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Main Program: August 01, 2025 – August 08, 2025
Pre-Tour: July 27, 2025 – August 01, 2025

Discover Southeast Alaska (Juneau to Sitka)

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.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 11/12/2024.

Program Highlights

– 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.

What's Included

  • 7 nights aboard the Chichagof Dream
  • All onboard hand-crafted meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners—including a special Captain’s Farewell Dinner, and complimentary wine and beer at dinner
  • An onboard lecture program and educational guidance of two naturalists plus an Orbridge Expedition Leader
  • Guided kayaking, hiking, walking, skiff excursions and wildlife viewing where humpback whales, orcas, brown bears, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, arctic terns, bald eagles and other populations are frequently spotted
  • All port fees and entry fees to parks, preserves, museums, attractions and special excursions as described in the itinerary
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Expedition Leader, airport transfer drivers and drivers/guides on included land excursions
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

The following itinerary and daily activities (including skiff rides, kayaking and hiking) are subject to change based on weather, wildlife viewing, and navigation conditions.

Day 1: Arrive in Juneau, AK – Embarkation
Friday, August 1, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (D)

Day 2: Icy Strait
Saturday, August 2, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 3: Glacier Bay National Park
Sunday, August 3, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 4: Tracy Arm Fjord
Monday, August 4, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 5: Petersburg | Frederick Sound
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 6: Eastern Baranof Island | Hidden Falls
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 7: Lake Eva
Thursday, August 7, 2025
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.
Overnight: Chichagof Dream (B,L,D)

Day 8: Sitka – Disembarkation | Depart Sitka
Friday, August 8, 2025
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. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Skiffs are the mode of transportation for much of the exploration on this tour. Guests are expected to be sure-footed and able to board and disembark small craft with little trouble. The Chichagof Dream crew is diligent in assisting guests while boarding and exiting the ship and small craft.

• Excursions include skiff rides, walking, hiking and kayaking.

• Guests with no previous experience can easily handle double kayaks.

• Guests must go up and down stairs easily without assistance—the Chichagof Dream does not have an elevator.

Your Guide(s)

Orbridge Expedition Leader

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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. 

Accommodations

Chichagof Dream

August 1 - August 7

Accommodating 76 guests, the 207-foot Chichagof Dream was designed to go where large ships cannot—navigating guests to the best views possible of the surrounding nature-filled landscape. Experience Alaska up close as you watch for wildlife from skiffs or kayaks and learn about the indigenous peoples of the region. On board the ship are your knowledgeable crew, Orbridge Expedition Leader, and expert naturalists who share their hospitality, uncanny knack for spotting wildlife and fascinating secrets behind the bountiful beauty that surrounds you.

The ship's well-appointed, intimate and unassuming style allows travelers to experience the true heart and soul of Alaska. The Chichagof Dream features expansive viewing areas on the bow and aft outdoor promenade decks, a hull design optimized for supreme comfort in Alaskan waters and forward-facing windows in the spacious lounge that extend from the deck to the ceiling, offering panoramic views off the bow.

Enjoy a relaxed cruising speed ideal for viewing the endless surrounding fjords, glaciers and wildlife. The ship offers complimentary expedition gear while touring including rain jackets, rain pants and boots. Plus each stateroom is outfitted with binoculars. Nothing will be missed as you leisurely traverse the channels, bays and islands of Southeast Alaska.

Note: Bed size preferences are requested when passengers complete the guest information form. If no specific requests are made, double occupancy cabins will be configured with two twin beds. This applies to AAA and Deluxe categories. 

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Denali National Park


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.

Itinerary

Day +1: Arrive in Fairbanks, Alaska
Sunday, July 27, 2025
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.
Overnight: Pike's Waterfront Lodge (D)

Day +2: Fairbanks | Alaska Railroad | Denali National Park
Monday, July 28, 2025
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.
Overnight: Grande Denali Lodge (B,D)

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
Tuesday, July 29, 2025
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.
Overnight: Grande Denali Lodge (B,L,D)

Day +4: Denali National Park
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
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.
Overnight: Grande Denali Lodge (B,R)

Day +5: Denali National Park | Talkeetna | Anchorage
Thursday, July 31, 2025
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.
Overnight: Hotel Captain Cook (B)

Day +6: Depart Anchorage
Friday, August 1, 2025
Take the complimentary transfer to Anchorage International Airport for the group flight to join guests on the main program.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

Accommodations

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge

July 27

Situated on the Chena River, Pike's Waterfront Lodge offers unbeatable views and warm, comfortable accommodations. Enjoy hotel amenities including an aromatherapy steam room, fitness room, restaurant, cozy lounge, ATM, 24-hour guest laundry and gift shop.

Room Amenities: Chena River view room, air conditioning, flat-screen cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, microwave, mini-fridge, coffee and tea maker, safe, and en suite bathroom with hair dryer and Aveda® shampoo, conditioner, lotion and soap.

Grande Denali Lodge

July 28 - July 30

Located just north of the Denali National Park main entrance on the slopes of Sugarloaf Mountain, this property offers unparalleled views of the surrounding Denali wilderness and the Nenana River Canyon. Spacious guest rooms, on-site dining and dedicated staff make the Grande Denali Lodge the perfect place to launch all your adventures. Amenities include a restaurant, a bar, lounge, convenient shuttle services, self-service laundromat, complimentary Wi-Fi and an espresso/snacks stand.

Room Amenities: View room, air conditioning, cable TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, mini-fridge and en suite bathroom with shampoo, conditioner, lotion and hair dryer.

Hotel Captain Cook

July 31

Built by former Secretary of the Interior and two-term Alaska Governor Walter J. Hickel to help Anchorage's economy recover from the devastating 1964 earthquake, this renowned hotel boasts Alaskan history from its reclaimed teak interior features to artifacts and art illustrations from Captain Cook's 18th-century voyage. Expect exceptional Alaskan hospitality and service at its four restaurants, on-site shops, athletic club and spa.

Room Amenities: Deluxe room, air conditioning, satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, coffee and tea maker, bathrobes and slippers, safe, and en suite bathroom with shampoo, conditioner and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 1 night at Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, 3 nights at Grande Denali Lodge and 1 night at Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage
  • 4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners (including a dinner voucher for Grande Denali Lodge’s Alpenglow Restaurant) and 1 reception
  • Rail transport to Denali National Park along the distinguished Alaska Railroad with reserved seating in the upper-level glass-dome car and priority seating in the dining room for breakfast and two complimentary alcoholic beverages (and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages) 
  • Hotel courtesy shuttle between the rail depot, Grande Denali Lodge, the Denali Park Visitor Center and town
  • A full-day guided wilderness tour into Denali National Park
  • Deluxe motor coach transport to Talkeetna and Anchorage 
  • Services of an Orbridge Expedition Leader
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Expedition Leader, local guides, drivers, porters, housekeeping and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times 

Terms and Conditions