Ultimate Coves & Passages

15 days
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4.9/5 Excellent
39 reviews  
97%
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Small Ship Cruise
14-night Alaska adventure cruise exploring the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay. Alaska offers more variety, or provides adventure like we do. Our Alaska small ship cruises are perfectly suited to foster uncommon encounters and unexpected experiences in Alaska's Inside Passage—two days in Glacier Bay National Park; brown bears, black bears, and “polar bear plun...
From$7,195
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Overview

Trip type
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Highlights

    • Wildlife and whale watching in Frederick Sound, Stephens Passage, Icy Strait and Peril Strait
    • South Marble Island sea lion haulout and spectacular birding
    • Explore via kayak, paddle board, and skiff
    • Two exclusive days in Glacier Bay—jewel of the US National Park system, UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve
    • View stunning glaciers throughout Glacier Bay National Park and at Endicott Arm
    • Enjoy Glacier Bay Park Ranger interpretation and discover the Bartlett Cove Visitor Center
    • Wilderness hikes in Glacier Bay National Park, along Chichagof Island’s waterfall coast, and in El Capitan's Caves.

What's this trip about?

    14-night Alaska adventure cruise exploring the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay. Alaska offers more variety, or provides adventure like we do. Our Alaska small ship cruises are perfectly suited to foster uncommon encounters and unexpected experiences in Alaska's Inside Passage—two days in Glacier Bay National Park; brown bears, black bears, and “polar bear plunges”; rainforests and glaciers; hiking and kayaking; humpback whales and orca; bald eagles and sea birds. And no matter which ship from our diverse fleet you choose, our expert expedition teams guide you on a unique and unforgettable journey.

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Details

Itinerary focusActive and Outdoor Sports
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityKetchikan
End CitySitka

Travel Themes

  • High Adventure
  • National Parks
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Small Ship Cruise

Destinations

  • North America
  • United States

Attractions

  • Alaska
  • Glacier National Park

Activities

  • Adventure & Adrenaline
  • Bird watching
  • Kayaking
  • Snorkeling
  • Wildlife viewing

Trip includes

    • All onboard meals
    • Non-alcoholic beverages
    • Exclusive transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark day
    • Entry fees to national parks/preserves
    • Most from-the-vessel adventure activities and equipment
    • Wellness program; hot tub, sauna, fitness equipment, and yoga mats

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Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1: Ketchikan, Alaska — Embarkation

Welcome aboard! Meet your crew, get settled in, and keep watch for eagles as we cruise through the Tongass Narrows out of Ketchikan.

Day 2: Tongass National Forest

Aha! The wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Wake in a remote cove surrounded by breathtaking Tongass National Forest—the largest national forest in the US. Joined by your expedition team, it’s a water ops morning. Spend it paddling a kayak, paddle boarding, or exploring ...

Day 3: El Capitan Caves / Prince of Wales Island

Take a walk on the wild side winding through high forest on an old logging trail, and find your way to El Capitan Cave, the largest known cave in Alaska and one of the largest mapped caves in the Americas. Learn from Forest Service Rangers about karst and the geologic...

Day 4: Chatham Strait

It's Captain's Choice today as you explore the intricate passages and shores along Chatham Strait's Kuiu or Baranof Islands. Join your expedition team on (or in!) the water. Conditions permitting, take to the water by kayak, skiff, or snorkel. Snorkeling* is optional,...

Day 5: Frederick Sound

Lush forest, spectacular views, play time, and wildlife—they are all in abundance in Frederick Sound. Keep watch along the coastline for birds, wolves, and black bears. With many secluded coves to choose from, you may slip into the waters of Deep Cove, Patterson or Sa...

Day 6: The Brothers Islands / Stephens Passage

There’ll be plenty of wildlife viewing today. The Brothers, a pair of tiny, rocky islands at the confluence of Stephens Passage and Frederick Sound, are home to some of Alaska’s most abundant wildlife, including a haulout for Steller sea lions. The area is also the su...

Day 7: Endicott Arm / Fords Terror Wilderness

Snow covered mountains, glowing blues, and the white thunder of calving ice take your breath away at the face of Dawes Glacier. As you glide through Endicott Arm you’ll likely find a few seals taking respite on the glaciers smaller “bergy bits.” Tides permitting, explore the narrow passage of Fords Terror.

Day 8: Juneau

While others end their adventure and new guests join later in the day, you will spend the day off the boat. Enjoy lunch in town on us and explore all that historic Juneau has to offer. A complimentary laundry service is provided today. As you embark this afternoon, keep watch for eagles as you cruise through the Tongass National Forest.

Day 9: Glacier Bay National Park

One of America’s crown jewel national parks is yours to explore and marvel at for the next three days—Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve. A National Park Ranger joins you to explore coves and corners of the bay that most visi...

Day 10: Glacier Bay National Park

Spend today exploring the flora and fauna of Glacier Bay National Park. Paddle a kayak and be awed at the face of a massive glacier. Go on a boot-sucking trek through sandbars and rainforest. And ride a skiff along shore for an up-close exploration of Glacier Bay. You'll find sea lions, mountain goats, sea otters, bears, moose, eagles, and spectacular scenic backdrops.

Day 11: Icy Strait

Set your course for arguably the richest whale waters in Southeast Alaska. Join the Captain on the bridge or the Expedition Leader out on deck in search of marine mammals. Camera in hand, begin your land and sea exploration of these remote reaches. Ride the skiffs for a closer inspection of the rugged and wild coastline with eyes set on the shore for possible bear sightings.

Day 12: Chichagof Island / Baranof Island

Meander along the spectacular waterfall coast of Chichagof Island. In the Un-Cruise expedition spirit, marvel at the grand scenery as our crew expertly guides you through unsung, glacier-carved fjords. Anchor in remote waters for an opportunity to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Explore the shoreline on an intertidal walk or forest exploration with your guides.

Day 13: Captain's Choice

Today's agenda is flexible. Perhaps you'll explore a tidal inlet by kayak; feel the burn of a rain forest hike; or maybe you'll have the opportunity to smell the breath of a humpback while skiffing in a secluded cove. The possibilities are endless—your Captain knows best.

Day 14: Peril Strait / Sergius Narrows

Peril Strait runs 50 miles from Chatham Strait to Salisbury Sound. This haven for small boats is scenically highlighted by a very narrow connecting passageway called Sergius Narrows and an opening at Hoonah Sound. This historic and wildlife-rich waterway is a great pl...

Day 15: Sitka — Disembark

Gather for breakfast this morning as you cruise into Russian-influenced Sitka for disembarkation. Transfer to the airport or begin your Un-Cruise hotel stay or land tour.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $7,195
Price per day$480
Last Updated: 5/15/2023

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Un-Cruise Adventures.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Un-Cruise Adventures Reviews & Ratings

4.9/5  Excellent
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Other Un-Cruise Adventures Reviews

K

Kraig

Oct 2021

Written on

I love your tour program

I love your tour program. I may think of visiting other locations you offer, but I'm really invested into Ukraine for a lifestyle. I want to make additional trips ...

K

Kyle

Aug 2020

Un-Cruise Adventures Company Reviewsby Un-Cruise Adventures

Very surprising

We booked with them a 9 months before COVID, and then we had to cancel due to the concerns about traveling, being with unknown people, etc. We are 73 years of age. W...

B

Bob

Jun 2020

Un-Cruise Adventures Company Reviewsby Un-Cruise Adventures

have always been surprised and impressed

My wife and I have been on 5 Uncruise adventures and have always been surprised and impressed with the variety of activities, friendships formed, and down right fun ...

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Tour Operator

Un-Cruise Adventures

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With offices at historic Fishermen’s Terminal in Seattle, Washington, and Juneau, Alaska, Un-Cruise Adventures offers an alternative to traditional cruises by taking guests into areas inaccessible to large ships and on excursions that are exclusive, unconventional and unmatched.

In 1996, American Safari Cruises pioneered yacht cruising in Alaska. InnerSea Discoveries enjoyed its inaugural season of expedition-style active exploration of Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage in summer 2011.  In January 2013, the company changed its name to Un-Cruise Adventures and is a wholly owned subsidiary of InnerSea Discoveries Alaska Inc, Juneau Alaska.

Why Us?

The Un-Cruise Adventures Difference. Unrushed. Uncrowded. Unbelievable.

Built on a reputation of quality and experience, our small ship cruise explorations—intended to inspire and satisfy your curious nature—are an unbeatable combination of activity and discovery, service and expertise, awe-inspiring encounters, and value. Guests rave about the Un-Cruise experience and how genuine our crew is, often commenting that it’s not like a cruise at all. Yet the biggest endorsement from our guests: they come back, and they refer us to their friends.

We engage experts and historians to interpret, narrate, or bring history to life. In Alaska, a National Park Ranger might join you on board, or a U.S. Forest Service wilderness ranger kayaks right up to the vessel and hops aboard to talk about natural history and their special bond with the land; and in Hawaii, a respected elder teaches you to make poi. Every rare encounter, unexpected “aha!” moment, and uncommon amenity and activity are unique to your destination, itinerary, and vessel—and they are all exceptional.

Cruise Style:

Adventure Cruises:

Focused on experiencing life on the outside—rain or shine—we offer different destinations, a mix of price points (some generously inclusive), and an exciting range of multi-sport activities aboard our adventure cruises. Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), hiking, snorkeling, inflatable skiff excursions, and cultural encounters top the agenda. Our experiential cruise vacations are delivered from a variety of platforms, and depending on your choices, will accommodate from 22 to 84 like-minded guests. We provide the adventure, equipment, opportunities, fun, expert crew, expedition guides, and the vessel.

River Cruises:

Traveling nearly 1,000 miles upriver and down, our generously inclusive river cruises provide the best value available on the Columbia, Snake, and Willamette Rivers. Included shore excursions, a complimentary massage, wellness program, spirits and beverages, onboard historians, living history programs, visits to boutique wineries, exclusive one-on-one interactions with locals, port fees and taxes, no long lines or hours on a bus, and you’re never far from the riverbank. While exploring the cultural traditions, unspoiled lands, and the history and evolution of life along the rivers, you’ll enjoy a stimulating heritage voyage of colorful places and fascinating people.

Traveling aboard our 88-guest replica turn-of-the-century steamer—a style of vessel that has been on these rivers for over 100 years—offers you the conveniences of today with the feel of yesteryear.

Private Charters & Group Travel:

With a private cruise charter, it’s all about you. Charters provide an excellent way to bring together family, friends, or a corporate incentive group without the hassle of arranging provisions, crew, or routes. With a wide range of sizes—22, 36, 60, 64, 74, 76, 84, 88—there’s a boat written with your group size all over it. Let us tailor a charter with your special focus in mind—complete with activities, crew, and expedition staff. We handle all the details, leaving you to sit back and soak in the experience of a lifetime.

Family Travel:

In some of the most diverse playgrounds on earth, travelling with family on an adventure vacation is memorable and fun. Whether your family wants to kayak near a tranquil beach, hike along temperate rainforest, or interact with locals in a remote community, there’s something to spark everyone’s interest. Un-Cruise Adventures let families explore remote places, make discoveries, and learn while having fun together. So whether you’re traveling independently or as one family on a private charter, you can enjoy adventure in some of nature’s most diverse playgrounds. Planning a trip with your extended family? Consider a charter. All of the vessels in our fleet, from 22-88 guests, accommodate private groups. And not only that, our talented Captains, crew, and expedition team will cater the experience to your needs and desires.

Value-Added Theme Departures:

Recognizing that our guests often share similar uncorked passions—we’ve taken our adventures another step further by creating some special themed cruise departure dates. It doesn’t matter whether you’re already an authority, a budding amateur, or just curious to learn about a topic, you’ll fit right in.

Life Onboard:

Traveling is inspiring. It can also be nourishing. Refreshing. When you're on an small ship cruise adventure, connecting with your environment—on board or off—happens naturally. From our morning yoga stretches to the Captain’s Farewell Dinner, we’ve carefully crafted each activity with every aspect in mind.

Our Fleet:

Our fleet of small ships features expedition vessels, boutique yachts, and a replica turn-of-the-century coastal steamer—each one uniquely suited and equipped to provide an unbelievable experience. The shallow draft makes each vessel capable of nimble exploration and gives access to the places bigger ships cannot go. Public and private spaces are loaded with amenities and designed for casual comfort.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • International airfare
    • Personal expenses
    • Passport and visa fee
Ship & cabin information
Wilderness Discoverer , Wilderness Explorer
Wilderness Discoverer Active adventure is top-of-mind aboard the Wilderness Discoverer. Complementing the wilderness outside, the décor of the main lounge including reclaimed Alaskan yellow cedar on the bar top evokes the feel of a National Park. The casual, welcoming ambiance of the lounge and dining room with an open floor plan between them creates easy camaraderie among guests. Three public decks are easily accessible—the sun deck features both covered and open spaces for viewing no matter the weather, and the bow and observation deck offer unencumbered views. The Wilderness Discoverer comes equipped for adventure with kayaks, paddle boards, skiffs, hiking poles, wet suits and snorkel equipment, and yoga mats. The EZ Dock launch platform makes getting into the water a cinch. A hydrophone transmits below-surface sounds and a bow-mounted underwater camera shows the action. For wellness and relaxation, the vessel offers two hot tubs and fitness equipment. There are four cabin categories aboard the Wilderness Discoverer: Navigator; Trailblazer; Pathfinder; and Explorer. Depending on the cabin, singles, doubles or triples can be accommodated. Common to all cabins are: Air conditioning; flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station, private bath with shower; a view window (no portholes). Wilderness Explorer To complement the wild, natural surroundings, the interior of the 74-guest Wilderness Explorer has intentionally been designed with a Pacific Northwest feel including the nautical-themed main lounge. The open-seating format of the dining room and ample space on deck encourage guest-to-guest interaction on this small ship. This expedition vessel has three accessible decks; enjoy over-the-top views from the bow, watch sparkling stars from the upper deck hot tub, and relax in the sun lounge. The Wilderness Explorer is equipped for active adventure and is outfitted with kayaks, paddle boards, inflatable skiffs, hiking poles, and yoga mats, a hydrophone for listening below the water, and a bow-mounted underwater camera for viewing in-water action. An EZ Dock launch platform allows for easy access into the water. Onboard wellness amenities include fitness equipment and hot tub. There are three cabin categories aboard the Wilderness Explorer: Trailblazer; Pathfinder; and Explorer. Explorer accommodates single and double accommodations. Common to all cabins are: Flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; air conditioning; private bath with shower; view windows.
Wilderness Discoverer 76 guests 38 cabins 26 crew members 176 feet in length 39 feet wide Cruising speed of 10 knots Built in 1992 by Blount Boats; renovated in 2011 Registered in United States 3:1 Guest-to-crew ratio Navigator 201, 203-208, 210 Queen or twin beds; view window, private bath with shower Trailblazer 310-325 Queen or twin beds; view window; private bath and shower Explorer 400-403 Sitting area; queen or twin beds; large picture window; private bath with shower Pathfinder 300-309 Outside entry; queen, double bed or double bed with bench seat; view window; private bath with shower   Wilderness Explorer 74 guests 37 cabins 26 crew members 186 feet in length 38 feet wide Cruising speed of 11 knots Built in 1976; renovated in 2012 Registered in United States 3:1 Guest-to-crew ratio Trailblazer 207-215, 302-303, 305-306, 309-312 Queen or twin beds; view window; private bath with shower Explorer 301, 304, 313-314 Sitting area; refrigerator; fixed queen bed; large picture window; private bath with shower Trailblazer Twin 104-106 Twin beds; view window; private bath with shower Pathfinder 107-114, 202-206 Queen or twin beds; view window; private bath with shower
Wilderness Discoverer Wilderness Explorer
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
uncrui-ultcovunc

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