Pacific Northwest
10 days Luxury Yacht Charter Experience
The coastline between Vancouver Island and Alaska's capital Juneau, is widely regarded as one of the most awe-inspiring in the world. The dramatic waters provide everything from exciting kayaking, diving and fishing adventures to incredible scenery
DAY 1
JUNEAU
Deep in southeast Alaska, Juneau is an enchanting entry point for a cruise of the remote and fascinating Inside Passage. A helicopter can be taken to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier - just 13 miles from downtown Juneau.
DAY 2
JUNEAU TO HOLKHAM BAY
Embark on a cruise to Holkham Bay, located at the mouth of the Tracy Arm fjord. This region has earned itself the name of 'iceberg graveyard' and the waters are teeming with floating ice caps - it's a surreal but incredibly stunning backdrop.
DAY 3
HOLKHAM BAY TO ENDICOTT ARM
Cruise to the fjord at Endicott Arm, one of Alaska's lesser known gems, and home to Dawes Glacier which stands over 600ft tall and is half a mile wide. The area is a great place for whale-watching and to see calving glaciers. Experienced kayakers can paddle off to explore the deep blue waters.
ENDICOTT ARM TO THE BROTHERS
DAY 4
The two tiny Brothers islands allow for further opportunities to discover creatures in their natural habitats. Step ashore to explore the forests, keeping an eye out for river otters and deer as you cross the rugged landscape.
DAY 5
THE BROTHERS TO BARANOF ISLAND
One of three major islands in the Tongass National Forest, Baranof Island is home to the world's highest concentration of bears, largely thanks to the island's glut of salmon streams.
DAY 6
BARANOF ISLAND
After a hearty breakfast on board, hike up to Baranof Lake or Sadie Lake. The latter is more of a challenge, but both are wonderfully scenic walks and those who put in the effort will be rewarded with a dip in the Baranof Warm Springs - a suitably scenic spot in which to soak weary muscles.
DAY 7
BARANOF ISLAND TO SITKA
Nature lovers will be in their element as you cruise the twisting Sergius Narrows. Pass serene forested islands where the keen-eyed can spot bald eagles, black-tailed deer and sea otters as you wind your way to Sitka.
DAY 8
SITKA TO POINT ADOLPHUS
From the stunning port of Sitka, cruise on to Point Adolphus and prepare to encounter the largest colony of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle. As you are expertly guided along the intricate waterways of the icy strait, stand on deck and watch these incredible giants in their natural habitat. If you’re brave enough to get closer, a guided kayak tour can be arranged.
DAY 9 TO 10
POINT ADOLPHUS TO GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK
A park ranger will join you for the final part of your cruise through the Glacier Bay National Park. You will ideally want a few days here, during which time you will cruise around 60 miles up to the Grand Pacific and Margerie glaciers.
In 1750, Glacier Bay was one massive, single glacier but due to higher temperatures and lower average snowfall over the last several centuries, it has been transformed into what is now a 65 miles (105 km) fjord with multiple smaller glaciers. Margerie Glacier is located at the extreme northwestern end of the bay and is situated perpendicular to the Grand Pacific Glacier. The next stage of your journey sees you swap the yacht for a new mode of transport – a plane to Fairbanks to explore the interior of Alaska, or journey back to Juneau.
