Sea Star Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise
Board the 8- to 12-guest classic yacht Sea Star for an unforgettable 5- or 7-day Kenai Fjords National Park cruise. Travel round-trip from Anchorage to embark and disembark the ship via the renowned Alaska Railroad. Crackling ice, pristine air, vivid blues and grays, and ancient carved glacial rocks all tantalize the senses in this constantly changing environment.
Cruise round-trip from Seward to spend 5-7 days in the magnificent Kenai Fjords National Park and Kenai Peninsula. Explore the wilds of this remote environment full of towering ice-covered peaks, an abundance of glaciers and stunning wilderness settings.
With no set itinerary, cruise into dramatic fjords shaped by ancient ice and anchor each night in remote, peaceful coves. Surrounded by an array of wildlife, enjoy activities such as sea kayaking, hiking and beach walking. Or simply relax, read a book and enjoy delicious epicurean meals. This is truly an explorer’s dream and a journey of a lifetime.
Passage is aboard the 8- to 12-guest Sea Star, a 1960s-era yacht kept in mint condition. Step back in time aboard this lovingly maintained ship and immerse in her private yacht feel during this intimate Kenai fjords National Park cruise. Teak wooden accents, cozy accommodations, delicious food and a dedicated crew add to the experience. Our Adventure Specialists can also arrange private Alaska yacht charters aboard Sea Star for your family or special group of 12 or fewer. With a shorter itinerary and child discounts, this trip makes our list of Alaska family cruises.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska trips and Alaska small ship cruises.
Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise Itinerary
The Sea Star Kenai Fjords National Park cruise embarks and disembarks in Seward, Alaska, and begins and ends with an Alaska Railroad train ride, connecting Seward and Anchorage. Enjoy 5-7 days of spectacular Alaska sightseeing, in a less-trafficked area full of fjords, glaciers and whales.
After a scenic and exhilarating Alaska Railroad train ride from Anchorage to Seward, ranked as one of the top 10 train rides in North America by National Geographic Traveler, be greeted by the ship’s crew to help take bags for the short walk to the Sea Star yacht.
The yacht’s lines are then dropped and she’ll make her way toward the Kenai Fjords National Park, through Resurrection Bay and into Eldorado Narrows. Here, witness beautiful ice-capped peaks, sea caves, humpback whales, sea otters, nesting sea birds, Dall and harbor porpoises, orcas and grey whales. Watch barking sea lions bask in the sun atop the pillow lava ledges. Pass by Cape Resurrection to look for grazing mountain goats and thousands of marine birds including pigeon guillemots, cormorants, murres and black-legged kittiwakes.
Cruise into dramatic Kenai Fjords National Park, shaped by ancient ice. Visit the glacial fjord Aialik Bay with its diverse shore and visit two or three major glaciers. Valleys, high mountain peaks and pleasant lagoons make a scenic backdrop. Observe sculpted rock arches and beautiful cascading waterfalls. Maneuver around floating icebergs with lounging harbor seals.
Pass by the Chiswell and Harbor Islands, an Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, for premier viewing of the largest seabird concentration on the Kenai Peninsula including thousands of horned and tufted puffins nesting in 500-foot tall sea stacks. A vast population of Steller sea lions inhabit the rock ledges.
Pass through the narrow and scenic Granite Passage. Witness the roar and loud echo of the calving Northwestern Glacier as brilliant blue glass icebergs float gently around the yacht. Crackling ice, pristine air, vivid blues and grays, and ancient carved glacial rocks all tantalize the senses. McCarty Peninsula, Nuka Bay and Taz Basin are other remarkable and remote areas on the ship’s route. Watch for gorgeous humpback whales and orcas on this spectacular Alaska sightseeing cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park.
Arrive back in Seward during the last day of this Kenai fjords National Park cruise. Enjoy free time prior to an evening train departure, to take a stroll through the historic downtown of Seward and check out local handmade gifts and Native art or even tour the Alaska Sealife Center. Board the train for a scenic ride back to Anchorage, where the trip comes to an end.
Included
Adventure Class round-trip train ticket between Anchorage and the port of call to embark and disembark the ship (Gold Star Service upgrade available for $240 per person in 2026); all meals, snacks, beverages including wine and/or beer served with dinner; all bedding and linens; all guided activities including sea kayaking and shore excursions; all equipment including sea kayaking gear, hiking poles and binoculars; rubber boots used during land excursions.
Exclusions
Lodging in Anchorage; hard liquor; recreational fishing licenses; gratuities; airfare unless specified; airport and other travel taxes and/or fees; airport transfers; fees for possible required COVID-19 testing prior to entry into Alaska (Alaska Safe Travels: https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers) or in any other state or country; baggage fees; failure of any transportation system; travel, medical or insurance of any kind; passports and visa fees; medical costs; illness and/or hospitalization costs; immunizations; purchase or loss of personal items; additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a cruise due to weather or any third party services; political disputes; or any other causes or conditions beyond operator’s control; float plane transfer to/from the vessel Sea Star due to late arrival or early departure.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 50% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date or by March 1 of the same year, whichever date comes first. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 181 days – full refund
181 to 91 days (or before March 1 of cruise year) – 20% of total trip cost cancellation fee + 3rd party costs
90 to 0 days (or on/after March 1 of cruise year) – 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 Sea Star Kenai Fjords National Park cruise begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan flights to arrive to Anchorage prior to Day 1 of the itinerary, as the train ride on Day 1 begins early. Plan to depart Anchorage anytime after the final day of the itinerary, as the return train ride arrives late in the evening. Additional time in Seward on either side of the cruise can be accommodated.
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, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, photography, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
Single travelers wishing to book the Sandpiper, Kittiwake or Osprey cabins may do so at 1.5x the per-person listed rate based upon availability.
Families & Children
Kids 10 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates. Children of any age are welcome aboard full boat charters. A parent or a legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18. Save 20% per child aged 10 to 17.
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/expedition leader’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising and land tours unique.
This Kenai Fjords National Park cruise travels in open ocean waters at times. Travelers prone to seasickness are encouraged to bring over-the-counter seasickness pills or a prescription patch. The Sea Star’s stabilizers assist with excessive rolling in the swells and sea chop should these conditions occur. Learn more about how to prevent and treat seasickness on cruises.
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The 8- to 12-guest Sea Star is a classic yacht cruising Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound and Inside Passage. Built in 1965 and lovingly maintained, Sea Star offers a step back in time with modern comforts and safety. Her slower cruising speed, beautiful teak decks, inviting salons and dedicated crew invite guests to experience Alaska with the feel of a private yacht. Twin Caterpillar diesel engines propel the Sea Star at a casual pace, perfect for taking in wildlife, while ocean-voyaging stabilizers ensure a smooth ride. Sea Star effortlessly navigates Alaska's numerous passageways, channels and inlets due to her small size. And guests enjoy peaceful nights tucked into small coves with the generator turned off.
Sea Star Ship Review
The following Sea Star review includes a detailed description of this classic Alaska small ship including a photo gallery. Our expedition ship experts have been aboard nearly every first-class vessel in Alaska. Find the detailed ship description below. Then contact our experts to compare the Sea Star with other ships offering Alaska small ship cruises and private Alaska yacht charters.
Choose the Sea Star for her classic yacht feel, ample space across two decks, covered walkways and large open bow area—ideal for wildlife spotting. With a slower pace and maintained 1960s charm, Sea Star treats her guests to a private experience of Alaska's amazing coastlines. And with only four cabins, the Sea Star Alaska yacht is an ideal option for families, small groups, or travelers who simply want an intimate experience cruising Southcentral and Southeast Alaska.
Sea Star Yacht History
The Sea Star was built in 1965 by the Burger Boat Company in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. Designer J.B. Hargrave of West Palm Beach designed this classic small ship to be a luxury pleasure craft for the rich and famous. The yacht was initially named Aquarius under her first owners Mr. and Mrs. Jon Dimmick, and featured in Motor Boating Magazine. She was the largest all-welded aluminum yacht of her time and has been maintained to mint condition ever since.
Onboard Facilities
The Sea Star classic yacht stretches from bow to stern, offering numerous social areas for guests to relax. Covered walkways offer protection for the elements, while a large uncovered bow area, complete with a large settee, invites travelers to feel the wind in their hair or partake in group activities such as on-deck yoga classes. A roomy pilot house, open to guest visits, mixes modern navigation technology with classic wooden stylings and wraparound windows with a commanding view to what lies ahead.
Dining & Lounges
At ship center is the main salon living area, with wide viewing windows, engaging games, and community-minded, comfortable seating enough for the full complement of travelers. At the stern of Sea Star, the large dining salon offers a delightful setting for daily meals, as well as an always-open water, coffee and tea station.
Additionally, the wet bar with sink and refrigerator is kept stocked with cold beverages. The menu features a selection of quality meats and Alaskan seafood, fresh vegetables and herbs (organic when possible), delicious pastries, fine wines and beer. Special dietary needs can be accommodated.
Wraparound view windows keep the outdoors at top of mind during meals or casual refreshments. And a classic mix of white beadboard and teak wooden furniture and accents adds to the classic 1965 charm of this yacht. A large cushioned settee acts as a resting place while a large wooden dining table and chairs invites all on board to sit and enjoy each delicious gourmet meal.
Activities & Expeditions
Every Sea Star departure comes with off-ship explorations of Alaska's astounding wilderness. Guests are treated to shore hikes, sea kayaking, exploration by rigid inflatable boats, and countless opportunities for photography. Whale watching, glacier viewing and naturalist presentations on board are also a highlight of any cruise aboard Sea Star.
Sea Star carries four tandem kayaks and one solo guide kayak. The ship's two tenders are rigid inflatable boats, one 10-foot and one 17-foot; the larger boat carries 9 passengers at a time on excursions. Rubber boots are provided to each guest and binoculars on board enhance opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Crew & Guide
The Sea Star yacht is crewed by a small group of enthusiastic mariners. Her experienced captain has been piloting ships for many years, and doubles as the ship's electrician and engineer, ensuring a safe and smooth cruise. The first mate also acts as the ship's naturalist guide, with years of Navy training and accreditation as a Wilderness First Responder and Alaska Certified Expert. A second mate joins the crew on Sea Star's Inside Passage departures, adding another hand towards navigation and engine maintenance. Finally, the Sea Star classic Alaska yacht is also crewed by a talented chef and a dedicated deckhand.
Sea Star Cabins
The Sea Star yacht offers four guest cabins, each unique. Common to each cabin is its own private bathroom (with separate toilet and either tub or shower), screened porthole windows that open, drawers and cabinets ready to hold clothing and luggage, and fine linens, pillows and towels. Find our detailed cabin info below and ask our experts for cabin recommendations.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Step back in time aboard the classic Sea Star, a 1965-built private yacht that treats her guests to itineraries along Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound and Inside Passage.
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