Opportunities to observe the majestic wildlife are around every corner when cruising aboard the M/Y Golden Eagle and M/V Sikumi. Each yacht has an on board naturalist ready to share their knowledge about Alaska’s treasures. Brown Bears in their natural habitats are some of the most beautiful animals to observe from the ship as they forage for fish and berries.
Alaska’s untouched wilderness offers a unique wildlife viewing experience unlike any other in the world.
Imagine watching a pod of orcas glide gracefully through the water, or witnessing a humpback whale’s spectacular breach.
On land, eagles majestically perch atop towering trees ready to take off and fly over-head. Seals rest on icebergs floating by.
Alaska Uncharted is committed to sustainable and respectful wildlife viewing, ensuring that our presence does not disturb the natural behavior of these incredible creatures. Join us for an experience that not only respects nature but also leaves you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Alaska’s wild inhabitants.
The peak season for wildlife viewing in Alaska’s Inside Passage is a period full of life and activity. From late spring to early fall, the migration patterns and behaviors of various species create a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle.
In the early summer months, you can witness the arrival of humpback whales as they feed on the nutrient-rich waters. Orcas are often sighted throughout the season, offering thrilling viewing experiences. Each month brings its unique opportunities: bears are often seen along the shores in July and August as salmon begin to spawn, while eagles are a common sight throughout the season.
We provide expert advice on what to expect each month, ensuring your cruise is timed perfectly for the best wildlife encounters.
Our Alaska wildlife cruises bring you face-to-face with some of the most magnificent marine life in the world. The waters of the Inside Passage are home to various species, each with their own fascinating story our on board naturalist can share with you.
Each species adds to the rich tapestry of life in Alaska’s waters. We enhance your experience with stories and facts about these creatures, and our cruises offer ample opportunities for photography and videography, capturing your once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Alaska’s marine life.
Alaska’s coastlines and forests are teeming with a variety of incredible wildlife, each adding to the rich tapestry of the Alaskan wilderness.
We guide you to the best spots for safe and respectful wildlife viewing, ensuring that we maintain a safe distance to not disturb their natural habitats.
Alaska offers a birdwatching experience like no other, with its vast array of migratory and native bird species.
We provide insights into the best locations and times for birdwatching, ensuring you have the best chance to witness these magnificent creatures.
The best Alaskan cruise for wildlife viewing often depends on personal preferences, the size of the ship, and the specific itinerary. Small ship cruises, like those offered by Alaska Uncharted, are highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts. These cruises typically navigate closer to the shoreline and access narrower waterways, offering more intimate and frequent wildlife sightings. Alaska Uncharted, which takes guests through the Inside Passage, is renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities, including whales, seals, eagles, and bears.
While cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage, you can expect to see a diverse array of wildlife. Marine life such as humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, and sea otters are common. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of bald eagles and various migratory birds. Along the coastline, there’s a chance to spot brown and black bears, moose, and maybe even wolves. The specific wildlife you’ll see can vary based on the time of year and the areas visited during the cruise.
The best month to see wildlife on an Alaskan cruise is typically during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the best combination of weather, accessibility, and wildlife activity. Early summer (June and July) is great for bird watching and spotting bears, especially near coastal areas and salmon streams. July and August are often the best for whale watching, as many species are active and feeding in the nutrient-rich Alaskan waters during this time.
The likelihood of seeing whales on an Alaskan cruise is quite high, especially if you are cruising during the peak whale watching season from June to August. Humpback whales and orcas are commonly sighted in the Inside Passage and near Frederick Sound. The chances of whale sightings can vary depending on weather conditions, migration patterns, and the specific areas visited during the cruise. Alaska Uncharted and similar operators with experienced guides can significantly enhance your chances of encountering these majestic creatures.
Many large cruise lines will make you pick an activity for your trip and charge you if you want to experience more. We want our guests to have new and fantastic experiences without the added pressure of an additional bill at the end of the cruise.
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