There's No Place Like Nome
Guests disembarked and said their goodbyes, with time to explore the town and grab some lunch before heading to the airport to go their separate ways. Until we meet again! …
The Final Stretch
On the final sea day before reaching Nome, we had the chance for one last visit to the observation deck and time to reminisce about our journey. Presentations included a science recap, the Expedition Team’s favorite moments, and a fun quiz - all capped off with a farewell from the crew and Oscar’s a...
Afternoon in Katmai
After lunch, we jumped next door, where variable weather set the stage for the afternoon. Zodiacs scurried around the nooks and crannies of Geographic Harbor to find a few more bears, along with some fox and bald eagle sightings. A couple of harbour porpoises even poked their fins up to say hello.
Alaska's "Emerald Isle"
Known for its lush green landscape in the summer, Kodiak Island is the largest island in Alaska. On the first of three days dedicated to bear watching, our midday arrival began overcast but slowly gave way to sunshine throughout our visit. While the famous Kodiak bears stayed hidden in the beautiful...
A Hidden Surprise!
At our first stop of the day in Katmai National Park and Preserve, the morning sun emerged as we anchored deep in the back of Kinac Bay, illuminating the beautiful scenery. Guests began spotting wildlife from the ship even before the zodiacs hit the water. Through a narrow passage at the back of the...
As the Weather Turns
As we set anchor for our last day of zodiac cruising, the weather had turned. Rain and windy conditions made for an adventurous time on the water, giving guests a front-row seat to “authentic Alaska weather.” Many faces returning to the ship were soggy but smiling.
Rest & Reset
A day at sea included lectures and activities with the Expedition Team, as well as time out on deck watching for wildlife or enjoying a hot tub soak. After exploring southeast Alaska, this day of rest was welcomed before the upcoming days of zodiac cruising around Kodiak Island and Katmai National P...
A Sunny Surprise!
A troubling low fog in the morning gave way to beautiful sunshine just as the zodiacs were preparing to launch. Guests soaked up the beautiful sunny day (not common here), walking along the beach, checking out the variety of birds on the “bird rock,” and searching for the McKay’s Bunting, unique to...
Fur Seals and Birds!
We received a warm welcome from the small, remote community on St. Paul. Despite overcast weather, the sun tried to peek out a time or two, and we avoided rain. While a traditional dance and the local museum gave a taste of the local culture and history, the seal blind and bird rock were special tre...
Dutch Harbour
Dutch Harbor welcomed us with mild weather, and spots of sun. We bused between points of interest, exploring the rich history of this important outpost. The Unangan (Aleutian) people called this place home for thousands of years before the arrival of outsiders. The Museum of the Aleutians tells thei...
Lost in Time
After several days at sea, everyone was excited to feel land underfoot. With zodiac landings on the beach, guests roamed through the ruins of abandoned buildings and machinery, echoing the story of a once vibrant settlement. Under the watchful eyes of some formerly domestic cattle left behind, we so...
Ice on the Water
With an evening arrival, Icy Bay was exactly as expected! Skies were overcast, but conditions were good for zodiacs and kayaks to cruise around the sea ice spotting glaciers, waterfalls, and seals. Spirits were high as we returned to the ship with warm memories of our icy adventure.
Welcome to Sitka
Sitka offered a bustling town, and excursion buses departed one after another from the dock to see local wildlife by boat, snorkel, hike, kayak... and more! Downtown shops and eateries offered plenty to do and eat. The oldest national park in Alaska did not disappoint, with its intricately carved to...
Welcome to Wrangell
Guests spent the day on excursions exploring the variety of natural wonders in the area, as well as tours of the rich culture of the native Tlingit people. Wrangell’s quaint main street offered the chance to grab a cup of coffee, some lunch, and souvenirs—including unique red garnets found nearby.
Into the Mist
After a day of sailing in mostly open sea, we ducked back inland, and the narrow passage to the bay allowed for spectacular close-up views of the beautiful timbered landscape. Arriving mid-afternoon at Misty Fjords, the weather lived up to its name! The misty, light fog hanging in the air provided t...
A Day at Sea
Guests welcomed the day with a hot breakfast before getting more acquainted with the ship. A day at sea allowed plenty of time to explore all that the Science Center has to do, see, and learn. Throughout the day, guests could talk with the Expedition Team and attend talks that would prepare them for...
Embarkation Day!
Welcome to the MS Roald Amundsen! After coming aboard, guests grabbed a bite to eat, and the Expedition Team welcomed them to explore the ship before settling into cabins for the night. As we sailed past Stanley Park and headed north into the Strait of Georgia, the journey had begun!