Imagine watching whales breach in the wild ocean, seeing the elusive Spirit Bear in the wilderness, or visiting ancient Native villages along remote shores.. Experienced biologists, educators, and professional crew ensure informative, safe and ecologically sensitive trips. After 30 years in operation Small group size, comfort and quality. All our yachts have large inflatable boats for shore excursions, and stable sea kayaks for exploring protected bays and along the shore. Each day is full - walks ashore, voyaging island to island, then anchoring each night in a new, secluded bay. General Information People of any age and most physical capabilities are eligible for our trips. No background in natural history is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure. Our yachts are spacious and comfortable and afford easy access to almost everyone. At most of our stops we will use our inflatable zodiac boats to transfer participants to the beach and depending on the trip, explore along simple trails. We may stop at a small coastal village and simply step from the boat onto a dock. Meals A professional cook is in charge of all the cooking during the trip. We carry ample quantities of fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, grains and dairy products for the duration of the voyage. Meals are served buffet style. We are confident that you will be very impressed with the variety and excellence of the meals that are prepared for you. Complimentary wines are served with dinner. There is no bar onboard to purchase additional drinks. Guests are responsible and welcome to bring their own cocktail, beer and soft drinks. Weather While guests should come prepared for some gusty winds and the possibility of rain, we usually experience clear skies and a good amount of sunshine. It always feels cooler on the water than the actual temperature. Non-Smoking There is no smoking allowed onboard the boats. Included in Trip Fee All meals from lunch on the first day to breakfast on the last day; all accommodation onboard ship; skipper, cook, naturalist; full use of all onboard facilities. Not included in Trip Fee Transportation to the start point and from the finish point of the trip; any accommodation or meals prior to the start of the trip or after the completion; travel or cancellation insurance; airport transfers. The only money participants require during the trip is for optional purchases and gratuities for the crew. Trip Clothing and Equipment List Clothing and Bedding * Most Important Items (see notes) * sleeping bag (or sheets and blankets) * pillow case - we supply the pillow * rain jacket with hat or attached hood (waterproof ) * rain pants (waterproof ) * rubber boots (knee height, any style) - Click here to see why. * towel * personal medication (clearly labeled) shoes (soft soled and non-marking for wearing on deck) warm jacket warm sweater warm hat warm gloves or mittens long underwear Personal Items sunglasses spare eyeglasses personal toiletry, soap, shampoo, suntan lotion Optional reading materials camera and high speed film (for low light) extra camera battery sketching materials diary or note paper bird book, field guides binoculars or spotting scope small backpack small flashlight or headlamp water bottle (for shore excursions) Notes We ask that you bring a sleeping bag as there are no facilities for laundry onboard. If you are taking a trip in the Spring or Fall a warm sleeping bag is recommended. Rain gear needs to be completely waterproof and strong enough to stand up to wear. Rubber boots should be comfortable. Knee high boots will ensure dry feet. Expect daily use stepping ashore from small boats at the ocean's edge and walking in west coast rainforest. We cannot accommodate suitcases aboard the boat and ask that your clothing and equipment be brought aboard in soft sided, compressible bags, for example duffel bags or some other soft case that can be easily stowed. Be prepared to dress in layers to accommodate changes in weather. Good warm outer clothing (including warm hat and gloves or mittens) and good rain clothing allows you to remain comfortable in windy or wet conditions. A good, light thermal layer can go along way to providing comfort. (Remember the whales don't stop just because it's raining). Please be aware that there may be weight restrictions for floatplanes, if your trip includes this option. If you are concerned about seasickness your doctor can recommend medications designed to prevent motion sickness. Personal Identification Needed Southeast Alaska trips aboard Island Roamer / Island Odyssey require participants bring identification for clearing customs and immigration. A birth certificate or passport is the best type of identification. |