Alaska Islands, Whales, and Glaciers

Main Ship

The 60-foot M/V Misty Fjord was specifically designed for in-depth wilderness exploration of Southeast Alaska. Her hull is based on the design of well-proven Alaska commercial fishing boats for supreme comfort and stability while sailing the waters of the Inside Passage. The onboard experience features a plush interior with an elegant teak finish, aft salon, a spacious wheelhouse, and an outer deck engineered for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cabins

A total of 5 staterooms can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Each room is approximately 85 square feet. All rooms have a private head and shower, and can accommodate 2 guests. Cabins include pillow-topped mattresses, fresh towels and linens, complimentary use of binoculars, daily room service, including evening turndown, and complimentary Alaska-made body washes and shampoo.

This small ship cruise begins in Sitka, which is only accessible by air or sea and offers and derives its names from the Tlingit phrase meaning “People on the outside of Baranof Island”. The area known as downtown Sitka was originally settled by the Tlingit people over 10,000 years ago.

Meals feature a variety of menu options, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian selections. Much of the seafood you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy will have been caught just days prior by local fishing vessels. The catch is immediately chilled and delivered to buyers, preserving its superior flavor and texture. Such locally harvested specialties include king salmon, halibut, rockfish, shrimp, and crab- cooked and prepared to a standard any Alaskan would recommend. Guests can enjoy early-riser pastries every morning as well as appetizers prior to dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and one complimentary glass of house wine or beer at dinner.

The itineraries are filled with opportunities for active exploration, both in intriguing ports of call and in remote wilderness areas. The M/V Misty Fjord carries expedition craft that enables the ship to get even closer to the land and sea. The Demaree Inflatable Boats (DIBs) are rigid bottom inflatables, which are called upon for shallow-water and glacial fjord exploration. These nimble vessels are also used as beach landing craft to allow remote hiking opportunities in areas not accessible to larger craft. Guests can use the complimentary Alaskan gear onboard such as rain jackets, rain pants, and rain boots.

Enrichment

A deeper level of understanding is exactly what is needed to gain a true appreciation of this unique region. To this end, the vessels are staffed with knowledgeable expedition leaders who act as personal guides on every voyage. Our naturalists focus on the biology, geography, and ecology of the Inside Passage, while our Cultural Heritage Guides are well versed in the lifestyle, legends, and practices of Southeast Alaska’s intriguing cultures. Having these guides by your side for every step of your journey – from kayak expeditions to dining – ensures no question will ever go unanswered.

Cultural Heritage

Your itinerary will offer an opportunity to discover three distinct Native cultures: the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian, through visits to intriguing villages. These communities are among the least traveled places in Alaska, and a visit can be a powerful experience. As you walk the streets and forests of these communities, you will have the opportunity to enjoy several planned experiences, from dance shows to carving demonstrations. You may even witness several events unique to village life: a hunter’s return after a successful hunt of seal or deer, families working together to hang their harvest of sockeye salmon in a smokehouse, or a ceremonial potlatch.