per person based on double occupancy
Enjoy the agility and flexibility of small-ship travel during this expedition cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Alongside expert naturalists and knowledgeable on-board crew, navigate narrow channels and waterways inaccessible by larger vessels. While exploring some of nature’s more secluded landscapes, encounter Alaska's abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery and ice-blue glaciers of unfathomable proportions.
– Delve into the rich history and diverse cultures of Alaska, from the captivating exhibits of the Alaska State Museum in Juneau to engaging encounters in the charming town of Petersburg.
– Experience nature's grandeur as you witness glaciers calving, whales breaching and sea otters playing.
– Discover Glacier Bay National Park, an icy sanctuary of untouched landscapes and dynamic wildlife.
– Uncover Petersburg's fishing heritage amidst the lush scenery of historical Petersburg Creek Trail.
– Trace the footsteps of explorers through numerous guided hikes and skiff excursions.
Day 1: Arrive in Juneau, AK – Embarkation
Day 2: Icy Strait
Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park
Day 4: Tracy Arm Fjord
Day 5: Petersburg | Frederick Sound
Day 6: Eastern Baranof Island | Hidden Falls
Day 7: Lake Eva
Day 8: Sitka – Disembarkation | Depart Sitka
The following itinerary and daily activities (including skiff rides, kayaking and hiking) are subject to change based on weather, wildlife viewing, and navigation conditions.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
Day 1: Arrive in Juneau, AK – Embarkation
(D)
Arrive in Juneau from your home city or from Anchorage if you joined the optional Denali National Park pre-tour.
For those arriving by the suggested time, visit the Alaska State Museum to view artifacts and art objects that tell the tale of Alaska's history, including extensive ethnographic exhibits of the cultures of Alaska's native people.
Take a short bus ride to the port to board the Chichagof Dream. As embarkation begins unpack and become familiar with your stateroom and the ship's welcoming public spaces.
Gather for your first dinner on board taking the opportunity to become acquainted with your Expedition Leader, ship crew and fellow travel companions.
Day 2: Icy Strait
(B,L,D)
As the Chichagof Dream glides through Icy Strait enjoy prime viewing on deck while spotting for wildlife including orcas, Steller sea lions, seals, porpoises and magnificent humpback whales.
For those seeking additional activities perhaps join a skiff ride or hiking excursion on land. The crew will lead skiff rides and land excursions, offering deeper insight on the surrounding flora and fauna and the area's geography.
Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park
(B,L,D)
Today explore awe-inspiring Glacier Bay National Park where colossal glaciers meet rugged mountains and a temperate rainforest. Here scientists have found exposed rock that's believed to be more than 200 million years old. Discover the park's ecological richness and learn about the geological forces that shaped this icy wonderland.
Continuing to Bartlett Cove visit the park lodge and visitor center or participate in a guided forest walk. Watch for puffins, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, mountain goats, bears and eagles, and enjoy Alaska's spectacular scenery.
Back on board enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres and convivial conversation in the lounge before another specially crafted dinner featuring Alaskan cuisine.
Day 4: Tracy Arm Fjord
(B,L,D)
Tracy Arm Fjord unveils a dramatic spectacle of towering mountains and massive glaciers. Witness the incredible sight of glaciers calving as gigantic ice chunks break off and crash into the water.
Watch for harbor seals that often nap on nearby ice floes and mountain goats defying gravity perched on narrow mountain ledges.
This afternoon, conditions permitting, set off on a skiff ride to further explore the area's bays and coves.
This leisure time is also an opportunity to take advantage of the ship's open wheelhouse policy. Visit the captain and officers on the bridge, view the charted course, hear ship-to-ship communications and listen to stories from experienced Alaskan mariners.
Day 5: Petersburg | Frederick Sound
(B,L,D)
This morning step ashore in Petersburg, a charming village founded by a Norwegian fisherman in the late 1800s. At the Sons of Norway Hall watch customary Norwegian dances and taste traditional homemade pastries and cookies.
After lunch on board or in town take a skiff ride across Wrangell Narrows for a beautiful hike on the Petersburg Creek Trail leading you to historical points where you'll uncover the town's fishing heritage and its significance in shaping Alaskan culture.
Day 6: Eastern Baranof Island | Hidden Falls
(B,L,D)
After breakfast experience a rare tour of Hidden Falls Hatchery and learn about the release of Chinook, coho, and chum salmon fry and smolts, and the vital role fishing has played in Alaska for centuries.
Before dinner perhaps experience the Chichagof Dream's Himalayan salt cave, theorized by some to provide holistic properties via halotherapy. From the Greek “halos,” which means salt—this spa treatment uses dry aerosol micro-particles of salt or minerals inside of an arid space to simulate the microclimate of salt mines.
Day 7: Lake Eva
(B,L,D)
Spend the morning cruising to Lake Eva for a final day of outdoor activities, conditions permitting. Join a skiff tour or explore the shoreline during a hike.
During the final evening on board gather together for a special Captain's Farewell Dinner to celebrate your adventures touring this remarkable Alaskan wilderness.
Day 8: Sitka – Disembarkation | Depart Sitka
(B)
After breakfast disembark the Chichagof Dream. Guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home. If you reserved an additional night in Sitka, take a complimentary shuttle to your accommodations.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate* |
|---|---|
| Category A: | $6,199 |
| Category AA: | $7,099 |
| Category AAA: | $7,499 |
| Deluxe: | $9,999 |
| Deluxe Suite (Upper Deck): | $11,499 |
| Single (Cat. AA): | $11,499 |
| Single (Cat. AAA): | $11,899 |
*Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.
Journey into the scenic wilds of America's northernmost state, through Alaska's rugged forests and wildlife. Your destination: the magnificent six-million acre Denali National Park and Reserve. Uncover the many wonders of the park during guided trail hikes and walks. And choose from a variety of exciting optional excursions to further personalize your experience. A highlight of this adventure includes traveling the historic Alaska Railroad route with superior viewing from your train's upgraded glass-dome seat.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Day +1: Arrive in Fairbanks, Alaska
(D)
Welcome to Fairbanks—known as “The Golden Heart of Alaska,” a reference to the discovery of gold in 1902 and its location in Alaska’s interior. Meet your Orbridge Expedition Leader and fellow travel companions at a welcome dinner, and prepare for your upcoming Denali activities and excursions.
Day +2: Fairbanks | Alaska Railroad | Denali National Park
(B,D)
With your Orbridge Expedition Leader, board the train to Denali National Park traversing one of the most scenic stretches of the world-famous Alaska Railroad. It cuts through the northern boreal forests of interior Alaska where gold miners came to seek their fortune. Enjoy a rich panoply of views of America's northernmost frontier as you travel in the upgraded glass-dome train car.
Delight in breakfast aboard the train before arriving in Denali. Upon arriving at the park take a short walk with your Expedition Leader to the Denali National Park Visitor Center for a brief orientation. View the exhibits or sign up for ranger-led talks, hikes and other activities available during your stay in Denali. Afterward take the courtesy shuttle to the Grande Denali Lodge.
This evening enjoy a lively dinner where you'll explore fun and unique features of the park with a presenter from the Murie Science and Learning Center.
You may purchase the following optional excursions in advance from our Guest Services team.
DogGoneIt Dog Sled Tour:
$65 per person; $55 per youth 12 and under (not recommended for children under 3)
Visit the home and kennel of Iditarod musher, Mike Santos, for an authentic look into rural Alaskan life. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating a championship dog-sled team, and hear compelling stories from the trail—see actual racing sleds, arctic survival gear, and equipment used to traverse 1,100 miles of Alaska’s most rugged terrain. Meet Alaskan husky puppies before watching adult huskies explode from the kennel on a training run. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3 hours. Transportation is included.
Denali Glacier Landing Flight:
$685 per person; $635 per youth 9 and under
This exclusive 100-minute plane tour of Denali is the only tour where guests are granted permission to land and stand (for approximately 20-25 minutes) on one of Denali's glaciers. On board the aircraft, witness dramatic views of Denali's summit and the surrounding peaks and glaciers in the park, including the worlds deepest gorge at Ruth Glacier. Flight routes may change based on weather conditions. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Transportation is included.
Arctic Circle Flight:
$565 per person (not recommended for youth under 10)
Travel to the Arctic Circle on an extensive air-and-land adventure. From Denali, fly north across the Arctic Circle for a birds-eye view over the Alaskan wilderness, including the Brooks Mountain Range, Yukon River and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Land and visit an Arctic community with a population of less than 15. In the Brooks Mountain Range, take a walking tour with your guide, a descendant of the first homesteaders, and learn about subsistence living, survival ingenuity and the choice to live in the Arctic year-round. Re-board the plane for the return flight and, if the weather permits, take in aerial views of Denali. Upon returning, receive an official Arctic Circle Certificate. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 7 hours. Transportation is included. Age and weight restrictions apply.
Wilderness Wave Raft Tour:
$120 per person; $70 per youth 5-11 years old
Enjoy a rafting trip along the natural boundary of Denali National Park. Glide through 11 miles of glacially carved valleys and amazing vistas with panoramic views of Mount Fellows and the Nenana Canyon with your rafting guide. Although you’ll encounter the occasional rapid, this option is mellow enough for all ages. You can actively paddle or sit back and relax.
Canyon Wave Raft Tour:
$120 per person; $70 per youth 5-11 years old
Set off on a rafting excursion through 11 miles of amazing rapids on the Nenana River with spectacular views of Mount Healy and Sugarloaf Mountain. Paddle with the rafting team or sit back and enjoy the ride on the oar boat.
Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure:
$130 per single-rider ATV; $225 per 2-person side-by-side ATV
Whether a novice or experienced ATVer, this excursion is a memorable experience in the Alaskan wilderness on your own automatic single ATV or 2-passenger side-by-side ATV. Led by knowledgeable guides, ride along trails around Denali National Park, at speeds up to 30 mph, including photography stops with breathtaking 360° views of the Alaska Range. This excursion covers approximately 10 miles during 1.5 hours on the trails.
Midnight Sun ATV Adventure:
$130 per single-rider ATV; $225 per 2-person side-by-side ATV
Make the best part of your day the start of your night. Novice and experienced riders, night owls and daylight adventurers can appreciate this exclusive Wilderness Adventure guided tour departing at 9:00 pm during the weeks surrounding the Summer Solstice. The Midnight Sun illuminates forest trails and prolonged sunsets bathe the mountains in a rosy glow. Choose from an automatic single ATV or multi-passenger side-by-side ATV. This excursion covers approximately 10 miles during 1.5 hours on the trails. NOTE: This tour is offered during certain departure dates due to seasonality and varying hours of daylight. Call for more information.
Optional excursions are non-refundable within 90 days of departure; prices subject to change. Not all excursions may be available. Availability is subject to sufficient participation and weather conditions. Space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability. For flight excursions, weight and minimum age requirements apply. Individual dressed weight and birthdate must be provided at time of booking.
Day +3: Denali National Park Wilderness Excursion
(B,L,D)
Today travel along the Denali National Park Road on a naturalist-guided, back-country adventure for incredible scenery and some of the best opportunities to view the majestic Mount Denali. This tour includes walks in Denali's wilderness to learn more about its landscapes, wildlife and history. Enjoy a box lunch in this special setting. Be sure to have your binoculars ready to spot for the many species of plants and wildlife.
The evening is at leisure. Choose either tonight or tomorrow evening to redeem your Alpenglow Restaurant dinner voucher at the lodge. The restaurant features breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gourmet menu selections.
Day +4: Denali National Park
(B,R)
After breakfast participate in one of the pre-purchased optional excursions or enjoy free time to explore Denali. Take advantage of the many self-guided hiking trails or informative ranger-led talks and activities offered in the park while marveling at the scenery.
Later reconvene for wine and hors d'oeuvres as you listen to Alaskan homesteader, Jimmie Hendricks, as he relives his journey and lifelong dream to explore Alaska and make it his home. Be amazed by his years of training, hard work, determination and eventual summiting of North America’s tallest peak.
Day +5: Denali National Park | Talkeetna | Anchorage
(B)
After an early breakfast continue the journey to Anchorage by motor coach following the nearby Alaska Railroad route.
Arriving in Talkeetna embrace the panoramic views of Denali, North America's tallest peak (weather permitting). Enjoy free time to explore the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum and the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station to learn about mountaineering operations, the scenic Talkeetna river trail and various shops and cafés in town.
In Anchorage visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center—a vibrant cultural and educational institution dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of Alaska's Indigenous peoples. The center offers an immersive experience into the diverse cultures, traditions and histories of Alaska's 11 major Native groups through its comprehensive exhibits and interactive displays.
This evening enjoy leisure time to explore downtown Anchorage's many fine eateries and shops.
Day +6: Depart Anchorage
Take the complimentary transfer to Anchorage International Airport for the group flight to join guests on the main program.
Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
| Category | Rate** |
|---|---|
| Double: | $4,049 |
| Single: | $5,349 |
—rate includes $350/person internal airfare—
Pre-tour rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare from Anchorage to Main Program is included. Airfare otherwise not included.
We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.
Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgecavalry for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.
Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.
On this program, you will have the benefit of an expert Expedition Leader with extensive local knowledge and experience as a cultural, historic, and naturalist interpreter. With their contribution of exceptional know-how and enthusiasm adding depth to your experience, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.
Orbridge looks forward to welcoming you on tour. Find frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for your travels.
NOTE: For guests confirmed on this tour, important Program Documents will be sent to the email address provided during the reservation process approximately four to five months prior to your departure date. Final Documents will be emailed and shipped via FedEx approximately two weeks prior to your departure date.
If you have questions about those documents or have questions not addressed below, contact Orbridge Guest Services at (206) 855-6929 or via email at guestservices@orbridge.com.
This program offers a variety of activities: skiff rides, walking, hiking, and kayaking. Activities are not strenuous for guests with average mobility. Walks and hikes are leisurely in pace to allow guests the opportunity to see and learn as much as possible about the region. We expect that guests on this program can walk with good balance and go up and down stairs easily without assistance. The nature treks will be on irregular and elevated terrain, such as moist or muddy forest trails with tree roots, wooden boardwalks with stairs, and rocky beaches. Skiffs provide the mode for much of the exploration on this program and sure-footed guests can enter/exit them with little trouble. The Chichagof Dream crew is diligent in assisting guests while boarding and exiting the ship and small craft. Guests with no previous experience can easily handle the double kayaks. We expect that guests on this program can walk with good balance and go up and down stairs easily without assistance, as the Chichagof Dream does not have an elevator.
Arrival and departure information is provided in the Air & Transfer section of the Confirmation Documents emailed to reserved guests approximately five to seven days after booking a tour. Guests who arrive and depart during the suggested times are eligible to receive complimentary airport transfers. If you need an additional copy of your Confirmation Documents or have questions, email guestservices@orbridge.com for assistance.
A visa is not required for this tour for U.S. citizens.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, traveling to the U.S. requires a passport and a visa unless you are coming from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country. Ensure that your passport has sufficient space for entry and exit stamps and is valid for six months after the date of your return from this program. To check your visa status, visit www.travel.state.gov.
The U.S. Dollar is the currency used throughout this tour. The Chichagof Dream does not have an ATM on board but does accept credit cards. ATMs are accessible in the cities and towns that you will visit. We recommend you carry cash for meals and other items not included in the itinerary, such as beverages, incidentals, and personal shopping expenses, as well as for merchants who may not accept debit or credit cards. Although major credit cards are typically widely recognized, businesses may require a minimum purchase. Even when traveling domestically, inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans prior to departure.
Summer temperatures in Southeast Alaska range from lows of 47-52°F to highs of 54-70°F. When on the ship, in kayaks or skiffs in ice-laden water or near tidewater glaciers, the temperatures are considerably cooler. Wind-chill factors can reduce temperatures to the low 40s°F. Southeast Alaska is a temperate rainforest ecosystem and misty rain is common. The average humidity ranges from 75-90%, and the days tend to be mostly cloudy with some sunbursts.
Check the forecast for the dates of your stay on www.weather.com to help you prepare.
The ship and all cabins are equipped with standard North American 120-volt electrical outlets. Each cabin also features an outlet with USB ports to charge personal devices (i.e. cell phones, tablets).
Personal care appliances (i.e. curling irons, electric razors) with a maximum power of 750 watts are permitted on board. Appliances with more than 750 watts of power can cause electrical outages are not permitted on board. Hairdryers are available in each cabin for your convenience.
In Alaska's isolated terrain, cell phone service is sporadic. Pay phones are typically available at ports of call, and cell phones only work near the more populated ports. The ship is equipped with satellite phones and radios that are only available for emergencies. Wi-Fi is not available onboard.
While viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, we strive to minimize our impact on the animals and the environment. Your Expedition Leader will ask you to follow these guidelines:
Storage space within the ship’s cabins is limited. For your comfort, restrict luggage to one medium bag per person. Each stateroom offers a closet, and each guest bed sits approximately 15 inches above the ground, providing storage underneath.
The Chichagof Dream does not provide individual cabin safes. If you choose to bring valuable items, you are responsible for all safekeeping and proper care. NOTE: The ship is "keyless," and cabin doors can only be locked from the inside.
Check with your airline(s) for regulations on luggage sizes and fees for checked luggage. Check the TSA website for airport security screening protocols, including a list of prohibited items, instructions for traveling with liquids, and identification requirements.
Make sure to attach the supplied red Orbridge luggage tags (found in your welcome box sent three weeks prior to departure) to your luggage and carry-on bag so that transfer and cruise staff can easily identify them.
We recommend traveling light. Warm, comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate for this tour. Summer weather in Alaska differs considerably, depending upon locations and weather patterns, so prepare for varying temperatures. Jeans and fleece outwear are the norm, including at the farewell dinner. Rain gear, including boots, will be provided on board according to the sizes you provide on the Rain Gear Form in your Confirmation Documents.
Dress in layers to help transition between the chilly outdoors and warmer, heated spaces or overcast skies and sun breaks. Pack like you would for winter: a windproof jacket; nylon, fleece or insulated pants; fleece sweatshirt and/or wool sweater; turtleneck; wool socks; long underwear; warm gloves or mittens; and a warm hat or beanie.
Bring lightweight hiking boots (preferably waterproof) for shore hikes and comfortable sneakers or closed-toe walking shoes for on board the ship. Bring boots/shoes that are already comfortable and broken in. Special footwear is not required for the ship, however high heels or hard-soled shoes are not permitted, as these will damage the deck and make for unsteady footing.
For those choosing to join longer hikes, bring collapsible trekking poles to help maintain balance in more challenging terrains, such as river crossings, tree-root-strewn trails, and wet-and-slippery wood bridges or boardwalks.
Consider bringing a daypack for cameras and binoculars, which are helpful for observing wildlife. The Chichagof Dream supplies quality binoculars available in each cabin for your use while on the cruise, but you are welcome to bring your own. The ship provides soap, body wash, and shampoo but you may want to pack your own preferred brand of lotion and conditioner. Bring sunglasses and prescription eyewear (if applicable).
A packing list will be included with your Final Documents. Use this form to personalize for your own needs.
Click here to view comprehensive wellness protocols for this tour.
The online Guest Information (GIF) does not allow you return and make updates once originally submitted. To update existing information, email the details to guestservices@orbridge.com, and your account will be updated accordingly.
To complete the GIF for the first time, access the secure online form here. It should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The system will not save partially completed forms, so it's important to complete and submit the form in one sitting.
Access the secure passport form here to input information and upload an electronic copy.
Some domestic tours require us to collect a copy of the photo ID you plan to use while traveling in order to confirm on-tour arrangements. If you have been requested to provide a copy, upload a copy of your ID here.
To pay by check, make the check payable to Orbridge LLC and mail it to:
Orbridge
P.O. Box 1376
Poulsbo, WA 98370
To pay by credit card, click here to access our secure online credit card portal. Be sure to click “submit information” at the bottom of page one in order to be directed to the payment screen.
To pay by electronic funds transfer (EFT), click here to access our secure payment portal where you will be able to conveniently and securely provide your account and routing number.
Payments made by check or EFT may be eligible for a discount. Reference your final payment reminder or email guestservices@orbridge.com to learn more.
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