I have been fortunate to visit many beautiful and wild places. However, one in particular stands out as a favorite, the great wilderness of Alaska (and for the record, as a Libra and lover of travel I should tell you I have a few favorite places). The first time I visited Alaska I drove from the border of Mexico to Dawson City in the Yukon Territory. The route I followed was the Cassiar Highway which weaves its way through British Columbia and northward through Southeast Alaska. I was amazed at the vast mountain ranges, lush forests, and how remote and wild it felt, despite being part of the United States. However, with such a vast coastline and very few roads, it is challenging to explore.
When I returned a few years later to explore by small ship I realized that seeing Alaska from the water offers opportunities and encounters with wildlife that are second to none and simply cannot be experienced any other way. Exploring Alaska’s coastline by small ship provides the opportunity to experience nature at its most wild – verdant and lush coastal forests, towering granite cliffs flanking deep glacial fjords, ribbon mist waterfalls cascading to the shore, and impressive and curious wildlife such as majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, lumbering grizzly bears foraging along the shore, and curious seals, whales, and adorable sea otters feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. Alaska is simply amazing. So, it’s no surprise that when my wife’s parents asked me where might be a good place for them to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary, Alaska was top of mind. Next July 13th -20th, 2024, we’ll board the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture for a week of exploration, Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness.
This is truly one of my favorite ships to explore the region, and a few highlights include a perfectly designed ship purpose-built to explore the region, Zodiacs to explore and take us ashore, sea kayaks to explore secluded bays, while staying in comfortable cabins featuring beautiful view windows with some that have balconies. We’ll also savor delicious and locally sourced meals, meet friendly crew, learn from expert naturalists and guides who are excited to share their knowledge and enthusiasm, and overall voyage on an itinerary that explores some of the most beautiful spots in Southeast Alaska.
If you are looking for an adventure for next summer then consider joining me or one of the other weekly departures from May to September, I guarantee you will fall in love with beautiful wild Alaska just like I did.
