Shore Excursion Details

Sea Otters, Raptors & Bears, Oh My!

Sitka, Alaska

Sea Otters, Raptors & Bears, Oh My!

DETAILS

  • 5
    hrs Estimate Duration
  • Family Recommended
  • Snack

OVERVIEW

Observe many of Alaska’s most iconic animals by cruising the surrounding waters, visiting a center for injured birds of prey, and touring a facility for rescued bears. After boarding a deluxe catamaran at the pier, you will spend the next three hours or so viewing the indigenous wildlife in the passages and bays near Sitka. The conditions are ideal for supporting a variety of animals, and sightings are frequent wherever you look. You might gaze up to see bald eagles soaring overhead. Whales often breach the water’s surface in a magnificent display of size and power. Sea otters, sea lions and seals typically frolic near the rocky coast. You might also scan the forest edge for brown bears and black-tailed deer. A naturalist will be on board to explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem as your skilled Captain maneuvers the vessel to provide the best-possible views. Following your viewing adventure at sea, you will drive to the nearby Alaska Raptor Center, where injured birds of prey receive medical treatment in hopes of releasing them back into the wild. A wildlife interpreter will guide you through the Bald Eagle Flight Building, and introduce you to some of the “raptors in residence” perched in outdoor habitats. Afterwards, you’ll have some time to explore the river trail and enjoy interactive exhibits. Your adventure continues with a narrated drive along a winding, coastal road to visit the Fortress of the Bear rescue facility at Silver Bay. Here, you can view and photograph brown and black bears up-close from a raised platform, and learn about an Alaskan family’s dream: offering a life-saving alternative for bears caught in conflict with their human neighbors. Following your visit, you will transfer back to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise waters teeming with whales, sea otters and other marine life.
• Watch bald eagles and other raptors being rehabilitated.
• Photograph brown and black bears up close at a rescue facility
• Learn about the wildlife from various naturalists.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Need to Know:

Note: This tour includes approximately 90 minutes of easy walking. There will be steps to negotiate to board and disembark the vessel and the coach. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the vessel and coach, and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Electric wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted. Wheelchair guests must advise the Destination Services Desk on embarkation that they will be participating in this tour as arrangements must be made with the vessel operator to accommodate. Those with walking difficulties are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Warm, layered clothing to include a rain-proof jacket; cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The cruise portion of this tour guarantees you will observe sea otters, a whale or a bear. If not, you'll receive a $100 cash refund as you disembark the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest vessel.

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ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Adventure
Wildlife Tours

Activity Level:

Image Title
  • 1
    Easy
  • 2
    Moderate
  • 3
    Challenging
Tours with this activity level involve walking over relatively level terrain, possibly some cobblestone, gravel, or a few steps. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
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