Best of Sitka: Otters, Raptors & Bears

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike will relish each sensory experience that this five-hour adventure provides so get your camera poised for the dazzling panorama of the creatures that rule the water, earth and sky.

To thoroughly enjoy your day, be sure to dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket to wear on the boat's observation deck. And don't forget to bring the camera to show the folks back home what they're missing.

Your adventure begins as you board a deluxe 65-foot catamaran. Feel the cool sea breeze on your face as your skilled captain maneuvers his way out onto the waters of Sitka Sound or take a comfortable seat inside. Enjoy snacks and hot and cold refreshments as an onboard naturalist explains the workings of Alaska's remarkable ecosystem (wine, beer and sodas are available for purchase).

When the marine critters that call these frigid waters their home make an appearance your captain will slow down for exceptional viewing and photo opportunities. Have your camera ready as you get up close to these gentle creatures in their natural habitat - you may see sea otters, whales, Steller sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, and a variety of marine birds or even a bear along the shore. (During your cruise, you're guaranteed to see sea otters, a whale, or a bear. If not, you'll receive a $100 cash refund as you disembark the catamaran.)

After you return to shore you'll take a short coach ride to the renowned Alaska Raptor Center, a raptor rehab and education center on 17 acres on the edge of Tongass National Forest. Once you arrive, a knowledgeable wildlife interpreter will guide you through the Bald Eagle Flight Building, where you'll come face-to-face with owls, hawks, falcons, eagles, ravens and other "raptors in residence." Then, you can watch a live raptor presentation and learn how their excellent eyesight, sharp talons, and hooked beaks have earned them the moniker "birds of prey." Following the presentation you'll have time to explore the nearby river trail and enjoy the interactive exhibits.

Then, you'll rejoin your coach and journey to your third and final stop of the day. Known to the native Tlingit people as "Kootznoowoo," Fortress of the Bear is a rescue facility for orphaned brown bears. After you disembark you can observe the bears in a naturalized setting from a large covered viewing platform. During your visit you'll also meet experienced naturalists as they share their love and knowledge of these often feared, yet most revered forest creatures.

At the end of the day you'll climb back aboard your coach and, with this remarkable experience scratched off your "bucket list," you'll return to Sitka.

Special Notes:

This tour is not recommended for persons who are full-time wheelchair users. Participants must be able to transfer from a wheelchair and negotiate a few steps with non-lifting assistance only to embark and disembark transportation. There is walking for short distances at venues, but the pace is leisurely and there are frequent opportunities to sit or rest. Tour order may vary.

Dress warmly and bring a rainproof jacket to wear on the observation deck.

Provided: Binoculars and souvenir route map on the catamaran

Snack: Pastries, smoked salmon, coffee, tea, cocoa and water. Beer, wine and soda available to purchase.

Unaccompanied Minors Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.