Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar Cruises has partnered with expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac tour around Kenai Fjords National Park area you will ride by tidewater glaciers that flow from the Harding Ice Field, possibly seeing a glacier calving and riding among ice that has calved. Taking in the spectacular scenery of the area you may see harbor seals, black bears on the beach, bald eagles and puffins. Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. - The departure times for the Signature Expedition tours are subject to change due to the nature of these excursions. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. Please inform the Destination Services team if you are travelling in a group of 4-6 people and booked on the same expedition as the zodiac boat tours can only accommodate 6 guests at a time.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar Cruises has partnered with expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness . Kayaking around Kenai Fjords National Park area provides the opportunity to kayak by tidewater glaciers that flow from the Harding Ice Field, possibly seeing a glacier calving and kayaking among ice that has calved . Taking in the spectacular scenery of the area you may see harbor seals, black bears on the beach, bald eagles and puffins. Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather condition; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will have about 2 hours of paddling. - The departure times for the Signature Expedition tours are subject to change due to the nature of these excursions. Destination Services will notify you about your tour departure time. - All kayaks used for the Signature Expedition tours are 2-person tandem kayaks.

Discover why Sitka is one of Southeast Alaska's best places for salmon fishing during this memorable fishing experience. Upon your arrival, you will take a short walk to board your fishing boat and proceed to Sitka Sound and its adjacent waters to fish for king, silver, chum, and pink salmon, depending on the month. Salmon fishing is performed via "trolling," or "mooching." When trolling two or four lines are fishing off downriggers while the boat is underway and hooked fish are played on a rotational basis. When mooching you will hold a rod and work the bait while the boat is anchored. Your captain will decide which method he feels is the most effective given the conditions of the day. Your fishing boat will be a cabin cruiser style sport fishing boat that averages 24-30 feet in length and 4-6 guests will be assigned to each boat. After approximately 3 hours of fishing , your boat will return back to the pier. If you wish, meet with local fish processors to have your catch sent to your home (within the continental U.S.A.). Please note : Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, and a light jacket. Wear close-toed, comfortable shoes. Fishing License must be purchased at time of shore excursion, $40 in cash only and bring your photo ID with you.

The ultimate Alaska experience begins as soon as you board our Alaskan-built expedition vessel in Sitka. While you settle into the comfortable cabin, your knowledgeable captain and crew will provide a safety briefing and orientation. Once underway, feel free to move about the vessel, including the spacious outside viewing deck. An onboard naturalist will provide narration regarding the remarkable ecosystem of the area and point out places of interest and wildlife throughout the voyage. Sea otters, whales, harbor seals, brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of marine birds are all commonly seen in the tour area. Your captain has the local knowledge and experience to deliver the best possible viewing experience on any given day throughout the season. At Fin Island Lodge, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Alaska feast! Alaskan crab, wild salmon, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are all-inclusive with the tour. In addition, coffee, tea, cocoa, lemonade, and water are complimentary. Soft drinks are available for purchase. A breakfast twist on our signature Fin Island feast is featured for guests arriving before 10 a.m. Vegan and gluten free options are available, regardless of tour time. After the meal, you may beachcomb, explore the beautiful grounds of the exclusive island, or relax next to the cozy beach fire. When the adventure concludes, your vessel will await to provide the short cruise back to Sitka. Please note : Dress in layers, wear a waterproof jacket (if you would like to go outside), good walking shoes, and bring your camera, warm hat, and gloves.

Discover Alaska's abundant natural beauty and wildlife during this award-winning cruise through Sitka Sound, one of the world's most beautiful coastal environments. Search for local marine life on this half-day, scenic excursion. Depart the pier in your waterjet-driven tour vessel which has been specially designed to navigate Southeast Alaska's narrow island passages and bays, permitting spectacular wildlife viewing at close range. The vessel features a warm and comfortable cabin with indoor seating, large windows, a snack bar and restrooms. Or you may opt to visit the upper observation deck for unparalleled photo opportunities, and to experience the surroundings. Be on the lookout for sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and a variety of wildlife species during this jet-boat excursion. Observe and photograph sea otters as you learn about their recovery following near extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the 1800s. Your onboard naturalist guide will offer commentary about this remarkable ecosystem throughout the tour. Your captain will vary the route to find the best wildlife viewing opportunities and guarantees you will see an otter, a whale, or a bear on the sea portion of your excursion. If not, you will receive $100 cash refund at the end of the voyage. Please note : Dress in layers, waterproof jacket (if guests would like to go outside), camera, warm hat, gloves.

Have you ever envisioned living the life of a Research Scientist? Or looking for the thrill of encountering one of the earth's largest creatures ? Well, now's your chance! Alaska's waters hold one of the largest concentrations of humpback whales and along with your contribution to ongoing research during this exhilarating excursion you are guaranteed to see a whale! Not only is this a one-of-a-kind whale watching experience , but you'll will have the opportunity to participate in various science activities aboard a custom designed vessel permitted to collect research data while on the open water. From the pier you'll travel north to meet your vessel in Auke Bay . Meet your experienced captain and board your wildlife viewing vessel. Have your camera handy as you cruise through the island-studded waters of Stephens Passage, a wonderland of snow-capped peaks and ice-blue glaciers. While you cruise, you're sure to spot humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, harbor seals, and porpoises. Once a whale is spotted, the Captain will slow down for exceptional viewing and photo opportunities. Given the right behavior and weather conditions, you may hear the haunting, moaning call of the humpback. Luckily, the vessel is equipped with a hydrophone when the opportunity arises, to listen to the underwater sounds of whales while an onboard naturalist explains the habits and habitats of the creatures you may encounter. When conditions permit during your cruise, you'll explore the foundation of the food chain by drawing plankton samples, take a look at live sea animals in a touch tank and even use a GPS camera to aid in identifying specific whales while recording their varied behaviors. Please note : There is a variable sloped ramp leading to the safari vessel dock which changes with the tide. Whale sightings are frequent. All guests must sign a waiver attesting to their physical and medical conditions to participate. Dress warmly in layers, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. Bottled water and a snack pack are included. Bring a camera with plenty of film or memory and batteries. Participants are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest.

Learn what it takes to be a musher in the great Alaskan dog sled races with a trip to a sled dog summer camp. As you arrive at the summer camp training site, you will be greeted by a professional dog musher and some of the state's most famous athletes- the Alaskan Huskies! After an educational tour of the camp, you'll visit a replica of an Iditarod checkpoint and go through the steps each musher performs, step-by-step, as if you're traveling along the Iditarod trail. Next, climb aboard a comfortable wheeled sled and relax as your husky team whisks you along the 1.5-mile trail through the beautiful landscape. You'll return to camp for your chance to visit with the dogs and meet the next generation of great Alaskan athletes - sled dog puppies ! Please note : Dress in layers and bring a waterproof outer layer. There will be a coffee/tea break with cookies.

Depart the pier in a media-equipped shuttle with your naturalist photography guide for a drive to some of Juneau's most photogenic locales. En route, your guide will share handy tips and techniques to enhance your images, along with personal stories and insights about the area's cultural and natural history. You will also view a slideshow depicting personal images and illustrated photography techniques. Upon arrival at the Mendenhall Glacier , you will take a guided walk along a gentle forested trail, take in splendid vistas and many visual opportunities, including wildflowers, beaver activity, cascading waterfalls and spawning salmon (when in season). You will picture breathtaking glacier panoramas and floating icebergs amidst a paradigm of snowcapped peaks. Next, explore the channels and islets of beautiful Stephen's Passage during 2-hour cruise aboard a custom built safari vessel. These are the only crafts of their kind in Southeast Alaska, custom built specifically for marine wildlife photography. Photo opportunities may include blue-hued glacial ice, forest-piercing rays of light, soaring eagles, humpback whales, sea lions, killer whales, black bears and more. Your guide will provide you with photo assistance and quality interpretation throughout the excursion. Please note : This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, approximately .75 miles on a newly surfaced trail. There is a variable sloped ramp leading to the safari vessel dock. This tour is not suitable for those who utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be able to meet the physical requirements of the tour. Whale sightings are frequent. All guests must sign a waiver attesting to their physical and medical conditions to participate. Dress warmly in layers, as the tour operates in all weather conditions; rain gear, walking sticks, camera towels are provided. Bottled water and a snack pack are included. The tour sequence may vary. Bring a camera with plenty of film or memory and batteries. Children 12 years old and younger will receive a complimentary children's one time use camera. Participants are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest. Guests will receive a frame-able postcard with instructions to access exclusive online photography tutorials, slideshows, historical images and a printable tip sheet. All content is free and downloadable to any device.

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the true Alaskan Wilderness as you travel about 25 miles of the Chilkat River System , exploring the different channels that this unique, braided river system offers. Watch for wildlife as they are frequently sighted during the river tour. The flat bottom river boats are designed specifically to traverse the narrow and sometimes shallow, channels, which is the only way to explore this road-less portion of the Bald Eagle Preserve. This tour is well known for moose and bear sightings , although not a guarantee, wildlife sightings are quite frequent. The tour will take off from private property, so all the amenities are available for you to feel comfortable and right at home while the friendly staff will prepare your meal . Sit around the crackling fire and enjoy the clean fresh air and beauty that surrounds you. You will come away with a greater appreciation of the wilderness and the people who call this "last frontier" their home. Your tour will begin at the pier where your ship is docked, with a 30-minute bus ride into the heart of the Bald Eagle Preserve on the Haines Scenic Byway. Where the road ends, your adventure begins. Please note : Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Bring your camera and/or binoculars. Life jackets will be provided. The boats are open air so ponchos and waterproof blankets will be provided.

Haines is known for its wildlife and stunning natural surroundings. This small-group tour is for every type of photographer - from those who have a professional-level camera to those who primarily use their Smart Phone. Either way, you'll learn how to take better photos. Your professional photographer guide will select the best locations to find the most dramatic light and wildlife activity. Composition tips, camera settings and how to take advantage of available light are discussed, along with how to predict wildlife behavior. Bald eagles are commonly seen and, depending on the time of year, brown bears can sometimes be found feeding on salmon along the Chilkoot River. This tour will go through prime wildlife habitat, however, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The small-group nature of the tour will allow the guide to spend time with each participant, ensuring you will come away with ideas and goals for your future photography. Please note : This tour requires a minimal amount of walking; however, guests must be able to embark/disembark the vehicles via steps. It is not recommended for guests who utilize a wheelchair. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring rain gear and your camera equipment. Observing bear and other wildlife is the goal but cannot be guaranteed.

Your knowledgeable guide will meet you at the dock in Haines. A scenic 26-mile drive along the National Scenic Byway and through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve will bring you to a remote staging area. At the staging area, you'll receive an orientation and safety briefing on the Arctic Cat and Kawasaki side-by-side ATVs from your guides. Guests wishing to drive must be at least 21 years old and bring a valid driver's license. There are a combination of 2-person and 4-person machines to accommodate varying group sizes and families. There will be several spots along the tour where you can swap drivers to give everyone some time at the wheel. The ATVs are automatic transmission and drive similar to a car for ease of operation. These high performance ATVs are fun to drive and a great way to explore the Alaska wilderness. Over the next 12 miles of gravel road, your guide will lead you through a series of remote areas, and you'll explore the wilds of Alaska! As you drive along beaver ponds and mountain meadows you may spot swans, salmon, eagles, bears or moose along the way. You'll cross over Little Salmon Creek and ascend to a series of viewpoints overlooking the Klehini, Tsirku and Chilkat River Valleys . From your high point, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch while you bask in the surrounding mountain views. After lunch, descend the mountain and make your way back to the private staging area before returning by bus back to Haines. Please note : Dress in warm, dry layers and wear closed-toed shoes. You will be provided with a helmet, goggles and a rain poncho.

Haines, Alaska is where two important rivers, the Chilkat and Chilkoot, meet the sea. This small town (2,500 residents) is located on a peninsula flanked by mountain ranges and these two glacial-fed rivers. This 2.25-hour small group (14 guests maximum) tour provides a chance to get to know both important rivers. Start with a short drive through Historic Ft. Seward and make your way to the Pyramid Island Lookout. This wide delta is where the braided Chilkat River drops tons of glacial silt every day into the ocean. Continue along the edge of the salt water to the Letnikof Cove Cannery Lookout. Here, the Rainbow Glacier and Chilkat Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the red buildings of this historic salmon cannery. You'll retrace your steps back towards downtown Haines and travel in the opposite direction to the mouth of the Chilkoot River. The road winds along the salt water. Keep your eyes open for birds like surf scoters and marine mammals like harbor seals. Your next stop will be where the Chilkoot River flows into the sea. This is a peaceful location where "all things Alaskan" come together- the river, the ocean, the mountains, and the forest. Bald eagles are often spotted here soaring and calling to each other above the spruce trees. Return to Haines with a final stop at Picture Point, where you can photograph your ship with the iconic white buildings of Historic Ft. Seward and the Chilkat Mountain behind. Please note : Wear layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Cameras and or binoculars are suggested but are optional.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship . Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants who will operate the Zodiac boats while also providing insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your Zodiac expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will ride in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above. The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as "a wild, unfinished Yosemite." Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists.

Windstar Signature Expeditions are operated by Windstar Cruises directly from the ship. Windstar has partnered with Expert Expedition Voyage Consultants to provide insight, education and commentary on the stunning scenery of the Alaskan Wilderness. On your 2.5-hour kayak expedition in the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness through Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm you will kayak in front of the South Sawyer Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Both are tidewater glaciers that are actively calving. You may see harbor seals hauled out on the ice floes or mountain goats high on the cliffs above. The vertical granite cliffs rise as much as 4, 000 feet from the sea and have numerous waterfalls. John Muir referred to this area as "a wild, unfinished Yosemite." Please note : You can conveniently change in your suite. Dress according to the prevailing weather conditions; you will be provided with a life jacket. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed and tour operation is weather dependent. The decision to go to Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm will be decided the day of the excursion by the Captain and Expedition Leader, it will be made based on the prevailing ice conditions, weather and other cruise ship traffic in the area. Both locations allow for similar sightseeing opportunities. Expedition Voyage Consultants may include geologists, marine biologists, botanists, and glaciologists. You will be paddling for about 2 hours.