We had started plans for this adventure a full year in advance. We were first timers for our National Geographic expedition, so there was a steep learning curve researching this adventure. We determined that a small vessel was more of what we were looking for. We ended up going with Lindblad/National Geographic, who teamed up a few years back. We had a terrific time - not one thing to complain about with our expedition. Excellent ship, crew, food, service - it all exceeded our expectations. Early in the day, we were transported on zodiacs to small islands to hike and kayak. There were always three levels of hiking to accommodate everyone, aerobic, moderate and casual hikes. Later in the day, we often were taken out on zodiacs for special adventures. And LOTS of education - 10 naturalists on a ship of 100 guests. And many of the naturalists had advanced degrees. Add the beauty of Alaska's Inside Passage and you understand why it is such a popular tourist destination.
To stretch out the trip a little beyond the expedition, we tacked on extra days in Sitka, where our expedition originated, and extras days in Juneau where we ended our expedition. We loved both cities, lots to do a see, and we agree that we could easily visit Sitka again.
Locals in both Sitka and Juneau were so very kind. One cafe owner called her friend to transport us to the Mendenhall glacier, when she heard all the taxis were not available. In Sitka, Lolly, at the rapture center (who I was in touch with in preparing for our trip), invited us to a bear sanctuary as her guests. We both felt at home there, Alaskans have the hearts of the people we grew up with, farmers!
Come along as we relish memories from this expedition to Alaska's Inside Passage.
https://www.expeditions.com/destinations/alaska
