EXCURSIONS TERRESTRES

OVERVIEW

Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau, highlighting the city’s landmarks and rich cultural past as you head towards the Mendenhall Valley. Your first stop is the historic Brotherhood Bridge, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the valley and, weather permitting, the Mendenhall Glacier off in the distance. This bridge holds significant cultural and historical importance, symbolizing the bridging of the gap between Native and Non-Native communities and overcoming racial tensions. Adorned with ten bronze medallions featuring the Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) crest, sculpted by Roy Peratrovich Jr. in honor of the ANB’s 50th anniversary, the bridge depicts the two great Tlingit moieties—Eagle and Raven—emphasizing the ANB’s foundational role in their shared heritage. Afterward your drive takes you to Juneau's Macaulay Salmon Hatchery and Visitor Center. There you will learn the value of ocean ranching to Juneau's commercial and sport fishing industries and the hatchery's role in keeping the area salmon population at sustainable levels.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Cruise along Ketchikan’s beautiful waterfront in a window-walled expedition boat and look for Alaska’s most iconic wildlife on the outskirts of town. Whether you settle in on the observation deck or inside the heated cabin, you will enjoy spectacular views of Ketchikan and its backdrop of mountainous rainforest. Commentary will enhance your understanding of the sights, which include the town’s oldest working salmon cannery and Whiskey Cove, an infamous cove that rumrunners used during Prohibition. You will also learn about the area’s indigenous people when cruising past the world’s largest collection of totem poles at Saxman Native Village. Wildlife is especially abundant around Nichol’s Passage, where whales, seals and porpoises are frequently spotted. The captain will maneuver the boat to ensure the best views and pause so you can clearly see an active bald eagle’s nest. Built with large sticks for stability and moss for comfort, bald eagle nests can weigh up to 1,000 pounds.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a sightseeing cruise along Ketchikan’s waterfront and into the surrounding waters.
• Learn about Ketchikan’s indigenous people and the town’s history during Prohibition.
• Look for iconic marine life such as whales, seals and porpoises.
• View an active bald eagle’s nest, a massive stick structure that may weigh 1,000 pounds.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Join the magic of the steam train and travel back in time aboard the pride of the White Pass fleet, Engine #73. Pulled by an authentic steam engine, enjoy the live commentary and views from the comfort of your vintage railcar while following the footprints of the Klondike Gold Rush. Board a parlor car for a fully narrated tour aboard the historic White Pass & Yukon Route. Against all odds, the iron trail was carved through some of the North's most rugged terrain in 1898 to include mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels & trestles. Travel 40 miles roundtrip up one of the steepest grades in North America, enjoying a light snack, non- alcoholic beverages, and a Prosecco toast while your narrator discusses the Klondike Gold Rush and the history of the building of the railroad. After traveling around the summit loop, travel back to Skagway. Each guest will receive a souvenir as a remembrance of a rare ride aboard a working steam train.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride through the wilderness on a train pulled by a vintage steam locomotive on the “Scenic Railway of the World.”
• Learn about the significance of the area during the Klondike Gold Rush in the 1890s.
• Pass incredibly scenic natural wonders on the train ride back to Skagway. Locally sourced snack included.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

This unique Alaska excursion explores the historical highlights of this former "Russian" capital city and includes a wildlife tour through the Alaska Raptor Center, a guided walk-through Sitka National Historical Park, and a visit to Fortress of the Bear. The Raptor Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. After your introduction to the center, time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window and gift shop. Guests can also stroll the outside deck habitat areas for an up-close look at bald eagles, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey in residence. Next, you'll visit the Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska", was fought. The park hosts totem lined trails, cultural exhibits, and carving rooms where Native Alaskan artisans demonstrate their totemic art form. The final stop is visiting the Fortress of the Bear, which allows you to get within 25 feet of Alaska’s brown and black bears in a naturalized setting. You will enjoy observing 3 populations of bears from a covered viewing platform and interact with an experienced naturalist.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Get an up-close look at a variety of birds of a prey at the Alaska Raptor Center.
• Photograph Alaskan brown and black bears up close at a rescue facility.
• Delve into the history of Sitka at a park that recounts the watershed Battle of 1804.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Walk through the heart of Lihue and enjoy tastings of local products whose ingredients and cultural relevance will be described in detail. You will meet owners and chefs eager to engage you in “talk story,” a Hawaiian term for a casual conversation in which they share personal experiences about the foods, beverages and community. You can expect to drop by Aloha Ginger Beer for a spicy non-alcoholic soda, Rob’s Good Times Grill, a local's watering spot. It has a menu that includes everything from sampler plates of Hawaiian specialties such as Kalua pork and poi to fish sandwiches made with ono, the Hawaiian word for wahoo. You will also visit the Kauai Beer Company, a microbrewery known for its inventive artisan brews. Another stop will be made at the Alakoko Shop, which carries an array of locally made products perfect for bringing home.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an array of local foods and beverages while walking around Lihue.
• Learn about each tasting and product from the chef or the merchant that offers it.
• Sample beverages such as ginger beer and locally brewed beer.
• Visit stores, markets and a sports bar for a glimpse into local life.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Learn to roast your own coffee hands-on at Kona Joe, the first trellised coffee farm in the world. As an introduction to the world of coffee beans, you will first tour the 20-acre property and discover the benefits of innovatively growing coffee on trellises, much like wine grapes are grown. In essence, trellises allow for more uniform sunlight exposure, which results in more even ripening of the coffee cherry – the fruit that holds the beans inside. You will learn how Kona Joe roasts its coffee and then try your hand at roasting 10 ounces of premium beans. Just tell the guide how you like your coffee – whether lightly roasted, medium or dark for a bold flavor – and follow the guide’s instruction regarding how to control the roaster’s temperature, drum speed and air flow. You will come away with your own bag of coffee and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee compliments of Kona Joe.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an enlightening tour of Kona Joe, the world’s first trellised coffee farm.
• Gain an understanding of why growing coffee on trellises results in better tasting beans.
• Follow the guide’s instructions and roast some coffee beans just the way you like them.
• Take home your bag of freshly roasted beans and enjoy a cup of Kona Joe coffee.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Discover the inspiring natural wonders along the coast of westernmost Maui and spend free time shopping at a beachside mall. The mountainous West Maui Forest Reserve covers much of this part of the island and the views of its pristine wilderness will be spectacular as you travel along the coast. While pausing at the Nakalele Blowhole, you will see seawater spewing high into the air after being forced through an underwater lava shelf. The sight never fails to amaze, nor does the view from the bluffs overlooking Honolua Bay, where you may spot surfers riding the oversized waves. World champion surfer Zane Schweitzer lives nearby and over lunch on DT Fleming Beach you will learn about his program to help youth affected by the devastating Lahaina wildfire in 2023. Afterwards, you will browse Whalers Village on idyllic Ka’anapali Beach, an outdoor shopping mall with more than 90 stores and one-of-a-kind boutiques. Kahakukahi Ocean Academy (KOA), which is a non-profit organization started by lifelong west Maui resident and world champion surfer, Zane Schweitzer. KOA is a free program for youth affected by the Lahaina wildfires that focuses on fostering positive mental health via a passion and appreciation for ocean activities, as well as an understanding of the importance of sustainability. A portion of the proceeds from this tour goes to support this program and it's participants.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the stunning views while driving along the gorgeous coast of westernmost Maui.
• Watch the seawater shoot high into the air at the Nakalele Blowhole.
• Gaze out over Honolua Beach, where surfers are often seen riding the big waves.
• Dine beachside and learn how a local world champion surfer is helping West Maui’s youth.
• Browse the shops in Whalers Village, a collection of more than 90 high-end stores.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Enjoy an enlightening drive in and around Whittier and come away with a remarkably in-depth understanding of this city at the head of the Passage Canal. As you might expect, natural beauty surrounds Whittier and experience it with a quick stop at Whittier Falls. Yet, the city is surprisingly unconventional because nearly the entire population of 250 or so lives in Begich Towers, a 14-story former military barracks built during the Cold War. While passing the colorful towers, you will hear more about its odd history and conversion into condominiums. More fascinating sights await you at the Prince William Sound Museum, whose exhibits feature military, aviation and railway memorabilia that tell the story of Whittier with an emphasis on World War II. The black-and-white wartime photographs are especially compelling. A bit of free time follows around the Whittier waterfront. Spend some time shopping for local goods, sipping a coffee, or simply soaking in the views of the waterfront.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the natural beauty on the outskirts of town at Whittier Falls.
• Pass by the 14-story condominium building where almost all the local residents live.
• Learn about the history and development of Whittier in the city’s sole museum.
• Spend free time shopping along the Whittier waterfront district.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Delve into the local culture and cuisine through a remarkable variety of experiences, beginning with a scenic drive to Nihondaira Plateau for an extraordinary view of sacred Mt. Fuji. Nearby, you will find Toshogu Shrine, a complex of ornate bright-red buildings constructed in the Shinto style. You will enjoy another perspective of Mt. Fuji from the Nippondaira Hotel, where you will dine on a gourmet meal featuring fresh seafood from neighboring deep-water Suruga Bay. Shizuoka oden – a dark broth fish stew – marinated clams, spicy fried yellowtail tuna and salmon jambalaya only touch on the offerings. Other regional buffet favorites will include a spicy ham steak and corn mousse with prosciutto. Following lunch, you will participate in a hands-on cultural experience by rolling tea leaves at the Tea Museum. One last look at Mt. Fuji awaits from the seaside pine grove Miho no Matsubara. The view is so breathtaking that it has inspired artists for centuries.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Dine on a buffet of dishes revered in Shizuoka, many of them made with local seafood.
• Appreciate the variety of dishes, many of them featuring unexpected ingredients.
• Wander through Toshogu Shrine, taking note of its spectacular architecture and artifacts.
• See nearby Mt. Fuji – Japan’s highest mountain – from several perspectives.
• Learn to handroll tea leaves, a traditional practice that enhances their flavor.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Visit a temple founded in the 8th century when Nara was the capital of Japan and enjoy a gourmet meal made with ingredients that reflect the city’s inland location. Although earthquakes damaged much of the original Todaiji Temple, the bronze lantern outside the Great Buddha Hall is original. The statue of Buddha inside is the largest in Japan and the hall is considered the world’s largest wooden building. The temple lies within Nara Park, where you may spot some of the hundreds of free-roaming sika deer that are so beloved they have become a symbol of the city. Nara is also renowned for its cuisine, especially dishes that contain persimmon leaves as they naturally preserve fish that once took a long time to be transported from the sea. Besides dining on sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, you can choose from a hearty udon noodle dish or a rice porridge cooked in green tea.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Dine on a gourmet meal made with seasonal ingredients from the Nara Prefecture.
• Enjoy sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves that were traditionally used to preserve fish.
• See Japan’s largest Buddha statue in a hall that may be the world’s largest wooden building.
• Stroll through Nara Park, a large urban oasis where you will find Todaiji Temple.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Try your luck fishing for halibut, a flatfish that gets massive and feeds voraciously in the summer. You will cruise to the fishing grounds from Auke Bay with no more than five other guests, which will ensure that the crew can provide exceptional personal attention to increase your chances of catching one of these halibut. Once arriving to the back drifting or anchoring location, you will jig with a vertical rigging to reach the bottom of the ocean floor where halibut live. Imagine what a thrill it would be to reel in one of these amazing fish. If you catch one, you will notice that it has a white-colored bottom and a darker top, which acts as a natural camouflage that mimics the hues of the ocean floor and water.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fish for halibut, rockfish, and cod on a private boat with just five other guests’ maximum.
• Follow the crew’s advice and tips to increase your chance of catching a huge halibut.
• Enjoy the comforts of the fishing boat, which includes a heated cabin, and a marine head.
• Ship your catch home (within the USA only) fully processed if you want to eat it later, for additional cost.
• Look for wildlife, especially seabirds, and whales, marine mammals, etc, while cruising through Auke Bay, out around Stephen’s passage, Lynn Canal, Saginaw, or favorite channel!

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring camera, ID, and fishing license.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes. Waterproof shoes and clothing are recommended but not required.

OVERVIEW

Experience an exclusive two-hour guided adventure that give you more time to explore Whittier, a hidden gem blending breathtaking nature, fascinating history, and local charm. Visit the stunning Whittier Falls, followed by a drive past the iconic Begich Towers, a Cold War relic now housing the entire town. Discover the tower's unique transformation from military barracks to condos. Explore the Prince William Sound Museum, offering a rich collection of World War II-era military and aviation artifacts, or go next door to the Anchor Inn to enjoy a beverage. Continue to the Buckner Building, another captivating remnant of Whittier’s military past, and enjoy stunning views at the Lu Young Park and Billings Glacier Overlook. Wrap up your tour with free time at Whittier's charming waterfront, where you can shop for gifts, dine locally, or simply relax with spectacular views.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the natural beauty on the outskirts of town at Whittier Falls and Billings Glacier Overlook.
• Pass by the 14-story condominium building where almost all the residents live.
• Learn about the history and development of Whittier in the city’s sole museum.
• Spend free time shopping along the Whittier waterfront district.

HELPFUL HINTS

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