A wild Alaskan getaway aboard the Swell

South-east Alaska is the epitome of splendour: fjords, islands, rivers and tidewater glaciers. Its rich, cold waters are home to an abundance of wildlife, from humpback whales and sea otters to sea lions and millions of seabirds. The land is home to imposing rainforests and lush estuaries where brown bears, black bears and bald eagles feed. The towns evoke the history of Alaska, from the Tlingits to the Americans.

Aboard an expedition cruise, you’ll discover this grandiose wilderness in an intimate and immersive way. You’ll travel in a small group aboard a classic wooden tugboat, designed for maximum passenger comfort. These expeditions allow you to immerse yourself in the unique rhythm of the coast and to come into contact with the natural and cultural history of Alaska’s rugged south-east. Accompanied by a crew, a naturalist and expert guides, each day offers an opportunity to fully experience the grandeur of this territory.

DAY 1

• Board at Petersburg (Alaska).
• Cruising Frederick Sound.
• Introduction to Alaskan natural world on shore walk.
• Wilderness anchorage.

DAY 2

• Rainforest walk along creek to waterfall.
• Introduction to coastal rainforest.
• Whale watching.
• wildflower meadow walk.
• Optional evening kayak.

DAY 3-4

• Cruising spectacular fjord to tidewater glacier, icebergs, wildlife viewing.
• Option to zodiac, kayak and/or walk, exploring glacier, icebergs in this awesome ice world.
• Humpback whales of Stephens Passage, Five Fingers Lighthouse, Windfall Harbour.
• Explore estuary and look for brown bears.

DAY 5-7

• Guided brown bear viewing and rainforest walk, at estuary and forest site, at Pack Creek on Admiralty Island (with our exclusive access).
• Frederick Sound marine mammals and islands.
• Trail walk and hot springs soak at hamlet of Baranof, then spectacular inlet anchorages.

DAY 8

• Hike on through many ecotypes and on spectacular west coast beaches.
• Cruising the west coast, sea otters, seabirds.

DAY 9

• Tie up at historic town of Sitka and disembark for historic walking tour covering Tlingit, Russian and American history.
• Farewell dinner, hotel stay.

DAY 10

• Breakfast.
• Museum visit, and free time to explore Sitka (Alaska).

THE BOAT

Built in Vancouver in 1912, the Swell faithfully served the community as a tugboat for 92 years before undergoing a spectacular metamorphosis. Today, this exceptional vessel can accommodate up to 12 passengers in absolute comfort, with 6 private cabins equipped with modern bathrooms and showers.

Thanks to a refit, the Swell has been transformed from a powerhouse working tugboat into an elegant passenger vessel, combining classic charm with top-of-the-range facilities. The spacious interior, clad in natural wood, retains the warm authenticity of its original construction, while offering a level of service unrivalled on the coast.

The Swell is much more than a ship: it’s an invitation to escape, combining history, comfort and elegance.