While many charters choose to escape the persisting winter winds by sailing to the Keys or the Bahamas, why not take advantage of the opportunity to immerse yourself in Alaska’s wild, remote, and fascinating beauty? Discover the wild outdoors like never before with an Alaskan yacht charter. Alaska is one of the world’s most stunning and remote destinations, with infinite opportunities for adventure year-round. It has an estimated 100,000 glaciers, ranging from tiny cirque glaciers to massive valley glaciers, and its extensive coastline is dotted with snow-capped mountains, rough terrains, and deep forests. It’s no secret that many people visit to Alaska to see its rich wildlife. An Alaskan yacht charter is the greatest way to observe these spectacular creatures, including bears, moose, sheep, wolves, and caribou on land and humpback whales, orcas, and grey whales in the water. In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, Alaska has a complex and multifaceted history, with lovely cities and villages along the coast telling the state’s tale. A tranquil setting for a yacht charter, here’s a sneak peak of what to expect if you decide to go on this once-in-a-lifetime journey:
Day one: Juneau to Tracy Arm Fjord.
Depart from Juneau, Alaska’s capital, which is located in the centre of the Inside Passage, commonly known as the maritime highway. Enjoy a welcome feast as you cruise through the Gastineau Channel, a 15-mile-long flooded glacial valley that divides the mainland from Douglas Island. Enjoy the spectacular splendour of the evergreen-lined coastline from the warmth and comfort of your yacht. In the afternoon, travel via Stephens Passage to Tracy Arm, a breathtaking fjord. Keep an eye out for orcas, sea lions, and humpback whales as you travel along the channel. Spend the afternoon exploring Tracy Arm Fjord. Take the tender and sail through the ice floes to see the twin Sawyer Glaciers up close, then admire the breathtaking waterfalls along the fjord’s sheer sides. See how many harbour seals you can find lying on icebergs before returning to your yacht for a gourmet supper with fjord views. Relax in the Alaskan twilight; if you’re lucky, you might see the Northern Lights.
Day 2 – Tracy Arm Fjord to Baranof Island
Wake up early and cruise to Baranof Island, which is noted for its hot springs and rocky beauty. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while seeing the changing landscapes. Once you’ve arrived on the island, take a leisurely sail around the eastern shore, which is known for its numerous waterfalls. Enjoy lunch on the deck of your yacht while admiring the picturesque splendour along the journey. Later in the afternoon, your team should anchor near the town of Baranof Warm Springs. Take the tender ashore and enjoy a private visit to the natural springs for a long, well-deserved soak in the thermal waters. If you’re feeling daring, have your crew plan a fishing trip or go bear-watching in the neighbouring wilderness. As night sets, sit down to a 5-course meal made by your chef using locally procured fish. As you spend the night on Baranof Island, watch the stars come out and appreciate the tranquilly of Alaskan night.
Day three: Baranof Island to Glacier Bay National Park.
Wake up early to embark for Glacier Bay National Park, a highlight of the Alaskan Inside Passage. See if you can see any more whales while eating breakfast. When you arrive at Glacier Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take the tender to see the Margerie Glacier and Grand Pacific Glacier. Watch for calving glaciers and hear the tremendous sound of ice shattering. In the afternoon, observe animals such as brown bears, moose, eagles, and a variety of seabirds that make Glacier Bay home. Take out the kayaks to explore lesser inlets and get closer to nature before returning to your yacht. As darkness sets, begin your drive back to Junea while enjoying a goodbye dinner. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the previous three days.
