EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

OVERVIEW

Discover the wonders of Mendenhall Glacier at its visitor center and cruise a purpose-built vessel through waters where humpback whales and other marine creatures are commonly spotted. The glacier is the only one in Southeast Alaska accessible by road, just one of the facts you will learn while browsing the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center. The glacier is 13 miles long and is part of the massive Juneau Icefield, a remnant of the last ice age. Time permitting, you can stroll the glacier-view path at the center or watch salmon in a nearby stream before driving on to Auke Bay. Here, you will embark a catamaran specially designed for wildlife viewing. Humpback whales are the star attractions in these waters, but you may also spot orcas, sea lions and bald eagles. To enhance the experience, the vessel is outfitted with a hydrophone that may allow you to hear the sounds of the whales below. Throughout the cruise, your onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See Mendenhall Glacier from its enlightening visitor center.
• Cruise a catamaran through waters where humpback whales are commonly seen.
• Watch for other marine animals and bald eagles.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, gloves and a hat.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. Bring a rainproof jacket.

OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable adventure into Alaska’s stunning wilderness with a family-owned, Tlingit operated company. For over 50 years, we’ve proudly shared Southeast Alaska with guests from around the world. Cruise into the pristine waters off Juneau, an ideal area to spot humpback whales voraciously feeding to fatten up for their winter migration south. After settling into a spacious catamaran that has been specially designed with large windows for wildlife viewing, you will cruise into the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage. Against a majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist will describe the habits of the wildlife you may encounter, including humpback whales, the main attraction in these waters. Chances are, you will see these majestic creatures breaching the water’s surface and waving their flukes up and down as they dive for food. You may even spot the whales bubble-net feeding, a curious technique in which they force small fish upwards by blowing bubbles beneath them, which makes for easy feeding. Other frequently seen wildlife includes orcas, Stellar sea lions, Dall’s porpoise and bald eagles.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch humpback whales gorging on food at the water’s surface.
• Look for other marine creatures including orcas and harbor seals.
• Scan the shoreline for bears and Sitka blacktail deer.
• Listen to an onboard naturalist describe the animals’ behaviors.
• Explore with the locals. For over 50 years this tour operator has proudly shared Southeast Alaska with guests from all over.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles.

OVERVIEW

Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau, highlighting the city’s landmarks and rich cultural past as you head towards the Mendenhall Valley. Your first stop is the historic Brotherhood Bridge, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the valley and, weather permitting, the Mendenhall Glacier off in the distance. This bridge holds significant cultural and historical importance, symbolizing the bridging of the gap between Native and Non-Native communities and overcoming racial tensions. Adorned with ten bronze medallions featuring the Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) crest, sculpted by Roy Peratrovich Jr. in honor of the ANB’s 50th anniversary, the bridge depicts the two great Tlingit moieties—Eagle and Raven—emphasizing the ANB’s foundational role in their shared heritage. Afterward your drive takes you to Juneau's Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and Visitor Center. There you will learn the value of ocean ranching to Juneau's commercial and sport fishing industries and the hatchery's role in keeping the area salmon population at sustainable levels.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Following a motorcoach ride to scenic Auke Bay, you’ll board an Alaskan-built expedition vessel specially designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, comfortable cabin, surrounded by large windows, as you ply the island studded waters of Stephens Passage. Once whales have been sighted, your skilled Captain will maneuver the vessel to allow exceptional viewing and photographic opportunities, don’t forget your camera and be sure to bring a warm jacket to wear on the topside observation dec. An onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale and other wildlife you may encounter, including killer whales, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles and more. Then take a leisurely break from cruising to step ashore on beautiful Colt Island and enjoy an Alaskan inspired meal at Orca Point Lodge. At Orca Point Lodge, local seafood and traditional family recipes come together to offer a true taste of Alaska. Enjoy dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients and hear the stories behind each recipe that connect you to the region’s rich heritage. The lodge offers peaceful seclusion with modern comforts in a remote wilderness setting. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and take a stroll along the beach before boarding the vessel for your return cruise to Auke Bay.

OVERVIEW

Discover Juneau’s scenic natural beauty by driving around the downtown waterfront and visiting Mendenhall Glacier, an ever-changing river of ice just outside of town. While traveling along the bustling waterfront, you can expect to see one historical building after another, some dating to the late 1890s, before Juneau was even incorporated. A short drive will bring you to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area, where you can stretch your legs and snap photos of the ancient glacier from various angles. Photo Point offers the closest view of the glacier. You might also venture out on the trail system for a first-hand look at this relatively new ecosystem that was once covered by ice.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Juneau’s waterfront, the city’s most vibrant district.
• Behold Mendenhall Glacier, one of North America’s most accessible glaciers.
• Shoot photos of the glacier from several viewpoints, all spectacular.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau, highlighting the city’s landmarks and rich cultural past as you head towards the Mendenhall Valley. Your first stop is the historic Brotherhood Bridge, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the valley and, weather permitting, the Mendenhall Glacier off in the distance. This bridge holds significant cultural and historical importance, symbolizing the bridging of the gap between Native and Non-Native communities and overcoming racial tensions. Adorned with ten bronze medallions featuring the Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) crest, sculpted by Roy Peratrovich Jr. in honor of the ANB’s 50th anniversary, the bridge depicts the two great Tlingit moieties—Eagle and Raven—emphasizing the ANB’s foundational role in their shared heritage. Next you're off to Glacier Gardens where you'll board a guided tram vehicle and climb up through the temperate rainforest to a scenic viewing platform that offers alpine views of the surrounding mountains, waterways and islands. Upon your return to the base area, you'll have time to visit the Gardens pavilion and view the variety of botanical plants that thrive in the local climate. From the Gardens, it's a short drive back to your ship along Juneau's waterfront.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Embark on this memorable adventure with a scenic drive through downtown Juneau and along the Gastineau Channel, where your guide will entertain you with engaging stories and share highlights of the city’s rich history and notable landmarks en-route to Juneau’s star attraction – The Mendenhall Glacier. Upon arrival, soak in the striking 1.5-mile-wide glacier which flows down from the expansive Juneau Icefield. After your glacier adventure, indulge in a satisfying feast at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, nestled in the tranquil rainforest. Here, you'll savor wild Alaskan salmon along with a variety of mouthwatering side dishes. Enjoy your meal at your own pace, with convenient shuttles available to transport you back to your ship when you’re ready.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy scenic ride though downtown Juneau and along the Gastineau Channel.
• Behold Mendenhall Glacier, one of North America’s most accessible glaciers.
• Shoot photos of the glacier from several viewpoints, all spectacular.
• Indulge in a satisfying feast at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

This tour combines the splendor of visiting Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area with a comfortable trip into the rainforest at Glacier Gardens. Your journey begins with a visit to Alaska's most accessible glacier, the Mendenhall. There you will be able to view the glacier and explore the outlying trails and viewpoints during your 75-minute stay. Next, you're off to Glacier Gardens where you'll board a guided tram vehicle and climb up through the temperate rainforest to a scenic viewing platform that offers alpine views of the surrounding mountains, waterways, and islands. Upon your return to the base area, you'll have time to visit the Gardens pavilion and view the variety of botanical plants that thrive in the local climate. Finally, you'll visit the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and learn about the facility's positive impact on Alaska's prized fishing industry through the implementation of ocean ranching.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Behold Mendenhall Glacier, one of North America’s most accessible glaciers.
• Shoot photos of the glacier from several viewpoints, all spectacular.
• Enjoy alpine view of surrounding mountains from the platform at magnificent Glacier Gardens.
• Visit the Macaulay Salmon Hatchery.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the scenic waters of the Inside Passage to Sentinel Island, whose iconic lighthouse was constructed in 1902. Although you may spot harbor seals and Stellar sea lions along the shore and bald eagles soaring overhead, the star attractions are the humpback whales that spend their summers in the nutrient rich waters. You may witness these incredible creatures breach and splash their flukes as they dive and feed to prepare for their winter migration. Few sights are quite so mesmerizing as adult humpbacks that can grow to be 60 feet long and weigh up to 40 tons. Upon reaching Sentinel Island, you will follow the boardwalk to the unusual Art Deco-style lighthouse. Immerse yourself in its history, with the option to ascend the tower or explore the first floor and peruse the captivating black-and-white photos of the beacon and the “wickies” – an affectionate term for the lighthouse keepers – that once operated it.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the waters north of Juneau in search of humpback whales.
• Keep an eye out for other marine wildlife, including seals, sea lions and bald eagles.
• Explore Sentinel Island and the lighthouse that was built there more than a century ago.
• Stop at Brotherhood Bridge for a spectacular photo-opportunity of *Mendenhall Glacier in the distance.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Sample a remarkable variety of seafood at iconic downtown destinations and learn about the sustainable practices that protect Alaska’s fishing grounds. Fittingly, you will begin at a memorial dedicated to the commercial fishermen and women who lost their lives at sea. A short walk will bring you to Taku Smokeries for a tasting of smoked king salmon, the largest of the Pacific salmon. More succulent seafood awaits you at Tracy’s King Crab Shack, where you will enjoy king crab bisque and a crab cake. At nearby Taste Alaska! you will snack on smoked salmon dip, smoked salmon caviar and kelp salsa with chips. There is simply no end to the ways that the local seafood can be prepared as you will discover at Deckhand Dave’s, where you will be served tacos made with rockfish, a mild slightly sweet-tasting species. You will also sample halibut ceviche and a blueberry mojito at the Crystal Saloon.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a generous sampling of Alaskan seafood at places that the locals love.
• Sample smoked salmon by itself, in a dip and even as caviar.
• Taste a king crab cake and a bisque made with king crab.
• Dine on other innovative seafood dishes, including halibut ceviche and rockfish tacos.
• Hear about Alaska’s strict sustainable fishing practices while walking between restaurants.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Engage in Alaska’s state sport of dog mushing on special equipment that is modified for the snow-free summer and interact with the huskies that effortlessly pull the sled. The mushers camp is across Gastineau Channel on Douglas Island, a heavily forested wilderness. It’s the ideal environment for the dogs to train for mushing through the snow come winter. You will gain a deep respect for the sport and the huskies by standing on the back of a wheeled sled as the team of dogs pulls it along a trail with ease. Back at the kennel, you will see how the dogs are cared for, perhaps talk with the camp’s veterinarian and play with a retired sled dog. Alaskan huskies are known for their great endurance, power and intelligence. You can’t help but be awed in their presence. The wooded setting is equally memorable, especially when seen from the suspension bridge that spans Fish Creek.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Race through the wilderness at the back of a wheeled sled behind a team of huskies.
• Interact with the dogs and mushers that rely on them for winter travel.
• See how the huskies are cared for like professional athletes, which they are.
• Admire the seemingly endless wilderness from the suspension bridge over Fish Creek.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise to the Channel Islands State Marine Park and then ease into a tandem kayak to observe the abundant wildlife, whose star attractions are humpback whales. To reach the uninhabited islands within the marine park, you will cruise through Lynn Canal in a small boat that will offer panoramic views of the snow-capped Coastal and Chugach Mountain Ranges. Although the natural beauty will be undeniably breathtaking, few sights can compare to watching massive humpback whales feeding on krill and small fish to fatten up for their migration south. Observing the spectacle in an open kayak from a close but safe distance will make the experience even more special. These waters are among the richest feeding grounds in Alaska, so the chance of spotting whales, orcas, porpoises and Stellar sea lions is excellent. Be sure to keep an eye out for bald eagles overhead and Sitka black-tail deer along the shore.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the incredibly scenic Lynn Canal to the Channel Islands State Marine Park.
• Paddle a tandem kayak around the uninhabited islands within the marine park.
• Look for humpback whales, porpoises, Stellar sea lions and harbor seals.
• Scan the sky for majestic bald eagles and other avian species.
• Hear fascinating facts about the wildlife and the history of the area

HELPFUL HINTS

• Guests will be entering the temperate rainforest and ocean environment, dress accordingly Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.