Inside Passage

North American Lighthouses Adventures

March 30, 2019 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

On The Rocky Coast Of Cape Elizabeth Maine Is The Lighthouse At Two Lights

The quaint and picture perfect town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine is the perfect site for the Two Lights State Park. The natural dramatic, abounding grasslands, and extreme rocky coast are the just the beginning of your Two Lights Lighthouse adventure. Maine’s extremely rocky coasts are legendary, and here you have 41 acres of this rocky coastline projecting out into the magnificent Atlantic Ocean. It is a short walk to the lighthouse, where upon arrival you will be far above the rocky coastline and wild surf, with amazing panoramic views of Casco Bay and the open Atlantic Ocean.

There are two lighthouses near by the park, and they provided the inspiration for the name of the Park. Two Lights State Park is close by both lighthouses, the Eastern Light is not open to the public, and is an active lighthouse. The light from this lighthouse is automated and can be seen for over 17 miles. The above lighthouse or Western Lighthouse has not been in operation since 1924. It is now a private home and is not open to the public. It was the subject for a famous painting, “Lighthouse at Two Lights.” This famous painting was painted by Edward Hopper.

Wild Roses With Sea Breezes At Cape Elizabeth In Portland, Maine

The rocky shores of Cape Elizabeth are rugged and filled with the aroma of fresh and beautiful wild roses growing in between the rocks. The freshness of the gentle ocean breezes coupled with the scent of wild roses fills the ocean-side with a hint of wonder and a touch of paradise. What a perfect location to spend your summers. Could it get anymore perfect than a rental cottage by the sea?

Cape Elizabeth, in Portland, Maine is known for it’s small cottages that are rented out for the summer months. Why not make this the year you smell the roses in Portland, Maine. Most of the seaside cottages are listed with the area realtors, and they specialize in short term rentals.

Historic Portland Head Lighthouse In Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Built in 1791, it is the oldest lighthouse in the State of Maine. Portland Head Lighthouse calls the town of Cape Elizabeth home. It sits along the magnificent rocky shores of Fort William’s Park. It is a major landmark and is owned by the town of Cape Elizabeth near Portland, Maine. The Park is open year around from sunrise to sunset.

Fort William’s Park is home to one of the nicest and most complete lighthouse museums. It is housed in the old keeper’s residence, where there are several lenses with the history behind each one. There is also a small gift shop located in the museum where special gifts from Maine can be purchased in season.

Portland Head has some of the most unique history found among lighthouses. Long before there was a lighthouse, Portland Head itself helped to protect the citizens of Cape Elizabeth. They were deeply committed to the idea that America needed to become independent of British rule. In the year 1776 the town residents posted a guard of 8 soldiers at Portland Head. In case the British were coming to attack, they would sound the alarm.

It was not until 1787 that the Massachusetts Legislature provided the first $750 dollars to begin construction of a lighthouse at the Head. In 1790, after the United States Government took control over all lighthouses, congress appropriated an additional $1,500 dollars to complete what had been started. The original lights were made up of 16 whale oil lamps that were lit for the first time on the 10th day of January in the year 1791.

Portland Head Light Fog Bell

The Portland Head Light Fog Bell is proudly displayed outside of the lighthouse on a granite display. This is the original 1901 fog bell that was used at the lighthouse and weighs over 1,000 pounds.

The Lost Fisherman’s Memorial And Mulholland Lighthouse

Eastern Maine, with all of it’s lighthouses, fishing villages, and fishing culture, is the perfect location for the Lost Fisherman’s Memorial. It brings to memory all those from Washington County, Maine and Charlotte County, New Brunswick, Canada who were Lost at Sea while fishing. This memorial in Lubec, Maine has 111 names currently who have perished in these waters or that called these two places home and perished in other waters where they were fishing. When the project is finished the website will give information about each of the deceased fisherman, some of their stories, and a small biography about each of the fisherman with a picture of each. This project gives honor to each of the deceased fisherman who lived in the cities, towns, and villages that are a part of this geographical area or who died while fishing in these waters. May each of these fisherman always be honored and remembered.

Seen in the photo is the Mulholland Lighthouse. This is directly across from the The Lost Fisherman’s Memorial in Lubec, Maine on Campobello Island. This lighthouse is not open to the public and is a part of the Roosevelt Campobello International Park. Mulholland Lighthouse was built in 1885 to guide boats, ships, and freighters through the Lubec Channel that were coming or going to USA or Canadian ports. Visitors to Campobello Island are able to walk around the lighthouse grounds and view the outside of the lighthouse. There is a picnic area on the island for families to enjoy. It affords a perfect view of the picturesque village of Lubec.

Another View Of Mulholland Lighthouse on Campobello Island

View Of Lubec, Maine From Campobello Island

The charming fishing village of Lubec, Maine in the Passamaquoddy Bay is in the most extreme part of Northeast Maine. As of the last census taken, this picturesque village had 1359 year around residents. Northeastern Maine has long been a favored area for the wealthy who desired to own summer cottages.

Authentic Fresh Lobster Roll In Maine

While you are on the go, checking out Maine lighthouses and the surrounding sites, you might want to slow down and enjoy some fast food, Maine style. The ultimate in Maine fast food is the Lobster Roll served with lemon and french fries. This Lobster is served fresh from the sea, as is all the unique fish themed meals in Eastern Maine. If lobster is not your favorite fish, there is always a more traditional salmon dinner, or fish and chips is another fast food favorite. Whatever fish you choose, it will be fresh, and of the highest quality.

Head Harbour (East Quoddy) Lighthouse

Head Harbour (East Quoddy) Lighthouse had it beginnings in 1929 on the Northern end of Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada. The original wooden octagonal tower, as seen in the photo, was built on a slender rocky islet and stood fifty-one feet tall. It was the first lighthouse to be built in New Brunswick and is the oldest Canadian Lighthouse. This splendid lighthouse looked out proudly on Saint John Harbor, where she would be a guide for the ships coming into the docks. One of the most unique features of the lighthouse was the lack of communication. The only way to access this lighthouse was by boat until in 1830, when a road was built to connect it to Wilson Beach, a small community that was the closest to the Head.

Not too long after the road was built, they had a storm with major surges bringing the water level around the lighthouse to about 25 feet, as reported by the Saint John Courier Newspaper (April 10, 1930). The first Keeper, John Snell, lost everything around the lighthouse that wasn’t tied down, this included his years worth of firewood, his boat, barn, and even his cow. However the cow somehow landed on a neighboring island and was returned.

This beautiful white lighthouse, with a red cross on one side, still stands proudly and is included on most boat lighthouse tours. Until 1986, Head Harbour (East Quoddy) Lighthouse was a working lighthouse. In 1988 it was officially taken off the books and in 2000 the Friends of the Head Harbour (East Quoddy) Lighthouse was formed to preserve this historic lighthouse for future generations.

Wild Blueberry Pie In Maine

While on your lighthouse adventure in Northeastern Maine, don’t forget to stop for some Wild Blueberry Pie. The flavor is sweet and scrumptious. It is a favorite desert in Northeastern Maine, where the blueberry’s grow wild in the forests that line the sandy beaches that are filled with rocks, where the wild roses love to grow. Nothing is better than this wild blueberry pie, unless you might add some ice cream on the plate. So come on out and enjoy another specialty of Northeastern Maine.

West Quoddy Head Lighthouse On Campobello Island USA

On the other side of the island stands West Quoddy Head Lighthouse that guides ships through the Quoddy Narrows in Lubec Maine. This bright candy-stripped lighthouse can be seen for miles from it’s perch on the far most eastern point of the mainland of the United States. Just imagine the perfectly spectacular sunrises out across the sea. The current tower was built in 1858, replacing the original tower that had been built in 1808.

There is an amazing seasonal gift shop on the first floor of the historic keepers residence. You will find history, displays, short films, and unique artwork from the locals for sale. This is a not a for profit shop and is overseen by the Lightkeeper’s Association. You will find it open from Memorial Day till early November. Usually just before it closes for the winter, the Coast Guard will give tours of the facility. The interior of the lighthouse is generally not open to the public.

Quoddy Head State Park is open for visitors during this same time of the year. Here you will find bogs to investigate, the Coastal Trail for those who like to hike, and rocky beaches to discover. During the whale season, you will often see them coming up for air. There are picnic tables for family get-togethers, and some of the most gorgeous views around.

For a quiet self guided tour of the Lubec Lighthouses, gift shops, and surrounding area, you will want to include Quoddy State Park. As a bonus are all the perfect views and sunrises.

Cool Mossy Cliffs Overlooking The Sea In Lubec, Maine

The mornings are cool and inviting as a fine misty fog gently accents the coastal area of Lubec, Maine. The enormous rocky cliffs define the area with the native grasses growing along side. On days when the fog lifts early in the morning, you can see the beautiful sunrises, though most often you can only see from places that are a little higher. The fine coastal mist flies through the air with the surf from the passing waves. What a beautiful area to have your morning coffee.

A Fresh Feast Of Lobster And Clam Pot By The Sea In Maine

Before leaving Maine, be sure to swing by one of the local fish restaurants for a delicious seafood feast. There is nothing like a fresh seafood platter consisting of some of the best lobster and clam pots that you will ever eat. These are mouth-watering temptations that are hard to pass up. Though if you do decide to pass this one by, there are plenty of other seafood delicacies on every menu.

A misty Evening At Dryad Point On Campbell Island In British Columbia Canada

Along the Inside Passage, at the end of Campbell Island, is one of the nicest lighthouses in British Columbia, Canada. When you come to Dryad Point, you are at the crossroads of Lama Passage and Seaforth Channel. It was originally called Turn Point, but was re-named when the construction began in 1899 to avoid any mix ups between a lighthouse named Turn Point in the San Juan Islands. The name Turn Point seemed perfect for the lighthouse, since the ships coming up the inside passage were required to make a really sharp turn in order to continue their trip up the Inside Passage.

The area is known for its rich First Nation history and is the home of the Heiltsuk Native Band. The first keeper of the lighthouse, Captain Carpenter, was himself a member of the First Nations and his wife was the daughter of Chief Kaiete.

In 1901 a hand foghorn was added that was needed to answer the fog horns on the ships. In 1903 the light received a red sector so that it wasn’t so bright for those ships that were trying to make the sharp turn as they continued up the Inside Passage. In 1919 the current lighthouse, a concrete structure was built to replace the old wooden structure.

North Head Lighthouse On Cape Disappointment In Washington USA

Looking out on the Pacific Ocean on Cape Disappointment is the North Head Lighthouse. Since 1856 there had been a lighthouse on Cape Disappointment. The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse went into service in 1856, but it was latter determined that another lighthouse was needed on the other side of the Cape. The “Graveyard of the Pacific” was still claiming too many ships. The new North Head Lighthouse was placed on the spur that is known as North Head. The lighthouse takes it’s name from its location.

Today, this beautiful lighthouse looks out over the treacherous waters where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. There are no more keepers, as the lighthouse is totally automated. But the views of the Pacific Ocean, the Long Beach Peninsula, the Northern Oregon Coastal region, and the Columbia River Bar are breathtaking.

Lighthouse Adventures

If you want to have an adventure where the shores are often quite rugged, and the beaches rocky, then check out these delightful lighthouse destinations. They are only a sampling of the many lighthouses found in North America, but may be some of the most interesting. Though each lighthouse has it’s own personality, they all are accompanied by an intriguing adventure.

Beacon Of Light At Dryad Point

February 7, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

A misty evening at Dryad Point Lighthouse

The evening mist and dense fog is rolling in on Campbell Island in British Columbia. The light at the tip of the island, called Dryad Point Lighthouse, functions as it has every night since November 7, 1899. Captain Carpenter was the keeper of the lighthouse and remained its keeper until 1930.

In the beginning this light house housed only a simple white light. It was in the early nineteen hundreds that a red light was added.This helped to solve the problem of getting around the point. The white light alone just glared too much to be safe in all situations. A couple years before this, a second adaption was made. At this time a hand held fog horn was added. This enabled the lighthouse to answer the fog horns of vessels who were attempting to round the point in deep dense fog.

The original lighthouse on Dryad Point had a very humble beginning. It was a basic white wood building, just 36 feet above the water level at high tide. This served as a safety net until 1919, when the current concrete structure was built. The current lighthouse is built of reinforced concrete and stands 25 feet tall.

The year 1930 brought even more changes for this emerging lighthouse. A new facility was built for the living quarters of the keeper and a new boat house. In 1932 a small fog horn facility was built. This replaced the old hand held fog horn that had been in use since 1901. In 1997, a new fog horn system was received. At the same time a prefabricated aluminum building with solar panels on the top was errected. By the year 1998, Dryad Point Lighthouse had become completely automated. The days of the old lighthouse keepers were now in the history books. The new keepers had larger living quarters and facilities. Added to all this was a keepers greatest tool of the new age of lighthouses. Dryad Point Lighthouse was now automated. The age of automation had arrived at the lighthouse. It was a new season, with new beginnings, and new keepers.

This beautiful red and white lighthouse is very often the subject of photographs from tourists traveling the spectacular Inside Passage to Alaska. Dryad Point Lighthouse is quite easily seen from passing cruise ships on their way up this spectacular passage. This is one of several lighthouses scheduled to be completely automated in the near future. The lighthouse will still serve the ships that can not find their way in the fog, but no keeper will be needed. It is a beautiful reminder of a glorious history, and a current light in the dense foggy darkness.

A voyage up the Inside Passage is the perfect family getaway. You will see small coastal towns that are only seen from cruise ships. The tall mountains with their glaciers will loom into view, and the awesome diversity of wildlife will entertain you. Relax and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, as you travel through waters fed by glaciers. You will watch as the wildlife romp and play in their native environment. This is just the beginning of what will be a great adventure.

Enjoy the views of beautiful lighthouses that will line your way up the passage. Dryad Point Lighthouse is just one of several that will guide you up the passage safely. Beauty is around every corner.

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Seafood Treasures From The Western Pacific

January 18, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Alaskan King Crab And SalmonAll the towns that dot the Pacific Ocean have one thing in comnon, they love seafood. Alaska is known world-wide for it’s spectacular seafood. As you leave Anchorage, Alaska and begin to travel the Inside Passage you are treated to many local Alaskan delicacies. Alaskan King Crab and wildcaught Alaskan Salmon are amazing! They almost melts in your mouth. Crab Legs are often refered to as the “King of Alaskan Seafood.”

Fresh Alaskan Salmon is cooked in every concievable way. You will find it baked, grilled, fried, and steamed. Salmon chowder is scrumptous. There is nothing like a bowl of chowder on a cold winter day. But of all the ways that Salmon is cooked, the most popular, are the Salmon Bakes. No matter if you are on a cruise ship, or just need to get out after a long winter, nothing tops the Salmon Bakes.

Alaskan King Crab is fished during the fall of the year off the coast of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. The harvest is shipped throughout the world. Alaskan King Crab is also known as Red King Crab plus it has several other names known by different Alaskan Tribes.

Delicious Dungeness Crab In Bellingham, WashingtonDungeness crabs are very large, extremly meaty, and delicious to eat. This area of Washington has some of the best Dungeness Crab around. With two major seasons, winter and summer, you can generally find it served in most local resterants. While most often it is served as a main dish, Crab Louie Salads are also a local favorite. Like all coastal communities, fish is served in every concievable way.

Clam Chowder And Sour Dough Bread A Pacific Northwest FavoriteClam Chowder is one of the most recognized chowders found in the Pacific Northwest. Almost every town has a traditional recipe and each family has their own heirloom recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. There is nothing like going to one of the local chowder houses on a cold rainy Northwest day for a bowl of chowder.

Though Clam Chowder is perhaps the best loved of the chowders, one can not forget some of the others like Potato Chowder, Corn Chowder, or Salmon Chowder. In the Pacific Northwest there is a chowder for everyone. Chowder is almost always served with Sourdough Bread. Nothing tops keeping a fresh starter in the kitchen. Most restaurants always have Sourdough Bread on the menu.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Company In Monterey, CaliforniaForrest Gump, a character in a 1994 comedy, was not the smartest, but you could not help but love him. A favorite quote from the movie was: My momma always said, “Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” This turned out to be so true. Bubba Gump Shrimp Company is an American seafood chain of restaurants that were inspired by the film.

Crab Cakes On Southern California BeachCan it get any better than Crab Cakes on the beach? Delicious and usually served with sauted vegetables, they are the perfect fare for lunch or dinner. However, if you would prefer to have Crab Cake Egg Benedict you will find it all over the city. This delightful quiche is a Southern California treasure. There is no better way to start the day.

Mid-day, as you tire from combing the famous Southern California Beaches, why not catch a bite of lunch and taste another favorite, the Crab Louie Salad. It’s a mouthwatering lunchen treat.

Sweet Creamy Sea Urchin Delicacy At The San Diego PierOne of the mysteries of the sea are these gorgeous Sea Urchins. Eat them fresh in the little seafood shacks on the pier or have them served as a creamy main dish in one of the major waterfront restaurants. People come to San Diego from all over the world just to eat Sea Urchin. The Sea Urchin is another one of the delicacies of the sea.

Discover the beaches and towns along the Western PacificThe Pacific Ocean with it’s towns, cities, and beaches is the perfect American getaway. Savor the many treasures of the sea. You will eat well while you discover the beach. You will find beaches with agates, shells, and huge rocks. You may see rainy days or days filled with sunshine. No matter what the beach, or the weather, you will see many treasures on the menu.

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Exploring The Inside Passage

October 18, 2016 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

North To Alaska

Traveling the inside passage is ominous, and it all begins in Bellingham, Washington. We arrive in the this small scenic town just before our journey is to start. While in this fun getaway, we decide to do a little fishing and enjoy the magnificent scenery. In Bellingham, we find a culture filled with amazing experiences with many things to do in the great outdoors. Not only is it the gateway to the Inside Passage and the great State of Alaska, but it is a recreational jewel in it’s own right.

Fishing for sweet Dungeness Crab

As your vessel is being prepared, it is the perfect time to discover your host town of Bellingham, Washington. As you wander the docks, be sure to try your skill at bringing in the best and sweetest Dungeness Crab in the world. The fishing is fun! The day is amazing! The Crab is delicious!

Bellingham, Washington is more than the gateway to the Inside Passage. This quaint fishing town is a fun getaway filled with delightful shops, nature trails, and magnificent scenery. Bellingham has a splendid culture of outdoor recreation with quality lodging, outstanding restaurants, and a multitude of things to do. Why not come a day ahead? Spend the night and day before your departure in one of the most splendid beach towns in Washington.

On our Way

As we begin our fantastic journey through the Inside Passage, we also leave Washington behind and we enter the Coastal Waterways. A few hours takes us into British Columbia, Canada and the deep blue Salish Sea. The Salish Sea is a coastal maze of waterways that begins in the northwestern part of the State of Washington and goes as far North as the southern end of the Southwestern portion of Canada. Nestled among it’s waterways are several major bodies of water. You will pass through the northern part of Puget Sound, and to the west is the Straight of Juan de Fuca. As you travel north you will see the Strait of Georgia. For miles and miles you will see some of the bluest water, magnificent mountains, and amazing scenery.

Feeling Safe On The Salish Sea

The spectacular Salish Sea is the coastal home to several Salish Tribes living in both Washington, USA and British Columbia, Canada. The calm waterways of the Salish Sea are important trade routes for the Coast Salish. They also remain a major source of food and other resources. This waterway is home to several indigenous peoples including the Coast Salish, Northern Wakashan, Kwakwaka’wakw, and the Southern Wakashan.

If you are observant as you travel, it is possible to see any of the 253 fish species that have been observed within the Salish Sea. When traveling closer to shore, it is possible to see larger animals on the shoreline near any of the little fishing villages as you enter their ports.

Johnstone Straight

As you continue your adventure northward in the Inside Passage you most likely will spend a pleasant evening or day on the Johnstone straight in British Columbia, Canada. Beautiful Johnstone Straight is a 68 mile long channel that follows the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. During the summer months it is home to many giant Orca Whales. Whale watching is a major activity while traveling through this section of the waterway.

Approaching Ketchikan

As you approach the fishing village of Ketchikan, you will marvel at the backdrop of the spectacular snow capped mountains. Ketchikan is the first town that you will see as you enter the Alaska section of the waterway.

Ketchikan is home to the Tlingit Nation. Throughout the town you will see many Native American totem poles on display. Look up and you will be privileged to see nearby Misty Fiords National Monument. Misty Fiords is a glacier-carved wilderness and National Monument featuring beautiful snow capped mountains, crystal clear waterfalls and magnificent salmon that call nearby streams home. Ketchikan is home to many species of wildlife including black bears, wolves, and magnificent bald eagles.

Depending on the length of your stay, there are many tours of the surrounding area, including bike tours, boat tours, and helicopter tours. However much time you are able to spend in this First City will be rewarded with spectacular outdoor adventure.

The First City

Ketchikan is the first city as you travel north on the Inside Passage in Alaska. It is a delightful fishing village waiting to share it’s heritage and splendor with you. No matter how long or short your layover in Ketchikan might be, it has many jewels waiting to be shared.

The Landing

Often Ketchikan only affords a short layover. So where do you go with a short layover when you are really hungry in Ketchikan? The Landing Restaurant is the place to go for fast service and excellent food. They have an enormous selection of both dine in and dine out specialties. Salmon Chowder, Crab omelets, and local Alaskan beer are house delicacies.

Leaving Pictureque Ketchikan

Leaving pictureque First City you continue on a northern journey into the Last Frontier. Alaska, the Land of the Midnight Sun beckons. Sit back and enjoy viewing tidewater glaciers, and ancient snow capped mountains. The glaciers sparkle in the sun, as they welcome you to this amazing northern wonderland. Enjoy sea lions, seals, and possibly even Ocra whales. Look up to see puffins, and majestic eagles in the sky. This is a land like no other and no two days will ever be the same.

Relaxing On The Inside Passage

Sit back and relax as you travel through the beautiful Inside Passage in Alaska. Here in the Land Of The Midnight Sun, the summer days are long and nights pass quickly. Rest and enjoy the scenery, as you get ready for the next stop. Adventure is around every coroner.

Nearing Wrangell Island

The calm waters of the Inside Passage near Wrangel Island in Alaska welcomes you as you pass by the island.Wrangel Island is in the midst of the Arctic Ocean nestled between the Chukchi Sea and the East Siberian Sea. The breezes are gentle and these protected waters are calm as you cruise past the island. Sit back, relax, and absorb the beauty!

Wrangell, Alaska

Spectacular natural beauty and wildlife surrounds the fishing village of Wrangell. The majestic mountains, numerous islands,and amazing rainforest provide adventure at every coroner. Experience it all in Wrangell, where you can explore glaciers, view wildlife, and participate in outdoor activities and fun.

Wrangell is an historic town with an amazing wealth of living history and culture. This is the only town in Alaska to have been under the rule of four countries. Adventure is waiting in Wrangell.

White Alaskan Malamute Keeping Watch

While enjoying the beautiful garnet crystal laced sidewalks of Wrangel, take note of the many majestic White Alaskan Malamutes. You will see them throughout the State of Alaska, these spectacular animals of the far north, are on a mission. You will see many of these magnificent white Malamutes keeping watch. These are only one of the many amazing animals you will see while cruising through the Inside Passage.

Glaciers,Islands, And Bays

As you are leaving Wrangle, look out at all the majestic glaciers, mountain peaks, numerous islands and bays. Watch the waters for those special moments where you will see nature in their natural habitat. As you cruise near the islands, perhaps you will see black bears fishing, or seals at play. As you cruise by these tall mountains, enjoy the blue tinted glaciers that sparkle in the sun. This is the Land Of The Midnight Sun, and adventure is at every coroner, on every island, and in every town.

Little Norway

Petersburg, Alaska’s Little Norway, is a quaint fishing village that still makes its living from the sea. Alaska’s Little Norway was first built up by Norwegian fishermen over 100 years ago. The town was named for a Norwegian immigrant, Peter Buschmann, who was one of the first homesteaders in the area and founder of the cannery and saw mill. He also built the first dock around 1900 sometime. The cannery has operated continuously since its completion. Petersburg is one of Alaska’s most important fishing communities. Much of Alaska’s cannery production is done in Petersburg.

Enjoy one of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in Alaska. Petersburg is surrounded by nature. Do you enjoy hiking? You will find many of Alaska’s trails is in the wilderness area surrounding Petersburg. There are many flight tours that will delight you as you fly over beautiful glaciers and wilderness areas of pure beauty. There are many charter boats for whale watching during the yearly migration. Whether you enjoy birding, sports fishing, or sightseeing, you will find adventure in little Norway. Whether your interest is hiking our many beautiful trails, flightseeing over the glaciers, chartering a boat for whale watching or a glacier trip, birding, sports fishing or sightseeing, Petersburg has it!

Juneau,Alaska

Juneau, Alaska is surrounded by beautiful glaciers, outstanding seafood, and spectacular history. This historical town echos the days of the gold rush. History is alive and well in Juneau. In Juneau, you will discover one of the countries remotest capitals, reachable only by boat and seaplane. This rare historical town sits at the base of Mt. Roberts, a 3,819 foot mountain with suburb hiking trails, beautiful wildflowers, and amazing views of Gastineau channel.

Juneau has a remarkable tram which climbs the mountain with visitors to the 1,800 foot level. Here you will not only find trails, wildflowers, and views, but one of the most amazing raptor centers. Juneau Raptor Center is dedicated to the many local birds and magnificent raptors that call Southeast Alaska home.

Juneau is a major cruise ship stop as you travel the Inside Passage. Whether you are in port a few hours or a couple of days, there is plenty of excitement in Juneau.

Whittier, Alaska

Each summer, many cruise ships and the Alaskan Ferry bring visitors and Alaskan residents alike to Whittier’s harbor on the west side of Prince William Sound. Those who depart the ferry, must leave Whittier and drive through a one-lane tunnel to Anchorage. This trip is the end of a beautiful voyage up the Inside Passage. But it is not the end, as it is only the beginning of amazing adventure. Whittier is the door to Alaska. It is now time to explore the great interior of this far northern state.

Whittier is a popular summer destination of cruise ships, charter boats, and commercial fishing vessels of all sizes. In winter, though, it is extremely isolated and often gets over 250 inches of snow. Most of the towns 200 residents live under one roof in a 14 story former Army barracks. Here you find a health clinic, police station , and most needed services. This is a unique town that you will only find in the Land of the Midnight Sun!

Adventure Is Waiting

What are you waiting for? Alaska has untouched areas waiting to be explored. The scenery is unbelievable, and adventure is unlimited. Today is an excellent day to discover the Inside Passage and all the quaint small towns that dot the panhandle of Alaska.

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