Alaska Small Ship Cruise and Kayak

Our Glacier Bay adventure cruise takes us from the ancient, rainforest-cloaked shores of Icy Strait to the rugged mountain faces of the east and west arms of Glacier Bay National Park. Hundreds of miles of glacial fjords are here for you to explore—by sea kayak, on scenic hikes, or while cruising aboard the Sea Wolf. This Alaska small-ship adventure is ideal for travelers of all abilities and activity levels.

Today we paddle through icy waters, hike beneath towering spruce, and search for coastal brown bears, black bears, and even the rare glacier bear. We also look for wolves, moose, sea otters, and a wide variety of marine mammals and seabirds. We promise you'll witness glaciers, sheer mountain cliffs rising from the sea, and the unforgettable breach of a humpback whale.

This is the wild heart of Alaska—remote, breathtaking, and waiting for you to discover.

Day 1

At 8:30am we meet at Bartlett Cove to board the Sea Wolf and begin with an orientation session in the main salon. Our journey begins with a cruise towards Geike Inlet where we embark on our first paddle, but not before a short introduction to kayaking session. Geike Inlet is a stunning fjord where black bears, wolverines and mountain goats are often spotted, together with a variety of seabirds and ducks.

After a leisurely paddle, we return to the ship and cruise towards our anchorage while learning about the natural history of Glacier Bay. Hear about some of the research projects that are being conducted within the national park, as well as the abundant wildlife that you may encounter over the following days. After dinner aboard the Sea Wolf, enjoy an unforgettable sunset overlooking Glacier Bay.

• Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

Following an early breakfast, we embark on a hike to the Reid Glacier to get an up-close look at its glacially carved landscape. Our guide will explain the geology of the glacier and its plant and animal succession as we explore its grounded icebergs and hunt for ice worms. Returning to the ship through the intertidal landscape, take time to uncover rocks to see what brown bears, wolverines and small mammals feast on during low tide.

Refuel over lunch as we cruise towards Tarr Inlet where the Grand Pacific and Marjorie glaciers flow, then board your kayak for a picturesque paddle beneath the sheer cliff. We keep our eyes peeled for kittiwakes and puffins that nest along the cliffs before kayaking along the face of the Marjorie Glacier to watch it calve. In the mid-afternoon, we continue cruising through Russell Cut while observing the local wildlife and make our way to our anchorage for the evening.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Day 3

Our morning begins with an excursion to Gloomy Knob where we search for mountain goats and other wildlife that resides in the area. Soak up the incredible views across the bay from this elevated location before returning to the ship. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely paddle at our anchorage as we make our way ever closer to the entrance of East Arm.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

While we enjoy breakfast, we fire up the engines and make our way towards Muir Inlet on the East Arm of Glacier Bay where numerous activities will be available (based on weather, park closures and wildlife). Embark on a spectacular hike beside McBride Glacier or go paddling from Muir Glacier to the Riggs Glacier while spotting bears, wolves, moose and birdlife along the shore.

Once we’re back on the Sea Wolf, we’ll continue towards our evening anchorage for dinner and a night spent stargazing.

*Note: Other destinations for this day may include Dundas Bay, George Island or Idaho Inlet.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

If the tides are right, we begin the day with a morning paddle to North Sandy Cove, an incredibly rich ecosystem that supports black bears, moose and coyotes, not to mention an abundant marine life. We slowly kayak along the shores, then continue paddling over to Puffin Island to explore the low tide vertical intertidal zone. This region is home to a fascinating array of sponges, periwinkles and sea stars, as well as sea cucumbers and urchins awaiting the high tide’s return.

After returning to the vessel, we’ll continue cruising to South Marble Island to observe a large stellar sea lion haul-out and a seabird nesting rookery. We then make our way to Fingers Bay where we’ll spend the night.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

We begin the day with a hearty breakfast before cruising towards Point Adolphus where we spend the morning looking for humpback whales. Around midday, we make the return journey to Gustavus where we dock by 1 pm. Here, we embark on a walking tour of the Huna Tribal House before being transported to the airport for your flight to Juneau.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 1: Embarkation in Juneau and Tracy Arm
We meet in Juneau and board the Seawolf in the afternoon. After settling into our cabins and meeting the crew, we cruise south into the stunning fjord of Tracy Arm. We may have time to kayak or take a skiff ride, depending on conditions. The day ends near the face of either North or South Sawyer Glacier, surrounded by towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and floating blue ice. Seals often rest on the ice floes, and mountain goats may be visible high on the ridges.

• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Tracy Arm to Admiralty Island
We spend the morning soaking in the glacier’s beauty before cruising toward Admiralty Island National Monument, home to one of the densest brown bear populations in North America. In the evening, we anchor in a quiet cove and may kayak or explore by skiff along the wild shoreline.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Admiralty Island and Pack Creek
Today we explore Admiralty Island more fully. If conditions and permits allow, we visit the Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area, a world-renowned spot for observing brown bears in their natural habitat. Otherwise, we enjoy guided walks in the rainforest, paddle in calm bays, and look for coastal wildlife. Humpback whales and sea lions are often seen along these protected waters.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Frederick Sound and Whale Watching
We cruise through Frederick Sound, one of the best places in Alaska to see humpback whales. With luck, we’ll witness breaching, tail slapping, or bubble-net feeding. We pause throughout the day for whale watching, kayaking, or beach walks, depending on sightings and weather.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Thomas Bay and Baird Glacier
We wake up in Thomas Bay, known for its rich legends and dramatic beauty. After breakfast, we explore the outwash plain of Baird Glacier, a surreal and ever-changing landscape shaped by ice and water. We may hike or paddle near the glacial lake and braided streams, or explore forested trails filled with moss, berries, and birdsong.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Kupreanof Island and Quiet Anchorages
We cruise along the eastern side of Kupreanof Island today, winding through remote channels and protected waters. This is a day for peaceful exploration: we launch kayaks into glassy coves, watch for harbor seals and porpoises, and walk quiet beaches. The crew may set crab pots or help identify animal tracks on shore.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: LeConte Glacier and Wrangell Narrows
In the morning we enter LeConte Bay, where North America’s southernmost tidewater glacier calves icebergs into the sea. We navigate among floating ice in the skiff and look for harbor seals and seabirds on the bergs. After lunch, we travel through the Wrangell Narrows, a narrow channel lined with navigation markers, before anchoring for our final evening.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Disembark in Petersburg
We arrive in Petersburg and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before disembarking. If time allows, you may want to explore this Norwegian-founded fishing town before heading to the airport.

• Meals: Breakfast

Day 1

At 8:30am, we board the Sea Wolf in Bartlett Cove and gather for an orientation session in the main salon. We then cruise toward Geike Inlet for our first paddle, following a short introduction to kayaking. Geike Inlet is a stunning fjord where we often spot black bears, wolverines, mountain goats, and a variety of seabirds and ducks.

After a leisurely paddle, we return to the ship and cruise toward our evening anchorage while learning about the natural history of Glacier Bay. We learn about current research projects in the national park and the wildlife we may encounter in the days ahead. After dinner aboard the Sea Wolf, we soak in an unforgettable sunset overlooking Glacier Bay.

• Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

Following an early breakfast, we hike to Reid Glacier to explore its glacially carved landscape. Our guide explains the geology and the plant and animal succession that follow retreating glaciers. As we explore grounded icebergs, we also search for elusive ice worms. On our return walk through the intertidal zone, we turn over rocks and observe what brown bears, wolverines, and small mammals feast on at low tide.

We enjoy lunch onboard as we cruise toward Tarr Inlet, where the Grand Pacific and Marjorie glaciers flow. We then launch kayaks for a scenic paddle beneath towering cliffs, watching for nesting kittiwakes and puffins. We paddle along the face of Marjorie Glacier, keeping an eye out for calving ice. In the afternoon, we cruise through Russell Cut, observing wildlife on our way to the evening anchorage.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

This morning, we visit Gloomy Knob to search for mountain goats and other wildlife. We take in the breathtaking views across the bay before returning to the ship. In the afternoon, we enjoy a relaxed paddle near our anchorage as we continue making our way toward the entrance of East Arm.  

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

As we enjoy breakfast, we cruise toward Muir Inlet in the East Arm of Glacier Bay. Depending on weather, park closures, and wildlife activity, we hike beside McBride Glacier or paddle from Muir Glacier to Riggs Glacier. Along the way, we keep watch for bears, wolves, moose, and shorebirds.

Back aboard the Sea Wolf, we continue toward our evening anchorage for dinner and an evening of stargazing.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

If tides allow, we begin the day with a morning paddle to North Sandy Cove, a rich ecosystem supporting black bears, moose, coyotes, and marine life. We paddle slowly along the shoreline, then continue to Puffin Island to explore its vertical intertidal zone during low tide. This area reveals sponges, sea stars, periwinkles, sea cucumbers, and urchins awaiting the tide's return.

After lunch, we cruise to South Marble Island to observe a large stellar sea lion haul-out and seabird nesting rookery. We continue on to Fingers Bay for the night.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

During breakfast, we cruise to Admiralty Island, home to Southeast Alaska’s largest concentration of brown bears. Throughout the morning, we watch for humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and migratory birds. In the afternoon, we explore surrounding bays, with highlights including brown bears fishing for salmon.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

As you’re enjoying breakfast, we’ll continue down the coast of Admiralty Island en route to the Brothers Islands. This archipelago is an important feeding ground for migratory humpback whales, as well as being frequented by Stellar sea lions. After lunch, we’ll spend time exploring the Brothers Islands by kayak and anchor nearby.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

This morning, we make our way to Ford’s Terror and kayak through its dramatic wilderness. After a beachside lunch, we hike to a mountain viewpoint for sweeping vistas across the region. In the late afternoon, we return to the ship and cruise to our evening anchorage.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

We start early and head into Endicott Arm. Breakfast is served as we navigate through iceberg-strewn waters. At Dawes Glacier, we pause to observe calving ice and seals with their pups resting on floating ice. After lunch, we paddle along the glacier’s face to experience this icy world up close. The Sea Wolf meets us farther down the fjord.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

We begin our final day with a paddle around Wood Spit, watching for nesting birds and enjoying the peace of the morning. We then head into the ancient rainforest for a final hike. Back onboard, we cruise up Stephens Passage, watching for orcas, humpback whales, and seabirds along the way.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 1: Embarkation in Petersburg and Departure to Frederick Sound
We board the Sea Wolf in Petersburg and begin our adventure cruising into Frederick Sound. This renowned whale-watching corridor offers excellent opportunities to spot humpback whales, sea lions, and abundant seabirds. We may also kayak or take a skiff ride along the shoreline, immersing ourselves in the coastal wilderness.

• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Frederick Sound to Admiralty Island
We spend the day exploring the protected waters around Admiralty Island, known for one of the densest populations of brown bears in Alaska. We may visit Pack Creek or explore nearby rainforest trails. Kayaking and skiff excursions offer a chance to spot coastal wildlife such as eagles, seals, and porpoises.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Admiralty Island and Surrounding Bays
Today we further explore Admiralty Island’s pristine bays. We enjoy guided hikes in the lush rainforest, kayak through quiet inlets, and keep an eye out for brown bears fishing for salmon. The diverse ecosystem and tranquil surroundings make for a deeply immersive experience.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Thomas Bay and Baird Glacier Area
We cruise into Thomas Bay, a remote wilderness area filled with legends and natural wonders. Here, we may hike or kayak near Baird Glacier’s outwash plains, experiencing the dynamic landscapes shaped by ice, water, and time. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting are highlights of the day.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Kupreanof Island Exploration
The day is dedicated to exploring the channels and coves of Kupreanof Island. We paddle glassy waters, walk secluded beaches, and search for marine life such as harbor seals and porpoises. This area’s quiet beauty offers opportunities for reflection and connection with nature.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: LeConte Glacier and Iceberg Viewing
We visit LeConte Bay to experience the stunning tidewater glacier. The Sea Wolf positions for safe viewing of the glacier’s ice calving events, and skiff rides take us close to floating icebergs and resting harbor seals. The unique arctic landscape offers memorable photo opportunities.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Wrangell Narrows to Frederick Sound
This morning, we navigate the scenic Wrangell Narrows, a narrow and sheltered passage lined with dense forest and navigation markers. We cruise back towards Frederick Sound, stopping for kayak excursions and wildlife viewing along the way. Our final night aboard is spent anchored in a peaceful cove.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Return to Petersburg and Disembarkation
We arrive back in Petersburg for a relaxed breakfast and disembarkation. This charming fishing town with its rich Norwegian heritage provides a perfect conclusion to our journey.

• Meals: Breakfast

Day 1
We depart from Sitka around noon and cruise through the outer coast of Baranof Island, a designated National Wilderness Area. Keep an eye out for sea otters, bald eagles, humpback whales, and brown bears along the shoreline. Tonight, we anchor near a protected cove, ready for an unforgettable evening on board.

• Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2
After breakfast, we paddle and explore the sheltered bays around the Shumagin Islands. These pristine islands offer great opportunities to spot sea lions, harbor seals, and diverse seabirds. Later, we cruise toward the historic village of Akhiok for a cultural visit and optional hike to nearby viewpoints.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3
This morning, we navigate into the scenic bays of the Kodiak Archipelago. Here, we kayak among sea otters and search for black bears along the shore. After lunch, we explore the local wilderness trails and learn about the island’s natural history and indigenous culture.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4
We cruise into the spectacular glaciers of the Kenai Fjords National Park area, including a paddle near the edge of a tidewater glacier. Watch for seals, mountain goats, and, of course, the majestic humpback whales feeding in the waters. Tonight, we anchor in a quiet fjord to enjoy the serene wilderness.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5
Following breakfast, we visit the quaint town of Hoonah, famous for its rich Tlingit heritage. We’ll have a chance to explore local art galleries, visit totem parks, or hike in the surrounding rainforest. In the afternoon, we paddle along the sheltered coastline, keeping a lookout for eagles and otters.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6
Today, we cruise through the scenic waters of Stephens Passage, heading toward Admiralty Island — home to one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in North America. We’ll paddle and hike while searching for these magnificent animals and other wildlife including wolves and bald eagles.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7
We continue our journey toward Juneau, exploring remote coves and islands. Kayak among sea lions and seals, and hike through old-growth forests filled with lush mosses and ferns. We enjoy a final evening aboard the Sea Wolf, reflecting on the week’s adventures under the stars.

• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8
Enjoy breakfast as we cruise into Juneau, planning to arrive by 11:00 AM, ready to disembark and explore Alaska’s capital city.

• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 1

After boarding the vessel at 9:00 am, we’ll conduct an orientation and safety briefing before launching the kayaks for our first excursion. This will take us down the Gastineau Channel and out into Stephens Passage, en route to our anchorage point at Wood Spit. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a second paddle to explore this spectacular glacial fjord.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

It’s an early morning start as we head into Endicott Arm, with breakfast served as we navigate the fjord’s icebergs. At the face of Dawes Glacier, we’ll stop to watch as it calves, with seals and their newborn pups often seen playing in the surrounding waters.

After a relaxing lunch, we’ll launch the kayaks to get an up-close view of Dawes Glacier as we paddle along its face. Continuing down the fjord, we’ll be met by the Sea Wolf.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

This morning we will make our way to Ford’s Terror and explore its magnificent wilderness by kayak. Lunch will be served on the beach before we embark on a hike to the top of the mountain for sweeping views across the region. It’s then time to paddle back to Wood Spit where the vessel will be anchored.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

In the morning, we’ll return to Stephens Passage and travel into Frederick Sound, continuing down the coast of Admiralty Island. Along the way, we may spot migratory humpback whales, which come to feed in the waters around the Brothers Islands. Joining them are often Stellar sea lions and eagles soaring in the skies above. After lunch, we’ll spend a few hours kayaking around the archipelago and exploring its coastal rainforest on foot.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 & 6

While you’re enjoying breakfast, the Sea Wolf will make its way to Admiralty Island, which is home to southeast Alaska’s largest concentration of brown bears. Over the next two days, we will explore its bays by kayak and on foot while spotting humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and migratory bird species. A highlight is undoubtedly seeing brown bears fishing for salmon.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

This morning, we will head to Thomas Bay, hopefully accompanied by sightings of humpback whales and a variety of other marine mammals. After anchoring near Scenery Cove, we will take the skiff over to Baird Glacier and hike across its moraine till to step foot on the glacier itself.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

In the early morning, we’ll make our way through the Wrangell Narrows, with this 22-mile-long channel providing safe passage for small vessels. After passing the picturesque community of Petersburg, we’ll navigate through 60 different markers and anchor at the end of the passage in the evening.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Today begins with a cruise through the serpentine Eastern Passage, which takes in ancient forests along its route. Our kayaking excursion for the day may be accompanied by eagles and whales, as well as black and brown bears fishing along the banks of Anan Creek. If possible, we will hike along the Anan Creek boardwalk to its observation area.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

After a morning kayak, we will embark on a hike on Etolin Island before making a beeline for our evening anchorage.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11

Breakfast will be served as we make our way to Ketchikan, hopefully with a spot of whale watching along the way. If all goes according to plan, we will dock in Ketchikan by late morning.

• Meals included: Breakfast

Day 1

Fly into Ketchikan Airport and jump aboard the water taxi that will whisk you from the airport to Ketchikan. From here, it’s just a short taxi ride to where the Sea Wolf is moored. After settling in, we will hold a brief orientation meeting as we head toward our evening anchorage.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Dinner

Day 2

It’s an early start today as we cruise towards the Eastern Passage and our first paddle out into the southeast Alaskan wilderness. Along the way, we may encounter a variety of marine mammals and migratory birds that inhabit the ancient forests along the shores.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

This morning will be spent exploring Etolin Island by kayak and on foot, with a scenic hike taking us to Kunk Lake. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for Roosevelt elk, as well as brown and black bears. Our anchorage this evening is just a stone’s throw from the entrance to Wrangell Narrows.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

In the early morning, we’ll make our way through the Wrangell Narrows, with this 22-mile-long channel providing safe passage for small vessels. After passing the picturesque community of Petersburg, we’ll navigate through 60 different markers. Depending on the tides, there may or may not be an opportunity to kayak/hike today. Our anchorage this evening is at aptly-named Scenery Cove.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5

Today begins with a leisurely paddle through Scenery Cove, followed by an afternoon hike along the plains of Baird Glacier. If you prefer not to hike, you can opt for a skiff tour to see the colony of Arctic terns at Thomas Bay. In the late afternoon, we will make our way to our evening anchorage at the Brothers Islands where orcas and humpback whales are regularly spotted.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

After breakfast, we’ll spend time exploring the Brothers Islands by kayak, hopefully accompanied by sightings of Stellar sea lions, whales, and a variety of birdlife. In the late afternoon, we’ll head to Gambier Bay, which is renowned for its resident brown bears.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

After crossing Stephens Passage, we will make our way to Ford’s Terror and anchor in a protected cove near its entrance. Spend the day exploring this magnificent wilderness area by kayak, with a picnic lunch served in the middle of the day. If you don’t want to paddle the whole day, there will also be the option for a skiff tour.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Begin the day with a short hike to see Ford’s Terror from above before continuing to Dawes Glacier where we hope to arrive by lunchtime. Dine while listening to the sound of icebergs calving off the glacier before launching the kayaks for an up-close view. Today ends anchored at Wood Spit, which offers magnificent views of Sumdum Glacier.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Begin the day with a paddle around Wood Spit while observing the nesting birds that frequent this area. As we cruise towards Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glacier, lunch will be served onboard. Spend time marveling at this natural wonder before we continue to our anchorage near the mouth of Endicott Arm.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Today will be spent cruising and spotting a variety of marine mammals, with these waters known for their whale sightings. Our destination for the night is an anchorage not far from Juneau.

• Accommodation: Sea Wolf Ship
• Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11

Enjoy your final breakfast onboard as we cruise into Juneau where taxis will be waiting to whisk you to the airport by around 10:00 am.

• Meals included: Breakfast