|
 
|
 Journey through misty fjords along an untamed coastline brimming with wildlife on our Alaskan gay cruise. Join up to 62 fellow sailors aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird, an expedition cruise ship designed to conquer the wildest frontiers while offering impeccable amenities. Spot whales, bears, and bald eagles as we sail through soaring fjords in a wilderness wonderland renowned for its serene, untouched beauty. From Ketchikan to Juneau, this gay cruise introduces our personalized experience to a new territory!
There is no place like Alaska - a vast, untouched frontier of snow-capped mountains, breathtaking fjords, and extraordinary wildlife. Lindblad Expeditions has been exploring the region’s wildest corners for more than 40 years, seeking out inlets and coves where larger cruise ships can’t sail and taking guests deeper into pure wilderness. In these seldom-seen areas, you may witness the thunder of a calving glacier, kayak past foraging bears or Zodiac alongside a pod of orcas. Become immersed in First Nations culture in Haida Gwaii, and explore epic wildernesses like Glacier Bay National Park, guided by passionate experts with wide-ranging knowledge of America’s final frontier.
Experience the pure power of primal wilderness on this compact, six-day expedition along the untamed southern regions of Southeast Alaska. Witness the electric blues of iceberg-dotted LeConte Bay and navigate narrow channels like Behm and Blake, as well as Walker Cove in Misty Fjords. Board Zodiacs to explore Prince of Wales Island and take kayaks and paddleboards into salmon-studded waters to trace the rugged, wildlife-rich shorelines of Kupreanof Island.
• Cruise through majestic Misty Fjords National Monument
• Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Wrangell Narrows and the Sumner Strait
• Spot rare wildlife like Humpback Whales, Sea Otters, Black Bears, and Bald Eagles
• Embark on Zodiac and kayak excursions to the lush shoreline
• Witness active glaciers, and perhaps even an iceberg calving into the bay
• Sail around steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls
• Get revved up on a thrilling jet boat ride
• Visit Chief Shakes Tribal House and Petroglyph Beach, where ancient rock carvings were left by early inhabitants
• Navigate the Eastern Passage and the Blake Channel, two rarely-travelled waterways
• Discover scenic Juneau’s sweeping vistas
Day 1
Hello and welcome to Seattle! After a private transfer to the hotel, we’ll begin with a Group Meeting followed by a Welcome Dinner.
Accommodation: MGallery Ändra Seattle Hotel, Seattle
Day 2
Today we are Alaska-bound! After an included breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our included flight to Ketchikan, located on the forest-covered slopes of Revillagigedo Island and known as “salmon capital of the world” for its bustling fishing industry, numerous boats and canneries, and colorful waterfront buildings. If time and flight schedules permit, there may be an option to catch the Lumberjack show, where bearded, muscled fellers demonstrate their chainsaw mastery and axe-throwing skills in a performance that harkens back to the pioneer days (extra cost). This afternoon, we’ll board the National Geographic Sea Bird, our well-appointed expedition vessel, for a cocktail and a warm welcome from the ship’s Captain and crew before setting sail. Tonight, we’ll gather for our first dinner aboard the ship.
Accommodation: National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 3
Early risers are in for a treat! Catch a breathtaking sunrise over the dramatic cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument, which tower more than 2,000 feet above us. We’ll enjoy breakfast as we cruise through stunning landscapes, observing wisps of clouds drifting down the winding waterway and enveloping the verdant peaks to create the ethereal vibe that defines the region’s name. Later, we’ll embark on a Zodiac or kayak excursion to get up close to the lush, forested shores and the numerous impressive waterfalls cascading down the steep cliffs. This intimate exploration offers a closer look at the pristine beauty and natural splendor of Misty Fjords. Lunch and dinner will both be served aboard.
Note: All guests can not be accommodated in kayaks at the same time.
Accommodation: National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 4
This morning, we’ll have breakfast before docking in the quaint town of Wrangell, the ancestral home of the Tlingit people for thousands of years. We’ll have the option to embark on a thrilling jet boat journey up the Stikine River, or alternatively, explore the town itself, which features notable sites such as Chief Shakes Tribal House, a significant cultural landmark, and Petroglyph Beach, where ancient rock carvings were left by early inhabitants. After lunch back onboard, we’ll navigate through the Eastern Passage and Blake Channel, two less-travelled waterways on the back side of Wrangell Island. These secluded routes offer a rare opportunity to see a more untouched and tranquil side of the region, away from the well-worn tourist paths . Tonight, we’ll enjoy another fantastic dinner aboard.
Accommodation: National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 5
Rise and shine! After breakfast, grab a spot on deck because we’ll be entering the magnificent Wrangell Narrows, a rare waterway accessible only to smaller vessels that leads into the Sumner Strait. Keep your eyes peeled for orcas and humpback whales surfacing, as well as playful sea otters. After lunch, we’ll have the option to go ashore to follow bear trails through lush forests while our naturalists provide insights into the rainforest ecosystem along the way. Grab a pair of binoculars (included on board) to spot wildlife such as Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, black bears, wolves, and bald eagles, which frequent the shoreline in search of the abundant salmon. Tonight, we’ll gather for another scrumptious dinner.
Accommodation: National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 6
Today, our expert Captain will assess the area and steer us toward LeConte Bay or Tracy Arm, both home to some of Southeast Alaska’s most active glaciers. These glaciers frequently calve, sending icebergs into the bay where they become trapped in shallow moraines and along the shorelines. Once we’ve arrived at the best location for Zodiac excursions, we’ll be treated to dramatic views of rarely-seen ice formations. Our certified photo instructor will also be along to help you capture the stunning scenes. This evening, we’ll share stories over a Farewell Dinner on board.
Accommodation: National Geographic Sea Bird
Day 7
This morning, we’ll arrive in scenic Juneau, situated on the banks of the Gastineau Channel at the base of two mountains. After an included breakfast, we’ll bid our Captain and crew a fond farewell and be transferred to the airport for our included flight back to Seattle.
Note: If you wish to opt-out of the Juneau to Seattle flight, please get in touch with our team. We do not have a group finishing point hotel in Juneau, and all arrangements will need to make additionally, including private airport transfers.
|
|
• Arrival transfer to the joining point hotel
• Departure transfer from the National Geographic Sea Bird to the Juneau airport (group transfer)
• Breakfast daily, 4 lunches, 6 dinners
• Gratuities for drivers, included meals, and porters
• 2 domestic flights between Seattle and Alaska
• Standard beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits on the National Geographic Sea Bird (super-premium spirits and wines are available for purchase)
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• All land transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
• Welcome pack
• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.
• Airfare to Seattle
• Optional activities, meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• All items of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
• Gratuities for National Geographic Sea Bird crew (budget approximately $150 USD)
• Local government taxes ($250 USD)
• Travel insurance is mandatory for all travellers.
Gay travellers are flocking to Alaska’s wild coastline.
Alaska is serving up a coastal frontier of rugged vistas, jaw-dropping fjords, and majestic wildlife like bears (grrr!), otters, moose, and whales! Its newfound popularity as a cruise destination combined with its welcoming vibe is why Alaska gay travel is soaring like an eagle. And let’s not forget the lumberjacks – those handsome, bearded fellers who bring a whole new meaning to rough-and-tumble charm.
Local LGBT Scene
In Anchorage, you can dive into Alaska’s LGBTQ+ scene with eclectic bars and community events, all while soaking in stunning mountain views. Juneau, with its breathtaking fjords and accessible wilderness, provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like whale watching and glacier hiking. Ketchikan adds to the mix with its quirky charm and lumberjack culture, where burly, bearded locals bring a touch of fun to the town’s historic streets. For the ultimate experience, embark on an expedition cruise along Alaska’s dramatic coast, where you can enjoy the pristine beauty of icy fjords, spot diverse wildlife, and when conditions are right, spot the colorful northern lights.
Best Time to Visit
May – September. Although the summer season is brief, it offers the driest and warmest weather. Along the coast, expect temperatures between 40F (4C) and 70F (21C) and over 16 hours of daylight every day.
Electricity:
Type A & B Sockets
Time Zone:
Alaska Standard Time (UTC-9)
Before they built the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, U.S. shipbuilder Nichols Brothers built the twin ships National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion. Nimble, reliable, and intimately scaled, they both continue to sail the waters of the west coast of North America and Central America.
National Geographic Sea Bird accommodates just 62 guests in 31 outside cabins. Her inviting public spaces foster a sense of shipboard life where everyone is integral to the adventure, engendering a rewarding sense of community and esprit du corps. National Geographic writer Andrew Evans called National Geographic Sea Lion the “closest thing to Cousteau’s Calypso” he’s ever had the pleasure to be on.
With a shallow draft and small size, she can easily reach places inaccessible to larger ships. She can venture into fast-moving channels where whales come to feed, transit a series of locks in the Pacific Northwest, nose up to waterfalls in secluded coves, and sail into protected anchorages in small bays perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.
31 outside cabins
All feature windows or portholes, private facilities, climate controls, and hair dryers, plus Ethernet, Wi-Fi connections, and USB ports for mobile devices.
Dining
Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, local where possible.
Public Spaces
A library; global market; lounge with full-service bar and facilities for films, slideshows, and presentations; observation deck; partially covered sun deck with chairs and tables. Our “open bridge” provides guests an opportunity to meet our officers and captain and learn about navigation.
Wellness
A fitness center with elliptical, treadmill, weights, resistance bands; and LEXspa treatment room, staffed by wellness specialists.
Expedition Tools
A fleet of 6 Zodiacs and 16 kayaks, paddleboards, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), hydrophone, splash-cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, snorkeling gear and wet suits for all guests (where applicable).
Noteworthy Feature
The generous scale of the bow, enabling the entire expedition community to congregate with our naturalists, photo instructors, and experts from the Alaska Whale Foundation or the National Park Service, and share the excitement of watching whales or dramatic glacier calving events.
|
|
