DETAILS
Join us on a small-ship expedition cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage, exploring narrow channels, inlets and waterways inaccessible by larger vessels. Alongside expert naturalists and a knowledgeable onboard crew, you’ll uncover Alaska’s more secluded landscapes and witness the region’s iconic glaciers, abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The agile ship and flexible itinerary provide for adventure-filled days and one-of-a-kind experiences.
- Pricing from
- $7,995
Call 866-639-0079 or CLICK HERE to reserve this tour today!
- Trip Type
- Closer to Home
- Departure Dates
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Jul 25, 2027 - Aug 1, 2027
ITINERARY
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day 1
Arrive in Juneau, AK – Embarkation
Welcome to Juneau, Alaska’s remote and rugged capital. Despite its isolation, Juneau is alive with culture from its Tlingit heritage to its vibrant local art scene and historic gold mining past.
Transfer to the hospitality suite at the port for check-in before boarding the Wilderness Adventurer. As embarkation begins unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship’s welcoming public spaces. Grab your binoculars and step out on deck to scan the horizon for wildlife as the ship navigates through Stephens Passage.
Later gather for your first dinner on board taking the opportunity to become acquainted with your Expedition Leader, ship crew and fellow travel companions.
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day 2
Tracy Arm Fjord • Sawyer Glaciers
Venture into Tracy Arm Fjord, a spectacular 30-mile-long fjord that’s part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness and host to hundreds of waterfalls. Carved by glaciers over thousands of years, the narrow waterway is framed by sheer rock walls that rise more than 3,000 feet above sea level. Famed naturalist and conservationist John Muir visited Tracy Arm Fjord during his travels in Alaska in the late 19th century and was deeply moved, calling this area “a wild, unfinished Yosemite.”
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day 3
Frederick Sound
Frederick Sound is among the best places in Alaska to observe humpback whales, which frequently display dramatic behaviors perfect for viewing and photography. Watch as these majestic giants tail-lob, lunge-feed, slap their massive pectoral fins, breach the surface, and execute graceful dives that reveal their iconic barnacle-studded flukes.
Cruise past Five Fingers Lighthouse, Alaska’s oldest light station, and The Brothers Islands, where sea lions nap on rocky nobs. Paddle into the deeps of Port Houghton or Windham Bay or head ashore for a hike.
During leisure time on the ship take advantage of additional opportunities to spot for local wildlife or walk a few laps around the deck enjoying the fresh air.
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day 4
Chichagof Island
oday the vessel meanders through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. At anchor choose between kayak or skiff adventures to explore the waters. Spot for bears behind mossy trees along the shoreline as this area is host to one of the world’s largest bear populations.
Venture on shore with your guide to hike and explore the Tongass National Forest.
Back on board relax in the hot tub after this enriching day of adventures.
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days 5-6
Glacier Bay National Park
Explore awe-inspiring Glacier Bay National Park, where colossal glaciers meet rugged mountains and a temperate rainforest. Here scientists have found exposed rock that’s believed to be more than 200 million years old. Discover the park’s ecological richness and learn about the geological forces that shaped this icy wonderland.
Visit one of the park’s iconic glaciers: Margerie or Lamplugh.
Glacier Bay is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Watch for sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, mountain goats, bears and eagles, and enjoy Alaska’s spectacular scenery.
Passing by South Marble Island and Gloomy Knob, spot for puffins and other sea birds.
Back on board enjoy convivial conversation in the lounge before another specially crafted dinner featuring Alaskan cuisine.
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day 7
Icy Strait or Neka Bay
After rising enjoy a hot coffee on the top deck. Take advantage of prime views while spotting for wildlife including orcas, Steller sea lions, seals, porpoises and magnificent humpback whales.
For those seeking additional activities perhaps join a skiff ride or hiking excursion on land. The crew will lead skiff rides and land excursions, offering deeper insight on the surrounding flora and fauna and the area’s geography.
Tonight gather for a special Captain’s gala dinner to celebrate your exciting week cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage.
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day 8
Juneau – Disembarkation • Depart Juneau
After breakfast disembark the Wilderness Adventurer. Guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
Everything you need to know about the tour
Save this information for later by downloading the full tour brochure.
Accommodating 60 guests, the 160-foot Wilderness Adventurer is built for action and comfort, with space to relax on deck and plenty of Alaskan adventure both onboard and in the water.
Designed to go where large ships cannot, you’ll be navigating to the best views possible of the surrounding nature-filled landscape. Experience Alaska up close as you watch for wildlife from skiffs or kayaks and learn about the indigenous peoples of the region. On board the ship are your knowledgeable crew and expert naturalists who share their hospitality, uncanny knack for spotting wildlife and fascinating secrets behind the bountiful beauty that surrounds you.
The ship’s well-appointed, intimate and unassuming style allows travelers to experience the true heart and soul of Alaska. Enjoy expansive viewing areas on the bow and aft outdoor promenade decks, a hull design optimized for supreme comfort in Alaskan waters and a spacious lounge.
The relaxed cruising speed is ideal for viewing the endless surrounding fjords, glaciers and wildlife. The ship offers complimentary rain boots. Plus each stateroom is outfitted with binoculars. Nothing will be missed as you leisurely traverse the channels, bays and islands of Southeast Alaska.
The ship is fully equipped and designed for action with three accessible decks delivering adventure at every level. Its observation deck on the bow allows for spectacular wildlife viewing while the EZ Dock launch platform on the main deck provides easy access to water activities.
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:
• Chef-prepared meals crafted with local ingredients, including seafood sourced directly from the waters we navigate
• Opportunities on board for kayaking, paddle boarding, bushwhacking, skiff rides, and wildlife viewing with hiking sticks and binoculars available
• Eco-friendly bath amenities and reusable water bottles
Optional Pre-Tour – Denali National Park
Journey into the scenic wilds of America’s northernmost state, through Alaska’s rugged forests and wildlife. Your destination: the magnificent six-million acre Denali National Park and Reserve. Uncover the many wonders of the park during guided trail hikes and walks. And choose from a variety of exciting optional excursions to further personalize your experience. A highlight of this adventure includes traveling the historic Alaska Railroad route with superior viewing from your train’s upgraded glass-dome seat.
Activity Level: 3
Full Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Day +1: Arrive in Fairbanks, AK
Tuesday, August 3, 2027 (D)
Welcome to Fairbanks—known as “The Golden Heart of Alaska,” a reference to the discovery of gold in 1902 and its location in Alaska’s interior.
Meet your Orbridge Expedition Leader and fellow travel companions at a welcome dinner, and prepare for your upcoming Denali activities and excursions.
Day +2: Fairbanks • Alaska Railroad • Denali National Park
Wednesday, August 4, 2027 (B,L,D)
With your Orbridge Expedition Leader, board the train to Denali National Park traversing one of the most scenic stretches of the world-famous Alaska Railroad. Enjoy a rich panoply of views of America’s northernmost frontier as you travel in the upgraded glass-dome train car, and gather in the dining car for delightful breakfast and lunch service.
This evening enjoy a lively dinner where you’ll explore fun and unique features of Denali National Park with a presenter from the Murie Science and Learning Center.
Day +3: Denali National Park Wilderness Excursion
Thursday, August 5, 2027 (B,L,D)
Today travel down Denali National Park Road on a naturalist-guided, back-country adventure for incredible scenery and some of the best opportunities to view majestic Mount Denali. This bus tour includes a walk in Denali’s wilderness to learn more about its landscapes, wildlife and history. Enjoy a box lunch in this special setting. Be sure to have your binoculars ready to spot for the many species of plants and wildlife.
The evening is at leisure. Choose either tonight or tomorrow evening to redeem your Alpenglow Restaurant dinner voucher at the lodge. The restaurant features breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gourmet menu selections.
Day +4: Denali National Park
Friday, August 6, 2027 (B,R)
After breakfast participate in one of the pre-purchased optional excursions or enjoy free time to explore Denali. Take advantage of the many self-guided hiking trails or informative ranger-led talks and activities offered in the Denali National Park Visitor Center.
You may purchase the following optional excursions in advance from our Guest Services team. (Excursions must be booked through Orbridge no later than 60 days prior to departure.)
DogGoneIt Dog Sled Tour
Visit the home and kennel of Iditarod musher, Mike Santos, for an authentic look into rural Alaskan life. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating a championship dog-sled team, and hear compelling stories from the trail—see actual racing sleds, arctic survival gear, and equipment used to traverse 1,100 miles of Alaska’s most rugged terrain. Meet Alaskan husky puppies before watching adult huskies explode from the kennel on a training run. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3 hours. (Not recommended for children under 3)
Denali Glacier Landing Flight
This exclusive 100-minute plane tour of Denali is the only tour where guests are granted permission to land and stand (for approximately 20-25 minutes) on one of Denali’s glaciers. On board the aircraft, witness dramatic views of Denali’s summit and the surrounding peaks and glaciers in the park, including the world’s deepest gorge at Ruth Glacier. Flight routes may change based on weather conditions. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
Arctic Circle Flight
Travel to the Arctic Circle on an extensive air-and-land adventure. From Denali, fly north across the Arctic Circle for a birds-eye view over the Alaskan wilderness, including the Brooks Mountain Range, Yukon River and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Land and visit an Arctic community with a population of less than 15. In the Brooks Mountain Range, take a walking tour with your guide, a descendant of the first homesteaders, and learn about subsistence living, survival ingenuity and the choice to live in the Arctic year-round. Re-board the plane for the return flight and, if the weather permits, take in aerial views of Denali. Upon returning, receive an official Arctic Circle Certificate. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 7 hours. Age and weight restrictions apply. (Not recommended for youth under 10)
Optional excursions are non-refundable within 90 days of departure; prices subject to change. Not all excursions may be available. Availability is subject to sufficient participation and weather conditions. Space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability. For flight excursions, weight and minimum age requirements apply. Individual dressed weight and birthdate must be provided at time of booking.
Later reconvene for wine and dessert as you listen to Alaskan homesteader, Jimmie Hendricks, as he relives his journey and lifelong dream to explore Alaska and make it his home. Be amazed by his years of training, hard work, determination and eventual summiting of North America’s tallest peak.
Day +5: Denali National Park • Talkeetna • Anchorage
Saturday, August 7, 2027 (B)
After an early breakfast return to Anchorage by motor coach following the nearby Alaska Railroad route.
Arriving in Talkeetna admire the panoramic views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak (weather permitting). Enjoy free time to explore the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum and the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station to learn about mountaineering operations, the scenic Talkeetna river trail and various shops and cafés in town.
Next visit the Anchorage Museum, recognized by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the top 50 museums in the United States. Perusing through the vast collections learn about Alaska’s history, native cultures and many other facets of the Last Frontier. The institution is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples through immersive experiences, comprehensive exhibits and interactive displays.
This evening enjoy leisure time to explore downtown Anchorage’s many fine eateries and shops.
Day +6: Depart Anchorage
Sunday, August 8, 2027
Early morning take the complimentary transfer to Anchorage International Airport for the group flight to join guests on the main program.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
Inclusions
- 1 night lodging in Fairbanks, 3 nights at Grande Denali Lodge and 1 night lodging in Anchorage
- 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners (including a dinner voucher for Grande Denali Lodge’s Alpenglow Restaurant) and 1 reception
- Rail journey to Denali National Park along the distinguished Alaska Railroad featuring: reserved seating in the upper-level glass-dome car, priority seating in the dining room for breakfast and lunch, and two complimentary beverages
- Hotel courtesy shuttle between the rail depot, Grande Denali Lodge, the Denali Park Visitor Center and town
- A wilderness bus tour into Denali National Park
- Deluxe motor coach transportation to Talkeetna and Anchorage
- Services of an Orbridge Expedition Leader
- Gratuities for Orbridge Expedition Leader, local guides, drivers, porters, housekeeping and wait staff for included meals
- Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times
Rates
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Double: | $3,995 |
| Single: | $5,495 |
—rate includes $350 per person internal airfare—
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Optional Excursions:
DogGoneIt Dog Sled Tour: $65 per person; $55 per youth 12 and under
Denali Glacier Landing Flight: $685 per person; $635 per youth 9 and under
Arctic Circle Flight: $575 per person (not recommended for youth under 10)
Normal Orbridge cancellation policies apply whereby optional excursions are non-refundable within 90 days of departure. Not all excursions listed may be available. Availability is subject to sufficient participation and weather conditions. We recommend you reserve early for best availability as space is limited. For flight excursions, weight and minimum age requirements apply. Individual dressed weight and birthdate must be provided at time of booking.
*Pre-tour rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.
TOUR MAP
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