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Alaska, nature on a grand scale (Ponant)

Overview

OVERNIGHT IN ANCHORAGE + VISIT + TRANSFER TO SEWARD

 

The “great land” or the “mainland” in Aleut is very aptly named. An immense territory and a mythical region, land of trappers and the origin of the greatest adventures, Alaska welcomes you to discover its changing, yet always grandiose, landscapes. During an 12-day cruise aboard Le Soléal, enter the kingdom of nature and explore incredible Alaska during a journey discovering all its mysteries.

The largest State of the United States also has the most diverse landscapes. From temperate rainforests forests to the icy scenery of the Arctic, the relief fluctuates between majestic fjords and snow-covered mountains. The legendary Mount Saint Elias is stunning, standing 5,489 metres (18,000 feet) tall, near the head of the Icy Bay. Inside the bay, you will also travel through the Tsaa Fjord, surrounded by hanging glaciers and dizzying waterfalls. Among the jewels you will have the chance of exploring, Prince William Sound is a sight like no other. Imagine a painting: it features coniferous forests, which hide, in the background, mountains that are bleached by the eternal snow. The glaciers moving towards the sea, dressed in their finest colours, provide another opportunity to contemplate and learn more about this unique ecosystem.

In the heart of this wild and majestic nature, you will set off to discover Alaskan life and customs, accompanied by our guides and naturalists, who are experts in the region. With local arts and crafts, the history of the emblematic totems and traditional shows, you are promised a real immersion into the local life of the communities. You cruise will also be an opportunity to go back in time to the 19th century and to the famous gold rush, so well told by Jack London in his novel The Call of the Wild.

Here, humans must share the vastness with the animal kingdom. At sea, have fun spotting the humpback whales as they blow on the horizon. On land, black bears and grizzly bears are the focus of most attention and observations, while the majestic bald eagle, the symbol of the Unites States, soars above in the sky. The crucial notions of this cruise involve searching and keeping an eye out; the unexpected and the uncertainty are what make these singular encounters even more spectacular.

Trip Highlights

  • A cruise discovering Alaska in all its forms, featuring sumptuous scenery, from temperate rainforests to majestic glaciers, encounters with local communities and observation of abundant wildlife.
  • A dive into the history of the region to take the time to discover the Alaska of trappers and gold hunters.
  • Visit traditional villages and meet the peoples of the Far North.
  • The presence of an experienced team of naturalist-guides.
  • A voyage to discover some of Alaska’s most beautiful glaciers, particularly in the Tsaa Fjord or Prince William Sound.
  • A voyage to discover some of Alaska’s most beautiful glaciers, particularly in the Tsaa Fjord or Prince William Sound.
  • Exploring Alaska’s majestic landscapes during scenic cruising or hikes, outings in local boats or tender motorboats.
  • Landscapes: fjords, tall mountains, huge glaciers, primary forest, jagged cliffs.
  • Wildlife: humpback whales, orcas, brown bears, grizzlies, sea otters, Steller sea lions, bald eagles.
  • Enjoy a carefully selected program of included activities with our local partners, on land and on the water, with a team of naturalist guides and local guides.