Expedition of Alaska & Bears of BC

Day 1: Sitka

Situated on the western coast of Baranof Island and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Sitka, Alaska is known for its Tlingit culture and remnants of its Russian heritage which date back to the 1800s. 

Embark your expedition vessel - either National Geographic Venture or National Geographic Quest - your base for the journey ahead and set out into the Inside Passage.

Day 2: Southeast Alaska's Islands, Bays & Fjords

Today’s expedition is guided by nature, with a flexible itinerary designed to make the most of prevailing wildlife and weather conditions. Navigate through a maze of forested islands, sheltered bays, and dramatic fjords, where each turn reveals new opportunities for discovery.

Conditions permitting, land on a remote beach to explore intertidal zones rich with life, beachcomb along untouched shores, and set out on a guided hike through lush coastal rainforest. As you move between forest and meadow, watch for well-worn bear tracks and other signs of wildlife, while bald eagles are often seen soaring overhead.

For a closer connection to this pristine environment, take to the water by kayak, paddling along quiet inlets and scanning the shoreline for marine and terrestrial wildlife.

Day 3: Icy Strait and the Inian Islands 

Begin your day exploring the wild, current-swept channels of the Inian Islands, one of Southeast Alaska’s most active marine feeding grounds. From the deck or by Zodiac, watch for Steller sea lions hauled out on rocky shores and sea otters drifting in kelp beds, while seabirds wheel overhead and whales may surface in the swirling tides.

Continue cruising through the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait, scanning for humpbacks, orcas, and other marine mammals drawn to these productive seas. Your expert naturalists provide insight into the complex ecosystems and behaviours observed along the way.

Conditions permitting, make a landing on Chichagof Island for a guided hike through coastal forest. Explore quiet trails, take in sweeping views, and keep watch for bald eagles, commonly seen perched high in the trees or soaring above the shoreline.

Day 4: Glacier Bay National Park

Spend a full day immersed in the extraordinary wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve*. Cruising through this UNESCO World Heritage site, discover the defining landscapes of Southeast Alaska, towering snow-capped peaks, dramatic tidewater glaciers, deep fjords, and pristine, wildlife-rich coastlines.

Accompanied by expert naturalists and park rangers, gain insight into the region’s fascinating geology and natural history, from glacial formation to ongoing ecological change. As you explore, keep watch for wildlife such as humpback whales, sea otters, harbour seals, mountain goats, and brown bears along the shoreline.

Throughout the day, take in the scale and serenity of this remarkable environment, with opportunities to observe calving glaciers and experience one of Alaska’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Note: Some departures may not enter Glacier Bay National Park itself, instead exploring its scenic outer bays by kayak, Zodiac, or on foot. Enquire for details.

Day 5: Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait

The pristine waters of Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait are renowned as some of Southeast Alaska’s best whale-watching regions. Spend the day on deck or in expedition craft, scanning for orca and humpback whales. With luck, you may witness dramatic behaviours such as breaching, tail-slapping, and cooperative feeding, all interpreted by your expert naturalists.

Cruise into sheltered bays and quiet inlets, where the shoreline reveals signs of abundant wildlife, including bear trails and salmon streams. Conditions permitting, go ashore for a guided walk through tranquil forest trails, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of this remote wilderness.

For a more intimate perspective, take to the calm waters by kayak, gliding along the coastline and observing marine and coastal life up close.

Day 6:  Petersburg

Arrive in the charming fishing town of Petersburg, set on Mitkof Island and known for its strong Norwegian heritage and authentic Alaskan character. Stroll colourful streets, browse local shops, and experience daily life in one of Southeast Alaska’s most picturesque communities.

Join a guided exploration of the surrounding muskeg, an unusual ecosystem of waterlogged terrain, stunted trees, and fascinating plant life, including carnivorous species. Learn how flora and fauna have adapted to thrive in this unique environment.

For a more active option, choose to explore independently or join an optional bike ride around town and along scenic coastal roads.

This evening, gather with fellow guests to enjoy a traditional Alaskan crab feast, a memorable culinary highlight of your journey.

Day 7: Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness

Venture deep into the dramatic wilderness of Tracy Arm–Fords Terror, navigating either Tracy or Endicott Arm - both renowned for their sheer granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and striking glacial scenery. As you cruise through these narrow fjords, marvel at the ever-changing landscape shaped by ice over millennia.

Approach the face of Dawes Glacier or South Sawyer Glacier, where towering walls of ice calve into the sea with thunderous echoes. Conditions permitting, board a Zodiac for a closer exploration, weaving among sculpted icebergs for an unforgettable perspective.

Keep watch for wildlife along the way, including harbour seals resting on floating ice, harbour porpoises gliding through the water, and Arctic terns soaring overhead.

Day 8: Juneau - Vancouver

Disembark in Juneau and transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Vancouver, a spectacular coastal city framed by mountains and temperate rainforest.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in or begin exploring Vancouver at your own pace.

Day 9: Vancouver

Explore downtown Vancouver and the neighbouring North Shore in a single day. Today’s sightseeing tour showcases the city’s highlights, beginning with Stanley Park, a 400 hectare urban oasis of coastal rainforest, scenic seawall pathways, and iconic totem poles, offering sweeping views of the harbour and mountains.

Continue to Granville Island, a vibrant cultural precinct known for its bustling public market, artisan studios, galleries, and waterfront dining.

Then cross the harbour to Vancouver’s North Shore, where dramatic mountain landscapes meet the ocean. Here, discover lush temperate rainforest and spectacular viewpoints that reveal the region’s natural beauty.

Day 10: Vancouver – Campbell River

Travel to the airport today for a short yet scenic flight to Vancouver Island and the charming coastal town of Campbell River. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore this picturesque fishing port at your own pace.

Day 11: Campbell River – Great Bear Rainforest

Today, your wilderness adventure begins as you set out in search of bears. Transfer to the floatplane dock, where you’ll board your flight to the remote lodge. Sit back and take in the spectacular scenery as your pilot navigates over rugged coastline, forested islands, and pristine waterways.

On arrival, settle in with a welcome orientation and safety briefing, followed by a fitting for your all-weather outerwear. Later, head out on an afternoon boat excursion to begin exploring this remarkable region.

In the late afternoon - when bears are most active - set out on your first three-hour bear viewing experience. Depending on the season, viewing may take place by boat or from purpose-built viewing platforms, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.

Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner, then unwind with an engaging interpretive program led by your knowledgeable guides.

Day 12: Great Bear Rainforest

Today is filled with possibilities. While additional bear viewing excursions are a highlight, you may also choose from a range of activities including guided wildlife tracking walks, marine wildlife cruises, kayaking, and birdwatching, or simply relax at the lodge and take in your surroundings.

Throughout the day, enjoy delicious gourmet meals and snacks to keep you energised for your adventures. This evening, gather once more for an engaging interpretive program led by your expert guides.

Day 13: Great Bear Rainforest – Campbell River – Vancouver

As your wilderness adventure comes to a close, it’s time to bid farewell to the bears. After breakfast, board a scenic floatplane flight back to Campbell River, followed by your onward flight to Vancouver.

After your time in the wilderness, return to the city for a final evening before your journey home. Perhaps take the opportunity to explore Vancouver’s vibrant dining scene and nightlife.

Day 14: Vancouver

Your adventure concludes this morning as you check out and continue your onward or homebound journey. If time permits, take the opportunity for some last-minute shopping before you depart.