SITKA: PRIVATE WILDLIFE PHOTO-SAFARI & BEACHCOMBING CRUISE

Sitka, a picturesque Alaskan town, beckons adventurers to explore its stunning natural wonders. Join a private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise that promises to immerse you in the breathtaking landscapes of Sitka Sound and Baranof Island. Led by an experienced captain, this excursion offers the chance to witness humpback whales, sea otters, and other diverse marine life up close. But the true allure lies in the opportunity to step ashore, comb remote beaches, and uncover nature’s hidden treasures.

Key Points

• Explore Sitka Sound, Baranof Island, and St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge on a 3.5-hour private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise.
• Enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including humpback whales, sea otters, and diverse seabirds.
• Step ashore on a remote island for beachcombing and exploring tide pools with vibrant marine life.
• Customize the experience based on group needs and preferences, with a seasoned captain providing local knowledge.
• Take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

This 3.5-hour private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise offers a personalized experience tailored to the group’s needs and preferences.

Priced from £1,305.77 per group of up to 6 people, the tour is available from April through September with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The cruise explores Sitka Sound, Baranof Island, and the St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, providing opportunities to view humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, porpoises, and seals, as well as beachcomb on a remote island.

Personalized Experience and Highlights

The personalized nature of the tour allows guests to tailor the experience to their specific needs and preferences.

Highlights include:

1. Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, from majestic humpback whales to playful sea otters, puffins, sea lions, porpoises, and seals.

2. The chance to step ashore on a remote island for beachcombing and exploring the tide pools teeming with marine life.

3. A circumnavigation of the St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, home to nearly half-a-million nesting seabirds, offering an unparalleled bird-watching experience.

The scenic vistas of Sitka Sound, Baranof Island, and the iconic Mount Edgecumbe provide a breathtaking backdrop to this unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Opportunities for Wildlife Viewing

Embarking on this private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise, guests can expect exceptional opportunities to observe a diverse array of marine life. Humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, porpoises, and seals may grace the waters and shores.

The tour circumnavigates the St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, home to nearly half-a-million nesting seabirds. For birdwatchers, this is a prime destination to spot a variety of species.

Beyond the abundant wildlife, the scenic views of Sitka Sound, Baranof Island, and Mount Edgecumbe provide a stunning natural backdrop to this intimate exploration of the Alaskan coastline.

Beachcombing and Exploring Tidepools

One highlight of the private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise is the opportunity to step ashore on a remote island.

Here, guests can explore the tide pools and search for unique seashells, stones, and other natural treasures. The experience offers a chance to:

1. Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of sea anemones, starfish, and other intertidal creatures.

2. Carefully lift rocks to discover tiny crabs, mollusks, and other hidden marine life.

3. Collect one-of-a-kind souvenirs, such as smooth beach glass, iridescent abalone shells, or unusual pebbles.

This hands-on exploration allows visitors to enjoy the natural wonder of Sitka’s coastline.

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Circumnavigation of St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge

As the boat circumnavigates St Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, guests are treated to a spectacle of nearly half-a-million nesting seabirds.

Puffins, kittiwakes, and murres dart across the sky, diving into the crystal-clear waters. The cacophony of their cries fills the air, creating a symphony of nature.

On the rocky cliffs, birds perch, nesting and tending to their young. Guests can spot seals and sea lions lounging on the shoreline, while whales and porpoises breach in the distance.

It’s a wildlife-lover’s dream, a rare glimpse into the vibrant ecosystem of this protected refuge.

Scenic Views of Sitka Sound, Baranof Island, and Mount Edgecumbe

The private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise offers guests stunning panoramic views of Sitka Sound, the mountainous Baranof Island, and the iconic Mount Edgecumbe.

The pristine natural landscape is a feast for the senses:

1. Gaze upon the rugged, snow-capped peaks of Baranof Island, a dramatic coastal mountain range carpeted in evergreen forests.

2. Admire the symmetrical, volcanic cone of Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant stratovolcano that dominates the horizon.

3. Soak in the serene beauty of Sitka Sound, a protected marine environment teeming with marine life.

This scenic journey provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the breathtaking coastal wilderness of southeastern Alaska.

Captain and Boat Information

Captain Alec Andrews brings 38 years of experience leading wildlife sightseeing cruises in the Sitka Sound.

Aboard the nimble boat, The Peregrine, he expertly navigates the scenic waterways. Designed for exploring, the vessel is ideally suited to access remote islands and inlets within the Sitka Sound.

Andrews keeps passengers safe, modifying or cancelling tours if sea conditions become unsafe. With deep local knowledge, he skillfully positions the boat to offer the best opportunities for spotting humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, sea lions, porpoises, and seals.

Andrews’ expertise and the tour boat’s capabilities ensure an immersive wildlife and scenic experience.

Inclusions, Amenities, and Important Information

The tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience. Binoculars, area charts, and wildlife field guides are provided. Guests can enjoy a selection of sweet and savory snacks, as well as coffee, tea, cocoa, iced sodas, juices, and bottled water.

To ensure a smooth experience, the meeting location is the Pavilion next to the Sitka Visitor Center, just 100 yards from the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. Guests should arrive 15 minutes before the tour starts, and the captain will provide identification via text.

Personal medication is the only item guests need to bring. Smoking, intoxication, alcohol, and drugs are strictly prohibited.

The Sum Up

Sitka’s private wildlife photo-safari and beachcombing cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s natural beauty. Led by an experienced captain, this tour promises unforgettable encounters with diverse marine life, stunning landscapes, and the chance to discover unique treasures along the shoreline. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a breathtaking adventure, this cruise is a must-do when visiting Sitka.

You can check availability for your dates here: