Great Alaskan Explorer

Selected departures from April to October 2023

Departure Date: 07 May 2023

Depart Vancouver on a wild 14-day roundtrip Alaska cruise. Bear-watch on Kodiak Island; reel in salmon in Valdez; stop in Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan; scenic cruise the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay.

Alaska’s Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways that wind through glacier-cut fjords and lush temperate rain forests along the rugged coast of Southeast Alaska. Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orca plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline.

Kodiak is all about bears. And what bears! This unique subspecies named for the Kodiak Archipelago where they are found evolved in isolation for around 12,000 years and can reach heights of 3 meters, or 10 feet, when standing on their hind legs. One of the world’s largest carnivores, the bears have a diet that goes far beyond meat (they can sleep for up to eight months, then wake up ravenous to feast predominantly on grass, plants, berries and fish). About 3,500 live on this tiny island, meaning you have a great chance of seeing one, if not many, from May through October!

Although the wildlife is reason alone to cruise to Anchorage Alaska, the culture of the city itself is worth exploring. Almost half of the state’s residents live in Anchorage, a population that largely comprises military members, Alaska Natives, adventurous transplants from the “lower 48,” and oil industry workers. Coffee and espresso huts dot every corner and fresh halibut, smoked salmon and reindeer dogs are among the local eats.

Prince Rupert is a charming port on the secluded Kaien Island in British Columbia. Passengers on cruises to Prince Rupert will find a close-knit community nestled among jaw-dropping scenery. Vast forest, wide rivers and abundant wildlife make this port an unexpected favorite. Far from other more bustling B.C. cities, it is a gateway to pristine hiking and paddling spots. Butze Rapids Park and Trail is an easy to moderate trail that winds through temperate rain forest with excellent water views. Outdoor and nature activities are just the beginning. The area is known for a large population of bears and other wildlife. 

Vancouver, Scenic Cruising Inside Passage, Kodiak, Anchorage, Valdez, Cruising Glacier Bay, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, Vancouver

Your Ship: Nieuw Amsterdam

The second of our Signature-class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam celebrates historic New York City with its inspired design and an art collection valued at more than $3 million. While on board enjoy regional cooking demonstrations and food and wine tastings with EXC Port to Table programming. Dine in your choice of specialty restaurants. Or rejuvenate in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon

Vancouver, Scenic Cruising Inside Passage, Kodiak, Anchorage, Valdez, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, Vancouver

All fares are displayed in Australian Dollars and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.