OVERVIEW

Cruise the pristine waters off Sitka in search of marine life such as sea otters while listening to a naturalist elaborate on the most intriguing characteristics of the species. You may settle into a comfortable seat in the boat’s main cabin or remain topside on the observation deck. Either way, you will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sea. As you scan the waters for marine life, the naturalist will describe how humpback whales feed here in the summer and how animals such as sea otters now thrive. The animals were nearly extinct due to aggressive fur hunting in the early 1800s, and their comeback is a wonderful success story. Other creatures commonly spotted include sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals and a huge variety of seabirds. Puffins are particularly easy to identify because of their bright orange beaks.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scan the waters off Sitka for marine life such as whales and sea otters.
• Look along the shore for brown bears and skyward for bald eagles.
• Listen to the naturalist describe the animals’ unusual habits and habitats.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

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

Enjoy a close-up look at three populations of Alaskan bears that have been rescued and are being rehabilitated so that they can live long, fulfilling lives. The venue for this immersion into the iconic bears of Alaska is the Fortress of the Bear, a rescue center that opened in 2007. Since that time, the center has cared for dozens of young bears and relocated them into caring environments. Circumstances prevent the bears from being released back into the wild. You can observe the brown and black bears from just 25 feet away, a rare opportunity that will make the experience even more meaningful. The naturalists will explain how the bears were rescued, their personality traits and their daily routines, one of the highlights being feeding time. Their seasonal diets include everything from fish and fruit to peanut butter and honey. As you will see, the brown bears are noticeably larger than the black bears.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe Alaskan brown and black bears in the Fortress of the Bear rehabilitation center.
• Learn about the bears’ diets, characteristics, personalities and encouraging futures.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Observe Alaska’s iconic wildlife by cruising the waters off Sitka, visiting a center for injured birds of prey and touring a facility for rescued bears. After settling into a deluxe Alaskan-built vessel you will begin your quest through the beautiful barrier islands, in search of humpback whales, and sea otters. Sea lions and seals typically frolic near these rocky coasts. You might also scan the forest edge for brown bears and Sitka black-tailed deer. Following your viewing adventure at sea, you will visit the Alaska Raptor Center, where injured birds of prey receive medical treatment in hopes of releasing them back into the wild. A wildlife interpreter will introduce you to some of the raptors such as bald eagles. An up-close look at brown bears follows at the Fortress of the Bear rescue facility. Many of the bears were saved after they had a conflict with human neighbors.

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 warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

See how once orphaned and displaced bears are cared for in a rescue center and explore a remote homestead on a deep-water fjord. You will enjoy an up-close view of the animals at the Fortress of the Bear, where brown and black bears are typically in residence. The naturalists will elaborate on why the bears were brought to the center, their personality traits and how they are ensured a fulfilling life at the rescue center. The stories are inspiring, as many of the bears were once malnourished, injured or orphaned. embark on a comfortable excursion vessel to explore a glacier-carved fjord. Embark on comfortable excursion vessel to explore Silver Bay, a glacier-carved fjord. Living in the remote Alaska wilderness can be challenging for animals and people, as you will discover in more detail at a private homestead at the end of Silver Bay that the McGraw family established generations ago. While gathered around a crackling campfire, you will hear stories of some of the first pioneers to visit the area, including those hoping to strike it rich mining gold and silver.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe brown and black bears in the Fortress of the Bear rescue center.
• Hear how the bears have been nurtured and brought back to health.
• Visit a remote homestead on the deep-water fjord Silver Bay.
• • Learn about some of the first pioneers to visit the area, including those hoping to strike it rich.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Look for iconic Alaskan wildlife while cruising through dynamic Sitka Sound, then explore the deep-water fjord of Silver Bay and stop at a remote homestead to hear stories of the challenges that the early settlers faced. While cruising aboard a fully enclosed expedition vessel, you will pass through some of the most majestic breathtaking scenery imaginable. Be sure to keep an eye out for humpback whales, porpoises and sea otters in the pristine waters. Tucked along the shore of Bear Cove, you will see Medvejie Hatchery, which harvests countless salmon each year and releases millions of others as fry into the surrounding seas. Deeper into the fjord, you will stop at the McGraw homestead. While snacking on s’mores and hot beverages around a crackling campfire, you will hear gripping tales about some of the first visitors to the area. The return cruise will follow a different route that presents yet another perspective of this natural wonderland.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through Sitka Sound and Silver Bay fjord in a heated expedition vessel with large viewing windows.
• Look for wildlife such as humpback whales, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles.
• See a hatchery that harvests countless salmon and releases others into the sea.
• Gather around a campfire at a remote homestead and hear about life in the wilderness.
• Behold a wonderland of naturally beautiful scenery in every direction.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Follow a nature trail through Sitka National Historical Park that showcases totem poles just like the ones that were exhibited at the 1904 World’s Fair. Created in 1910 to commemorate the Battle of 1804 between the Tlingits and the Russians, the forested park is Alaska’s oldest and is rich in history. During this self-guided walk, you will learn about the many ecosystems in the surrounding rainforest and the unusual tale of how Alaska’s first governor gathered the original totem poles to promote the state. The indigenous Tlingit people carved and painted the totems, which feature stylized human, animal and supernatural forms that are highly symbolic. Some of the totems honor important people or events, such as the Bicentennial Pole of 1976, which was carved under the direction of the park’s first Native American superintendent. When crossing the bridge over Indian Creek, you can see the salmon spawning during the months of mid-July into September. At the conclusion of the walk you’ll have the option to either enjoy the short walk along the waterfront back into downtown on your own or board again the motorcoach to be dropped off at Centennial Hall. From here, you can make your way back to the ship on your own via the free shuttle, which also departs from Centennial Hall.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meander along an easy trail lined with totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park.
• Gain an understanding of the symbolism and history of the hand-carved totem poles.
• Learn about the park’s creation and the flora and fauna that thrive in the rainforest.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Trace Russia’s influence on Sitka in the 19th century and tour a raptor center that rescued injured birds in hopes of returning them to the wild. The Russians first gained a foothold in Alaska in 1804 by overpowering the indigenous Tlingits. That battlefield is now part of the Sitka National Historical Park, where you will browse exhibits explaining the conflict. Here you can walk the forest trail lined with totems and view cultural exhibits This tour also presents the chance to see Alaskan wildlife up close at the Alaska Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility for birds of prey. This Bald Eagle 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. Time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window, outside deck habitat areas and gift shop.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover how Russia controlled Sitka until selling Alaska in 1867.
• Explore Sitka National Historical Park and walk along totem lined trails.
• Get an up-close look at a variety of birds of prey.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

The ultimate Alaska experience begins as soon as you board our Alaskan-built expedition vessel in Sitka. While you settle into the comfortable cabin, our knowledgeable captain and crew will provide a safety briefing and orientation. Once underway, feel free to move about the vessel, including the spacious outside viewing deck. An onboard naturalist will provide narration regarding the remarkable ecosystem of the area and point out places of interest and wildlife throughout the voyage. Sea otters, whales, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds are all commonly seen in the tour area. Our captains have the local knowledge and experience to deliver the best possible viewing experience on any given day throughout the season. At Fin Island Lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Alaska feast! Alaska crab, wild salmon, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are all-inclusive with the tour. In addition, coffee, tea, hot cocoa, lemonade and water are complimentary. Soft drinks are available for purchase. A breakfast twist on our signature Fin Island feast is featured for guests arriving before 10am. Vegan and gluten free options are available, regardless of tour time. After the meal, you may beachcomb, explore the beautiful grounds of the exclusive island, or relax next to the cozy beach fire. When the adventure concludes, your vessel will await to provide the short cruise back to Sitka.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through Sitka Sound on an expedition boat with wraparound windows.
• Look for wildlife such as sea otters, harbor seals, whales, bald eagles and tufted puffins.
• Feast on a meal of traditional Alaskan dishes at a lodge on forested Fin Island.
• Walk the island’s beach and sit around the beachside campfire, if you like.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

OVERVIEW

Cruise along the shores of Sitka Sound on a custom-built expedition vessel and look for iconic Alaska wildlife on land and in the sea. The captain will determine the exact route based on the weather and tidal conditions, animal migration patterns and recent wildlife sightings. That way, your chances of seeing wildlife will be maximized. Whether you take a seat inside the vessel or find a prime spot out on the open deck, you will enjoy spectacular coastal views of the west side of Baranof Island, which was named for the first governor of Russian Alaska. Mount Edgecumbe, Sitka’s iconic dormant volcano, and Annahootz Mountain, named for a Tlingit chief, are some of the many majestic mountains that can be seen along the way. Commentary will describe the glacial and volcanic activity that created them and the surrounding landscape. Harbor Porpoise and sea otters are frequently spotted and at times humpback whales can be seen breaching the water’s surface. It is an unforgettable spectacle.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through pristine Sitka Sound on a sleek expedition vessel and take in the natural beauty.
• Look for whales, porpoise, sea otters and bald eagles soaring overhead.
• Hear enlightening commentary about the area’s history, geology and animal life.

HELPFUL HINTS

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

Delve into the gastronomy of Sitka, which reflects the rich heritage of this city once known as the “Paris of the Pacific" As the second largest exporter of seafood in the state with a rich history of diverse cultures, Sitka has become a mecca for the culinary arts. Sitka’s breweries use the local naturally filtered glacial water to produce their hand-crafted beers, several of which you will sample at a popular tap room. Similarly, during a tasting of Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company, you will discover how the salt extracted from the local waters is used in various foods, chocolates, sauces and seasonings. The versatility of sea salt may surprise you. The restaurant Sitka Pelmeni serves Russia food that pays homage to the city’s past as the capital of Russian America. Pelmeni means “dumplings” in Russia so they are a likely choice for your sampling there. The guide will bring you to other venues for tastings that may include cod tips, reindeer hot dogs, ceviche and chowder, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Sample a variety of delicious seasonal foods and beverages unique to Sitka.
• Meet restaurateurs and food vendors and learn how their unique products are made.
• Enjoy a selection of craft beers made with glacial water at a local brewery.
• Discover the versatility of sea salt as a seasoning in foods and beverages.

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

OVERVIEW

Look for wildlife while cruising around the beautiful barrier islands off Sitka and then enjoy a classic Alaskan meal at a rustic lodge. As your open-air inflatable vessel navigates past the islands, you will likely observe bald eagles and seabirds perched on the rock pinnacles that jut out of the water. The vessel has a shallow draft, allowing it to explore areas larger vessels can’t, which will increase your chances of seeing other wildlife and marine life such as sea otters, whales, and sea lions. The crew will point out the various animals, as the boat slowly approaches to give you the best opportunities for pictures and up-close viewing. Upon reaching the lodge at Fin Island, you will disembark for a feast of classic Alaskan dishes that will include Alaskan crab, wild salmon, prime rib and seasonal homemade sides. A breakfast twist on our signature Fin Island feast is featured for guests arriving before 10am. Afterwards, you are free to beachcomb and relax around the beachside campfire.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise around the barrier islands off Sitka in a Demaree Inflatable Boat (DIB).
• Look for wildlife such as bald eagles, sea lions and whales.
• Feast on classic Alaskan dishes at the rustic lodge on Fin Island.
• Walk the island’s beach and gather around the campfire after dining.

HELPFUL HINTS

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