Excursion Alaska expedition vessel adventure & fin island lodge tour at Sitka

Experience the spectacular coastline and flavors of Alaska in a unique new way during this panoramic, half-day cruise excursion with lunch.

Sitka, Expedition Vessel, Open-air adventure raft

Depart the pier for the short walk to your awaiting open-air expedition vessel. These nimble vessels provide an opportunity for exploration of shallow-water areas not accessible to larger craft, and offer guests a unique and up-close view of Sitka's amazing biodiversity. Upon arrival, receive your safety and tour instructions, and life jacket along with a rain jacket and pants to help keep you dry during the expedition (this gear is not insulated, so guests are advised to dress in warm layers of synthetic materials or wools, regardless of the weather). Afterward, begin your scenic, approximately two-hour exploration with a cruise along the Sitka coast.

Rainforest Islands, Reefs, Rock Pinnacles

Adjacent to Sitka lies a network of dozens of picturesque, rainforest islands that provide a barrier from the swell of the open Pacific Ocean. As your captain skilfully navigates these island groups, see reefs and rock pinnacles that jut out of the water, and provide lookout perches for bald eagles and beautiful seabirds. A look downward reveals rapidly growing kelp forests that disappear into the depths of the sound. In shallow water areas, inaccessible to larger craft, you may even notice sea stars, anemones, and other invertebrates. This area is teeming with wildlife, including sea otters, whales, and sea lions. Your captain is trained to approach animals in a way that does not disturb their natural behavior, providing excellent photography and viewing opportunities.

Fin Island Lodge, Lunch, Beach and Campfire

Next, proceed for a 'Fin Island Feast' at the Fin Island Lodge. Upon arrival, disembark the expedition raft and walk to the lodge. Here, indulge in Alaska crab, locally caught fish cooked over an alder wood-fired grill, prime rib, homemade side dishes, and dessert are included. In addition, coffee, tea, cocoa, lemonade, and water are all complimentary. Alaskan-brewed beers, wine, and soft drinks are complimentary to each guest at Fin Island Lodge. After lunch, some free time is made available to explore the beach and beautiful grounds of this exclusive island, or simply relax next to a cosy beach fire and take in the stunning vistas of Sitka Sound. At the conclusion of your visit, embark on your expedition raft and commence the cruise back to the boat-dock.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Sitka, Zodiac Boat-Ride, Rainforest Islands, Reefs, Kelp Forest, Sea Otters, Whales, Sea Lions, Fin Island Lodge, Lunch, Free Time, Beach, Campfire

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (about 0.8 kilometers), at times over uneven, gravel, and slippery surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the expedition raft, 200 steps up the dock and stairs from the beach to the lodge. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests suffering from motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilize a wheelchair. Guests are advised, due to the prolonged time out on the open-air vessel, to dress warmly in layers of synthetic materials or wool, with tall socks and sturdy, flat, closed-toe, and non-slip hiking boots. Raingear and a life vest are provided. Waterproof shoes are not provided. Guests need to be at least 8 years old and 4 feet tall to participate on this tour. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. The tour might run in reverse order. If the lodge will be visited in the morning, a breakfast twist option will be offered.