AFC Alaska Cruise Shore Excursions

In addition to their general offering, Expedia and Celebrity are assembling a special offering of optional shore excursions catering exclusively to our group, at additional discounted rate) as follows:

• Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears, Oh My | Day 3 (Sitka)
  Max. capacity: 44 |  Cost: $342 CAD (~$253 USD)
   
• Whale Watching & Wildlife Quest | Day 5 (Juneau) 
  Max. capacity: 98 |  Cost: $243 CAD (~$182 USD)
   
• Saxman Totem Village | Day 6 (Ketchikan)
  Max. capacity: 48 |  Cost: $96 CAD (~$70 USD)

Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My

Price $341.77 CAD Per Person (~253 USD)

Overview

This triple-threat combination tour offers the chance for up-close encounters with wild Alaskan animals while on a scenic catamaran cruise, interpretive tour of the Alaskan Raptor Center, and viewing platform experience at the Fortress of the Bear facility. The day begins with a three-hour boat ride through Sitka Sound, as you enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages onboard and hear about the local ecosystem from a naturalist guide. Whales, sea otters, Stellar sea lions, porpoise and harbor seals call these waters home — and the crew guarantees you’ll see one of these creatures! At the Alaska Raptor Center, you’ll be led through medical facilities where injured birds of prey are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. To round out the day, at the Fortress of the Bear rescue operation, you’ll enjoy a 30-minute introduction into the life of the Alaskan brown bear while standing on a covered observation deck within 25 feet of a pack of orphaned bears. This dynamic adventure brings to life an abundance of wildlife native to the rugged Alaskan wilderness.

Highlights

• Sitka Sound: Join a catamaran cruise quest to spot whales, sea otters, Stellar sea lions, porpoise and harbor seals.
• Alaska Raptor Center: Watch bird-on-glove demonstrations and meet rehabilitated birds of prey that will soon be released to the wild.
• Fortress of the Bear: From a covered observation platform, experience an up-close encounter with a pack of orphaned brown bears.

Important details and advisements

• Guests must be able to walk approximately 260 yards over gravel surfaces and 6 steps to embark/disembark transportation, with non-lifting assistance only.
• Consider physical fitness and medical history when selecting tour.
• Guests in wheelchairs and others with limited mobility should not select this tour.
• Guests with back/neck problems should not select this tour.
• Guests prone to motion sickness should take precautions.
• Day-use binoculars and a souvenir wildlife guide & map are provided, along with complimentary snacks and beverages.
• Private tours available by request, depending on vessel availability.
• The sightseeing cruise portion is approximately 3 hours.
• Tour sequence may vary.
• Participants must be able to negotiate 3-4 steps to board and disembark tour vessel and buses.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Price $243.68 CAD per person (~$182 USD)

Overview

Embark on a spectacular sightseeing cruise to discover some of Alaska's most majestic creatures - humpback whales. Your quest begins aboard a waterjet-powered expedition vessel specially designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, comfortable, spacious main cabin, surrounded by large windows as your experienced captain guides you through the island-studded waters of Stephen's Passage. Against a majestic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, the onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of wildlife you may encounter, including humpback and killer whales, Steller sea lions, Dall's porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears and deer. This tour guarantees you will see a whale. If not, you'll receive a $100 cash refund as you disembark the vessel. To fully enjoy the sights and sounds of a close encounter with wildlife, be sure to bring a warm, rainproof jacket to wear on the topside observation (open-air) deck and don't forget your camera! Complimentary snacks and beverages are provided.

Highlights

• Sail across Stephen's Passage aboard a sleek catamaran.
• Gaze upon dozens of Alaska's most elusive wildlife.
• Catch spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers.

Important details and advisements

• Tour operators guarantee whale sightings or refund $100 per person.
• Complimentary hot beverages provided.
• Complimentary smoked salmon on a cracker available for guests.

Saxman Native Totem Village

Price $ 95.18 CAD Per Person

Overview

Begin experiencing the living culture of modern day southeast Alaskan natives by viewing the world’s largest collection of authentic totem poles. Then, experience a traditional welcoming ceremony as well as tribal dances and stories from local villagers. Listen as your tour hosts share their history, art and ancestors way of life, and help unravel the mysteries that lie beneath the towering, majestic totem poles that stand as sentries over the present generation.

Highlights

• View the world's largest collection of authentic totem poles at Saxman Totem Park while learning their history.
• Receive an elaborate, time-honored welcome of years gone by from Tlingit villagers at Saxman Native Village.
• Watch young performers demonstrate dances and tell tribal stories during your exclusive visit to the Beaver Clan House.

Important details and advisements

• The village reflects the lifestyle of today’s natives, while still upholding tradition.