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7 Night Exploring Alaskas Coastal Wilderness Cruise from Sitka

Ship: National Geographic Quest

Cruise Line: Lindblad Expeditions

Sailed: Sunday, May 21, 2023 from Sitka, United States

Ended: Sunday, May 28, 2023

The itinerary information below reflects the original day-by-day port of call schedule for the Sunday, May 21, 2023 departure of the National Geographic Quest. If Lindblad Expeditions modified this itinerary for weather or operational reasons after departing , the modified schedule would not be reflected here.

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Itinerary

Day by Day Summary and Map

Day 1 - Sunday - May 21, 2023

Sitka, United States

Our Forest Service Special Use Permit for Tongass National Forest enables you to hike and kayak in wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska. Arrive in Sitka, southeastern Alaska's only oceanfront town. Sitka has a strong Russian heritage, which is readily apparent as you visit the onion-domed St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Church. At the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, we have close views of species normally seen at a distance in the wild-bald eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. Gather for a welcome dinner this evening. (D)

Day 2 - Monday - May 22, 2023

Coastal Navigation, United States

Today, nature is our guide as we set forth with the flexibility to take advantage of wildlife and weather conditions. We may stop at an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, and hike stunning forest trails. Keep an eye out for old bear tracks worn into the soil as you move from forest to meadow. Sightings of bald eagles are very common. If conditions permit, we'll do some kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Tuesday - May 23, 2023

Icy Strait Point, United States

Inian Islands, United States

Explore among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea otters reside. We'll search for marine mammals in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around Chichagof Island to hike where sightings of bald eagles are very common. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Wednesday - May 24, 2023

Glacier Bay, United States

We spend the entire day amidst the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers, and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. You'll see glaciers that end abruptly at the water's edge and observe them "calving"-tons of ice crashing into the sea-accompanied by an exhilarating thunderous sound. Mountain goats scaling the peaks as well as harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and puffins are some of the creatures we may observe. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of brown bears lumbering up the hillside. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us onboard to share the legend of the area. (B,L,D); Please note: Departures aboard National Geographic Sea Bird visit the outer bays of Glacier Bay National Park and do not enter the permitted part of the Bay.

Day 5 - Thursday - May 25, 2023

Frederick Sound, United States

These waters are prime areas for both killer whales and humpback whales. It's not uncommon to observe their fascinating behavior-breaching, tail-slapping, and variations on feeding-as we fill the deck and listen to the play-by-play from our expert naturalists. We'll explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, we'll have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up close exploration. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - Friday - May 26, 2023

Petersburg, United States

Search for humpback whales as we head towards the small, true Alaskan town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island. Explore a unique Southeast Alaskan ecosystem, the "muskeg", with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity for optional flightseeing or bike riding. Enjoy a Dungeness crab feast this evening. (B,L,D)

Day 7 - Saturday - May 27, 2023

Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, Alaska

Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glaciers up close and take a cruise in a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises, and Arctic terns. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - Sunday - May 28, 2023

Juneau, United States

Disembark this morning in downtown Juneau. Take time to visit the local shops before exploring the Alaska State Museum, with its sprawling collection of natural history and cultural artifacts. Transfer to the airport for connecting flights home. (B)