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.

See White Pass Summit by Rail and Bus

Experience the best Skagway has to offer on this interesting and interactive Skagway White Pass Summit rail and bus excursion. A train ride on the White Pass Summit Rail will take you through history and some of the best natural scenery in the world. This bus and rail combination tour provides a view of the unparalleled beauty of Alaska from two completely different tour perspectives--one way by train and the other by bus.

Enjoy a relaxing 1 hour and 45 minute scenic journey on a train from Skagway to the top of the White Pass Summit. Along your journey you will pass Pitchfork Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, William Moore Bridge & Overlook, Skagway Scenic Overlook, Fraser Train Depot, Tormented Valley, and the "Welcome to Alaska" Sign. Please be advised that this Skagway port tour might alternate between operating with the bus portion first or the train portion first.

Please Note: All guests, regardless of age, must purchase a seat and be able to be belted in. Lap children are NOT allowed, each passenger must purchase a full-fare ticket.

All guests ages 16 and older are required to present an original passport when crossing the Canadian border; photocopies are not accepted. Guests should also bring any required visas or Permanent Resident Cards in addition to their passports. U.S. and Canadian citizens who are 15 years old or younger may travel with an original certified birth certificate instead of a passport. Birth certificates combined with a driver’s license are not permitted for adults. Guests who are unable to present the required documentation at the time of departure will not be able to participate in the tour and will not be eligible for a refund. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. If a minor is traveling with someone other than their legal guardian, they must have a notarized letter of consent signed by all legal guardians. Any single adult traveling with a child under 18 must provide either an original death certificate for the non-accompanying parent or a certified letter from the non-accompanying parent stating that the accompanying adult has permission to take the child across the border, that the accompanying adult has authority to make all medical decisions for the child, and providing a daytime telephone number for the non-accompanying parent in case further verification is needed.

Best of Sitka

Get to know Alaska's first capitol and experience this unique city through the eyes of a local guide, there is no better way to learn about a place you have never been. Your group is purposely kept to a small number of only 10 guests, allowing for a much more intimate and one-on-one experience with your friendly, knowledgeable and professional guide.

Boldly existing between the mountains and the sea, Sitka is an island community where the arts flourish and an ancient native culture still thrives. Tlingit, Russian and American settlers have all called Sitka home. Today, cultural influences from all three groups remain. From viewing traditional dancing to hiking a totem-lined trail through the rainforest, visitors still experience the cultural richness that inspired Sitka's 19th century nickname, the "Paris of the Pacific".

Begin your tour at the Harrigan Centennial Hall. Climb aboard a comfortable, full-size passenger van and begin to make your way south on Sitka's road system. Always keep your eyes peeled as you might spot bald eagles in the tree-tops and Sitka black tail deer grazing on brush. Drive around Silver Bay, a body of water surrounded by high mountains where in the later months of the season humpback and minke whales can sometimes be seen here. With time and weather permitting, make a stop here for photos.

Near the end of the road system you will arrive at The Fortress of the Bear. This non-profit rescue facility is home to seven Alaskan bears. Get up close and personal with the four rescued beautiful Alaskan coastal brown bears and three black bears, the only black bears on Baranof Island. This education and rescue center reside on an exquisite three-quarter acre habitat for orphaned brown bear cubs complete with covered viewing areas in a natural habitat setting which replicates Southeast Alaska.

After spending time with the bears travel next to The Alaskan Raptor Center. This rehabilitation center for birds of prey has a state-of-the-art flight room and is home to multiple rescued eagles, owls and other birds of prey found in Southeast Alaska.

Sitka National Historical Park in on your own. This protected area of temperate rain forest stretches out to a peninsula and offers multiple, easily accessible trail loops that contour Indian River and the Eastern Channel waters. Totem poles punctuate these trails. This park is also the site of a battle between the Sheetka Kwan Kiksadi Clan and Russian American troops, during the 19th century. Choose to walk through the park or visit the amazing cultural center, which offers its own onsite interpreters, as well as exhibits and demonstrations for traditional techniques such as carving, working with fur, beading, and metal working.

A well-rounded introduction to all things Sitka awaits on this best of tour. Spend two hours being introduced to Southeast Alaska and still have time left to explore, shop and taste local cuisine on your own afterwards. Space is limited so book today as not to miss out.