Wildlife Safari Cruise & Beach Bonfire
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port
Ketchikan, Alaska, US
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activityLevel
Easy Activity
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excursionType
3,14,All
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$220
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
Step aboard the m/v Sea Lion -- possibly the perfect wildlife-viewing vessel with its waterjet-powered mono-hull, heated inside seating areas, large, spacious windows, and an aisleway for viewing wildlife. A 360-degree observation deck outside offer excellent photography opportunities and an unobstructed view of the wilderness.
On this one-of-a-kind wildlife boat safari, your knowledgeable captain will use his understanding of tides, weather and seasonal changes to design an expedition uniquely suited to the day. Humpback and orca whales, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals and bears are a few of the species that thrive in this pristine environment. As animals are sighted, the captain will maneuver the vessel to provide optimal views, and your expert naturalist guide will explain their fascinating lifecycles and behaviors.
Take a leisurely break from cruising to step ashore on a remote island and gather around an Alaska-style beach bonfire. While your camp hosts tend to the fire, you will discover the bounty of life in the intertidal zone or rain forest, and learn about traditional native harvesting techniques. Indulge your adventurer's appetite with a snack that includes reindeer sausage hotdogs and beach edibles, plus Alaskan Amber Beer or your choice of wine, soda or juice. Finish your meal with an American classic -- roasting marshmallows for s'mores made with locally-crafted chocolate. Sit back and relax, surrounded by the stunning beauty and solitude of coastal Southeast Alaska, as a Tsimshian Native camp host shares his/her knowledge of traditional harvesting techniques and foods.
Back aboard the vessel, continue exploring the coastline and scanning the water for signs of wildlife. In the Tongass Narrows, your crew will point out historic waterfront sights, including the Tlingit Village of Saxman -- home to the world's largest collection of totems.
Please note: Minimum age is 5 years. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Participants must be able to (dis)embark the boat at the beach by way of a five-rung ladder. Wear sturdy walking shoes. It is essential that you wear warm, layered clothing in order to fully enjoy and participate in this excursion. Outer layer should be waterproof and windproof. Bring gloves, a warm hat and a scarf. Tour operates in all weather conditions. Wildlife sightings are likely but are not guaranteed. Binoculars and rain ponchos are provided. Participants must be in good general health and able to walk up to 1/4-mile over uneven terrain, beach sand and loose gravel, as well as gently inclined forest trails.