OVERVIEW

This unique Alaska excursion explores the historical highlights of this former "Russian" capital city and includes a wildlife tour through the Alaska Raptor Center, a guided walk-through Sitka National Historical Park, and a visit to Fortress of the Bear. The Raptor Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. After your introduction to the center, time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window and gift shop. Guests can also stroll the outside deck habitat areas for an up-close look at bald eagles, owls, hawks, and other birds of prey in residence. Next, you'll visit the Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska", was fought. The park hosts totem lined trails, cultural exhibits, and carving rooms where Native Alaskan artisans demonstrate their totemic art form. The final stop is visiting the Fortress of the Bear, which allows you to get within 25 feet of Alaska’s brown and black bears in a naturalized setting. You will enjoy observing 3 populations of bears from a covered viewing platform and interact with an experienced naturalist.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Get an up-close look at a variety of birds of a prey at the Alaska Raptor Center.
• Photograph Alaskan brown and black bears up close at a rescue facility.
• Delve into the history of Sitka at a park that recounts the watershed Battle of 1804.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Cruise the pristine waters off Sitka in search of marine life such as sea otters while listening to a naturalist elaborate on the most intriguing characteristics of the species. You may settle into a comfortable seat in the boat’s main cabin or remain topside on the observation deck. Either way, you will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sea. As you scan the waters for marine life, the naturalist will describe how humpback whales feed here in the summer and how animals such as sea otters now thrive. The animals were nearly extinct due to aggressive fur hunting in the early 1800s, and their comeback is a wonderful success story. Other creatures commonly spotted include sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals and a huge variety of seabirds. Puffins are particularly easy to identify because of their bright orange beaks.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scan the waters off Sitka for marine life such as whales and sea otters.
• Look along the shore for brown bears and skyward for bald eagles.
• Listen to the naturalist describe the animals’ unusual habits and habitats.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

OVERVIEW

Experience the ultimate treetop adventure and come away with a newfound confidence in your physical abilities, mental fortitude and sheer willpower to push yourself to new heights. These aerial ropes adventure involves traversing swinging ropes, balance bridges and daring climbs into the tree canopy while wearing a harness and using a smart belay system. An orientation and practice run on the ground will help prepare you for the fun and challenges that lie ahead. Afterwards, you will warm up on the easy Squirrel Course, move on to the moderate Fox Course and then pull yourself along a rope while hanging high above the forest floor on a Tyrolean Traverse. That’s the Bear Course. With your confidence now soaring, you will be ready for the high-flying Eagle Course, which ends in the treetops 50 feet above the ground. The descent will be just as exhilarating as you soar back to earth on an auto-descent device, called the “Eagle’s Flight”.

HIGHLIGHTS

• These aerial ropes adventure will have you swinging, scrambling, and climbing through multiple elements.
• Climb high into the tree canopy by negotiating a series of aerial ropes courses.
• Prepare for the ultimate challenge by warming up on easier aerial ropes courses.
• Enjoy literal bird’s-eye views of the forest from high above.
• Gain newfound confidence in your abilities to meet new challenges.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Alaska's diverse marine and wildlife are yours to discover during this intimate wildlife-viewing adventure aboard a deluxe expedition-style catamaran, and a visit to a remote island. Depart the pier aboard a beach landing vessel for a cruise along Sitka Sound's rugged coastline. Your captain will use understanding of tides, weather and seasonal changes to design an expedition uniquely suited to the day. The high speed and maneuverability of your vessel will allow you to explore areas unreachable by conventional boat and witness the very best of Sitka Sound's marine and coastal wildlife. During your ride, you may see whales, sea otters, brown bears and other diverse species that thrive in this pristine environment. As animals are sighted, the captain will skillfully maneuver the vessel to provide optimal viewing, and your naturalist guide will explain their fascinating life cycles and behavior. You can take in this encounter from the comfort of the window-lined cabin or indulge all your senses by experiencing it from the open deck. Next, you will step ashore on a remote island to explore colorful tide pools, trace the meandering tracks of wildlife, or settle on a giant beach log and take in the splendid beauty of your surroundings. While beachcombing, keep your eyes peeled for Japanese fishing floats and other exotic flotsam.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise serene Sitka Sound in an exclusive beach landing vessel, looking for marine life such as whales.
• Take in majestic scenery in every direction.
• Visit a remote island of the captain’s choosing to observe marine life in the tidal pools.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress warmly in layered, weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-skid soles.

OVERVIEW

Paddle a two-person kayak around the sheltered waters of Sitka Sound, an area teeming with wildlife. After an orientation and a few minutes to practice paddling, you will skirt along the stunningly beautiful coastline. The guide will lead the way and acquaint you with the marine environment. The backdrop of towering forest-blanketed mountains will be absolutely inspiring, If the weather is clear, you will see Mount Edgecumbe, a massive but dormant volcano that dominates Kruzof Island. While scanning the water’s surface, you may spot Stellar sea lions, harbor seals and porpoise. Humpback whales voraciously feed in the sound before migrating to Hawaii to breed and calve, and the sight of one breaching the water is a mesmerizing spectacle. Be sure to look skyward as bald eagles are commonly sighted.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Paddle a two-person kayak through the sheltered bays and inlets along Sitka Sound.
• Look for humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles.
&buEnjoy the inspiring scenery and, if the day is clear, the volcano Mount Edgecumbe.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Follow a nature trail through Sitka National Historical Park that showcases totem poles just like the ones that were exhibited at the 1904 World’s Fair. Created in 1910 to commemorate the Battle of 1804 between the Tlingits and the Russians, the forested park is Alaska’s oldest and is rich in history. During this self-guided walk, you will learn about the many ecosystems in the surrounding rainforest and the unusual tale of how Alaska’s first governor gathered the original totem poles to promote the state. The indigenous Tlingit people carved and painted the totems, which feature stylized human, animal and supernatural forms that are highly symbolic. Some of the totems honor important people or events, such as the Bicentennial Pole of 1976, which was carved under the direction of the park’s first Native American superintendent. When crossing the bridge over Indian Creek, At the conclusion of the walk you’ll have the option to either enjoy the short walk along the waterfront back into downtown on your own or reboard the motorcoach to be dropped off dropped at Centennial Hall and make your way back to the ship on your own via the free shuttle which also departs from Centennial Hall.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meander along an easy trail lined with totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park.
• Gain an understanding of the symbolism and history of the hand-carved totem poles.
• Learn about the park’s creation and the flora and fauna that thrive in the rainforest.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Delve into the gastronomy of Sitka, which reflects the rich heritage of this city once known as the “Paris of the Pacific" As the second largest exporter of seafood in the state with a rich history of diverse cultures, Sitka has become a mecca for the culinary arts. Sitka’s breweries use the local naturally filtered glacial water to produce their hand-crafted beers, several of which you will sample at a popular tap room. Similarly, during a tasting of Alaska Pure Sea Salt Company, you will discover how the salt extracted from the local waters is used in various foods, chocolates, sauces and seasonings. The versatility of sea salt may surprise you. The restaurant Sitka Pelmeni serves Russia food that pays homage to the city’s past as the capital of Russian America. Pelmeni means “dumplings” in Russia so they are a likely choice for your sampling there. The guide will bring you to other venues for tastings that may include cod tips, reindeer hot dogs, ceviche and chowder, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Sample a variety of delicious seasonal foods and beverages unique to Sitka.
• Meet restaurateurs and food vendors and learn how their unique products are made.
• Enjoy a selection of craft beers made with glacial water at a local brewery.
• Discover the versatility of sea salt as a seasoning in foods and beverages.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

The Russians first gained a foothold in Alaska in 1804 by overpowering the indigenous Tlingits. That battlefield is now part of the Sitka National Historical Park, where you will browse exhibits explaining the conflict. Here you can walk the forest trail lined with totems and view cultural exhibits This tour also presents the chance to see Alaskan wildlife up close at the Alaska Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility for birds of prey. This Bald Eagle Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. Time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window, outside deck habitat areas and gift shop.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover how Russia controlled Sitka until selling Alaska in 1867.
• Explore Sitka National Historical Park and walk along totem lined trails.
• Get an up-close look at a variety of bird of prey.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Create your own Alaska themed piece of spectacular metal art in a hands-on art class at the Salty Sitkan workshop. Choose from a salmon, halibut, humpback whale, Orca, Bald Eagle, Octopus and more! The fun will begin with the instructor demonstrating how to use the computer-controlled plasma cutter to precisely cut through metal – with sparks flying – so that the finished product looks just like the pre-programed wildlife design. Then, it will be your turn to get creative. Take advantage of a fully outfitted workshop as you will learn from your instructor how to use a die grinder to smooth and texture the raw steel, give 3D life to your creature with a tear drop mallet and then get out your torch and play with fire! Draw out deep hues of bronze, purple and blue and make your unique Alaskan souvenir sparkle! By the end of the class, you will have created a beautiful piece of metal art to hang on our wall as a conversation starter for all your Alaskan tales!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch a computer-controlled plasma cutter create a basic metal fish as a starting point.
• Learn to grind, shine and hammer the raw metal into a beautiful Alaskan themed piece of metal art.
• Paint by torch - color your art with fire!
• Take your finished fish sculpture home as a souvenir or have it shipped by The Salty Sitkan for an additional shipping charge.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Follow a winding trail through the gorgeous wilderness that surrounds Sitka with a local guide that will describe the flora, fauna and natural beauty in fascinating detail. The guide will select a trail that is ideally suited to your group so everyone can enjoy the experience. You can expect to hike six to 10 miles, mostly likely through the Tongass National Forest, a massive protected woodlands that covers most of southeast Alaska. After considering the weather conditions, the sights that would be most appealing to the group and all the possible trails, the guide will choose one that will best present the pristine wilderness. Many of the trails rim crystal-clear mountain lakes, others such as the Indian River Trail follow salmon streams, while still others offer views of Sitka Sound and the islands just off shore. Every trail has unique attributes that will make for a memorable, immensely scenic hike.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike along a scenic trail that the guide selects specifically for your group.
• Enjoy the serenity of the wilderness and one gorgeous view after another.
• Gain an understanding of the flora and fauna as the guide describes them.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Look for iconic Alaskan wildlife while cruising through dynamic Sitka Sound, then explore the deep-water fjord of Silver Bay and stop at a remote homestead to hear stories of the challenges that the early settlers faced. While cruising aboard a fully enclosed expedition vessel, you will pass through some of the most majestic breathtaking scenery imaginable. Be sure to keep an eye out for humpback whales, porpoises and sea otters in the pristine waters. Tucked along the shore of Bear Cove, you will see Medvejie Hatchery, which harvests countless salmon each year and releases millions of others as fry into the surrounding seas. Deeper into the fjord, you will stop at the McGraw homestead. While snacking on s’mores and hot beverages around a crackling campfire, you will hear gripping tales about some of the first visitors to the area. The return cruise will follow a different route that presents yet another perspective of this natural wonderland.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through Sitka Sound and Silver Bay fjord in a heated expedition vessel with large viewing windows.
• Look for wildlife such as humpback whales, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles.
• See a hatchery that harvests countless salmon and releases others into the sea.
• Gather around a campfire at a remote homestead and hear about life in the wilderness.
• Behold a wonderland of naturally beautiful scenery in every direction.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Help pedal a unique group bicycle from pub to pub and enjoy entertaining commentary at each venue, culminating with a craft beer tasting. It won’t take long to reach Ernie’s Old Time Saloon, a landmark that locals have frequented for years. While there, you will learn a bit about the history of Sitka, which was the capital of Russian America until 1867, when the United States purchased Alaska. The second pub will be the Pioneer Bar, a longtime watering hole for fishermen. Between fish stories – which may or may not be true – be sure to check out the photographs of historical fishing boats and shipwrecks that cover most every square inch of wall space. Afterwards, you will pedal off to the Bayview Pub, a local favorite known for its selection of locally brewed craft beers. You will be offered a sampling of some of the most popular ones.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Pedal through downtown in a unique group bicycle that you will help power while the guide steers.
• Stop along the way at three classic pubs that are local favorites.
• Enjoy a beer tasting and hear all sorts of entertaining stories at each pub.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.