Day 1 | Sitka
Welcome to beautiful Sitka—the only community in Southeast Alaska that faces the open ocean waters of the Gulf of Alaska. We encourage you to arrive early and explore the community’s rich culture, history, and biodiversity. Then embark for the winding narrows north of town while searching for bald eagles, sea otters, bears, whales, and other wildlife.
Day 2 | Wilderness Bay & Kake
View the world’s tallest totem pole, an artist demonstration, and experience the inspiring culture of the Tlingit in the Alaska Native village of Kake. Later, explore the Alaska wilderness in picturesque Frederick Sound—an area humpback whales and other wildlife frequent. Humpbacks are famous for behavior that lends itself to incredible viewing and photography, such as tail lobbing, lunge feeding, pectoral slapping, breaching, and graceful dives that showcase their massive flukes. Other opportunities for in-depth exploration may include the protected waters or shores of Security Bay, Skanax Bay, Pybus Bay, and The Brothers islands.
Day 3 | Wrangell
Home to a little over 2,000 permanent residents, Wrangell is the only town in Alaska to have been under the jurisdiction of three flags and ruled by four nations- the Tlingit, Russia, England, and the United States. Enjoy several options to explore this colorful history, including a guided tour and a trip to the Wrangell Museum. Visit the intriguing state historic park, Petroglyph Beach, which contains the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska.
There is also an optional opportunity to board a high-speed jet boat and navigate through a maze of glistening icebergs en route to the LeConte Glacier. This excursion is available at an additional cost and is dependent on space/permits.
Day 4 | Petersburg & Wilderness Exploration
Discover the charming Mitkof Island fishing town of Petersburg. Founded by Norwegian fishermen in the late 1800s, Petersburg is nicknamed Alaska’s “Little Norway.” Experience this Scandinavian culture with a folk-dance show by local youth at the iconic Sons of Norway Hall. Later, explore the Alaska wilderness on the eastern side of Frederick Sound. Your Captain and expedition team will choose an exciting activity based on the day’s circumstances and weather. Options may include trekking ashore, kayaking, or wildlife viewing in the sound.
Day 5 | Tracy Arm Fjord & Orca Point Lodge
Journey through Tracy or Endicott Arm in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, a place the famous naturalist, John Muir, referred to as, “A wild, unfinished Yosemite.” Renowned for its glaciers, pristine waterfalls, towering icebergs, abundant harbor seals, and granite cliffs that rise from sea level to 4,000 feet, this wilderness is often referred to by locals as one of the most scenic areas in the state.
End the day’s adventure with a relaxing evening at Orca Point Lodge, our own exclusive day lodge on Colt Island*. Enjoy the beautiful beach and a marine life viewing tank. Alaska crab and other delicious fare are served in the lodge, while s’mores are available at our beachside campfire.
*The lodge stop is subject to availability. If scheduling conflicts preclude the lodge, an alternative evening activity will be determined by your captain and guide staff.
Day 6 | Glacier Bay National Park
This remarkable national park fjord extends 65 miles, contains tidewater glaciers, and provides pristine habitat for a wide array of wildlife, including both brown and black bears, wolves, mountain goats, Steller sea lions, and humpback whales. The highlight for many is Margerie Glacier or John Hopkins Glacier, which have been known for their dramatic calving displays. Enjoy a stop at Bartlett Cove for an evening rainforest walk and Huna Tribal House visit or kayak paddle.
Day 7 | Lisianski Inlet & Pelican
Transit Lisianski Inlet, a narrow body of water between Yakobi Island and Chichagof Island. These islands are home to dense populations of coastal brown bears and other Alaska wildlife species. Explore the unique boardwalk “road” of Pelican, Alaska during a port call to this small fishing community of just 60 to 70 year-round residents.
Day 8 | Juneau
Disembark in Juneau, the beautiful capital city of Alaska. Transportation to your hotel or the airport is complimentary on the day of disembarkation. We encourage you to spend some time exploring the capital on your own. The town boasts a vibrant culinary scene, local breweries, distilleries, cultural centers, museums, a tram, the Mendenhall Glacier, and more. Check out excursion offerings from our sister company, True Alaskan Tours. Alaskan Dream Cruises guests are eligible for a 15% discount—inquire with our reservations team for the code.
Note: Cruise information is subject to change without notice based on navigating conditions. Itinerary order is also subject to rearrangement based on permit allocations. Alaskan Dream Cruises is authorized by Special Use Permit to provide guiding & outfitting services in the Tongass National Forest.
Reverse Juneau to Sitka Itinerary: Day 1: Juneau, Day 2: Lisianski Inlet & Pelican, Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park, Day 4: Orca Point Lodge & Tracy Arm-Fords Terror, Day 5: Thomas Bay, Day 6: Petersburg & Wrangell, Day 7: Kake & Wilderness Bay, Day 8: Sitka (transportation to the airport or your lodging is complimentary).