Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting from Haines

Set out on an intimate adventure with our small-group rafting and scenic driving tour, immersing yourself in the captivating landscape of the renowned Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Your journey kicks off as you meet your expert guide, setting off on a scenic thirty-minute riverside drive along the Haines Highway. Marvel at glacier-clad mountains, vibrant wildflowers along the road, and lush riverside channels teeming with wildlife like moose, bears, and trumpeter swans.

After a thorough safety talk, climb aboard your raft for a downstream exploration through the iconic Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. This tranquil float trip, distinct from the thrills of whitewater rafting, meanders along swift and invigorating waters. No paddling is necessary, freeing your hands to capture the breathtaking scenery with binoculars or camera. Your skilled guide expertly navigates the raft through the ever-changing channels, sharing insights into the preserve's crucial role in safeguarding the survival of bald eagles.

Immerse yourself in the preserve's natural beauty, where the sights and sounds of modern civilization fade away, enhanced by the absence of cell phone reception. Your guide assists in spotting bald eagles perched in trees, soaring in the sky, or foraging along the shore. In early summer, witness resident eagles caring for their chicks in nests, while mid-summer transforms the river into a bustling salmon habitat, attracting eagles to the banks and trees. As late summer arrives, observe young eagles stretching their wings in preparation for their inaugural flight.

Conclude this enchanting journey by boarding our comfortable vehicle for a scenic drive back to Haines, savoring lunch along the way. This tour seamlessly blends tranquility, adventure, and the wonders of nature, providing an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve.

See Historical Saxman Native Village, City and Wildlife

This Ketchikan guided tour includes sights in the Ketchikan area, an exclusive stop at Eagle Point, and time at Saxman Native Village.

Enjoy the city tour of Ketchikan aboard a deluxe motor coach. The views are outstanding as you travel past the rustic waterfront, boat harbors, and the picturesque city park. You will stop near one of Ketchikan's private salmon canneries at Eagle Point. This is an exclusive stop where eagles and harbor seals are almost always in attendance. See a salmon ladder and watch salmon spring from the rushing water en route to the spawning grounds (late July through September). A stop will also be made for a brief introduction to a rainforest.

At Saxman Native Village, you'll gaze and be amazed at the world's largest standing collection of totem poles. On this Ketchikan tour you will hear the legends and stories of these ancient and majestic totem poles, and learn how and why they were made. You will also make an exterior-only visit to the Clan House, where your guide will explain some of the many carved figures. You will then have a short amount of free time to visit the Village Store and Artists Co-op, where authentic arts and crafts are made by Saxman Natives. This Ketchikan tour does not include carving or native performances.

Once back in town, a stop will be made at Historic Creek Street. This was Ketchikan's former busy red-light district and is now home to the world-famous Dolly's House Museum. Guests can choose to either end the tour at Historic Creek Street (an approximately 10-minute walk from the cruise pier), or be returned to the pier.

Premium Scenic Sitka

Discover the beauty of one of the most sought out cities in Alaska on this premium 2.5-hour scenic excursion. Learn why so many people claim Sitka as the best stop of their Alaskan cruise. This small city will provide you with amazing and abundant wildlife, incredible beauty and overall majestic scenery.

Your guided tour will begin with a stop at beautiful Japonski Island. Learn about the fishing industry and world war two history as you view Sitka from this amazing island. Your next stop is Silver Bay, a deep-water fjord located southeast of Sitka. Once there, and if you are lucky, you may see whales, sea lions or other marine animals that inhabit the area.

As your journey continues, you will come to your next stop, The Fortress of the Bear. This special place is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned Alaskan brown and black bear cubs. Once there, you will have the opportunity to get close to these beautiful animals in their natural habitat. Don't forget to take your camera out or have your phone charged to take a few selfies with these beautiful, majestic animals.

After spending some quality time with the bears, be prepared to explore the Alaska Raptor Center. This center is home to bald eagles, owls, ravens, and other birds of prey that were rescued from the Alaskan forest. Experience an up-close look at these magnificent animals in a naturalized setting!

Last, but not least, you will visit the Sitka National Historical Park (also known as Totem Park). It was re-designated as a national historical park from its previous status as the national monument in 1972. The park preserves the site of a battle between invading Russian traders and indigenous Tlingit. The Tlingit and Haida totem poles stand along the park's scenic coastal trail. These totem poles appear so solidly rooted in place, it is difficult to imagine a time when they were not part of the surrounding forest.

As your tour comes to an end you will have the opportunity to drive back with your guide or walk along the beautiful Sitka Sea Walk. This is a short, scenic and easy walk along the shoreline and a chance to see more of Sitka's amazing attractions.

Don't hesitate to reserve your seat as space is limited on this small group, exclusive adventure! This amazing day in Sitka is waiting for you to come and explore.