Alaskan Coastal Communities
This itinerary features many of the “hidden gems” that can be found along the Inside Passage. Towns such as Sitka, Haines, Petersburg and Wrangell are rarely visited by the large cruise ships. Some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery and wildlife can be found around these towns. This itinerary can be combined with a tour of Western Canada, Interior Alaska and the Yukon. |
Sitka
Situated on the west side of Baranof Island, Sitka is one of the most beautiful towns on the Inside Passage. The town has retained much of its original architecture from the period when Russia controlled Alaska. Major highlights include the renowned Raptor Rehabilitation Center, whale watching, Saint Michael’s Cathedral and other Russian heritage sites.
Inside Passage on Alaska Marine Highway System
Local residents use the Alaska Marine Highway System ferries (AMHS) as means of transportation between the towns along the Inside Passage. The ferries can navigate their way through narrow stretches of the Inside Passage that cannot be accessed by larger cruise ships.
Haines
Originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America’s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Walk the un-crowded streets, explore the shops and quiet cafes, or purchase a bear watching tour or river float trip from local guides. There are regular water taxi services to the nearby town of Skagway.
White Pass Rail Summit Excursion
This historic route, built during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, is known as the ‘Scenic Railway of the World’. With a lot of determination, 450 tonnes of explosives and the work of tens of thousands of men the railway was built. Out of the one hundred thousand people that headed to the Klondike gold fields only thirty to forty thousand made it all the way. A few hundred of those who found gold actually became rich.
Petersburg
Petersburg, known as ‘Alaska’s little Norway’, was founded by a Norwegian fisherman in the late 1890’s. True to its heritage, Petersburg is a working town, not a cruise ship destination, with four major fish canneries still in operation. The town provides a nice stop for those travelers interested in beautiful scenery and colourful Norwegian architecture. Attractions are flight-seeing over LeConte Glacier and whale watching in Frederick Sound.
Wrangell
Wrangell is one of the most interesting small towns on the Inside Passage. The town began as a Tlingit trading post and became the site of a Russian fort built in 1834. The town has a relaxed feel that allows visitors to wander comfortably and converse with locals from the town. Local attractions are tours to the Stikine River, LeConte Glacier, Petersburg, a number of short walks and AnAn Bear Observatory.
AnAn Bear Sanctuary
Travel by jet boat to Anan Bear Sanctuary, which is located 35 miles southeast from the town of Wrangell. After arriving at Anan Island you will be guided on an informative 15 minute walk, learning about local and native history on your way to the observation decks. This tour is available from early July through until the end of the August when the salmon run finishes for the year
Stikine River Wilderness Tour
Stikine means Great River in Tlingit and as the fastest free flowing river in North America it holds up to its reputation. The mouth of the river is located near Wrangell and is fed by over 100 glaciers as it stretches all the way to British Columbia.
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Day
1
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SeattleArrive into Seattle. Clarion Airport (1 night) |
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Day
2
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Seattle to SitkaFly from Seattle to Sitka (flight cost not included). Westmark Sitka (2 nights) |
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Day
3
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SitkaDay at leisure |
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Day
4
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Sitka to Inside PassageDeparture on Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry. On-board cabin (1 night) |
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Day
5
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Inside Passage to HainesContinuation of journey through the Inside Passage. The ferry will stop briefly in Juneau before travelling up the Lynn Canal. This is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Inside Passage. Captains Choice (3 nights) |
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Day
6
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HainesDay at leisure to explore the town and spectacular surrounding countryside. |
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Day
7
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Haines - White Pass & Yukon RailwayIn the morning travel by water taxi to Skagway where you will board the famous White Pass & Yukon Railway Summit Tour. Remainder of day at leisure in Skagway before returning to Haines by water taxi. |
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Day
8
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Haines to PetersburgBoard AMHS ferry and travel south down the Inside Passage to Petersburg. Afternoon at leisure to explore this picturesque fishing town. Scandia House (1 night) |
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Day
9
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Petersburg to WrangellRe-board AMHS for the journey down the lovely Wrangell Narrows. Stikine Inn (3 nights) |
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Day
10
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Wrangell - AnAn Bear SanctuaryHalf day tour with remainder of day at leisure to explore Wrangell. |
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Day
11
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Wrangell - Stikine River Wilderness TourDay tour through the lower reaches of the Stikine River. |
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Day
12
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Depart WrangellDepart Wrangell on either Alaska Marine Highway ferry or by Alaska Airlines. |
Tour Notes & Options
Prices based on twin share accommodation, please contact us for single pricing.
Extending Your Trip
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