Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
This active, 6-day adventure aboard 62-guest sister ships National Geographic Sea Bird and Sea Lion is an ideal Alaska small ship cruise that explores remote and narrow inlets and channels. Get up close to see Alaska's wildlife and breathtaking beauty.
Voyaging through Southeast Alaska on the Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan itinerary is an unrivaled experience. The 62-guest National Geographic Sea Bird and Sea Lion sister ships maximize adept maneuverability to discover an authentic Alaska unreachable by large cruise ships. Spend time navigating narrow channels like Behm and Blake, Walker Cove in Misty Fiords, Eastern Passage and Wrangell Narrows. Adventure via Zodiac to explore places like Hole in The Wall State Marine Park on Prince of Wales Island, and drop kayaks into salmon-studded waters to trace the rugged, wildlife-rich shorelines of Kupreanof and Kuiu Islands.
Throughout your travels, encounter abundant and varied wildlife. Take advantage of a sighting of a pod of killer whales or linger on shore to watch a brown bear sow and her cubs forage. See humpback whales, brown bears and bald eagles—the iconic wildlife of Southeast Alaska. Search for whales in the wildlife-rich channels between islands and sure-footed mountain goats in steep fjords. This wildlife-packed adventure within a shorter itinerary makes this trip an ideal option within our Alaska family cruises.
Explore with the top-level guidance of the expedition leader, five veteran naturalists, including a National Geographic certified photo instructor, plus a wellness specialist—the largest and most knowledgeable expedition team in Alaska. Their knowledge and passion for Alaska is the key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Experience the surprisingly colorful life below water through video shot by the undersea specialist. Benefit from the team’s expertise—marine and terrestrial biology, botany, geology and more—and benefit from their passion to share the wonder of this incredible place. Enjoy their company throughout the voyage; you’ll find them highly engaging and fun to share a drink or dinner with, as well as a hike.
This itinerary offers you a choice of directions—embark from Ketchikan to travel north to Juneau; or head south from Juneau to Ketchikan. Elect to combine the experience with the Alaska Escape: Sitka to Juneau to double the sights, wildlife spotting and wildness.
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.
Southbound Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords Itinerary
The southbound 6-day Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords cruise begins in Juneau and ends in Ketchikan.
Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, in the early afternoon and embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew. One of only two U.S. capital cities not accessible by cars, it lies at the base of the picturesque Mt. Roberts.
Today explore either LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm. These areas feature some of the most active glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Icebergs regularly break off from glaciers, getting caught in shallow moraines and along the shorelines as they float out of the bay. Your experienced captain will evaluate the underwater morraine outside of LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, where you’ll set out by Zodiac to navigate among these surreal floating sculptures. Take advantage of spectacular photographic opportunities, practicing tricks and tips from your certified photo instructor.
Navigate the stunning Wrangell Narrows, an area inaccessible to larger ships, and then cruise into the Sumner Strait, keeping watch for humpback whales surfacing and sea otters gliding through the clear water around the ship. Explore the coast by kayak or expedition landing craft and go ashore to trace bear trails through forests intersected by crystalline salmon streams while learning about the rainforest ecosystem from the naturalists. Fix those binoculars on the banks to spot Sitka black-tailed deer and moose, as well as black bears, wolves and bald eagles that frequent the shoreline in search of plentiful salmon.
This morning arrive in the small town of Wrangell. The Tlingit and their ancestors have made this island their home for thousands of years. Take an optional jet boat excursion up the Stikine River or explore town, including a visit to Chief Shakes Tribal House and the Petroglyph Beach, home to the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska. This afternoon cruise Eastern Passage and Blake Channel, narrow waterways on the backside of Wrangell island where other ships rarely venture.
On select departures (typically late season), choose an optional day trip to Anan Creek Bear Observatory to witness black and brown bears feasting on salmon runs (additional $390 per person in 2026; bookable on board). Speak with your Adventure Specialist for details.
Wake up this morning to catch the sunrise over the stunning cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument, rising more than 2,000 feet above the deep blue waters of the fjord. Watch wisps of cloud drift down the winding waterway and drape over green peaks as the ship cruises through the mists that give this extraordinary landscape its name. Set out by expedition landing craft and kayak to get close to the forested banks and the many dramatic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.
Arrive in Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of sylvan slopes on Revillagigedo Island. Its many monikers, from “salmon capital of the world” to “rain capital of Alaska,” capture the spirit of this city, famous for colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Enjoy breakfast aboard ship before disembarking and transferring to the airport for flights home.
Included
Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
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 southbound Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan cruise begins in Juneau, Alaska (JNU) and ends in Ketchikan, Alaska (KTN). Plan flights to arrive to Juneau by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 6 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Ketchikan no earlier than 10:30am on the final day.
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, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
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.
Northbound Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords Itinerary
The northbound 6-day Alaska Escape: LeConte Bay, Wrangell & The Misty Fjords cruise begins in Ketchikan and ends in Juneau.
Arrive at Ketchikan, the southeasternmost city in Alaska, spread at the base of forested slopes on Revillagigedo Island. Its many monikers, from salmon capital of the world to rain capital of Alaska, capture the spirit of this city, famous for its colorful buildings and abundant fishing boats and canneries. Embark the ship in time for cocktails and an introduction of the vessel staff and crew.
Wake up this morning to catch the sunrise over the stunning cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument, rising more than 2,000 feet above the deep blue waters of the fjord. Watch wisps of cloud drift down the winding waterway and drape over green peaks as the ship cruises through the mists that give this extraordinary landscape its name. Set out by expedition landing craft and kayak to get close to the forested banks and the many dramatic waterfalls cascading down the cliffs.
This morning arrive in the small town of Wrangell. The Tlingit and their ancestors have made this island their home for thousands of years. Take an optional jet boat excursion up the Stikine River or explore town, including a visit to Chief Shakes Tribal House and the Petroglyph Beach, home to the highest concentration of petroglyphs in Southeast Alaska. This afternoon cruise Eastern Passage and Blake Channel, narrow waterways on the backside of Wrangell island where other ships rarely venture.
On select departures (typically late season), choose an optional day trip to Anan Creek Bear Observatory to witness black and brown bears feasting on salmon runs (additional $390 per person in 2026; bookable on board). Speak with your Adventure Specialist for details.
Navigate the stunning Wrangell Narrows, an area inaccessible to larger ships, and then cruise into the Sumner Strait, keeping watch for humpback whales surfacing and sea otters gliding through the clear water around our ship. Explore the coast by kayak or expedition landing craft and go ashore to trace bear trails through forests intersected by crystalline salmon streams and learn about the rain forest ecosystem from naturalist guides. Fix binoculars on the banks to spot Sitka black-tailed deer and moose, as well as black bears, wolves and bald eagles that frequent the shoreline in search of plentiful salmon.
Today we explore either LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm. These areas feature some of the most active glaciers in Southeast Alaska. Icebergs regularly break off from glaciers, getting caught in shallow moraines and along the shorelines as they float out of the bay. Your experienced captain will evaluate the underwater moraine outside of LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, where you’ll set out by Zodiac to navigate among these surreal floating sculptures. Take advantage of spectacular photographic opportunities, practicing tricks and tips from your certified photo instructor.
Arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, situated on the banks of the Gastineau Channel at the base of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts. Enjoy breakfast aboard ship. Then, disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Included
Accommodations aboard ship; all meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expedition leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; park and entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.
Exclusions
Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.
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 northbound Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan cruise begins in Ketchikan Alaska (KTN) and ends in Juneau, Alaska (JNU). Plan flights to arrive to Ketchikan by 3:00pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation is after breakfast on Day 6 of the outlined itinerary. Plan flights to depart Juneau no earlier than 10:30am on the final day.
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, morning yoga and stretching, land treks, glacier viewing, whale watching and wildlife observation.
Room Configuration
In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.
Families & Children
Skilled staff members are trained in organizing activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options. See the Deals section of this trip for any applicable child discounts.
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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National Geographic Sea Bird, a twin expedition ship to the National Geographic Sea Lion, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to her small size and shallow draft, all while comfortably accommodating 62 guests in 31 cabins. The feeling is often compared to that of a large private yacht, with everyone integral to the adventure. In fact, National Geographic writer Andrew Evans called the vessel the “closest thing to Cousteau’s Calypso” he’s ever had the pleasure to be on.
National Geographic Sea Bird Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ National Geographic Sea Bird review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our National Geographic Sea Bird review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the National Geographic Sea Bird with other small cruise ships and yachts offering Baja cruises, , U.S. cruises, Canada small ship cruises, Pacific Northwest small ship cruises and Alaska small ship cruises.
Choose the National Geographic Sea Bird for active and inquisitive travels with immersion in nature and wildlife. The experts and equipment on board provide excellent intellectual and educational experiences. The Sea Bird is an ideal platform for exploration of remote and rarely seen places. Her captain and crew have decades of sailing experience and know where to find breaching whales, bow-riding dolphins and alluring coves. The probable presence of National Geographic explorers, photographers, writers, scientists and other experts gives guests unequaled opportunities to expand their knowledge. In addition, connection among travelers is also a focus, as National Geographic Sea Bird’s inviting public spaces foster a sense of shipboard life where everyone is integral to the adventure, engendering a sense of expedition community.
Common Areas & Amenities Aboard Nat Geo Sea Bird
The large open bow on the Upper Deck, which holds all guests at once, provides ample opportunities for experiencing the wildlife and scenery. The Bridge Deck offers a sun deck with tables, chairs, exercise equipment and partial shade as well as the bridge, which is often open to visitors, providing the captain's view.
Indoors, an open lounge features a full bar and space for films, slideshows and lectures; a reference library and global market. During this event, the market displays the talent of local artisans. Items may include silver jewelry crafted in Alaska, handmade dolls from Baja, paintings and books by the naturalist staff, plus expedition clothing and other essentials. Every item purchased in the global market contributes to an artisan fund, which supports artisans in communities around the world to develop their potential more successfully.
Internet access (one device at a time) is available on board via three tiers: time-limited complimentary "basic" internet, for app messaging, email and simple social media; time-limited "enhanced" internet, adding general web browsing and video conferencing capabilities; and "premium" internet, for unlimited access to all features under the "enhanced" plan. The satellite-based WiFi may not always be accessible in remote areas or extreme weather.
Dining Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
Onboard chefs prepare fresh, delicious dishes from local ingredients. Meals are served in the dining room in an unhurried, open seating with views through panoramic windows. Breakfast is a buffet with a wide selection of options, lunch is often served family style and dinners are most commonly plated. Reusable bottles for water are in each cabin when guests arrive. The bar is typically open in the mid-morning and evening. A variety of beverages are available for purchase including wine by the glass or bottle, cocktails, specialty drinks and spirits. There is also a 24-hour self-service beverage station with coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, ice and snacks.
Activities Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
One- or two-person kayaks are available for explorations. A sturdy fleet of Zodiacs accommodate quick, safe and versatile off-ship adventures.
This ship offers a wide range of cameras that record wildlife along the way. A bow camera, video microscope and underwater camera all stream footage to TVs in the lounge and staterooms; a hydrophone provides a soundtrack to the imagery; all offer multiple ways to interact with the wildlife. The ship is also equipped with a Splash-Cam for easy deployment by naturalists to show the spectacular world beneath the surface. An iMac station is available in the ship’s lounge for editing and sorting photos, equipped with a digital media reader and USB outlets. A full-time certified photo instructor and video chronicler are aboard.
A variety of wellness treatments are available on board, as well as activities led by the wellness specialist. Morning stretch classes are held in the open air of the sun deck, with yoga mats available. Exercise bands and sets of small hand weights are also available for use. Massages, body treatments, natural facial treatments and hand and foot treatments are all on offer at the spa. Signup opportunities for treatments occur once on board.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird
All of National Geographic Sea Bird’s 31 cabins are outside facing with one or two windows and two lower beds (some configurable). Rooms are comfortable and clean with organic cotton duvets and crisp cotton sheeting. Every cabin has Wi-Fi access for purchase and temperature controls, and is stocked with botanically-inspired hair products, soap and shower gel, plus a hairdryer. Beneath every bed is space to store luggage, and each cabin has one or two closets plus drawers under the beds. A speaker in each cabin is optionally tuned to the microphone in the ship’s lounge. Laundry is available for an additional fee.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ships on Your Itinerary
National Geographic Sea Bird offers special features including a hydrophone and Splash-Cam. Onboard experts from National Geographic make this ship and its twin sister, the Sea Lion, an extra special experience.
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Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise
Choose from a variety of other AdventureSmith Alaska trips to extend your journey, combine cruise itineraries, or opt for a pre-cruise extension with your fellow passengers on this cruise.
Combine this cruise with the Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau for an 11-day Alaska cruise that travels between Sitka and Ketchikan with no repeated landing sites. Inquire with an Adventure Specialist for details.
A pre- or post-cruise 7-day extension to Denali is also offered in conjunction with this cruise. From the Grand Denali Lodge, explore the park via a tundra wilderness and wildlife tour; river-rafting on the Nenana River; pup-cuddling at a sled dog training facility; or an optional flightseeing tour. Call for pricing.
You may also wish to consider one of AdventureSmith Explorations’ more affordable independent tours: Denali Backcountry Explorer or Camp Denali Adventure. Our Alaska experts will help you customize your Alaska adventure, call today.
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