Opportunities for Alaska wildlife viewing lurk around every corner when cruising aboard the Sikumi. Eagles are commonly sighted swooping down and snatching fish from the water. Experience the thrill of having an orca whale just yards away from our ship as he "spy-hops" to look you in the eye.
The Sikumi will take you to get a closer view of all things wild in Alaska. Photo opportunities abound and the sharp eyes of the crew are on constant lookout for wildlife. Our kayaks offer yet another platform for wildlife viewing. They are a quiet and intimate way to explore kittiwake rookeries and other coastal sights.
While cruising we may encounter numerous types of Alaska wildlife: humpback whales, killer whales, sea lions, seals, and sea otters, not to mention an enormous variety of sea birds. While on shore, beach combing or hiking, you might chance upon brown or black bears, moose, fox or porcupine. Eagles are found in nearly every corner of the Alaska coastline, and are sure to be a common sight along your cruise. The majestic scenes of Alaska include snow capped mountains and glaciers.
Marine Mammals
Dall Porpoise >
Dall Porpoise are delightful creatures and consistent crowd pleasers. They are very exciting to watch as they enjoy swimming and playing in the break of the boats wake, putting on quite a show to be enjoyed from the boats upper deck.
Humpback Whales ^ In Alaska's summer months the Humpback Whales and their newborn migrate from Hawaii to the nutrient rich waters of Frederick Sound to feed on the abundant Krill and Herring. You'll be able to witness up close as they use their unique cooperative 'bubble net' technique to herd their prey. It is an amazing sight to see not just one, but a whole group of whales bursting out of the water in unison.
< Steller Sea Lions Steller Sea Lions gather to pup & breed from Mid May to Mid July so we'll always see plenty of pups. Sea Lions are very vocal and are the comedians of Alaskan Wildlife community, often performing to the crowd.
Harbour Seals > Harbour Seals 'haul out' of the ocean periodically to rest, pup and nurse. Reefs, beaches, sand bars, and glacial and sea ice are
commonly used for hauling sites, which is where we see them most often.
Orcas > Orca's are some of the most spectacular examples of Alaska Wildlife, these huge animals always impress.
< Otters Otters are some of the most lovable Alaskan wildlife you will encounter. Watch them float around on their backs while they feed or look after their young.
Black and Brown Bears
The Alaskan summer is the perfect time for bear viewing as this is when the bears come down to the shore to gorge themselves on the thousands of salmon making their way up to their birthplace.
Admiralty Island in SE Alaska has the highest concentration of Brown Bears per capita in the world, because of the spectacular runs of Wild Salmon. Black Bears are also common along the shore. Bears can pop up anytime during a cruise.
Birding
Migratory Birds Spring in Alaska sees the arrival of a vast concentration of migratory shore and estuary birds. You might see water-fowl, pipers, heron and swans just to name a few.
^ Bald Eagles Bald Eagles are found in great proliferation in Alaska, more so than in anywhere else in the USA. You'll have opportunities to watch eagles as they live in their natural environment, swooping down from the skies to snatch a fish from the sea or just soaring elegantly above us.
Fish and Marine Life
South East Alaska has an abundance of fish and marine life. From Halibut and many kinds of Salmon , bright orange Rock Fish. There are also crustaceans galore, including crabs and shrimps. Closer to the shore in tidal pools we can see much, much more, including Mussels, Clams, Flounder, Sea Stars and Starfish.
Alaska Wildlife Viewing Movies from our guests
Custom Alaska Cruises
Phone: USA (425) 806 2083 Email: info@sikumi.com P.O. Box 1236, Bothell, Washington State 98041, USA
