A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

Day 1: Seattle Embarkation

Arrive in Seattle and embark National Geographic Sea Lion.

Day 2: Gulf Islands, British Columbia

Cruise amid the lush Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia—which runs between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island—and search for some of the many marine mammals that inhabit these waters.

Day 3: Johnstone Strait and Alert Bay, British Columbia

Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay, where we’ll watch traditional First Nations performances and learn about the art and culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw people.

Day 4-5: Inside Passage of British Columbia

Sail northward along steep and rugged coastline looking for whales, dolphins, bears, deer and other wildlife. Go ashore to explore or kayak the remote bays and inlets.

Day 6-9: Haida Gwaii

With very special permission, we explore the islands of Haida Gwaii, including the incredible Gwaii Haanas National Park & Haida Heritage Site. We will be joined by a Haida Interpreter for our days among the islands, wildlife and cultural sites. In the Haida ancestral town of Old Massett, we are invited into a home of a local carver for a feast of traditional foods and dance. Meet Haida artists and see their workshops. Visit the Haida Heritage Center at Kay Llnagaay to learn about the incredible history of the Haida people and their renowned artwork, a spiritual endeavor. See the ancient totems at SGang Gwaay (Ninstints), kayak and take Zodiacs around the incredibly biodiverse islands in Gwaii Haanas.

Day 10-12: Alaska's Inside Passage

Spend three days encountering spectacular scenery and wildlife in Alaska’s famed Inside Passage. Explore the forested backwaters of Misty Fiords National Monument by kayak or expedition landing craft. Go ashore to visit the charming fishing village of Petersburg, and explore the surrounding area on a forest walk or on an optional bicycle ride or flightseeing excursion (at an additional cost.) Cruise and kayak past the glacially carved cliffs of Tracy or Endicott Arm—both spectacular fjords that harbor orcas, humpback whales, and Steller sea lions. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise on an expedition landing craft for unparalleled view of sculpted iridescent icebergs.

Day 13-14: Glacier Bay National Park, Inian Islands, Chichagof Island

By special park permit, spend a full day among the enormous glaciers and expansive wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. A national park ranger joins us to interpret the area geology and ecosystems, and a native Tlingit interpreter will share the lore and legend of the area. Then, spend a day kayaking and hiking among incredible wildlife around the Inian Islands and Chichagof Island. Conditions permitting, we’ll lower the ship’s hydrophone to listen for whale communications. Enjoy a farewell dinner on our final night.

Day 15: Sitka Disembarkation

See the picturesque city of Sitka on Baranof Island and meet eagles up close at the Raptor Rehabilitation Center.

• All meals and non-alcoholic beverages on board
• Cappuccinos, lattes and filtered water
• 24-hour coffee, tea and soda on demand
• Hors d'oeurves and snacks during recap
• Guidance of the experienced expedition staff
• Park fees and port taxes
• All excursions
• Zodiac and kayak explorations
• Presentations

• International and internal airfares
• Travel Protection Plan
• Passport, visa and immigration fees
• Gratuities
• Alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Laundry, internet and telephone
• Gift shop items and any other items of a personal nature