Alaska & Great Bear Rainforest

Keen adventurers from across Canada fly to Vancouver and transfer to Canada Place Pier to embark on the luxurious ms Zaandam, our home for eighteen wonderful nights of cruising. Enjoy the panorama of Vancouver's harbour and the surrounding mountains as we sail under the Lion's Gate Bridge to begin our cruise. 

Embark / Sail 4:00pm

Sail through the breathtaking Seymour Narrows, part of the fabled Inside Passage, where deep-draft vessels glide close to steep mountain walls. This stunning route, lined with turquoise glaciers and lush forests, connects Southeast Alaska’s remote towns to the world. Along the way lies Bella Bella (Waglisla), a Heiltsuk First Nation community in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, home to whales, otters, eagles, spirit bears, and sea wolves. The Heiltsuk people have a deep cultural connection to this biodiverse region.

Take in views of one of the most remote regions of the Great Bear Rainforest – a vast 15.8-million-acre temperate rainforest known for plunging waterfalls and mist-draped mountains. Keep your binoculars ready; wildlife is abundant. Humpback whales, otters, orcas and bald eagles are frequently spotted in the area. Highly elusive animals, such as coastal wolves and the honey-coloured spirit bear also call this region home. Relax and enjoy a front-row seat to British Columbia’s untamed beauty. 

Sitka, Alaska, on Baranof Island, combines stunning scenery with a rich history. Once the capital of Russian America, it retains landmarks like St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House. Explore Sitka National Historical Park for Russian and Tlingit artifacts or visit Castle Hill for views of Mount Edgecumbe. Nature lovers can visit the Fortress of the Bear and Alaska Raptor Center to see wildlife up close. 

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm

Hubbard Glacier cruises are so popular because of the glacier’s three-story icebergs that cannon into crystal waters, a process called calving. It’s also colourful. On clear days, Hubbard turns a stunning deep blue and on cloudy ones, its many ripples and icebergs shimmer in soft light. 

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 1:00pm

A paradise for fishing enthusiasts, Valdez offers every kind of salmon, huge halibut and ample opportunity to reel them in. Rivers and streams spill into the Sound here and are ideal for kayaking. 

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm

Kodiak is all about bears! This unique subspecies named after the Kodiak Archipelago where they are found evolved in isolation for around 12,000 years and can reach heights of 3 meters, or 10 feet, when standing on their hind legs.  

Arrive 11:00am / Sail 6:00pm

The Homer area is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, and it captivates audiences around the globe as the home of the Discovery Channel's Kilcher family, made famous by Alaska: The Last Frontier.  

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm

Anchorage is a haven for nature lovers. With its national parks, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife—from city moose to majestic whales—it is definitely a must-visit destination. Experience the Northern Lights, savour local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture. 

Arrive 10:00am / Overnight in Port

Enjoy another day enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Anchorage.

In Port/ Sail 5:00pm

Enjoy exploring the many amenities on board during two wonderful days at sea. 

Wonderful views unfold before us as we enjoy another day at sea. 

Early this morning, we are greeted by a breathtaking scene: rugged promontories marking the entrance to a spectacular bay. Forested slopes lead to jagged peaks, where icy rivers cascade into tranquil waters. Watch as massive ice pinnacles break from the glacier and crash dramatically into the sea. Local experts share fascinating insights into these prehistoric formations and guide us in spotting the abundant wildlife here—harbour seals, mountain goats, humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and even black bears. 

Arrive 7:00am / Sail 5:00pm

We are in Alaska’s scenic capital today, surrounded by towering peaks.  Try your hand at the thrill of salmon fishing—Alaskan style, pan for glinting flecks of gold, or soak up vistas only accessible by air. The options are plentiful, and the choice is yours. 

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm 

Just outside Wrangell, immerse yourself in Tlingit culture at the Chief Shakes Tribal House. Here authentic stories, intricately carved totem poles, and dynamic dance come to life—constructed largely by women and crafted mostly by hand. 

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm

Today we arrive at the captivating port of Ketchikan, a bustling hub of activity and culture.     We will have ample time to meander through the town’s many intriguing shops, in search of unique local crafts. Take a stroll down the historic Creek Street, a lively boardwalk built over the town’s salmon creek. Nearby is Totem Bight State Historical Park, where we can explore a replica of Tlingit Village and gain insight into the rich history and traditions of the indigenous people of the region.     

Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm 

Vast forest, wide rivers and abundant wildlife make this port an unexpected favourite. Far from other more bustling B.C. cities, it is a gateway to pristine hiking and paddling spots.  

Arrive 7:00am / Sail 6:00pm

Alaska's Inside Passage is a renowned cruising route through a protected network of waterways, featuring glacier-cut fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.  

Upon our early morning arrival in Vancouver, we will transfer to the airport to catch our homeward-bound flights. For those who have made prior arrangements, there is an opportunity to extend their stay in Vancouver and explore the city further.

Arrive 7:00am / Disembark