Alaska Fjords & Glaciers (Wilderness Explorer)

If you want to see the very best of Southeast Alaska, the wildlife, the scenery, the islands and inlets, the only way is by small ship. On our small vessels you have the chance to go ashore almost every day, explore by Zodiac or go kayaking. Small ships can go to where the wildlife and very best scenery is to be found, unlike larger cruise ships who, if they go anywhere near at all (most don't) will just cruise past a mile or so off-shore.

We will expect to see large numbers of Humpbacks as well as several other species of whale or dolphin, sea-lions, seals, sea otters, bears and huge numbers of sea birds. We will go ashore to look for signs of wildlife, and the expert members of the crew will accompany us on most trips to explain and help us enjoy the environment.

Cloud failure or liquid sunshine, our Alaska small ship adventure cruises are perfect for exploration—paddling, hiking, hot tub under the stars, “polar bear plunges,” even playing in the mud with your expert expedition team.

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Highlights

• Dawes Glacier and ice-rich Endicott Arm

• Whale watching in Stephens Passage

• Adventure exploration in Misty Fjords National Monument

• Tlingit cultural presentation

• Kiksetti Totem Park and Chief Shakes Tribal House visit

• Tongass backcountry by kayak, paddle board, skiff, and hike

• Search for wildlife—bears, Sitka deer, sea lions, eagles, mink, porpoises, mountain goats

• Navigate winding Wrangell Narrows and Behm Canal

Wilderness Explorer

Vessel Type: Expedition

Length: 186 feet

Passenger Capacity: 76 guests

Built: 1976, renovated in 2012

To complement the wild, natural surroundings, the interior of the 74-guest Wilderness Explorer has intentionally been designed with a Pacific Northwest feel including the nautical-themed main lounge. The open-seating format of the dining room and ample space on deck encourage guest-to-guest interaction on this small ship. This expedition vessel has three accessible decks; enjoy over-the-top views from the bow, watch sparkling stars from the upper deck hot tub, and relax in the sun lounge.

The Wilderness Explorer is equipped for active adventure and is outfitted with kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, and yoga mats, a hydrophone for listening below the water, and a bow-mounted underwater camera for viewing in-water action. An EZ Dock launch platform allows for easy access into the water. Onboard wellness amenities include fitness equipment and hot tub.

There are three cabin categories aboard the Wilderness Explorer: Trailblazer; Pathfinder; and Explorer. Explorer accommodates single and double accommodations.

Common to all cabins are: Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; private bath with shower; view windows.

Alaska Rail, Denali, & Knik River Wilderness

Complete your Alaskan adventure cruise with our 6-night, pre-cruise land tour into Denali National Park, the wilderness surrounding the Knik River, Fairbanks, and Anchorage.