18 Day Alaska Inside Passage | Southbound

Your Inside Passage Expedition begins with an overnight stay in Seattle, a city known for its stunning waterfront, vibrant culture, and breathtaking mountain views.

If you arrive early, take some time to explore this Emerald City. Visit the Seattle Aquarium, where you can see playful sea otters and a giant Pacific octopus up close. For a scenic walk, head to the Olympic Sculpture Park, a nine-acre outdoor gallery featuring impressive works of art with a backdrop of Puget Sound and the distant Cascade Mountains.

No trip to Seattle is complete without experiencing the iconic Pike Place Market. Operating for over a century, this bustling marketplace is filled with street performers, fresh produce, and seafood vendors known for their famous salmon-throwing tradition. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore local artisan shops, bars, and cafes.

If you’d like to see more of Washington State’s natural beauty before your cruise, consider booking a Pre-Programme to discover the region’s stunning landscapes, forests, and coastlines. Whether you choose to explore the city or venture further afield, Seattle is the perfect starting point for your adventure.

MEALS: Nil

OVERNIGHT: 4 Star Hotel, Seattle

Today, your adventure truly begins as you fly from Seattle to Nome, where your expedition cruise sets sail.

Located on the Seward Peninsula, overlooking the Bering Sea, Nome is one of Alaska’s most famous Gold Rush towns. The town’s rich history is still visible today, with remnants of the past scattered across the landscape. You’ll see abandoned dredges, old steam engines, and railroad tracks—all reminders of the gold-seekers who once flocked here in search of fortune.

Nome is also a place of polar exploration history. It was the final destination for three of Roald Amundsen’s great expeditions, including his 1926 attempt to reach the North Pole by air. With such a deep connection to adventure and exploration, Nome is the perfect starting point for your own Inside Passage Expedition.

As you board your expedition ship and set sail, take in the stunning Arctic scenery and prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, you’ll spend your first full day at sea as we cross the Bering Sea, heading towards the remote Alaskan wilderness. This is the perfect time to relax, explore the ship, and take in the breathtaking ocean views.

Get to know your fellow travellers while enjoying the fresh sea air out on deck, or simply watch the world drift by as we navigate these historic waters. This is also a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with your expedition ship’s facilities, ensuring you’re ready for the adventure ahead.

Throughout the day, the Expedition Team will host informative talks and discussions, giving you insight into the journey ahead. You can also visit the onboard Science Centre to learn more about the region’s unique ecosystems, wildlife, and history. If you enjoy reading, take some time to explore the ship’s library, filled with books on Arctic exploration, marine life, and Alaskan culture.

As we sail through these rich waters, keep your eyes on the horizon for humpback whales, seabirds, and other marine life that call this region home. This is just the beginning of your Inside Passage Expedition, with many more adventures to come.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we visit St Matthew Island, one of the most remote and isolated islands in Alaska. Located 200 miles from the nearest village, this uninhabited land is part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and is a true wilderness.

As we arrive, you’ll see black sand beaches, rolling tundra, and the remnants of abandoned buildings, reminders of past attempts to settle here. Despite its harsh conditions, this windswept island has a unique beauty, with wildflowers dotting the landscape and dramatic coastlines stretching into the distance.

Unlike many other places, St Matthew Island has no permanent human residents. Instead, it is a sanctuary for thousands of seabirds, including puffins, murres, and cormorants. If conditions allow, we will make a nature landing to explore the island on foot. Keep an eye out for the rare McKay’s Bunting, a bird that breeds almost exclusively here.

Listen carefully, and you might hear the call of the singing vole, a small rodent known for its unique warning cry. With its untouched landscapes and thriving birdlife, St Matthew Island offers a glimpse into the raw, untamed beauty of Alaska.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we arrive at St Paul Island, the largest of the Pribilof Islands, known for its rich Indigenous culture and incredible wildlife. This windswept island is home to the largest Unangan (Aleut) community in the United States, with around 480 residents.

As you explore, you’ll see the historical remains of barabaras, traditional semi-underground dwellings built to protect against the harsh sea winds. These structures offer a glimpse into how the Unangan people adapted to life in this remote environment.

St Paul is also a paradise for birdwatchers. The island is a designated Important Bird Area, attracting around 300 species of migratory birds. Look out for Horned and Tufted Puffins, the Pribilof Sandpiper, and the rare Red-legged Kittiwake, a species found in only a few places in the world.

Along the shoreline, you may spot northern fur seals, one of the island’s most famous residents. Half of the world’s population of these playful marine mammals live here, often seen waddling along the beaches or splashing in the waves.

With its fascinating history, thriving culture, and abundant wildlife, St Paul Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today is a chance to relax and reflect as we continue our journey south through the Bering Sea, sailing from the Aleutian Islands towards Dutch Harbor.

While at sea, the Expedition Team will continue their lecture series, offering fascinating insights into the wildlife, history, and unique landscapes of the region. These expert talks will help you prepare for the exciting destinations ahead.

As we cruise along the coast, keep your eyes on the horizon for seabirds. Look out for puffins, auklets, and murrelets, which are often seen gliding above the waves. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the rare Red-legged Kittiwake, a species that is found only in this part of the world.

If you prefer to take it easy, there are plenty of ways to unwind on board. Enjoy the panoramic views from the Explorer Lounge & Bar, soak in the infinity pool, or relax in the outdoor hot tubs as you take in the vast beauty of the open ocean.

Whether you choose to learn, explore, or simply relax, today offers the perfect balance of adventure and comfort as we continue our Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we arrive at Dutch Harbor, the largest fishing port in the United States and a place rich in history, culture, and wildlife. As we sail towards the harbor, keep an eye out for Mount Makushin, a towering 6,000-foot volcano that occasionally releases steam into the sky.

Dutch Harbor is home to the Unungan (Aleut) people, who have lived in this region for thousands of years. At the Museum of the Aleutians, you can learn about their traditions and how they adapted to life in this remote environment. History lovers will also appreciate a visit to the World War II museum, which tells the story of the 1942 battle fought here during the Aleutian Campaign. You can also explore the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a reminder of Alaska’s early Russian settlers.

Wildlife is abundant in and around Dutch Harbor. Scan the skies for Bald Eagles and puffins, while on land, you may spot foxes, lemmings, and even wild horses. The surrounding waters are home to whales, sea lions, and playful porpoises, so keep your binoculars ready.

Dutch Harbor is also famous as the setting for The Deadliest Catch, a reality TV series that follows crab fishermen battling extreme conditions in these challenging waters. This rugged and historic port is a highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we visit Unga Village, a beautiful yet abandoned settlement on the southern end of Unga Island. Once home to a thriving Unangax̂ (Aleut) community, this village was settled in 1833 but was later abandoned in 1969 when subsistence fishing was no longer enough to support its residents.

Now, only a handful of weathered wooden buildings remain, standing as silent reminders of the people who once lived here. Over time, nature has reclaimed the land, with pink lousewort, fireweed, and other wildflowers covering the landscape, creating an almost surreal beauty.

If conditions allow, we will make a nature landing using our small expedition boats, giving you the chance to walk among the ruins and absorb the peaceful atmosphere of this forgotten place. With its mix of history, isolation, and natural beauty, Unga Village is one of Alaska’s most hauntingly scenic destinations.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we journey along the Alaska Peninsula, a vast and untamed wilderness known for its rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and secluded bays. This remote region remains largely untouched, offering a rare glimpse into Alaska’s raw natural beauty.

With the Expedition Team, we will explore hidden bays and inlets along the shoreline, using our small expedition boats to get closer to the landscape. These remote areas are a haven for wildlife, so keep watch for brown bears foraging along the shores and Bald Eagles soaring overhead.

The waters here are equally rich in marine life. You may spot sea otters floating in the kelp beds, humpback whales surfacing in the distance, or even seals and porpoises gliding through the waves.

Throughout the day, you’ll also learn about the geological evolution of the Alaska Peninsula, gaining insight into how volcanic activity, glaciers, and natural forces have shaped this dramatic landscape over millions of years.

This day is all about immersion in nature, with the chance to experience Alaska’s wild beauty up close in one of its most remote and spectacular regions.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we explore Katmai National Park, a four-million-acre wilderness known for its stunning landscapes, volcanic activity, and abundant wildlife. This remote park is home to over a dozen active volcanoes, making it one of the most geologically fascinating places in Alaska.

Katmai is also famous for having the largest concentration of brown bears in the world, with more than 2,000 protected bears roaming its vast terrain. Accompanied by an experienced bear guard, we will safely observe these incredible animals from the ship’s deck or in our small expedition boats.

Watch as the bears forage for berries, dig for clams along the shoreline, or fish for salmon in the rushing streams. Their size and power are awe-inspiring, yet seeing them in their natural habitat is an experience of pure wilderness.

Depending on the weather and wildlife conditions, we may explore Geographic Harbor, Kinak Bay, or Kukak Bay—each offering stunning scenery and excellent bear-spotting opportunities.

With its towering mountains, lush valleys, and thriving wildlife, Katmai National Park is a true highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition and a day you’ll never forget.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we explore Kodiak Island, also known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ due to its lush spruce forests and rolling grasslands. As the second-largest island in the United States, Kodiak is home to stunning landscapes, rich Indigenous culture, and abundant wildlife.

This island is best known for its Kodiak brown bears, some of the largest bears in the world. Around 3,500 of these magnificent creatures roam the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, which covers nearly two-thirds of the island.

From the safety of our small expedition boats, we’ll have the opportunity to observe these powerful animals in their natural habitat. Watching a Kodiak bear as it forages along the shoreline, fishes for salmon, or moves through the dense wilderness is an unforgettable experience.

Beyond its wildlife, Kodiak has a deep connection to the Alutiiq people, who have lived here for over 7,500 years. The island’s cultural history is woven into its landscapes, with traditions passed down through generations.

With its wild beauty, rich history, and remarkable wildlife, Kodiak Island offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s untamed wilderness and is a true highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we sail across the vast Gulf of Alaska, offering a day of relaxation, learning, and wildlife spotting.

This is the perfect time to enjoy the ship’s onboard facilities. Take a dip in the infinity pool, unwind in the hot tubs, or relax in the sauna as you take in the breathtaking ocean views. If you’re feeling active, you can go for a run, visit the gym, or enjoy a massage at the spa.

For those eager to learn more about the region, the Expedition Team will host engaging lectures in the Science Centre. These talks cover Alaska’s wildlife, geology, glaciology, history, and culture, giving you a deeper understanding of the places we’ve explored.

If you prefer a quieter moment, find a comfortable spot in the Explorer Lounge & Bar to enjoy a drink and chat with fellow travellers. As we cruise, keep your eyes on the sky—this region is home to three species of North Pacific albatross. The Laysan and Black-footed Albatross are commonly seen, but spotting the rarer Short-tailed Albatross is a special highlight.

Whether you choose to relax, learn, or watch for wildlife, today offers a perfect balance of adventure and comfort on your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we venture into Icy Bay, a spectacular region where towering glaciers meet the sea. This area is home to three active glaciers—Guyot, Yahtse, and Tyndall—which regularly calve huge chunks of ice into the bay, creating a breathtaking landscape of floating icebergs and deep blue waters.

If conditions allow, we will explore this frozen world up close using our small expedition boats or kayaks. This is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the icy wilderness, feeling the crisp Arctic air and listening to the thunderous sound of ice breaking off the glaciers.

The Gulf of Alaska is rich in wildlife, and Icy Bay is no exception. Keep your camera ready, as this area offers unparalleled photography opportunities. You may spot humpback whales and orcas surfacing in the distance, while Steller sea lions, sea otters, and harbour seals lounge on floating ice.

With its majestic glaciers, crystal-clear waters, and thriving wildlife, Icy Bay is a true highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we arrive in Sitka, a town with a rich cultural history and breathtaking natural surroundings. Located on Baranof Island and surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, Sitka is accessible only by sea or air. As we approach, step out on deck for spectacular views of the Sisters Mountains and Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano that rises dramatically above the landscape.

Sitka has been home to the Łingít people for over 10,000 years. In the early 19th century, Russian explorers arrived and established a settlement, which later became the capital of Russian America. In 1867, following Russia’s defeat in the Crimean War, Sitka was sold to the United States, marking a major turning point in Alaska’s history. Today, the town reflects a unique blend of Indigenous, Russian, and American influences.

To experience Sitka’s diverse heritage, visit the Russian Orthodox Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House, both reminders of the town’s Russian past. At Sitka National Historical Park, you can admire Haida and Łingít totem poles and take a scenic walking trail through the lush coastal forest.

With its stunning landscapes and deep cultural roots, Sitka is a highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition, offering a fascinating mix of history, nature, and tradition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we arrive in Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest harbour towns, rich in history and cultural heritage. As we continue our Inside Passage Expedition, this small but fascinating community offers a glimpse into Alaska’s past, shaped by Indigenous, British, and Russian influences.

Just a mile from town, you’ll find Petroglyph Beach, where ancient rock carvings are scattered along the sand. These mysterious symbols, etched into the stone by Indigenous peoples thousands of years ago, provide a rare insight into Alaska’s early history.

To learn more, visit Wrangell’s local museum, which showcases artifacts and stories from the town’s diverse past. Wrangell was once governed by the Łingít people, then Britain, followed by Russia, before finally becoming part of the United States. Each of these cultures has left its mark on the town.

A visit to Shakes Island offers another cultural highlight. Here, you can see the Chief Shakes Tribal House and traditional totem poles, which tell the stories and legends of the Łingít people. For those who love the outdoors, Wrangell’s nature trails provide stunning scenery. Walk along the Stikine River’s mouth or hike up Mount Dewey, where you’ll be surrounded by lush rainforest and breathtaking views.

With its deep cultural roots and natural beauty, Wrangell is a memorable stop on your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we venture into Misty Fjords, a stunning wilderness that is part of the Tongass National Forest. With its towering evergreens, cascading waterfalls, and snowcapped peaks, this breathtaking landscape feels untouched by time. The famous naturalist John Muir once described Misty Fjords as one of the most beautiful places he had ever seen.

If weather conditions allow, we will explore this pristine fjord system using our small expedition boats or kayaks. This will allow you to experience the steep cliffs, mirror-like waters, and mist-covered valleys up close.

Misty Fjords is also a haven for wildlife. As we navigate through the fjord, keep an eye out for mountain goats climbing rocky cliffs, black and brown bears foraging along the shoreline, and moose moving through the forest. The waters are equally rich in life—Pacific salmon swim below, while sea otters, Steller sea lions, and harbour seals float among the waves. If we’re lucky, we may also spot orcas or Dall’s porpoises gliding through the water. Overhead, watch for herons and Bald Eagles soaring against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

With its spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, Misty Fjords is a true highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, we sail through Canada’s Inside Passage, a breathtaking coastal route that winds through the North American Pacific Fjordland. This protected waterway stretches over 930 miles, offering some of the most stunning scenery in the region.

Unlike larger cruise ships that pass through at night, our expedition vessel allows you to experience this natural wonder in daylight. Towering, forested cliffs, misty fjords, and snow-capped mountains create a spectacular backdrop as we glide through the calm, sheltered waters. Thanks to the smaller size of our ship, we can navigate hidden channels and remote inlets that larger vessels can’t access. This gives us the chance to explore lesser-travelled routes, where the landscapes feel untouched, and the wildlife is abundant.

Keep your cameras and binoculars ready, as this region is rich in marine life. You may spot humpback, fin, and minke whales, and if we’re lucky, even a pod of orcas. The surrounding forests and skies are also home to eagles, seabirds, and other native wildlife.

With its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Canada’s Inside Passage is a true highlight of your Inside Passage Expedition.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Roald Amundsen

Today, your Inside Passage Expedition comes to an end as we disembark in Vancouver, one of Canada’s most beautiful cities. Nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a stunning mix of natural beauty, diverse culture, and modern city life.

Take some time to explore Gastown, the city’s oldest neighbourhood, known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and the famous steam clock. For panoramic views of the city skyline, mountains, and coastline, head to the Vancouver Lookout. From this observation deck, you can see Granville Street’s neon lights, the sandy beaches of the West End, and the towering cedar trees of Stanley Park.

Vancouver is also a food lover’s paradise, offering a vibrant mix of global cuisines. If you have time before your onward journey, consider dining in one of the city’s famous food districts. Chinatown is known for its authentic dim sum and noodle dishes, Punjabi Market offers incredible Indian curries and street food, and Little Italy serves up delicious pasta and espresso.

With its stunning scenery, rich history, and world-class dining, Vancouver is the perfect place to end your journey on a high note.

MEALS: Breakfast