Sitka, Alaska - Vancouver

Flight Seattle/Sitka + Transfer

Departs 28th July 2024

11 Days

Book early and save up to 30%

Endless forests overlooked by snow-covered mountains, deep bays in which the most magnificent marine mammals frolic, local communities gracefully perpetuating their millennial traditions: set off to discover Alaska with PONANT. Board Le Soléal for a 11-day expedition cruise.

In the heart of this extraordinary and grandiose nature, the history of the populations of Alaska is written in the present tense. In Elfin Cove, only accessible by sea or air, you will immerse yourself in the local life, which is intrinsically linked to fishing. Hidden within the boreal forest, the island’s small village, perfumed with a scent of cedar wood, will guarantee you a unique experience. In Petersburg, fishing is also at the heart of local life and this former Norwegian colony treasures the story of its origins. A mosaic of peoples and history, Alaska also allows you to encounter the Kwakwaka'wakw and Tlingit indigenous communities, in Alert Bay and Kake. This is an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating cultures, especially famous for their totem poles. 

The various landscapes will unfold, and change, throughout your journey. The high summits blend with immense coniferous forests, deep bays follow on from the hemmed-in fjords, and, everywhere, power merges with fragile beauty. In the Inside Passage, a series of labyrinths made of islands and straits, the nuances of the water, at times emerald, at times turquoise, hide rich marine life. In British Colombia, explore the sublime Pearse Islands whose currents attract many birds as well as marine mammals.

At sea, have fun spotting the humpback whales as they blow on the horizon. On land, black bears and grizzly bears are the focus of most attention and observations, while the majestic bald eagle, the symbol of the Unites States, soars above in the sky. The crucial notions of this cruise involve searching and keeping an eye out; the unexpected and the uncertainty are what make these singular encounters even more spectacular.

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

• An expedition cruise to take the time to discover the Alaska of vast spaces and forests stretching as far as the eye can see: this region at the origin of adventures that have fired the imagination of several generations of travellers. 
• The presence of an experienced team of naturalist-guides.
• Exploring Alaska’s majestic landscapes during scenic cruising or hikes, outings in local boats or tender motorboats.
• Exploring British Colombia, in the magnificent Inside Passage and discovering the Pearse Islands which are home to many birds and marine mammals.
• Visit traditional villages and meet the peoples of the Far North, particularly the Kwakwaka'wakw and Tlingit communities, in Alert Bay and Kake.
• Landscapes: fjords, tall mountains, huge glaciers, primary forest, jagged cliffs.
• Wildlife: humpback whales, orcas, brown bears, grizzlies, sea otters, Steller sea lions, bald eagles.