Exclusive Wildlife and Bear Search

Chichagof Island has been named "Bear Island" by National Geographic because it has the highest concentration of bears in the world at 1-2 brown bears per square mile. This Exclusive Wildlife and Bear Search small group tour will give you a flexible, up-close experience that the large group tours simply cannot offer.

There are many exciting things to see, such as a the scenic view of a muskeg, some of the ten varieties of edible berries found on the island, viewing an old growth forest, and potential sightings of the king of the island: brown bears.

Based on current bear movements, feeding habits, and daytime temperatures, there are short stops in key locations to scope out a magnificent view of these captivating creatures, and your wildlife guide knows them all. They will also share information about the area and the Tlingit Native population.

There is also a host of other wildlife that are quite frequently spotted during excursions, including mink, marten, red squirrels, otter, beaver, ducks, sea birds, Sitka black-tail deer, and plenty of bald eagles. So be sure to bring your camera.

Please note: Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. However, this tour can re-position quickly, and there is a much higher chance of sightings than with the slow moving, large tour groups. Due to the remote environment, the bathroom facilities are limited and there is one restroom break provided in the middle of the tour for guests. Please take this into consideration when booking this tour.

Juneau City with Glacier View and Hatchery

Juneau is one of the most unique state capitals in the United States. While not technically an island, the city is only accessible by air or sea, adding to its distinct charm. This exciting excursion will provide you with a thorough orientation of Juneau, including a stop at the famous Brotherhood Bridge for a stunning view of the majestic Mendenhall Glacier.

Your journey begins in the heart of the historical downtown district, where the streets are lined with charming gift shops, jewelry stores, king crab shacks, and local fish restaurants. This Juneau tour will also take you past the world-famous Red Dog Saloon, a local landmark filled with history and character.

Leaving the bustling downtown area behind, you will make your way to the historic mining community of Douglas Island. Along the way, you'll have photo opportunities and panoramic views of downtown Juneau from across the water, including breathtaking views of the cruise ship port and surrounding landscapes.

As you continue north, you'll venture into the Valley Area, passing small harbors filled with Alaskan fishing boats and the scenic Mendenhall Wetland Refuge. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Chilkat Mountains in the distance. Your next stop will be the Brotherhood Bridge, where, weather permitting, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, one of Southeast Alaska's most iconic sights.

The next stop will be the Ladd Macaulay Visitor Center, where you'll dive into the fascinating life cycle of salmon and explore their near-shore marine environment. Learn about the inner workings of a hatchery through a variety of interactive exhibits and informative commentaries. This stop offers a fun and educational experience for the entire family, providing insights into the importance of salmon in the local ecosystem. Get a bird's-eye view of hatchery operations and gain insight into the life cycle of Pacific salmon. From the sky bridge in the rearing facility, watch as millions of baby king and coho salmon grow all year long. During the late June to September season, witness the thrilling spectacle of adult salmon battling their way up the fish ladder. Dive deeper into Alaska's marine life with saltwater aquariums showcasing over 150 species, and enjoy an interactive experience in the tide pool touch tank area, where you can interact with local sea critters.

The fascinating Whale Park Fountain is your final destination. This life-sized bronze sculpture of a breaching humpback whale is a must-see, located right on the Waterfront. Offering unparalleled photo opportunities, the sculpture is not only a visual marvel but also a powerful symbol of Alaska's heritage. After admiring the sculpture, re-board your transportation for a comfortable ride back to the main cruise ship terminal, concluding your unforgettable tour of Juneau.