In the competitive world of travel and cruising, companies constantly seek a "point of difference" to stand out. For Seabourn, this distinction lies in its Alaska itineraries, which venture beyond the well-trodden paths to uncover lesser-visited spots along the majestic Inside Passage.
Small Ships, Big Adventures
Seabourn operates its vessels, the Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Encore, with a capacity of up to 458 guests. This smaller scale is not just a detail—it's the cornerstone of their Alaskan offering. A Seabourn spokesperson emphasises, "Small ship sailing is the key to getting the most of its magnificent sights." By avoiding the crowded ports of Juneau and Skagway, these ships can navigate to more intimate, remote destinations, offering a personalised and immersive experience.
The company highlights six unique Alaskan destinations that promise unforgettable, life-expanding moments, creating memories to last a lifetime. Here’s a closer look at these hidden gems.
Wrangell: A Frontier Town with Ancient History
Nestled within the Tongass National Rain Forest on one of the thousands of islands in the Alexander Archipelago, Wrangell embodies the spirit of an Alaskan frontier town. Visitors can explore the Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site and Totem Park, home to 40 ancient petroglyphs carved by the Tlingit people millennia ago. Additional attractions include the Stikine River, Shakes Glacier, and the Anan Creek Bear Observatory, where the largest pink salmon run in the Inside Passage attracts bears feasting on the upstream-jumping fish. Cruises often include a visit to Endicott Arm, a stunning 48-kilometre-long fjord.
Misty Fjords: A Kayaker's Paradise
Located in the extreme south-eastern Panhandle region, Misty Fjords National Monument is part of the Tongass National Forest. This area features dramatic fjords and mountains soaring up to 1000 metres above sea level, making it an ideal spot for kayaking amidst breathtaking scenery.
Rudyerd Bay: A Rain-Soaked Wilderness
As a "deglaciated fjord" within Misty Fjords National Monument, Rudyerd Bay boasts granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. With over 3800 millimetres of annual rainfall, it's a lush habitat for coastal wolves, mountain goats, and bears. Wildlife enthusiasts have a high chance of spotting orca and humpback whales, sea lions, and Dall’s porpoises in these rich waters.
Klawock: Tlingit Culture and Carving
This Tlingit village, situated midway along the western coast of Prince of Wales Island—the fourth largest island in the United States—offers a wilderness expanse of about 6500 square kilometres. The Seabourn spokesperson describes the approach: "Sailing into one of the two fjord entrances to the village, you are treated to incredibly scenic views of jagged mountains and lush islands." Here, visitors can admire 21 masterfully carved totem poles in one of Alaska’s most impressive totem parks, perched on a hill overlooking the harbour, and even meet the carvers at work.
Sitka: A Blend of History and Nature
On Baranof Island, Sitka holds the title of Alaska’s oldest city, accessible only by air or sea. Its history includes being sold by Russia to the US in 1867 and thriving through logging, gold, and fur trades. The streets reflect a unique fusion of Tlingit cultural traditions and Russian architectural influences. Activities range from fly-fishing for salmon or Dolly Varden trout to delving deeper into Tlingit culture, offering both adventure and cultural enrichment.
Inian Islands: A Hub of Research and Wildlife
Positioned at the northern entrance of the Inside Passage, on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the Inian Islands are characterised by surging tidal currents through narrow channels. Historically rich fishing grounds for Tlingit fishermen, today they host the Inian Islands Institute, a centre for scientific research in protected waters. The shoreline is frequented by Sitka black-tailed deer and brown bears, while summer months bring sea otters, bald eagles, and humpback whales to the area.
Seabourn’s approach to Alaska cruising demonstrates how smaller vessels can unlock deeper, more authentic experiences, allowing travellers to connect with the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and indigenous heritage in ways that larger ships simply cannot match.
