ft
Beds: King bed or two twins
The Commodore Suites are the most spacious accommodation onboard, located on the upper deck with large windows and a small private balcony. Each suite features a separate sitting area, private ensuite bathroom with shower and spa bath, individual climate control, desk space and generous storage, offering a comfortable and refined retreat.
Junior Commodore Suite - 1 Cabin
Size: approx. 15–16 sqm / 165–175 sq ft
The Jr Commodore Suite offers additional space with a small sitting area and forward-facing views. The cabin includes a private ensuite bathroom with shower and spa bath, individual climate control, desk and storage space, providing a comfortable and well-appointed option onboard.
Admiral Staterooms - 3 cabins
Size: approx. 18–24 sqm / 195–260 sq ft
Admiral Staterooms are among the more spacious staterooms onboard, featuring large windows and well-designed layouts. Each cabin includes a private ensuite bathroom with spa bath and shower, individual climate control, desk and wardrobe storage, creating a comfortable base for the voyage.
Trailblazer Staterooms - 2 cabins
Size: approx. 11–13 sqm / 120–140 sq ft
Beds: Queen or twin beds
Trailblazer Staterooms are compact ocean-view cabins with efficient layouts and easy access to deck areas. Each includes a private ensuite bathroom with shower, individual climate control, desk and storage space, offering practical comfort for an active expedition.
Navigator Staterooms - 10 cabins
Size: approx. 10–12 sqm / 105–130 sq ft
Navigator Staterooms provide comfortable and functional accommodation with view windows and all essential amenities. Each cabin features a private ensuite bathroom with shower, individual climate control, desk and storage space, ideal for guests spending most of their time exploring.
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.
8 Days
11 Days