Hurtigruten Expeditions Alaska & British Colombia - Inside Passage, Bears and Aleutian Islands (Southbound)

18-day itinerary

Day 1: Vibrant Vancouver

Your exhilarating expedition cruise will commence in the bustling city of Vancouver. There is something for everyone in one of Canada’s youngest cities. Indulge in the city’s global cuisine as you dine out in Chinatown, Punjabi Market or Little Italy as you immerse yourself in the region’s wonderful atmosphere.

Gastown, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, is certainly worth experiencing, with a hike up the Vancouver Lookout uncovering some of the best views of the city, including the picturesque Stanley Park, Granville Street, as well as the beautiful West End beaches.

Day 2: No place like Nome

On your second expedition day you will be flying from Vancouver to Nome, to enjoy a day of exploration discovering the mysteries of this intriguing city. With explorers visiting the region since the late 1800s in search for gold, Nome still displays its Gold-Rush era heritage, with abandoned dredges, steam engines and old railroad tracks, all adding to the sombre and unique atmosphere in the area.

A key strategic point for many explorers, the legendary Roald Amundsen used Nome as the end point for three of his polar expeditions, with arguably the most notable expedition being an aircraft attempt to reach the North Pole in 1926.

Day 3: Crossing the Bering Sea

During your day crossing of the Bering Sea, you will have the unique experience of being able to see Russia to the west and the United States to the east.

As this is your first day at sea, make the most of your time onboard by scanning for the regional wildlife, but also taking time to relax and rest up, prior to the next leg of you expedition. Listen to talks held by the Expedition Team about Alaska’s history and geology, whilst also visiting the Science Centre to check out the Citizen Science programmes you will be able to participate in.

Day 4: Wild St Matthew

The challenging conditions around this secluded island have prevented anyone from being able to settle here. St Matthew island is part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and is so isolated that the nearest village is still over 200 miles away. Remnants of abandoned buildings lay deserted, encapsulating the nature of the environment you are about to encounter.

At present, although not suitable for human life, the island is an ideal habitat for a plethora of birdlife. There are thousands of puffins, murres, and cormorants living in these harsh conditions, so be sure to scan for them during your guided nature landings. You may also have the privilege of seeing the rare McKay’s Bunting which breeds almost exclusively on this island.

Day 5: Aleut life in St Paul

Your next destination will be windswept island of St Paul. This important island is home to the largest Aleut community in the US, with around 480 people inhabiting the region. While here, be sure to visit the historical remnants of barabaras, with these being authentic buildings specially designed to protect against the harsh sea winds.

Crucially, St Paul is also recognised as an Important Bird Area. You will be able to scout around for the large variety of migrating birds to the area, with approximately 300 different species using the island as a base point. Look out for Horned and Tufted Puffins, the Pribilof Sandpiper and the rare Red-legged Kittiwake.

The shores of St Paul provide a habitat for a staggering number of iconic species of seal, with around half the world’s population living on these islands.

Day 6: Cruising along the coast

As the cruise continue sailing through the Bering Sea, the Expedition Team will be on hand to prepare you for your upcoming destinations. Take the opportunity to relax and recline in one of the outdoor hot-tubs or in the infinity pool, or kick back with a refreshing drink in the Explorer lounger and bar.

Fancy something a little more stimulating during your day at sea? If so, be sure to attend one of the Expedition Team’s absorbing lectures in their lectures series, or visit the onboard Science Centre to learn more about Alaska’s geology and ecosystems.

Day 7: Dutch Harbor

Dutch Harbor is the largest fishing port in the United States, and has a significant amount of historical importance. As the cruise journeys towards the Harbor, you may be able to see the magnificent Mount Makushin – a largely dormant volcano whose summit reaches almost 6,000 ft.

Immerse yourself in the intriguing culture and history of the region by visiting the local Museum of the Aleutians, which displays extensive information about the local Indigenous Unungan people. Adding to this, be sure to look around the historic Russian Orthodox Cathedral or tour the WWII museum, where you can gain insights into the key battle which took place here during WW2.

An ideal place for bird enthusiasts, the landscape around Dutch Harbor attracts the iconic puffins as well as Bald Eagles, while sea lions, whales and porpoises can be spotted in the nearby waters.

Day 8: The ghost town of Unga

After having been abandoned in 1969 by the Aleuts who has been in the region since 1833, Unga Village is a deserted yet charming settlement on Unga Island’s southern end.

Due to subsistence fishing becoming insufficient in the area by the late 1960’s, the remnants of a previous community of people still remains, with a small number of wooden buildings being left behind on the rugged landscape. Experience the eerie atmosphere surrounding what was once a bustling fishing village, but now is an area taken over by nature.

Day 9: Remote bays of the Alaska Peninsula

Despite being an unforgiving wilderness, the Alaskan Peninsula is an important haven for a wide variety of wildlife. Highlighted by its rough coastal landscapes, isolated bays and looming mountains, this is an incredibly unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s more remote regions.

Discover concealed bays and inlets along the coastline with the experienced Expedition Team, whilst making the most of the opportunity to scan for bears, eagles, whales and sea otters. Gain absorbing insights regarding the geological evolution of the region, taking into account the effect Mother Nature has had on sculpting the surroundings.

Day 10: Katmai’s brown bears

The staggering four million-acre Katmai National Park will be the next destination on your expedition cruise. Home to over a dozen active volcanoes, Katmai also has the largest concentration of brown bears in the entire planet, with more than 2,000 bears roaming its landscape.

While taking precautions to ensure the cruise doesn’t affect the bears’ environment, you will be accompanied by a vastly experienced bear guard who will guide passengers in scouting for these intriguing creatures.

As conditions can often change at a rapid rate, the onboard Captain and Expedition Team will monitor for suitable conditions. Weather permitting, you  might visit either Geographic Harbor, Kinak Bay or Kukak Bay.

Day 11: Kodiak Island

The second largest island in the US, Kodiak Island is well-known for its significant population of Kodiak brown bears. After being given the nickname the ‘Emerald Isle’, because of its abundance of spruce forests and grasslands, the landscape provides the perfect ecosystem for these bears to thrive in, with an estimated 3,500 of them living in the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge.

You’ll be searching for these impressive animals in their natural habitat – from a safe distance on small expedition boats of course! Take this unique opportunity to catch a glimpse into the lives of the bears, whilst soaking up Alaska’s gorgeous natural setting.

Day 12: Across the Gulf of Alaska

The cruise expedition will then be sailing across the Gulf of Alaska towards Kodiak Island. Spend this time broadening your knowledge of Alaska by attending one of the fascinating lectures held by the onboard Expedition Team, or visit the Science Centre to check out some of the Citizen Science on offer for you to contribute towards.

Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely day making the most of the hot-tub and sauna facilities on the MS Roald Amundsen as you sail serenely past the iceberg-studded waters. The onboard team will also be on hand to carry out wildlife watches so that you can witness more of Alaska’s ecosystem, with the Explorer Lounge and Bar being open to travellers who wish to catch up with their fellow travellers over a refreshing drink.

Day 13: Glaciers of Icy Bay

Icy Bay is home to three titanic glaciers: Guyot, Yahtse and Tyndall, which regularly plunge deep into the freezing waters below. The Captain and onboard Expedition Team will continually monitor conditions and if they are acceptable, you’ll be able to explore more in small expedition boats and kayaks, drinking in the breathtaking natural beauty of this vast landscape.

Practice your photography skills by capturing images of the abundant wildlife in the area, including humpback whales, orcas, Stellar sea lions, sea otters and harbour seals lazing on floating chunks of ice are often seen in these waters.

Day 14: Blended Cultures of Sitka

Due to its geographical position being surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the remote region of Sitka is only accessible by sea or air travel. Immerse yourself in the incredible views of Sisters Mountains and Mount Edgecumbe volcano while out on the ship’s deck, experiencing more of Alaska’s beauty.

In the modern day, Sitka still displays remnants of three separate influences which makes up its rich cultural heritage. Initially being inhabited by the native Tlingit people for 10,000 years, Russian explorers then settled in the town before the turn of the 19^th century. Following Russia’s loss during the Crimean war however, the region was sold to the United States and has been recognised as being American ever since.

Due to the city’s varied cultural history, there are plenty of landmarks and areas which are worth visiting. Take a trip to the Russian Orthodox cathedral and Russian Bishop’s House, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk on walking trail towards the ocean through the beautiful Sitka National Historical Park.

Day 15: Wrangell’s Petroglyphs

The cruise will continue on the tenth day to Wrangell and Petroglyph beach, which is located around a mile outside of town. While at the beach, admire the ancient rock carvings among the sand.

Gain insights into Wrangell’s extensively historic past by visiting the local museum, with information about its unique culture after previously being governed by Britain, Russia and the Tlingit people. Cross to Shakes Island, where the Chief Shakes Tribal House and totem poles tell the story of the Indigenous Tlingit people.

Immerse yourself in the alluring scenery by taking a scenic hike to the mouth of Stikine River, whilst also paying a visit to Mount Dewey at the edge of the rainforest.

Day 16: Serene Misty Fjords

Misty Fjords is an idyllic wilderness of evergreens, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Found within the Tongass National Forest, the Fjords were described by famous writer, John Muir, as one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen.

If the weather is suitable, the onboard team will take you out on small expedition boats to search for mountain goats, moose and bears, whilst passing the plethora of marine life inhabiting the waters including, otters, sea lions, orcas and harbour seals.

Day 17: Canada’s Inside Passage

The expedition will then sail through Canada’s iconic Inside Passage on your third day. The coastal route will take you through the great North American Pacific Fjordland, a protected waterway being over 930 miles long, with its outstanding scenery on display during your transit.

You’ll be exploring secluded channels which are rarely visited while on your journey, soaking up the breathtaking settings as you scan for the wide variety of wildlife in the region.

Day 18: Return to Vancouver

Your expedition unfortunately comes to an end in Vancouver – but don’t fear! If you missed any sights on the first day of your trip, now is the perfect time to soak up more of what Vancouver has to offer. Immerse yourself in the Café culture on Granville Island, or alternatively check out Richmond’s famous multicultural night market for treats from the tasty food stalls.

Why not extend your adventure in Vancouver by joining one of the optional post-programme packages? Within this, you’ll be heading to the nearby mountain resort of Whistler, stopping at Shannon Falls and boarding the Sea to Sky Gondola, which is an exciting ride with panoramic views almost 3,000 ft above sea level.

Flights

• Flight in economy class from Vancouver to Nome before the expedition cruise. Flight surcharge may apply.

Hotel

• Overnight in Vancouver, including breakfast before, the expedition cruise

Transfers

• Transfer from the hotel to the airport in Vancouver before the expedition cruise
• Transfer from the airport to ship in Nome before the expedition cruise

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board†
• Complimentary reusable water bottle
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full use of our Science Center, extensive library and advanced biological and geological equipment
• Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research
• Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer
• Use of ship’s hot tubs, infinity pool, panoramic sauna, outdoor and indoor gyms, and running track
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Landing Activities

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• No gratuities expected

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area

MS Roald Amundsen

MS Fridtjof Nansen