Become absorbed in the rich culture of Southeast Alaska’s Native Americans and witness a rip roaring lumberjack competition on this comprehensive tour of Ketchikan. Your first stop will be a visit to Saxman Native Village. For generations, Tlingit villages have maintained a tradition of welcoming visitors in regal style In this Native community, tribal elders and others have worked hard to pass on many of the traditions that have long defined their culture. A short video program will introduce you to their culture and history, then enter the Beaver Clan House where you'll be welcomed by song and dance. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the final dance before moving onto the Saxman Totem Park, one of the largest gatherings of totem poles in the world.

The next stop is the Village Carving Center where world famous carvers work and pass on their skills to eager apprentices. Visit the Village Store to purchase some of the finest Native Alaska art available. On the return trip, see sights of Creek Street and let the fun begin with a stop at the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show. Hardy lumberjacks bring to life Alaska’s colorful forest history with an action packed competition in the partially covered and heated outdoor arena. Cheer on your team of world champion lumberjacks in events such as chopping, sawing, tree climbing and much more.

This eco-exploration includes a guided nature hike, a Native Totem Park and a historic sawmill at an exclusive reserve located in the forested mountains at rustic Herring Cove. A pristine natural environment, it is home to bald eagles, black bear, seals and a variety of birds and other species attracted by the major salmon runs in the abundant marine estuary. A naturalist will guide you along an improved trail through the heart of the dense forest, among tall stands of hemlock, spruce and cedar, stopping at strategically located viewing areas. At a protected, open estuary, you'll follow Herring Creek along an elevated wooden boardwalk overlooking grassy wetlands. Major runs of salmon return to spawn here. Listen to the symphony of bird activity in this spectacular setting. Seasonal ecosystem changes result in varying levels of wildlife activity. A mile trail walk brings you to the historic Herring Bay Lumber Company sawmill. Stop at Tsimshian totem park, see a master carver working, check out our historic sawmill and watch our local blacksmiths at work. Check out the amazing collection of totems in the courtyard. Shopping opportunities await you in the General Store before the scenic drive back to the ship.

Want to learn about a place? Drink with locals! This fun, informative and entertaining 120 minute walking tour is sure to please anyone who wishes to get off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the culture of Alaska's First City. Ketchikan is famous for "doing business at the bar" and you'll learn why as you hear infamous stories of days gone by, the prohibition era when the red-light district was in full swing and the colorful history of Ketchikan's most popular hot spots. You'll enjoy a beverage at several of Alaska's most historic pubs, meet the genuine characters who make Ketchikan unique and enjoy a stroll down historic streets. Join the locals and belly up to the bar in Ketchikan!

Board your motorcoach for a scenic 10 minute drive to Knudson Cove, a private waterfront estate in the Tongass National Forest. Upon arrival, guides will instruct and outfit you with safety equipment in an open air forest pavilion. Your adventure begins as you ascend into the trees and gravity pulls you along the ziplines. Nestled on a platform in the park, keep an eye out for eagles and ocean views. You can take an optional challenge route that leads you across swinging logs and rope bridges. Feel the speed and acceleration of the ocean zip, where you'll land above the water on a freestanding platform. Then take the final zip to the take the UTV up the hill to the 50 foot climbing tower where guides will show you techniques to climb to the top and safely auto belay to the ground. For those that are less adventurous, guides can assist you in skipping elements if you choose. You’ll complete 6 ziplines, with time to shop for souvenirs before returning to the pier.

A rainforest walk with a twist, your adventure starts aboard a motorized inflatable Seahawk, for the short but exciting cruise along the coast of Clover Passage. If you;re lucky, along the way, you may have the opportunity to observe whales, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles and migrating seabirds. Landing at a secluded beach, you’ll follow your guide through the ancient Tongass National Forest, home to a diverse cross section of flora and fauna. You’ll see Western Red Cedars and Alaskan Yellow Cedars that early Alaska Natives depended on for spiritual enrichment, shelter and transportation. The well-maintained trail is mostly boardwalk and about one mile in length. You'll also enjoy an interactive beach life interpretation by your naturalist guide. After hiking the historic route, enjoy an Alaskan-style snack, before returning to Ketchikan.

OVERVIEW

Take in the gorgeous scenery within the pristine Misty Fjords National Monument while flying in a DeHavilland floatplane as the bush pilot elaborates on the natural wonders below. This completely undeveloped wilderness sprawls across more than two million acres in the Tongass National Forest, America’s largest national forest. Majestic beyond imagination, the landscape is a mosaic of sea cliffs, misty mountains, deep fjords, thundering waterfalls, jewel-like lakes and dense rainforest, all of which you will gaze down upon from your own window seat. The exact route for the flight will depend on the weather. If you fly south, you will likely see shimmering Big Goat Lake and New Eddystone Rock, an immense volcanic spire that rises above the sea. The northern route usually passes over Neets Bay and Bell Island Hot Springs. Be sure to look for brown and black bear, Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles as wildlife is abundant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fly over the Misty Fjords National Monument wilderness in a DeHavilland floatplane.
• Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of a pristine landscape that glaciers sculpted centuries ago.
• Pass over dense rainforest, cliff-lined fjords, majestic mountains and sparkling lakes.
• Keep an eye out for bears, deer, bald eagles and other iconic Alaskan wildlife.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Celebrate southeast Alaska’s rich logging history on this rip-roaring good time with quality entertainment for all ages! Alaska’s frontier lumberjacks battle British Columbia’s premier woodsmen in a no-holds-barred competition for the title of “Bull of the Woods.” Watch these world-champion athletes compete in springboard chopping, buck sawing, axe throwing, log rolling, and the thrilling 50-foot tree climb while your host delights with lumberjack lore. The show is held in a covered, heated and cushioned grandstand. Videotaping is not permitted but guests can participate in our annual photo contest. Meet the jacks after the show for pictures, then the fun continues as you compete in a thrilling Axe Throwing Competition. You’ll learn the art of throwing a 7-lb razor-sharp axe, and then, after a little practice, you will go head-to-head in a thrilling competition against other participants.

Enter the fly-zone on this rain forest eco-adventure that is designed for those seeking, excitement and exhilaration. Featuring eight zip-lines, ten lofty tree platforms, and rappelling, this is the ultimate Alaska action experience. Your adventure begins with a ride up a steep hillside in a custom all-terrain 4x4 Unimog to the briefing camp. After outfitting and orientation, it’s an uphill hike via an improved rain forest trail to a ground-based practice zip-line, where your guide introduces you to zipping. This is your first encounter with the zip-line course, providing an aerial view of Bear Creek and a forest waterfall. You will be challenged as you descend from platform to platform on Western Hemlock trees and then rappel to the ground from the last tree platform. Experience panoramic ocean, forest and mountain views from the tree platforms on this exciting adventure at a rain forest reserve, just eight miles from Ketchikan. In addition to tall stands of spruce, hemlock and cedar, the ecosystem here supports an extensive wildlife population. Eagles and bears are often sighted. Time permitting, grab a freshly brewed coffee or a cold Alaskan beer and explore our Tsimshian totem park, see a master carver working, check out our historic sawmill and watch our local blacksmiths at work. Stop by the General Store to see photos taken during your zip-line experience and to shop for mementos of your Alaska adventure. Your excursion concludes with a scenic drive back to the ship.

OVERVIEW

Perfect for serious adventurers or families seeking a personalized tour, this excursion is customized for your interest and skill level with just five or six guests per boat. Light tackle is our specialty, which ensures that even average sized fish are exciting and rewarding to bring aboard. Your tour begins at a private downtown marina, where you are outfitted head to toe. You'll board an open-air boat and glide into a breathtaking landscape. Head out past the busy charter fishing areas and into secluded locations for wildlife viewing and remote fishing. With custom light tackle, you'll experience the thrill of angling for numerous Alaskan bottom fish species and whichever of the five species of Pacific salmon are in season. Most folks catch fish - this excursion is renowned for the highest catch rate of any Alaska fishing experience. Your skiff then heads to a wilderness campsite where a crackling fire awaits. You'll settle into the stillness of the rainforest, rest on a beach log and breathe deeply among centuries-old spruce trees and fragrant cedars. You'll experience this outdoor culinary adventure as the camp cook blends homemade fish broth and delicately seasoned potatoes. You'll dine on your freshly caught bottom fish served atop a saffron-infused bouillabaisse, and savor fire-warmed sourdough rolls, signature rhubarb-blueberry crisp and steaming mugs of coffee or hot chocolate. It's no wonder Food & Wine magazine rated this "The world's best camp meal ever." If salmon are in season and your group managed to land a couple, our cooks will grill it fresh over the fire for a true Southeast Alaskan experience. Your tour concludes with a short walk back to the ship and memories of fish tales with friends old and new.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Follow a spectacularly scenic coastal road to the historical George Inlet Lodge for a classic Alaskan crab feast. Being one of the few highways in this part of Revillagigedo Island, it is surrounded by natural beauty that makes the drive all the more memorable. Upon reaching the waterfront George Inlet Lodge, you will be served an entrée of steaming-hot Dungeness crabs. These tasty crustaceans are caught in the chilly waters of the Pacific Ocean and have become synonymous with Alaskan dining. The meal includes plenty of other local specialties such as smoked salmon dip and a dessert topped with seasonal blueberries. Afterwards, you might browse the remote lodge, which has quite the history. It was originally built in the 1940s as a salmon cannery bunkhouse. When the cannery closed decades later, the bunkhouse was transported about 90 miles up the George Inlet waterway to its present location, which was once the site of a gold mine.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Feast on Dungeness crabs and other Alaskan delicacies at the George Inlet Lodge.
• Enjoy the waterfront setting of the remote lodge and learn a bit about its history.
• Drive along a coastal road and admire the stunning natural beauty.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

This fun-filled adventure shows you the best of Ketchikan by land and sea! Our modern, state-of-the-art amphibian will take you on a 90-minute tour through the rustic streets of Ketchikan, showing you new and historic sights. Travel by the salmon ladder on Ketchikan Creek viewing the spawning grounds and live salmon in season; picturesque Whale Park with its beautiful flowers and unique totems; and Creek Street where you'll learn of Ketchikan's colorful past and salty beginnings. Next, get ready to pick up your feet and put your hands in the air as you’re literally driven into the scenic harbor of the Tongass Narrows! Feel the energy of the "Salmon Capital of the World" as you pass by our diverse local fishing fleet. Motor down the channel for up-close views of local fishing canneries, seaplane docks, and Ketchikan's waterfront community. See neighboring islands and the spectacular scenery of southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest. Bald eagles are abundant in season, and there's always a chance to witness other local wildlife. Photo opportunities galore. Your Ketchikan Duck Tour guide will captivate and entertain you on your journey aboard this Coast Guard-certified and inspected amphibian that doubles as a boat and a bus.

Pedal a pontoon-style Sea-Cycle around the estuary at Ward Cove as the guide describes the scenic beauty and area history. Each two-person Sea-Cycle boat allows for leisurely pedaling yet leaves your hands free to snap photos of the surrounding natural wonders. There is plenty to view, especially when passing Tongass National Forest, the largest such protected landscape in America. The dense forests of red cedars, hemlocks and Sitka spruces will seem to go on forever. Along the way, the guide will elaborate on how many Alaskans still subsist on food and medicines that they harvest from the woodlands and sea. Be sure to keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead and seals and bears along the shore. Ducks are among the most prevalent animals in the tidal estuary. Ward Cove is noteworthy for being the site of Alaska’s first pulp mill and home to one of the area’s most productive fish canneries.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Pedal a two-person Sea-Cycle boat around the estuary at Ward Cove and along the sea.
• Take in the natural beauty of Tongass National Forest, America’s largest such landscape.
• Look for indigenous wildlife such as bears, eagles and seals.
• Learn about the history of Ward Cove and how it once fueled Ketchikan’s economy.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat, comfortable, non-slip shoes.

Begin your journey with a scenic drive along the Tongass Narrows en route to Totem Bight State Park, home to one of the world’s largest stand of totems. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tongass National Rainforest as you stroll under the canopy of majestic hemlock and cedar trees. Through lively stories and narrative, you’ll learn about the culture and lifestyle practiced by the Northwest Coastal Natives. You’ll also have an opportunity to enter a traditional Native clan house to see how they lived first hand. Prior to departing the park, you’ll have a chance to photograph a magnificent collection of totem poles located in a picturesque setting.

During a brief stop at the quaint Alaska Totem Trading store, you’ll have an opportunity to shop and view beautifully carved totems along with a collection of vintage automobiles and guns. While travelling back to the pier, you will be engaged with an entertaining town overview and learn of the industries which built Ketchikan and helped to make it the “Salmon Capital of the World”. Order of tour may vary.

Drive a four-wheel drive automatic Jeep Wrangler along mountainous roads through Tongass National Forest. Befriend your fellow travelers and group into teams of 4 per Jeep. The safari travels from sea level to the sub-alpine region of this unique coastal island. Learn about the area's natural history as you drive abandoned logging roads. Along the way, you’ll make a stop to take advantage of photo opportunities and to rotate drivers so everyone has a turn at the wheel. Your next destination is the secluded mountain lake - Lake Harriet Hunt - where you’ll board a Tlingit-style 37 foot, 20 passenger canoe, much like the Alaska Natives used to travel the coastal waterways. Your safari guide will then lead a brief nature walk through old-growth forest from the remote camp where your cook will prepare an Alaska-style snack.

OVERVIEW

Travel along a wonderfully scenic highway to the historical George Inlet Lodge, where a chef will demonstrate how best to prepare crab cakes, which you will later enjoy for lunch. The road to the lodge winds through the wilds of Revillagigedo Island and passes an old sawmill and several salmon canneries that will offer a glimpse into the area’s past. Once you reach the waterfront lodge – which was originally a cannery bunkhouse – the attention will turn to food, especially seafood caught in the chilly depths of the surrounding sea. While the chef prepares your crab cakes according to a classic local recipe and recounts entertaining stories about Alaskan fishing and crabbing, you will be served a garden-fresh salad and half a Dungeness crab as an appetizer. The crab cakes will be served hot off the griddle and followed by a slice of creamy cheesecake topped with blueberries, another Alaska specialty.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch the chef at the George Inlet Lodge prepare crab cakes for your lunch.
• Dine on appetizers, including half a Dungeness crab, during the demonstration.
• Enjoy the waterfront setting of the remote lodge and learn a bit about its history.
• Drive along a coastal road and admire the stunning natural beauty.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Hike though America’s largest national forest at a leisurely pace that will allow you to truly appreciate the serenity and majesty of the woods. It won’t take long to reach the trail, yet it is still remote enough where you will feel as if the wilderness is yours alone. The hike is about two miles long without any steep inclines or stairs so it will be a relatively easy and thoroughly enjoyable walk. Along the way, the naturalist guide will describe the various ecosystems, the diversity of flora and fauna perhaps how the rainforest sequesters carbon to help reduce climate change. Animals are abundant. Sitka black-tailed deer are frequently spotted, bald eagles can often be seen in the tree canopy and if the salmon are spawning black bears will be gathered around the waterfalls. It is always quite the sight to see a bear snatching a salmon in mid-air as it leaps upstream.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a leisurely hike through the Tongass National Forest, America’s largest such landscape.
• Follow the trail to a waterfall where bears often gather to feast on spawning salmon.
• Learn about the forest’s ecosystems and biodiversity from the naturalist guide.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Join your Alaskan captain and their crew on a cruise through the waters surrounding the naturally beautiful islands around Ketchikan. Once onboard, relax inside the heated main cabin or out on the observation deck, as you prepare for your first sighting of the iconic American bald eagle. Along the way, you will be treated to panoramic views of the historic lighthouse on Guard Island and the Tlingit and Haida hand-carved totem poles and clan house at Totem Bight State Park. You will also witness a diversity of ecosystems as you cruise past coastal residential areas on Revillagigedo Island and along the undeveloped shoreline of Gravina Island, much of which is blanketed by the Tongass National Forest, our world’s largest temperate rainforest. Wildlife is abundant, so keep an eye out for not just bald eagles, but harbor seals, sea lions, seabirds, and whales. While taking in the scenery, enjoy a hot chocolate, freshly brewed coffee, or soda of your choice alongside a snack sampler plate of Alaskan specialties, including a traditional alder-smoked salmon.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Admire Alaska’s natural beauty while cruising to and from Guard Island.
• Relax in the boat’s heated main cabin or out on the observation deck.
• See the colorful, carved Tlingit and Haida totem poles at Totem Bight State Park.
• Look for wildlife such as bald eagles, harbor seals and humpback or orca whales.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Ride through the wilderness in a Utility Terrain Vehicle designed for off-road adventure and admire the majestic panoramas while driving to and from Mahoney Lake. On the way to the base camp, you will enjoy spectacular views of George Inlet and Tongass National Forest. Still nothing rivals the exhilaration of hopping into the 2-seat or 4-seat UTV and following the guide caravan-style up the mountainous 5-mile trail to Mahoney Lake. Whoever drives on the way up will switch positions and ride as a passenger on the way down. The serene lake and roaring Mahoney Falls are at the end of the trail, and both are well worth viewing. During stops, the guide will offer commentary about the history and culture of Ketchikan, including the flora and fauna. Back at the White River base camp, you can relive the experience while dining on chili and a reindeer sausage. Highlight includes the extraordinary views while riding to and from Mahoney Lake in a UTV. Drive the UTV up to the lake and ride as a passenger on the way down. Or vice-versa. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Mahoney Lake and Mahoney Falls at the end of the trail. Hear enlightening commentary about the history of Ketchikan and its historical pulp mill.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take in the extraordinary views while riding to and from Mahoney Lake in a UTV.
• Drive the UTV up to the lake and ride as a passenger on the way down. Or vice-versa.
• Enjoy the scenic beauty of Mahoney Lake and Mahoney Falls at the end of the trail.
• Hear enlightening commentary about the history of Ketchikan and its historical pulp mill.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise the scenic Tongass Narrows to downtown Ketchikan and enjoy a sampling of locally brewed beer along the way. The views will be spectacular the entire time and a naturalist will be on board to point out and describe the wildlife. Bald eagles, porpoises and seals are often spotted as the waterway is protected and makes for an ideal habitat. Bawden Street Brewing will provide 2 beer samples for the tasting, which may include a blonde Belgian-style ale and a brown porter with a hint of blueberry. As an alternative, champagne is available. During the hour or so that it takes to reach Ketchikan, the crew will offer suggestions and a detailed walking map to maximize your time there. You might stroll the boardwalk along historical Creek Street, snap photos of the colorful totem poles throughout town and shop for locally made merchandise such as fine jewelry and artwork.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the pristine Tongass Narrows as an alternative to riding the shuttle bus to Ketchikan.
• Sample inspired selection of locally brewed beers or a glass of champagne while cruising.
• Admire the gorgeous scenery along the way and look for iconic wildlife such as bald eagles.
• Make the most of your time in Ketchikan with suggestions from the crew.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise the sheltered waters of the Tongass Narrows and observe the boundless natural beauty on the way to Ketchikan. This alternative means of reaching downtown offers express boarding, allowing you to bypass the long lines often associated with other modes of transportation. Ambient music on board will set the mood and coffee and donuts will be served, but majestic scenery is the real attraction of cruising versus driving from the pier at Ward Cove. Along the way, you will pass uninhabited islands, densely forested shorelines and countless boats – both recreational and commercial – as the waterway is part of the Alaska Marine Highway and the Inside Passage. You may even see floatplanes taking off and landing with splash in the harbor. Be sure to look for wildlife such as sea lions and bald eagles. You may even spot a humpback whale breaching the water’s surface.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise to Ketchikan instead of driving and enjoy spectacular scenery along the way.
• Admire the natural beauty that comes right to the edge of Ketchikan’s city limits.
• Look for wildlife such as sea lions in the Tongass Narrows and bald eagles overhead.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Explore Alaska's wilderness by boat and enjoy a crab feast at George Inlet Lodge. As you leave the cruise ship dock your motorcoach driver will narrate as you pass an old sawmill, totem poles and scenic waterfalls. Arrive at the lodge and meet your Captain and crew as you board the boat. Big windows and a heated cabin will ensure your comfort. Cruise up the inlet while exploring the history and natural beauty of the region. View an old fish cannery, the site of an old gold mine, snowcapped mountains, and 2,000 foot waterfalls. Wildlife often visit the area in search of food. Make sure to volunteer to help pull crab pots, see them up close, and learn about their anatomy and life cycle before returning them to the ocean. Return to the lodge to enjoy a tasty Dungeness crab feast! Be sure to save some room for Cheesecake with blueberry toppings! Following your meal, your tour wraps up with a scenic motorcoach trip en route to the cruise ship dock. Tour may run in reverse order.

Try your luck fishing in crystal-clear waters teeming with salmon, while enjoying a stunning backdrop of glacier-carved bays and fjords and the natural beauty of Tongass National Forest. Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World, so there is no better place to catch these highly prized sportfish. Once you reach the prime fishing grounds, a deckhand will supply you with fishing gear and you will troll for salmon using a downrigger. Anglers will rotate from rod to rod, so that everyone has the same amount of time on each one. Five species of salmon live in these waters, including king salmon, which are also called Chinook salmon. Pink salmon are the most abundant species and they are vigorous fighters. If you want to keep what you catch, it can be processed and shipped anywhere in the United States.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Fish for hard-fighting, highly prized salmon.
• Enjoy a stunningly beautiful, natural backdrop.
• Ship your catch home if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear comfortable rubber-soled shoes.

From Alaskan history and native culture to a culinary tasting, enjoy all aspects of what makes Ketchikan unique! Begin your tour with an action-packed performance at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show where you will celebrate a bygone era. Southeast Alaska’s rich logging history comes to life with thrilling displays of strength and agility. These world champion athletes wearing spiked boots and hard hats, compete in 12 athletic events that utilize seven-pound axes, six-foot razor-sharp saws, tree climbing gaffs, and souped-up chainsaws. This will be one hour of non-stop excitement and laughs that is unique to all of Alaska. Join us in Saxman Native Village for a culinary experience to learn all about Alaskan ingredients and their uses in a modern cooking environment. The culinary tasting will offer a unique setting to enhance your culinary knowledge and expand your palate with true Alaskan ingredients. Start with an Alaskan styled charcuterie board prepared with smoked salmon, wild game meats, artisan cheeses and fruits; followed by two additional courses selected by the Chef. Sit and marvel as the Chef goes through the ingredients and demonstrates the techniques used for preparing one of the dishes. All these items pair deliciously with the local wines and beers included. The culinary demonstration is complemented by a cultural showcase of Alaska Native art, featuring a variety of priceless and historical pieces from the Cape Fox Corporation Native Art Collection. Some of these artifacts include traditional hand carved pieces by Master Carver, Nathan Jackson, along with other items coming from the original Village of Cape Fox. Your local tour host will teach the Tlingit customs, traditions, and stories of the Elders as they guide you through the exhibits.

Paddle a two-person kayak across the calm waters of Connell Lake, a manmade reservoir that the Tongass National Forest surrounds. Following a briefing to help you maximize the experience, you will ease into a kayak and follow the guide around the lake. This beautiful body of water was created in 1952 by damming several creeks to feed millions of gallons of freshwater to the Ketchikan pulp mill. The 60-foot concrete dam still exists and continues to supply water to resources throughout the community. Today, Connell Lake is known more for its spectacular natural beauty, which you will see up-close as you paddle along the forested shore of America’s largest national park. Unusual flora and fauna abound, which the guide will describe as you paddle around the lake to several hidden wonders.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Kayak across naturally beautiful Connell Lake, all of which the Tongass National Forest surrounds.
• Gain a historical perspective of the manmade lake, which once provided millions of gallons of freshwater needed to operate the Ketchikan pulp mill.
• Learn about the indigenous flora and fauna from the naturalist guide.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Ride an electric bike inland to Connell Lake while admiring the natural beauty of the surrounding Tongass National Forest. As you will discover during the initial briefing, the electric-enhanced bicycle will boost your pedal power, allowing you to ride farther and negotiate hills with considerably less effort than with a conventional bicycle. It’s only about three miles to the Connell Lake, all of it staggeringly beautiful. Sitka black-tailed deer are commonly seen along this route. The flora is also exceptional, especially the carnivorous sundew plants that consume insects that they trap on their sticky pads. Upon reaching the lake, you will learn how it was created in 1952 by damming several creeks to provide millions of gallons of freshwater to the Ketchikan pulp mill. The dam continues to feed water to different resources throughout the community even after the pulp mill closed more than 25 years ago. Before pedaling back, you can relax around a campfire under a canopy of coniferous trees or walk a short nature trail.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Pedal an electric-enhanced bicycle to and from Connell Lake, a roundtrip of about six miles.
• Gain a historical perspective of the manmade lake, which once provided millions of gallons of freshwater needed to operate the Ketchikan pulp mill.
• Learn about the indigenous flora and fauna from the naturalist guide.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

For generations Tlingit villages have maintained a tradition of welcoming visitors in regal style. In this Native community, tribal elders have worked hard to pass on the traditions that have long defined their culture. A short video program will introduce you to the culture and history of Saxman. Then enter the Beaver Clan House, where after a traditional theatrical production, you’ll be greeted by song and dance.

Visitors are encouraged to participate in the final dance, before moving on to Saxman Totem Park, one of the largest gatherings of totem poles in the world. The next stop is the Village Carving Center, where talented carvers work and a host will explain their carving techniques. A stop at the Village Store offers the opportunity to purchase some fine Alaska Native or pick up a memento of your visit.

Your adventure begins with a scenic motorcoach tour to a secluded mountain lake, where you'll board a Tlingit-style 37 foot, 20 passenger canoes which are fast, stable and easy to maneuver. Paddle under the direction of an experienced guide, scan the shore for wildlife and learn the unique natural and native history of the Ketchikan area. The lake, part of a lush rainforest, is ideal for canoeing and is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the United States. Stop ashore for a Alaskan-style snack at a remote camp. Your knowledgeable guide will lead a short nature walk highlighting the flora and fauna of the rainforest. Paddle back to the canoe dock and reboard your motorcoach for your return to the pier.

OVERVIEW

Hike through the rainforest that blankets America’s largest national forest and toast your accomplishment with a beer at a local pub. It won’t take long to reach the trailhead, yet the setting is still remote and teeming with wildlife. As you follow the challenging two-mile route, the only sounds will be those of nature until the guide pauses to comment on the indigenous flora and fauna. There will be plenty to discuss as the trail meanders through giant cedar, hemlock and spruce trees with an understory that includes a plethora of berry bushes. Although there is no telling what types of wildlife you may encounter, the three viewing platforms along the trail provide the best opportunities to observe black bears feasting on ripe berries. Following this invigorating hike, you will stop at a pub that locals often frequent and quench your thirst with a cold beer or a different beverage if you prefer

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

You’ll spend the day in a state-of-the art fishing vessel with a seasoned guide who will bring you to the fishing grounds Alaskans have been returning to generation after generation. No matter your skill level, you will fish like a local, working the sandy flats or sea floor pinnacles with your rod in hand, drifting with the current and jigging in waters as deep as 300 feet. Species availability changes throughout the season, and daily factors such as tides and wind affect your fishing opportunities. This multi-species Alaskan fishing expedition allows you to head out with the confidence that you will catch fish. Down there in the twilight of the deep, rockfish, cod, flounder, sharks, skates and mighty halibut find their way to your bait. No matter what the conditions or the catch, this trip offers the best chance of exposing you to the strange and alien species found on the Southeast Alaskan deep-sea floor.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fish in protected, relatively remote waters away from other anglers.
• Use the crew’s advice and fishing tips to increase your chances for landing a big fish.
• Watch for breaching whales, seals and eagles when cruising to and from the fishing grounds.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy a 10 minute van ride to the takeoff site. After gearing up with layers, take a fast boat ride to the remote and protected Tatoosh Islands. Have your camera handy for the magnificent scenery and wildlife sighting opportunities on the fast and fun boat ride. Ancient cedars, spruce and western hemlock trees add to the peace and tranquility of the setting as you glide along the wild rocky shoreline. Bald eagles peer down from overhead, while seals often pop up to take a peek. You might spot a deer or mink along the shore or colorful seaweed, kelp, starfish, jellyfish and other inhabitants of the intertidal area. Other life you might see are humpback whales, sea lions and orca or maybe an eagle catching a salmon from the water! Upon arrival guides will greet you and present a thorough but quick orientation. Get into your double kayak and launch onto the water. Practice your strokes as you approach the sheltered islands, circumnavigate the Tatoosh islands. After the kayak enjoy a fresh baked cookie. No paddling experience is necessary but expect to paddle 3 miles. The tour is operated for a limited number of guests under special use permit with the US Forest Service.

Cruise through the spectacular Tongass Narrows in a Zodiac boat and take in the extraordinary coastal scenery with the chance of seeing iconic Alaskan wildlife. You may captain the 4-person Zodiac or ride along as a passenger. Either way, the views from sea level will be breathtaking. You will follow the guide’s boat past the islands off Refuge Cove and on to Totem Bight State Historical Park, home to a replica village like the ones the indigenous Tlingit and Haidas inhabited in the 19th century. The guide will entertain you with stories about these earlier times, logging, and the history of businesses such as the Ketchikan Pulp Mill. The Tongass Narrows is teeming with wildlife, and you may spot orcas and humpback whales breaching the water’s surface. Bald eagles are commonly seen soaring above, along the shore and feasting on fish that they have just plucked from the sea.

HIGHLIGHTS • Skirt along the spectacularly scenic shoreline of the Tongass Narrows in a Zodiac boat.
• Captain the Zodiac, be one of three passengers or switch positions if you like.
• Look for wildlife that includes orcas, humpback whales and bald eagles.
• Learn about the indigenous Tlingit and Haida people and how they lived in the 19th century.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Fly over the majestic wilds of the Tongass National Forest in a floatplane and land in the waters off Salmon Falls resort, where you will feast on iconic Alaskan dishes. You will fly there in a DeHavilland Beaver aircraft – the workhorse of the Alaskan bush – on a route over America’s largest national forest and the crystal-clear waterways that rim Revillagigedo Island. The pilot will describe the natural wonders below, which include sea cliffs, deep fjords and mist-shrouded peaks. You may even spot black bears foraging on berries and humpback whales breaching the water’s surface. Shortly after the plane lands in Clover Pass Inlet, you will enjoy an enlightening tour of the fishing resort and then sit down to a classic Alaskan lunch. Come hungry as you can expect to dine on signature dishes that may include Dungeness crab cakes, soy-glazed salmon and baked halibut with garlic lemon butter. Dessert will be just as mouthwatering.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Alaskan wilderness while flying overhead in a floatplane.
• Look for mountain goats, black bear and humpback whales along the way.
• Land in the inlet off Salmon Falls fishing resort and enjoy a short historical tour.
• Feast on a multi-course lunch of iconic Alaskan dishes, many of them featuring seafood.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

All the best that Ketchikan has to offer in one tour! Land, sea and delectable seafood highlight this adventure. Enjoy a fully narrated drive from beautiful Ward Cove enroute to a secluded lodge. You’ll then continue your day by boat as you cruise Inside Passage waters, home to abundant wildlife. As you sail, the experienced guide will point out an active eagle’s nest, and a U.S. naval submarine facility as well as the spectacular scenery. Your final stop is Silverking Lodge where you will stroll through a lush rainforest, home to the largest known red cedar in the Tongass National Forest, and thick with a wide array of native plants. Then, you’ll arrive at the family style dining room where you’ll sit down to a delectable seafood boil. You’ll depart feeling like family after your day experiencing the best that Alaska has to offer!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a narrated scenic drive through Ketchikan to Clover Pass Resort, while learning more about life on the island.
• Capture the beauty in seeing an eagle's nest first hand, and venture past a US submarine acoustic testing facility.
• Experience Silverking Lodge in Grant Island Marine Park and view the largest known red cedar in Tongass National Forest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise on the Wilderness Explorer expedition vessel through Misty Fjords, a waterway that ancient glaciers carved out of the rugged landscape, leaving behind a natural wonderland of sheer vertical cliffs, roaring waterfalls and endless beauty. To reach the fjords, you will pass through Revillagigedo Channel and proceed into the Behm Canal, a waterway where orcas, seals and porpoises are often spotted. Occasional stops will be made along the way to view an active bald eagle’s nest, and New Eddystone Rock, an immense volcanic spire that rises above the sea. While cruising through Rudyerd Bay, the naturalist will describe the natural history and point out seabirds that may be nesting in the soaring granite cliffs. You will also have the opportunity to delve into the Tlingit culture by listening to a tribal storyteller-artist or by watching a video presentation.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Cruise through beautiful glacially formed Misty Fjords.
• Look for whales, orcas, seals and other marine life.
• Pause to see a bald eagle nest, and a volcanic spire.
• Listen while a Tlingit storyteller explains the tribal culture.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress warmly in layered clothing.
• Bring a rainproof jacket to wear topside.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Cruise the sheltered waters of the Tongass Narrows and observe the boundless natural beauty on the way back to your ship. This alternative means of reaching Ward Cove offers express boarding, allowing you to bypass the long lines often associated with other modes of transportation. Ambient music on board will set the mood while you sample locally crafted beer or champagne, but majestic scenery is the real attraction of cruising versus driving from downtown to Ward Cove. Along the way, you will pass uninhabited islands, densely forested shorelines, and countless boats – both recreational and commercial – as the waterway is part of the Alaska Marine Highway and the Inside Passage. You may even see floatplanes taking off and landing with splash in the harbor. Be sure to look for wildlife such as sea lions and bald eagles. You may even spot a humpback whale breaching the water’s surface.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Cruise to Ward Cove instead of driving and enjoy spectacular scenery along the way.
• Admire the natural beauty that comes right to the edge of Ketchikan’s city limits.
• Look for wildlife such as sea lions in the Tongass Narrows and bald eagles overhead.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

HIGHLIGHTS

Hike to Talbot Lake following a natural trail through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in America. Although the hike is only about three miles long roundtrip, the surrounding scenery is wonderfully varied and spectacular. You will walk in the shadow of towering western hemlocks, Sitka spruce and red cedars, all indigenous to the area. The naturalist guide will narrate the hike by describing the native flora and fauna and detailing the history of the area, which was once crucial to the logging industry. In the decades since the last pulp mill closed, the forest has regained its splendor and wildlife has flourished. You may spot eagles, deer, and beavers, which are particularly prevalent along the trail at Talbot Lake. The lake-view setting couldn’t be more serene as you sip hot chocolate while gathered around a campfire. You may see anglers fishing for cutthroat trout, but otherwise you will likely have the woods to yourself.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike three miles roundtrip through Tongass National Forest, America’s largest such landscape.
• Follow the trail to beautiful Talbot Lake and gather around a crackling campfire.
• Learn about the flora, fauna, and local history from the naturalist guide.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.