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The Big Dipper Alaska Ferry Adventures - Reservations and Tours on the Alaska Marine Mighway

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13 Days ~ Gems of Alaska Explorer
$3,055.00 per person/dbl occ.

Explore the Sapphire Blue Waters of Glacier Bay
The Emerald Green Island of Kodiak
Ruby Red Sunsets of the Cook Inlet Volcanoes
Diamond Studded Vistas of Denali National Park

This adventure begins in Juneau, Alaska's colorful capital city, nestled between great blue-white rivers of ice, towering peaks and immense forests. Board the Alaska Marine Highway's ocean vessel, the M/V Kennicott, and cruise westward sweeping across the Gulf of Alaska. Where the stupendous sea-washed Fairweather and St. Elias mountain ranges guard the coastline. Then on into the smooth blue waters of Prince William Sound a scenic region that is regarded by many as possessing the most sublime of Alaska's charms.

Ports of Call:
Yakutat, Whittier, Kodiak Island, & Homer
Explore Southeast Alaska and Southcentral Alaska via Alaska state ferries. The Kenai Peninsula from Homer to Anchorage by land, and Denali National Park via the Alaska Railroad.

Day 1 - Arrive Juneau
Overnight accommodations included in the heart of the capital city.

Day 2 Glacier Bay National Park
Air taxi from Juneau to Gustavus-a fascinating half-hour flight over snow-capped mountains and ice fields.
Overnight included at the Glacier Bay Lodge.

Day 3 The Glacier Bay Cruise
Observe humpback and orca whales, stellar sea lions, and sea otters, as you cruise through the sapphire blue waters of Glacier Bay. See chunks of ice as "big as the governor's mansion" peel off the glacier sounding like fire crackers shattering on impact with the bay's surface.This 8-hour cruise is often accompanied by a park service ranger, and lunch is included.
Overnight included at the Glacier Bay Lodge.

Day 4 Juneau - Across the "Gulf of Alaska" by Ferry
Morning air taxi provided back to Juneau - Board the Alaska Marine Highway M/V Kennicott, for early afternoon departure across the Gulf of Alaska. Cabin with bath and window included on ferry.

Day 5 Village of Yakutat Stop
Home of the largest tidewater glacier in North America, the ever moving Hubbard glacier. If your looking for wildlife the Yakutat forelands and beaches are teaming with brown bear, eagles, and moose.

Day 6 Whittier Stop 5 Hours
Whittier was established during world war two as a military supply port. Located on the northeast shore of the Kenai Peninsula and the west side of Prince William Sound
Chengea Bay Village Whistle Stop
The name of this Alutiiq village was first reported by Ivan Petroff in the 1880 census. At that time, the village was located on the southern tip of Chenega Island. The village was destroyed and over half of all residents perished by the tsunamis of the 1964 earthquake. The village was re-established twenty years later on Evans Island at the site of the former Crab Bay herring saltery.

Day 7 Kodiak ~ The Emerald Island
The Kodiak Island Archipelago has a very unique geography. Green, snow-tipped mountains, and deep tree-lined fjords, it reminds some people of Norway or Ireland. That's why we call it Alaska's Emerald Isle. Kodiak is rich in historical and cultural heritage. The Alutiiq people have inhabited Kodiak Island for more than 7,500 years. Kodiak's vast wilderness and varied ecosystems serve as the ideal backdrop for outdoor adventure.

Scenic Flight Tour of Kodiak or Afognak Island
On this 1- hour flight you will see beautiful rugged mountainous terrain, a native village, commercial fishing operations, and of course wildlife.The famous Kodiak brown bear is often spotted on this magnificent, non-stop narrated scenic tour.

Evening departure from Kodiak on the State ferry- Cabin included.
Cruise through the "Ring of Fire" to the Port of Homer
Marvel at the early morning beauty of the Barren Islands. Volcano's appear on the horizon and whale sighting's are common on this passage.

Day 8 Homer
A quaint and charming coastal community on Kachemak Bay. One of the most spectacular wilderness areas of the Kenai Peninsula. The ideal stop for outdoor activities.
Overnight accommodations included.

Day 9
Homer
Glacier hiking, kayaking, mountain lake cabin rentals, deep sea halibut charters, or bird watching trips, are just a few side trips that can be added to your vacation package.

Day 10 Anchorage
Private shuttle van transportation provided from Homer to Anchorage. This 4-1/2 hour ride from Homer to Anchorage is one of the most beautiful highways in Alaska.
Overnight accommodations included in Anchorage.

Day 11 The Alaska Railroad to Denali National Park
First Class~ Glass Dome Car Seating.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the gold star service. You can't beat the sweeping views of Mt. McKinley and the award-winning glimpses of color-brushed tundra. Once in the Park transportation will be provided to a quiet off-the-beaten-path location, with outdoor hot tubs, and your own private cedar cabin - Continental breakfast served in the morning.

Day 12 The Denali Backcounty Adventure
Go beyond the standard park tour and venture to Kantishna at the end of the 95- mile restricted park road. This route gives you the best chance to see grizzlies, moose, caribou, sheep, wolves, fox and golden eagles. Once a turn of the century mining district now home to the Denali Backcountry Lodge. Buffet lunch is served at the Lodge and the return trip offers a different perspective of the stunning landscapes and more opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Day 13 Alaska Railroad Denali to Anchorage
The train departs at 12:15pm and arrives back in Anchorage at 8:15pm. Tour Concludes -
Many carriers depart Anchorage after midnight for a return flight home.

Available Dates from in Juneau 2009
May 23
June 20
July 18
August 15

 



Ice chunks as big as the governor's mansion peel off the glaciers



Cabins on the Ferry are comfortable and spacious with full facilities



Gold Star Glass Dome Car Seating - Anchorage to Denali Park


The Backcountry Lodge - Deep in the heart of Denali National Park

A wolf pack seen along the 95 mile restricted Denali park road

Photo's courtesy of Richard & Nancy, Acton MA 2008 Tour

13 Day - Gems of Alaska Tour

$3,055.00 per person (based on double occupancy) Price may vary with availability

Package includes cabin with bath and window on the ferry. Meals on the ferries are cafeteria style and not included. Price can vary slightly with season and availability. Vehicles can be added to the package. For those driving on to Anchorage or Fairbanks the fare will be adjusted. Vehicle prices are based on length and width. Ask us for details.

Make a reservation below or call 1-800-382-9229 US or Canada!

Your reservation request will be reviewed and processed within one business day.
We will contact you by phone or email with a detailed itinerary for your review and approval.
If you have any questions please give us a call 800-382-9229 US or Canada - International calls 1-907-235-7099.

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Do you have any special Requests?
Example:
Add a vehicle, extra stopover, King Bed, non-smoking rooms, First Class upgrade on the Alaska Railroad, or any other details that might help us make your vacation special for you.
 
13 Days - Gems of Alaska Explorer
Hours: Mon-Fri. 7AM - 5PM AKST Sat. 8AM - 5PM Call Toll Free 1-800-382-9229 OR 907-235-7099 Email us: reservations@akmhs.com