Nothing about Alaska is diminutive. From its towering glaciers to its far-reaching forests to massive Mount Denali, the final frontier is a land of superlatives. Eagles soar majestically and grizzlies roam freely. Life goes on in small towns and vibrant cities, despite the remoteness of the state. And, always, visitors are welcomed with open arms.
How does one sufficiently experience a destination so enormous? Enter small-ship cruising with lines who have been exploring Alaska for decades. These are operators who know the ins and outs of the far north and how to take you off the beaten path, to places the mega-ships can’t access. From indigenous communities along the rugged shoreline to hidden bays and fjords accessible only by Zodiac, you’ll see a side of Alaska few tourists ever knew existed.
Here’s but a taste of what small-ship cruising in Alaska can unveil for you.
William Henry Bay
Photo Credit: Hurtigruten Expeditions
When your friends return from a mega-ship cruise to Alaska, they’re not likely to mention this special place. When you choose expedition-style, small-ship cruising, this is just one of many highlights. No two days are alike on William Henry Bay, which you’ll explore by Zodiac, hopefully making a nature landing. You’ll be immediately immersed in raw, unfiltered wilderness - keep an eye out of moose, bears and other wildlife along the coastline. This is the Alaska of early pioneers. While you’re here, learn about the area’s rich copper-mining and gold-rush history.
Sons of Norway
Photo Credit: www.petersburgak.gov
Discover the Norwegian heritage of Petersburg, Alaska, when you spend a few hours at the oldest Sons of Norway Lodge in the state. Sip coffee or tea and munch on homemade Norwegian lefse, skorpa or almond puff as you hear about local life from a lifelong resident of the community, watch Norwegian dancers in traditional dress and visit the Viking ship, the Valhalla, at the Bojer Wikan Fishermen’s Memorial Park.
Inside Passage
Come face to face with the wondrous glaciers of the Alaskan Inside Passage on an expedition from Wrangell. Sail across the Eastern Passage toward Deadmans Island, where you’ll see a large population of nesting eagles. Make a nature landing, if weather permits, to explore the shoreline and look for moose, bear and deer. During the summer, witness spawning salmon as they leap out of the waters of the area’s rivers and creeks. In Wrangell itself, don’t miss Petroglyph Beach or the incredible interesting Wrangell Museum.
Icy Bay
Another destination few of your Alaska-going friends have experienced, Icy Bay is adventure defined. Sail between icebergs as you make your way to the colossal Guyot Glacier, which spills into Icy Bay. You’re bound to see countless harbor seals who make their home here. The guides and drivers on these small-ship cruises know just how to maneuver in rugged waters to give you the most insightful and exciting experience possible.
Misty Fjords
Photo Credit: Travel Alaska
Certainly a highlight of your Alaska experience, Misty Fjords is best discovered on an expedition vessel. Within this national monument that is part of the two-million-acre Tongass National Forest, you’ll possibly spot mountain goats, black and brown bears and moose on land, as well as river otters, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, orcas and Dall porpoises in the water. See why John Muir has described this area of evergreens, deep fjords and snow-capped peaks as one of the most beautiful places he'd ever seen.
From the artistic side of the rugged frontier town of Haines to the authentic Alaskan salmon-fishing town of Cordova, small-ship sailing in the far north will unveil an array of secrets - exactly the kind for which your adventure-seeking traveler’s heart sings. Let’s chat about some of my favorite choices for expedition sailing in Alaska and please sign up for my weekly small ship inspirational newsletter if you haven't already done so.