WILD ALASKA ESCAPE EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS
• Traveling aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird, cruise the mirror-like waters of Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, encountering icebergs and glaciers. • Kayak in the dramatic bays of Baranof and Chichagof Islands, home to bears, bald eagles, and sea otters. • Set out by raft, by bicycle, or on foot to experience the rugged wilderness of Haines, the so-called “adventure capital of Alaska.” • Gaze up at towering totem poles, and enjoy a traditional dance performance at a Tlingit village.
I T I N E R A RY
| 6 DAYS
DAY 1 SITKA, ALASKA
This afternoon, arrive in Sitka, Alaska, situated on the western coast of Baranof Island, fronting 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 Bird. (L, D) DAY 2 EXPLORING BARANOF AND CHICHAGOF ISLANDS
Explore the breathtaking bays of Baranof and Chichagof Islands, which are 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 along the rugged coastlines, and Above: Kayakers set out to explore a coastal fjord.
EXPEDITION TEAM
in the afternoon, go hiking through the temperate rain forest, listening for the call of bald eagles from the tops of lofty spruce and hemlock trees. (B, L, D) DAY 3 LYNN CANAL/HAINES
Venture to the northern limit of Alaska’s Inside Passage, the Lynn Canal—North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Spend the day hiking and kayaking in the shadows of snowcapped peaks. This evening, step ashore at the quaint town of Haines and experience local Alaskan life. (B, L, D) DAY 4 HAINES
Known as the “adventure capital of Alaska,” Haines is situated on a scenic peninsula between the Chilkoot and Chilkat Rivers. Hike one of the many world-class trails in the area, or cycle along the edge of a glacial lake. Or set off on a rafting excursion, keeping an eye out for bald eagles, bears, and moose as we float through the spectacular Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Later, visit the ancient Tlingit village of Klukwan and enjoy a traditional dance and cultural performance. (B, L, D) DAY 5 TRACY ARM–FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS
Along with a diverse team of experts, National Geographic staff writer and editor Andrew Howley will join the May 27 departure. Andrew helps National Geographic explorers tell their stories online, and looks forward to sharing his love of wild adventure with travelers in Alaska. THIS TRIP IS OFFERED IN ASSOCIATION WITH LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS.
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Wake up in Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, part of the Tracy Arm–Fords Terror Wilderness. Cruise through this glacially carved wilderness, then set out to explore by expedition landing craft. View the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close—and possibly witness 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)
DAY 6 JUNEAU
Disembark in Juneau and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B) I N F O R M AT I O N Dates: 2017: May 27–June 1 • June 1–6* • June 6–11 June 11–16* • July 6–11 • July 11–16* July 16–21 • July 21–26* • Aug. 15–20 Aug. 20–25* • Aug. 25–30 Aug. 30–Sept. 4* *These departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order. Expedition Cost: Category 1 Located on Main Deck Category 2 Located on Upper and Bridge Decks Category 3 Located on Upper and Bridge Decks
$4,290 $4,990 $5,990
See the description, photo, and deck plan for the National Geographic Sea Bird on page 142. Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single cabin, add $2,150 in Category 1 and $2,500 in Category 2. Airfare to Sitka and return from Juneau, or vice versa, is not included in the expedition cost.