Westward is a historic yacht and remains dependably powered by her original Atlas Imperial Diesel Engine. Westward's adventurous spirit enriches the voyages of those who are lucky enough to cruise the waters with her.
Alaska’s Western Passages
Journey through Alaska's southeast coast aboard the historic 8-guest adventure yacht Westward. Seek out remote wilderness in search of bears, whales and glaciers. Discover small coastal towns and Tlingit culture.
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
FROM
$8,400
USD
PER PERSON
/
The 8-day Alaska’s Western Passages cruise travels through canyons and fjords, stopping at beautiful anchorages at Admiralty, Baranof, and Kupreanof islands. Cruise between Sitka and Juneau to take in a unique experience of Alaska’s wild coast aboard the historic 8-guest adventure yacht Westward. The Westward, purpose-built as an Alaskan charter vessel, is now registered as a Historic Place by the National Park Service. This intimate small ship cruise is a remarkable way to experience the beauty of Alaska as it explores the most remote wilderness areas for up-close wildlife encounters and enriching cultural experiences.
Alaska’s glacial wilderness supports a diversity of wildlife as varied as the landscape, with a likelihood of sighting humpback whales, orca, porpoise, stellar sea lions, black bears, brown bears and mountain goats. Enjoy a dip in the Baranof Hot Springs, explore an enchanted canyon, paddle through tidal rapids, experience John Muir’s “sea flooded Yosemite Valley,” and learn bear etiquette, tracking and more. All trips will feature several walks and chances to kayak in remote and protected bays. These amazing nature and wildlife opportunities qualify this itinerary for our handpicked selection of Alaska family cruises.
The Alaska’s Western Passages itinerary cruises between Sitka and Juneau, Alaska; offering a main eastbound route and a reverse westbound route. The Westward also offers several alternative routes, including an 8-day itinerary between Petersburg and Sitka. The Westward ultimately follows a unique route each trip, allowing the weather and wildlife to dictate her itinerary. Westward’s flexibility and small size make her an AdventureSmith favorite for private Alaska yacht charters, ideal for those wanting to experience Alaska with their own group.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips, small ship Alaska cruise options and Inside Passage cruise itineraries.
Southeast Alaska's Western Passages Itinerary
Sitka, AlaskaJuneau, Alaska
The 8-day Alaska’s Western Passages cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska, travels eastbound while exploring the islands and ends in Juneau, Alaska.
Westward will be moored in Sitka Harbor, where you will meet the ship at 12:00pm Noon. Please call the harbor master at 907-747-3439 to confirm the ship’s location. Sitka was first settled by Tlingit ancestors about 10,000 years ago, and later by Russian fur traders in 1799. There are several historic sites of significance here. Take the time to visit a few of them during a walk through the town on your own if time allows. Board Westward in time for a late lunch and to cast off for the 9-mile run to Krestof Sound, where Westward will anchor in time for a first kayak paddle before dinner.
Travel through canyons and fjords, stopping at beautiful anchorages at Admiralty, Baranof and Kupreanof islands, observing bears, whales, eagles and more along the way. Enjoy opportunities to hike or kayak, accompanied by the onboard naturalist, and learn about the fauna and flora of the area. Each departure varies depending on the weather; some highlights may include:
Stephens Passage
As Westward sails through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for the whales’ tell-tale blows. Tonight’s anchorage is among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, where there’s time to launch the kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Warm Springs Bay
While Westward is anchored for a few hours, hike the trail up to the lake that feeds the magnificent waterfall that drops into the head of the bay. On the way back from the lake, stop and soak in the natural hot pools overlooking the head of the falls. After taking your fill of the restorative waters, return to Westward and resume the journey.
Freshwater Bay
Westward will be anchoring in a small cove in front of an estuary system that supports a large population of brown bears. During fish runs, bears congregate near the entrance of a fish ladder that allows returning salmon access to their spawning streams, bypassing the dam built decades ago to support logging operations. Explore the bay by kayak and then anchor your skiff in the stream at the foot of the falls where you may have an opportunity to watch and photograph brown bears sharing (not something bears often do) the bountiful returning salmon. From this stable base you can sit quietly, watch and photograph the gorging bears.
Baird, Le Conte & Dawes Glaciers
Each departure includes a visit to one or two glaciers. Each adventure is different, with possibilities to explore the newly foliated outwash plain exposed by Baird Glacier’s retreating ice, and/or cruise as close as a quarter mile of Le Conte’s or Dawes’ calving glacier face.
Sailing through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for their tell-tale blows. Finding your night’s anchorage among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, launch your kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Hidden Falls Hatchery
Go ashore and tour the Hidden Falls Hatchery facility. When the salmon begin returning in late July, brown bears also visit the stream near the hatchery to re-stock their fat reserves for the coming winter. Moving on, the ship will reach Baranof Hot Springs before lunch, with plenty of time to hike to Baranof Lake (approximately 1 mile round-trip). A post-hike soak in the hot spring pools will help soothe sore feet. By mid-afternoon, Westward will depart Warm Springs Bay to once again cross Chatham Strait, this time rounding Admiralty Island’s southern tip and entering Stephens Passage. Anchorage tonight is in one of several deep bays that serrate Admiralty’s southeast shoreline, with time to launch the kayaks and poke along the edges of the cove.
Sailing in time to reach Juneau 10:00am, complete the voyage along the length of Stephens Passage and enter Gastineau Channel and the final eight miles to Juneau. The Westward arrives in time for her guests to catch the early afternoon southbound flights.
Included
Accommodations; excursions; entrance fees; leadership; crew; all meals indicated in itinerary; local guides and permits, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary.
Exclusions
The cost of air flights, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary; airport taxes; passports; visas; immunizations; insurance of any kind; laundry; excess baggage; items of a personal nature; medical costs; costs of hospitalization; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to force majeure: including, without limitation, pandemic, act of God, governmental regulation or order, weather, political disputes, illness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at the time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 151 days – 50% of deposit
150 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The main Alaska’s Western Passages cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT), and ends in Juneau, Alaska (JNU). Plan to meet the ship in Sitka on Day 1 for the 12:00pm Noon boarding and 12:30pm casting off. To confirm the ship’s location, please call the harbor master at 907-747-3439. Guests are welcome to drop off luggage to the ship earlier in the day if needed. It is recommended to arrive at least a day prior to the cruise to allow for any airline delays. Plan flights to depart Juneau no earlier than 11:30am on Day 8.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
There is a 50% single supplement for single travelers in a double cabin. Triple accommodation may be available, but cabin sizing is ideal for two travelers or the third traveler being a child. Please inquire with an AdventureSmith Specialist for discount pricing for the third person traveling.
Families & Children
Children should be at least 12 years old to enjoy this cruise. Travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whole-boat charters can accommodate younger guests.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Southeast Alaska's Western Passages Itinerary
Juneau, AlaskaSitka, Alaska
The 8-day Reverse Alaska’s Western Passages cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska, travels westbound while exploring the islands and ends in Sitka, Alaska.
Westward will be moored in downtown Juneau in the vicinity of the Mount Roberts Tram base station. Departing at 12:30pm, head south down Gastineau Channel and enter Stephens Passage. Reaching Holcomb Bay at around 6:00pm, enter the glacial fjord of Endicott Arm, where your captain will find an anchorage in time for a quiet first night aboard. Humpback whales are often found feeding in the area around the entrance to Endicott Arm, and both bears and wolves have been seen foraging along the shores at your night’s anchorage.
Travel through canyons and fjords, stopping at beautiful anchorages at Admiralty, Baranof and Kupreanof islands, observing bears, whales, eagles and more along the way. Enjoy opportunities to hike or kayak, accompanied by the onboard naturalist, and learn about the fauna and flora of the area. Each departure varies depending on the weather; some highlights may include:
Stephens Passage
As Westward sails through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for the whales’ tell-tale blows. Tonight’s anchorage is among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, where there’s time to launch the kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Warm Springs Bay
While Westward is anchored for a few hours, hike the trail up to the lake that feeds the magnificent waterfall that drops into the head of the bay. On the way back from the lake, stop and soak in the natural hot pools overlooking the head of the falls. After taking your fill of the restorative waters, return to Westward and resume the journey.
Freshwater Bay
Westward will be anchoring in a small cove in front of an estuary system that supports a large population of brown bears. During fish runs, bears congregate near the entrance of a fish ladder that allows returning salmon access to their spawning streams, bypassing the dam built decades ago to support logging operations. Explore the bay by kayak and then anchor your skiff in the stream at the foot of the falls where you may have an opportunity to watch and photograph brown bears sharing (not something bears often do) the bountiful returning salmon. From this stable base you can sit quietly, watch and photograph the gorging bears.
Baird, Le Conte & Dawes Glaciers
Each departure includes a visit to one or two glaciers. Each adventure is different, with possibilities to explore the newly foliated outwash plain exposed by Baird Glacier’s retreating ice, and/or cruise as close as a quarter mile of Le Conte’s or Dawes’ calving glacier face.
Sailing through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for their tell-tale blows. Finding your night’s anchorage among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, launch your kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Hidden Falls Hatchery
Go ashore and tour the Hidden Falls Hatchery facility. When the salmon begin returning in late July, brown bears also visit the stream near the hatchery to re-stock their fat reserves for the coming winter. Moving on, the ship will reach Baranof Hot Springs before lunch, with plenty of time to hike to Baranof Lake (approximately 1 mile round-trip). A post-hike soak in the hot spring pools will help soothe sore feet. By mid-afternoon, Westward will depart Warm Springs Bay to once again cross Chatham Strait, this time rounding Admiralty Island’s southern tip and entering Stephens Passage. Anchorage tonight is in one of several deep bays that serrate Admiralty’s southeast shoreline, with time to launch the kayaks and poke along the edges of the cove.
From the last anchorage, it is only a couple of hours travel into Sitka, but the ship will still start right after breakfast so that there is plenty of time to visit several historic sites of significance here.
Included
Accommodations; excursions; entrance fees; leadership; crew; all meals indicated in itinerary; local guides and permits, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary.
Exclusions
The cost of air flights, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary; airport taxes; passports; visas; immunizations; insurance of any kind; laundry; excess baggage; items of a personal nature; medical costs; costs of hospitalization; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to force majeure: including, without limitation, pandemic, act of God, governmental regulation or order, weather, political disputes, illness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at the time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 151 days – 50% of deposit
150 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The reverse Alaska’s Western Passages cruise itinerary begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU), and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). Plan to meet the ship in Juneau on Day 1 for the 12:00pm Noon boarding and 12:30pm casting off. Guests are welcome to drop off luggage to the ship earlier in the day if needed. It is recommended to arrive at least a day prior to the cruise to allow for any airline delays. Plan flights to depart Sitka no earlier than 11:30am on Day 8, following the early morning disembarkation.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
There is a 50% single supplement for single travelers in a double cabin. Triple accommodation may be available, but cabin sizing is ideal for two travelers or the third traveler being a child. Please inquire with an AdventureSmith Specialist for discount pricing for the third person traveling.
Families & Children
Children should be at least 12 years old to enjoy this cruise. Travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whole-boat charters can accommodate younger guests.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Alaska's Western Passages: Sitka to Petersburg Itinerary
Sitka, AlaskaPetersburg, Alaska
The 8-day Alaska’s Western Passages: Sitka to Petersburg cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska, and travels southbound to end in Petersburg, Alaska.
Westward will be moored in Sitka Harbor, where you will meet the ship at 12:00pm Noon. Sitka was first settled by Tlingit ancestors about 10,000 years ago, and later by Russian fur traders in 1799. There are several historic sites of significance here. Take the time to visit a few of them during a walk through the town on your own if time allows. Board Westward in time for a late lunch and to cast off for the 9-mile run to Krestof Sound, where Westward will anchor in time for a first kayak paddle before dinner.
Travel through canyons and fjords, stopping at beautiful anchorages at Admiralty, Baranof and Kupreanof islands, observing bears, whales, eagles and more along the way. Enjoy opportunities to hike or kayak, accompanied by the onboard naturalist, and learn about the fauna and flora of the area. Each departure varies depending on the weather; some highlights may include:
Stephens Passage
As Westward sails through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for the whales’ tell-tale blows. Tonight’s anchorage is among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, where there’s time to launch the kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Warm Springs Bay
While Westward is anchored for a few hours, hike the trail up to the lake that feeds the magnificent waterfall that drops into the head of the bay. On the way back from the lake, stop and soak in the natural hot pools overlooking the head of the falls. After taking your fill of the restorative waters, return to Westward and resume the journey.
Freshwater Bay
Westward will be anchoring in a small cove in front of an estuary system that supports a large population of brown bears. During fish runs, bears congregate near the entrance of a fish ladder that allows returning salmon access to their spawning streams, bypassing the dam built decades ago to support logging operations. Explore the bay by kayak and then anchor your skiff in the stream at the foot of the falls where you may have an opportunity to watch and photograph brown bears sharing (not something bears often do) the bountiful returning salmon. From this stable base you can sit quietly, watch and photograph the gorging bears.
Baird, Le Conte & Dawes Glaciers
Each departure includes a visit to one or two glaciers. Each adventure is different, with possibilities to explore the newly foliated outwash plain exposed by Baird Glacier’s retreating ice, and/or cruise as close as a quarter mile of Le Conte’s or Dawes’ calving glacier face.
Sailing through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for their tell-tale blows. Finding your night’s anchorage among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, launch your kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Hidden Falls Hatchery
Go ashore and tour the Hidden Falls Hatchery facility. When the salmon begin returning in late July, brown bears also visit the stream near the hatchery to re-stock their fat reserves for the coming winter. Moving on, the ship will reach Baranof Hot Springs before lunch, with plenty of time to hike to Baranof Lake (approximately 1 mile round-trip). A post-hike soak in the hot spring pools will help soothe sore feet. By mid-afternoon, Westward will depart Warm Springs Bay to once again cross Chatham Strait, this time rounding Admiralty Island’s southern tip and entering Stephens Passage. Anchorage tonight is in one of several deep bays that serrate Admiralty’s southeast shoreline, with time to launch the kayaks and poke along the edges of the cove.
Leave Ideal Cove in time to reach Petersburg by 9:30am. This makes it possible to catch the morning flight to Juneau. Or plan on spending a day or two in Petersburg, a working fishing town that has yet to be heavily impacted by industrial tourism.
Included
Accommodations; excursions; entrance fees; leadership; crew; all meals indicated in itinerary; local guides and permits, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary.
Exclusions
The cost of air flights, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary; airport taxes; passports; visas; immunizations; insurance of any kind; laundry; excess baggage; items of a personal nature; medical costs; costs of hospitalization; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to force majeure: including, without limitation, pandemic, act of God, governmental regulation or order, weather, political disputes, illness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at the time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 151 days – 50% of deposit
150 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Alaska’s Western Passages Sitka to Petersburg cruise begins in Sitka, Alaska (SIT), and ends in Petersburg, Alaska (PSG). Plan to meet the ship in Sitka on Day 1 of the itinerary for the 12:00pm Noon boarding and 12:30pm casting off. To confirm the ship’s location, please call the harbor master at 907-747-3439. Guests are welcome to drop off luggage to the ship earlier in the day if needed. It is recommended to arrive at least a day prior to the cruise to allow for any airline delays. Plan flights to depart Petersburg no earlier than early afternoon on Day 8.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
There is a 50% single supplement for single travelers in a double cabin. Triple accommodation may be available, but cabin sizing is ideal for two travelers or the third traveler being a child. Please inquire with an AdventureSmith Specialist for discount pricing for the third person traveling.
Families & Children
Children should be at least 12 years old to enjoy this cruise. Travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whole-boat charters can accommodate younger guests.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Alaska's Western Passages: Petersburg to Sitka Itinerary
Petersburg, AlaskaSitka, Alaska
The 8-day Alaska’s Western Passages: Petersburg to Sitka cruise begins in Petersburg, Alaska, and travels northbound to end in Sitka, Alaska.
Westward will be moored in either Petersburg’s North or South Harbor. Please call 360-298-1661 to confirm the ship’s location. After coming aboard at 12:00pm Noon, drop the lines shortly after and travel south to Le Conte Bay. Le Conte glacier, at the head of the bay, is the southernmost saltwater calving glacier in North America. If ice conditions permit access, cruise all the way to within a quarter mile of the calving glacier face. Working through the ice flows anchor in Ideal Cove at about 5:00pm, which allows time to walk the boardwalk Ideal Lake trail, a roughly 2-mile round trip.
Travel through canyons and fjords, stopping at beautiful anchorages at Admiralty, Baranof and Kupreanof islands, observing bears, whales, eagles and more along the way. Enjoy opportunities to hike or kayak, accompanied by the onboard naturalist, and learn about the fauna and flora of the area. Each departure varies depending on the weather; some highlights may include:
Stephens Passage
As Westward sails through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for the whales’ tell-tale blows. Tonight’s anchorage is among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, where there’s time to launch the kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Warm Springs Bay
While Westward is anchored for a few hours, hike the trail up to the lake that feeds the magnificent waterfall that drops into the head of the bay. On the way back from the lake, stop and soak in the natural hot pools overlooking the head of the falls. After taking your fill of the restorative waters, return to Westward and resume the journey.
Freshwater Bay
Westward will be anchoring in a small cove in front of an estuary system that supports a large population of brown bears. During fish runs, bears congregate near the entrance of a fish ladder that allows returning salmon access to their spawning streams, bypassing the dam built decades ago to support logging operations. Explore the bay by kayak and then anchor your skiff in the stream at the foot of the falls where you may have an opportunity to watch and photograph brown bears sharing (not something bears often do) the bountiful returning salmon. From this stable base you can sit quietly, watch and photograph the gorging bears.
Baird, Le Conte & Dawes Glaciers
Each departure includes a visit to one or two glaciers. Each adventure is different, with possibilities to explore the newly foliated outwash plain exposed by Baird Glacier’s retreating ice, and/or cruise as close as a quarter mile of Le Conte’s or Dawes’ calving glacier face.
Sailing through waters frequented by humpback whales and orca, be on the lookout for their tell-tale blows. Finding your night’s anchorage among the small bays and inlets that indent Admiralty Island, launch your kayaks and search for brown bears foraging along the shore.
Hidden Falls Hatchery
Go ashore and tour the Hidden Falls Hatchery facility. When the salmon begin returning in late July, brown bears also visit the stream near the hatchery to re-stock their fat reserves for the coming winter. Moving on, the ship will reach Baranof Hot Springs before lunch, with plenty of time to hike to Baranof Lake (approximately 1 mile round-trip). A post-hike soak in the hot spring pools will help soothe sore feet. By mid-afternoon, Westward will depart Warm Springs Bay to once again cross Chatham Strait, this time rounding Admiralty Island’s southern tip and entering Stephens Passage. Anchorage tonight is in one of several deep bays that serrate Admiralty’s southeast shoreline, with time to launch the kayaks and poke along the edges of the cove.
From the last anchorage, it is only a couple of hours travel into Sitka, but the ship will still start right after breakfast so that there is plenty of time to visit several historic sites of significance here.
Included
Accommodations; excursions; entrance fees; leadership; crew; all meals indicated in itinerary; local guides and permits, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary.
Exclusions
The cost of air flights, unless otherwise indicated in the itinerary; airport taxes; passports; visas; immunizations; insurance of any kind; laundry; excess baggage; items of a personal nature; medical costs; costs of hospitalization; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to force majeure: including, without limitation, pandemic, act of God, governmental regulation or order, weather, political disputes, illness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of the total trip cost is required per person at the time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Cancellations are subject to the following per per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 151 days – 50% of deposit
150 to 90 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Alaska’s Western Passages Petersburg to Sitka cruise begins in Petersburg, Alaska (PSG) and ends in Sitka, Alaska (SIT). It is recommended to arrive at least a day prior to the cruise to allow for any airline delays. Plan to meet the ship in Petersburg on Day 1 of the itinerary for a 12:00pm Noon boarding and 12:30pm casting off. Please call the ship at 360-298-1661 to confirm its location. Guests are welcome to drop off luggage to the ship earlier in the day if needed. Plan flights to depart Sitka no earlier than 11:30am on Day 8, following the early morning disembarkation.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
There is a 50% single supplement for single travelers in a double cabin. Triple accommodation may be available, but cabin sizing is ideal for two travelers or the third traveler being a child. Please inquire with an AdventureSmith Specialist for discount pricing for the third person traveling.
Families & Children
Children should be at least 12 years old to enjoy this cruise. Travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whole-boat charters can accommodate younger guests.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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Westward is a historic 8-guest yacht that is "arguably Seattle’s most famous motor yacht," yet off the radar of most travelers making her a unique gem. She is listed with the US National Register of Historic Places and remains dependably powered by her original Atlas Imperial Diesel Engine. Westward's historical and adventurous spirit enriches the voyages of those who are lucky enough to cruise the waters of Alaska and Baja California with her.
Why Sail Aboard Westward
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Westward review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our small ship experts have been aboard the Westward firsthand. Please read our Westward review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Westward with other expedition ships and yachts offering Baja cruises, and small ship Alaska cruises.
Choose this small ship for a quiet, nature-based refuge from the world while experiencing in-depth exploration of Baja, or Alaska. Several factors make a voyage aboard the Westward unique including the historic nature of the yacht itself, the remarkably talented crew, the pace and depth of exploration, and the quiet calm of the yacht at anchor. Another key feature is the opening windows and portholes that allow guests to hear the sounds of leaping rays, breathing whales and bird song from the dawning shore. This connection with the natural world is a hallmark of cruising aboard the Westward, and what makes it rank among our top Alaska yacht charters.
Note that the Westward’s four cabins accommodate 8 guests, but that the yacht can accommodate more passengers (up to 11) for private charter cruises or families who want to share a cabin.
Common Areas Aboard Westward
Westward is a classic yacht that feels cozy with her wood paneling and intimate dining and lounge area. With wicker chairs, a large table and hot and cold beverage service station, the spacious covered back deck becomes a comfortable second, al fresco salon. This space is perfect for wildlife viewing, and each guest is provided a dedicated pair of binoculars. The main Salon features a fireplace from where Captain Bill is known to offer fireside chats and readings. Canopies can be hung to provide additional shade. In addition to the back deck’s hard cover, the Westward has a shade cloth over the foredeck and the side decks are also covered, keeping the vessel cool.
The Westward operates without air conditioning but she features opening portholes in each cabin. Her Baja season is scheduled during the coolest part of the year when the below deck cabins are cooled by the surrounding water. Without the constant hum of a generator running 24 hours a day, no air conditioning allows for guests to better take in the natural environment around them.
Westward History
Westward's history is part of what makes this ship so intriguing. The renowned Northwest naval architect L.E “Ted” Geary designed Westward. This small ship was built at the J.A. Martinolich Shipyard in Dockton, Washington and was modeled after a salmon cannery tender. She was launched in 1924 as the flagship of the Alaska Coast Hunting and Cruising Co. and pioneered hunting, fishing and adventure travel in the remote regions of Washington, British Columbia and Alaska. Westward served a noteworthy clientele of hunters and fishermen for nearly 20 years as well as distinguished guests such as Bing Crosby, Walt Disney, John Wayne, George Eastman, A.C. Gilbert, E.F. Hutton and Marjorie Merriweather Post, Paul Mellon, Richard K. Mellon, Hal Roach, Rudolph Schilling, Dean Witter and numerous other VIP’s of the era.
During World War II, Westward served as a patrol boat off the California coast before returning to the Pacific Northwest where she operated another 20 years, as both private yacht and charter vessel. She even sailed 47,000 miles, circumnavigating the globe from 1970 to 1976.
Pacific Catalyst II Inc purchased Westward for use in their adventure travel business. She is now ported in Friday Harbor, Washington, alongside the M/V Catalyst. Westward remains dependably powered by her original Atlas Imperial Diesel Engine and has benefited from continuous upgrades to her engine, systems, structure and accommodations. She is listed with the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
Dining Aboard Westward
The philosophy on board the Westward is that delicious cuisine enables the sense of community on the boat, nourishing the guests (and crew) along with the beauty of the landscape, the activities of the day and the pleasure of one another’s company and life stories. Meals are prepared from fresh, natural ingredients, including produce that is purchased from local Baja, Pacific Northwest and Alaska vendors and fishermen. The chef avoids processed foods when possible, substituting with organic, fresh ingredients. In this way the Westward supports local communities, embracing the idea of eating locally and using green practices whenever possible. An added bonus is a rooftop garden providing fresh greens for meals aboard the Westward.
Activities Aboard Westward
The Westward is a perfect base for exploration with daily off-vessel activities offered. Six double sea kayaks and three single sea kayaks are enough for the entire complement of passengers. The Westward carries an aluminum skiff and an inflatable utility boat to explore glaciers and islands up close and to ferry guests ashore. The Westward also holds necessary permits to visit marine sanctuaries and parks in Alaska and the Sea of Cortez.
Crew & Guides Aboard the Westward
The goal of Westward's knowledgeable and experienced crew is to create a safe, reliable and marvelous trip for their wide-range of guests. The diversely talented crew all come from rich and various life experiences and work hard to create a comfortable, fun and warm atmosphere.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Westward
All cabins are outfitted with one double bunk (4’6″ wide x 6’8″ long) and one single bunk (2’6″ wide x 6’6″ long), a settee, sink, toilet and shower. Each cabin has three portholes that may be opened by hand and a portable, battery-powered fan.
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