NEW TRIP
Explorations from Glacier Bay to the Inside Passage Aboard Your Own Private Yacht Charter
Alaska Private Journey
Overview
Experience the wildlife and wilderness of Alaska as few other travelers do: on a unique small vessel designed for exploration. We have special access to three incredible boats—the Alaskan Story, Westward, and Catalyst—that are perfect for families or groups of friends. Their seasonal itineraries range from the majestic fjords of Glacier Bay to Admiralty Island and the best “secret” spots along the Inside Passage. These agile boats can maneuver around icebergs, follow humpback whales, get close to glaciers, and slip into tiny coves that bigger vessels can’t even approach. Their comfort and small size makes them an intimate way to savor the wildlife spectacles and soaring landscapes of Alaska. You’ll be far from the big ships as you set out for kayaking, hiking, and exploring magnificent bays and tidewater glaciers. Back on board after a day of adventure, you’ll savor incredible sea-to-table meals prepared by the talented chef.
Your exact itinerary will depend on your travel dates and which boat you choose, so please reach out to our Area Specialists for more details.
Arrive: Sitka, Juneau, or Petersburg (depending on itinerary)
Depart: Sitka, Juneau, or Petersburg (depending on itinerary)
Highlights
- Explore and hike with your naturalist guide by your side
- Get close to wildlife as you kayak silently, anchor in peaceful coves, walk on wild beaches
- Savor delicious cuisine prepared by your onboard chef, served in the cozy salon
- See brown bears feeding, humpback whales spouting, and eagles soaring
- Hike in remote coves, watch glaciers calving, savor the long Alaskan twilight
Accommodations
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
What the Trip is Like
This trip is Level 1+, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip grading system. The expedition vessel serves as a mobile base camp. You'll explore remote coastlines and fjords by day, then enjoy the comfort of the ship in the evening for good food, fine company, and a comfortable cabin. With just a few hours of cruising each day, there is plenty of time for walking, wildlife watching, or sea kayaking all in the company of an on-board naturalist who shares insights into the local botany, natural history, and native culture.
Every trip aboard a small ship can-and should-be slightly different. This is the planned itinerary, but if conditions and wildlife, whether on land or sea, present special opportunities, the course will be altered and we'll head that way to experience it. The itineraries are leisurely- we don't rush to stay on schedule, and we don't travel at night. A flexible attitude and an openness to the unexpected keep the adventure alive on these voyages.
No previous hiking or kayaking experience is required. The waters we cruise in are protected from the open ocean and are generally calm. Due to safety concerns, we tend to not kayak around icebergs. It is not the intention to kayak on stormy days or when sea conditions are truly “rough” with high winds and waves (such occasions are infrequent in these waters during the summer). And with such a comfortable “mother ship,” you can always opt out of any activity to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and the great views from on board. Please note: Climbing a ship's ladder to access skiff and kayaks during excursions is required.
We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercises. Your feet should also be well prepared— make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in.
Be prepared for temperatures ranging from the low 50sF to the high 70sF. Southern Alaska has a marine climate, which means rain is to be expected at some point on every trip. The rain itself is often a gentle mist, casting an aura of magic and mystery over the land. We hope for sunshine but recommend that you plan for wet, cool weather. You will be comfortable as long as your rain gear is adequate! It's not unusual for the weather to go from 60F to 75F rapidly when the rain stops and sun comes out
Layered clothing works best in the changing weather conditions typical of Southeast Alaska. Layers are easier to pack and more versatile than a single heavy coat. Don't bring down jackets or ski clothes (they don't dry well in the damp climate). Good rain gear is essential; it will enable you to remain comfortable in the wind or rain. Bring your high rubber boots for wading and for use in the kayaks and small boats (you will wear these everywhere you go). A selection of rubber boots is available. However, we recommend you bring your own for the best fit.
Meals onboard are locally sourced and artfully presented. Fresh ingredients come from local providers whenever possible, including organic farmers, and fish is bought from a local custom processor. The chef will cook any seafood caught by guests for you to enjoy on board. Complimentary beer and wine is offered on board. You are welcome to bring any special wines, liquors, and mixers you enjoy. Soft drinks, coffee, and tea are always available.
Client Testimonials
"An amazing trip. We seemed to have Alaska's Inside Passage all to ourselves, sharing it only with an array of whales plus bears and sea lions. This is absolutely, positively the ideal way to travel!"
Colleen C.
Oxnard, CA
"The ship was so comfortable. The owners (captain and wife-naturalist) were super professional and so responsive to individuals in a low-key way. And the cook was phenomenal."
Meredith C.
Washington, DC
"Best trip ever. Hiking, kayaking, glaciers, bears, whales, sea lions—magical! This happily did not resemble a cruise ship and we loved the adventure!"
Peter & Kay L.
Westport, MA
"The trip of a lifetime! The beautifully maintained historical boat provided an experience in itself. Special mention to the chef, who produced a 5-star meal at every sitting."
Sheri G.
Mountain View, CA
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Book your trip today
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
Itinerary
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Trip Levels
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult.