Wild Alaska Escape: Haines, the Inian Islands, and Tracy Arm Fjord

Arrive in Sitka, Alaska, situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Take a walk in Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit and Haida totem poles tower over coastal trails. Visit the Alaska Raptor Center for an up-close look at Alaska’s birds of prey. Later, embark the National Geographic Sea Lion or National Geographic Sea Bird. (D)

Explore the breathtaking bays of Baranof or Chichagof Islands, both part of the ancient Tongass National Forest. Chichagof Island harbors one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world, and both islands are home to diverse wildlife. Kayak or paddleboard along rugged coastlines, and in the afternoon, go hiking through the temperate rainforest, listening for bald eagles calling out from the tops of towering spruce and hemlock trees. (B,L,D)

Spend today searching for wildlife in nutrient-rich waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Inside Passage. Options include a Zodiac cruise among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions reside; kayaking in the calm outer waters of Glacier Bay; or hiking in lush temperate rainforest where bald eagles dot the canopies. (B,L,D)

Haines is known as the “adventure capital of Alaska” for a very good reason. Many, in fact. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can choose from one of many world class hikes. Or cycle along the edge of a glacial lake. Or you may also choose to raft down the Chilkat River, calling into the ancient Chilkat Tlingit village of Klukwan for a dance demonstration and cultural interpretation. The day is full of options. (B, L, D)

Wake up in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, part of the Tracy Arm–Fords Terror Wilderness. Cruise through this glacially carved fjord, then set out to explore by Zodiac. View the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close—and keep an eye out for the dramatic sight of huge slabs of ice breaking off and crashing into the water below. If conditions permit, paddle a kayak below the steep walls of the fjord. Celebrate your voyage with a farewell dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Disembark in downtown Juneau and transfer to the airport for flights home, or to an optional land extension. (B)

All day-by-day breakdowns are a sampling of the places we intend to visit, conditions permitting.