Thanks again to you all, and particularly Neil, for your wonderful company and continued enthusiasm. It was an absolute delight to explore such a magical part of the world.
Certified Naturalist & Professional Captain
Sitka, Gustavus, Angoon, Kake, and Petersburg
Designed For Wildlife Photography Enthusiasts
UNLOCK YOUR INNER VOYAGER:
Photography Perfection Awaits: Envision yourself amidst jaw-dropping landscapes and unforgettable wildlife sightings. Capture the exhilarating breaching of humpback whales, the heart-racing spectacle of bubble-net feeding, playful otters frolicking with their young, the mesmerizing hunt of orcas, and the captivating presence of colossal brown and black bears. Navigating through a maze of azure blue icebergs speckled with adorable newborn harbor seal pups En route to witnessing the dynamic events of Alaska’s fastest-flowing glacier, known for its dramatic icebergs calving, an exhilarating sight for every nature and photography enthusiast.
Crafting Moments for Your Lens: Anticipate an array of close-knit wildlife encounters, each an opportunity to seize captivating photographs that reflect the raw allure of Alaska. Immerse yourself in a curated journey designed for crafting unforgettable images, perfectly encapsulating the untamed beauty of this extraordinary region.
Trip Details
Trip Details
Experience a Multifaceted Wildlife Spectacle: Beyond the enchantment of whales, otters, bears, and glaciers, our expedition reveals an array of captivating mammals. Encounter the grandeur of Stellar’s sea lions, the endearing harbor seals, and the charismatic sea otters, offering a wealth of wildlife sightings. In the skies above, witness the majestic flight of countless bald eagles alongside eight gull species, tufted puffins, and a kaleidoscope of waterfowl such as buffleheads, goldeneyes, long-tailed ducks, and harlequin ducks. Along the serene shores, marvel at the gracefulness of blue herons, the vibrant presence of belted kingfishers, the distinctive aura of black oystercatchers, and the captivating charm of black turnstones-all poised for your lens to immortalize their innate grace and beauty.
Embark on an Exclusive Expedition: Join our intimate group of six on a specially built private catamaran, ensuring exclusive encounters within this off-the-beaten-path region. By day, explore vibrant waters and serene coastlines, while nights offer stays in remote lodges brimming with character and warm hospitality. Traverse vibrant waters and tranquil coastlines during the day, then unwind in remote lodges teeming with distinctive character and genuine hospitality as night falls.
Price
$11299 Per Person Double Occupancy
$1275 Single Supplement
The single supplement fee can be waived if there is a vacant room, and guests are comfortable sharing the room with a same-gender guest during the duration of the tour.
Fuel Surcharge:
Embracing transparency and service excellence, our dynamic fuel surcharge model correlates with Brent Crude Oil prices. With increased participation, expect a significant 18% reduction in surcharges per additional traveler. The surcharge ranges between $75 and $93 per guest for every $5.00 rise in oil prices above $80 per gallon, ensuring competitive pricing and unparalleled travel experiences.
Departure time
Departure timings will be flexibly recommended by the captain, considering both weather conditions and the group’s collective decision for an enjoyable voyage.
Meeting point
Crescent Harbor, Sitka.
We can also pick you up from other harbors around the Sitka area.
Availability
- May 18 – 30, 2024
- June 4 – 16, 2024
- July 9 – 24, 2024 *Sold Out*
- August 8 – 21, 2024
- August 29 – September 11, 2024
Duration
- 13 Days
- 12 Nights
Group size
Minimum 4
Maximum of 6
Should the tour fail to attain the required minimum number of guests within 120 days of the scheduled departure, regrettably, the tour will be canceled, and all payments will be promptly refunded.
Included
- 12 nights accommodations
- 11 days on board a private vessel
- Most meals
- Snacks
- Admission to Tlingit Dance Performance
- All National Park Fees
- Harbor Fees
- Transfers
Not included
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Flights
- Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
Participation requirements
Must be 12 or older. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
What to bring
A list of suggested equipment and personal items will be provided upon booking
Number & type of staff for tour
US Coast Guard Master Captain / Certified Naturalist guide
Highlights
Untouched Wilderness Exploration: Witness the extraordinary unfold as you delve into Alaska's rarely-seen gems and wildlife encounters. A photography tour expedition into the rarely seen majesty of Southeast Alaska, where nature's wonders defy imagination.
Unforgettable Tapestry of Moments: Immerse yourself in Alaska's untamed allure, capturing astonishing animal behaviors that transcend time.
Crafting Picture-Perfect Memories: Delve into exclusive wildlife encounters, meticulously designed to capture Alaska's unadulterated charm through your lens. Expect unparalleled moments that beg to be framed, immortalizing the essence of this pristine wilderness in every shot.
Curated for Breathtaking Imagery: Our itinerary is meticulously shaped by a collaborative effort among seasoned captains and marine scientists. Every destination is carefully chosen, a product of comprehensive exploration along our route, ensuring the best opportunities for capturing stunning photographic moments.
Expert Guidance and Knowledge: Our captain, well-versed in these waters, serves as an exceptional naturalist, sharing an immersive narrative of the region's wildlife and delicate ecosystem. With a wealth of experience in marine observation, his insightful guidance ensures every journey is an educational and visually captivating experience.
Comfortable and Cozy Retreats: Rejuvenate in cozy lodges after each exploration, ensuring a well-rested experience for the next day's adventures.
Blend Heritage with Photography: Delve into the ancestral heritage of local tribes, enhancing your wildlife photography tour with cultural depth. Capture not only mesmerizing wildlife scenes but also the essence of indigenous traditions, creating a visual narrative that intertwines nature and heritage.
Exploring Bear Worlds Through Photography: Dive into the captivating world of Coastal Brown Bears and Black Bears on this expedition. Gain a deeper understanding of their lives, allowing your lens to capture their fascinating behaviors and moments that mirror the essence of their existence.
What You'll See & Do
Detailed Itinerary: This comprehensive 13-day photo journey through Alaska’s seldom-traveled wilderness encompasses a myriad of experiences, including wildlife marvels and cultural immersions. Please note, while ensuring the highest standards, lodging and dining venues may vary to offer experiences of equal or superior quality, adding further depth to your unforgettable exploration.
Day 1-2: The Majesty of Sitka and its Wildlife Enchantment:
Embark on your odyssey in the embrace of Sitka, a historical gem nestled within awe-inspiring panoramas. Delve into Sitka Sound, where humpbacks breach, otters share their delight, and seabirds unveil their vibrant personalities. Immerse yourself in the ancestral heritage of the Sitka tribe.
Lodge: Sitka Hotel
Meals:
- Day 1: Lunch – The Nugget Restaurant; Welcome Dinner – Ludvig’s Restaurant
- Day 2: Meals – On your own – An extensive compilation of Sitka’s exceptional dining venues will be furnished for your convenience.
Day 3-4: Gustavus – Gustavus Exploration & Marine Encounters: Venture to Gustavus, a picturesque coastal escape teeming with natural wonders. The itinerary is designed to adapt to sea conditions, ensuring a seamless experience. Whether tracing the outside coast through the Chichagof-Yakobi Wilderness or navigating inside waters via Peril and Chatham Straits. The route showcases the pulse of life within these vibrant oceanic narratives while being sensitive to and guided by the seas’ conditions along the chosen route.
Lodge: Cottonwood Lodge & Cabin Rentals
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5-9 Angoon and Kake – Exploring Angoon and Kake’s Wildlife Marvels: Witness the breathtaking Waterfall Coast as we look to capture the mesmerizing bubble-net feeding orchestrated by humpback whales. Let your lens seize the enchanting moment as these majestic creatures create a ballet of bubbles to ensnare their prey. Encounter Coastal Brown Bears and Black Bears in their natural habitat, showcasing their remarkable salmon-hunting prowess. Immerse yourself in the delicate world of salmon hatching while taking a tour at the Gunnuck Creek Hatchery. Observe Black Bears vying for sustenance amidst this remarkable cycle as spawning salmon return, ensuring your photography tour is a symphony of wildlife narratives.
Lodge:
- Day 5 and 6: Angoon – Eagles Wing Inn
- Day 7, 8 and 9: Kake – Waters Edge Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10-12 Discovering Petersburg’s Charm and Glacial Wonders: Perhaps your lens will focus on the enchanting scenes of a humpback calf mastering bubble-net feeding in Petersburg’s Norwegian-inspired setting. Experience the grandeur of North America’s Southernmost tidewater glacier, the majestic LeConte Glacier, through your lens. Explore the Tongass Forest, seeking Moose, Porcupines, and Bears for unforgettable wildlife photography opportunities. Frame the surreal beauty of iceberg-laden bays against the Alaskan backdrop. Traverse Wrangell Narrows, accompanied by the serene presence of Arctic Terns, Harbor Seals, and the potential sighting of an extensive otter raft. Conclude your journey with an extended day at sea toward Sitka, departing with cherished photographs, newfound friendships, and the satisfaction of capturing Alaska’s untamed wilderness.
Lodge:
- Day 10 and 11: Petersburg – Scandia Lodge
- 12: Sitka – Sitka Hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 13 Departure Crossroads: Stay for More Adventures in Sitka’s Embrace: Offers the chance to further explore Sitka at your own pace or engage with additional excursions arranged by us, such as kayaking, e-bike rental, flightseeing, fishing or an ATV tour of Kruzof Island. Capture any last-minute photo opportunities that pique your interest during your extended exploration of Sitka. Reflect on the memories you’ve captured and the friendships you’ve made throughout this adventure. For those departing, bid bittersweet farewells, knowing you depart with full memory cards and hearts brimming with joyous moments and the anticipation of sharing Alaska’s natural beauty.
Lodging and Meals are not included.
Good to Know
All our expeditions are subject to the realities of the natural world. We make no guarantees of seeing any specific species. Although we will do everything in our power to find and view the species that are of interest to the customer and stay on the itinerary. Circumstances such as species location, weather, and ocean conditions may result in an itinerary alteration. Payments are not refundable for any itinerary change.
Unfortunately, our vessel is not wheelchair accessible.
Features of our vessel:
- A spacious heated cabin
- Deluxe comfortable seats for all guests
- Restroom equipped
- Large wrap-around windows for unobstructed viewing
- Expansive deck space for multiple perspectives
- Great stability to ensure safety and comfort
Smoking and the consumption of alcohol or any illegal drug while aboard are prohibited.
If the captain determines that you may be under the influence or may pose a hazard to yourself, the vessel, the crew, or other guests you will not be permitted to board, and no refund will be given.
If you are prone to motion sickness, take your remedies at least 1 hour in advance.
Please arrive at the vessel 15 minutes before departure.
A recommended packing and photography gear list will be provided upon booking.
FAQ
Frequently Seen: Humpback Whales, Orcas, Dall’s Porpoise, Harbor Seals, Stellar Sealions, Tufted Puffins, A Variety of Colorful seabirds, Sea Otters, Brown Bears, Black Bears, Moose, Porcupines
Occasionally Seen: Wolves, Mountain Goats, Minke Whales.
Whale Behaviors: Breaching, Bubble-net feeding, Tail Slapping, Pectoral Fin Slapping
Your captain will network with fishermen, captains, and research scientists to discover the hotspots for this type of action. We travel through the waters where this behavior is often found during this time of year.
Yes and Yes; There are definitely plenty of sealions, Harbor seals and these are waters patrolled by Transient Orca pods
Tufted Puffins, Black Legged Kittiwakes, Rhinoceros Auklets, Murres, Black Oyster Catchers,
Pigeon Guillemots, Bald Eagles, Arctic Terns to name just a few. Viewing guides are available onboard
MEMORY CARDS – You’ll want to have plenty of these, ideally enough that you won’t have to format any while in the field. Don’t forget a card reader!
PLUG ADAPTERS- If you are traveling internationally, you will likely need adapters for your plugs.
TWO CAMERA BODIES WHEN POSSIBLE –Why two? In case of accidental damage or electronic failure, you will have a back-up. With an additional set-up ready to go, you can quickly adjust if the action is at a different range than expected.
BATTERIES – Bring plenty of batteries for your cameras and chargers as well. Our boat is equipped with USB outlets and 110 AC outlets. You may want to bring a power bank to recharge your batteries.
LENSES – For most landscape and wildlife expeditions, a wide-angle zoom (like a 17-40), a general-purpose zoom (like 24-70), and a medium telephoto zoom (like 70-200) a standard. 100-400mm lenses is great for wildlife.
A comprehensive list will be sent to guests 90 days prior to tour
I always suggest always be ready as an amazing encounter can happen in the blink of an eye. I do not recommend a tripod nor a monopod.
The departure times and destination will vary according to weather and sea conditions, wildlife locations, and our guest’s desires.
We generally spend about 8 hours per day on the water. It will vary according to the conditions.
Absolutely. The proximity to the glacier will depend on the ability to safely maneuver amongst the icebergs.
Yes, Wear rubber-soled shoes. While on the deck always have 3 points of contact with the vessel 2 feet and leaning or holding on to the railing. Walk slowly and always heed the captain’s warnings and advice.
They are charming, quaint, clean, and comfortable.
There is a maximum of 6 participants.
The tour takes place in the largest temperate rainforest in the world so it’s not uncommon for rain. We are also traveling on waters that are exposed to the Gulf of Alaska so there might be occasions for choppy and rolling seas.
Often the clouds provide great lighting for your shots.
If you are prone to seasickness, please take any remedies at least 1 hour prior to leaving the dock. We also carry Ginger chews known to alleviate nausea.
Yes, we will visit the Sitka National Historical Park, Visit the Tlingit Clan house for a cultural dance presentation. The communities of Angoon and Kake are small Native Alaskan communities.
Cancellations and Refunds – if you must cancel
We know that plans can change, and unforeseen circumstances can happen. We strive to provide the best customer service available and at the same time be able to give quality service to our clients by keeping our groups small and our rates affordable. Our cancellation policy ensures that we can keep our rates affordable for future tours so that we can continue to provide our clients with the best photography experience. All cancellations shall be made in writing by email and sent to Neil@awhalessongexpeditions.com as soon as possible.
Full-day, Multi-Day Tours or Expeditions and Charters cancellations or changes made greater than 120 days before the tour start date, we will refund your payment minus a $250 processing fee.
• The are no refunds for cancellations or changes made less than 120 days before the tour or expedition start date. However, if we or you can fill your spot, we will refund your payment minus a $250 processing fee. We will be happy to apply your deposit to another one of our future Tours or Expeditions instead, (subject to availability.
• In the very unlikely event that a tour is canceled, we will refund the tour fee to participants. Expenses related to travel and lodgings not provided by us will not be refunded. Some tours require that you obtain Trip Cancellation & Travel Insurance after booking your trip with us. Proof is required 90 days before the tour starts. Please contact us for any additional questions with regards to our cancellation and refund policy.
Cancellations & Refunds – If A Whale’s Song Expeditions must cancel
Please Note: All Tours will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Due to safety concerns or unforeseen circumstances, the captain may choose times of the day when weather and ocean conditions are more favorable. In the rare event that we, A Whale’s Song Expeditions, must cancel a Tour, you can choose to reschedule (subject to availability) or receive a full refund.
If the tour fails to reach the required minimum number of guests within 150 days before the scheduled departure, the tour will regrettably be canceled to maintain the quality of the experience offered. Guests affected by the cancellation will be provided with the option to reschedule, subject to availability, or receive a prompt full refund of all payments made towards the tour. It is strongly recommended that guests consider obtaining comprehensive trip insurance to safeguard their travel plans, as unforeseen circumstances can arise. This insurance can offer coverage for trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events, ensuring protection of their investment in the tour.
Terms and Conditions
Effective December 1, 2023
Payments Accepted
We accept payments through check, Amex, Visa, MasterCard or Venmo. Full payment or a deposit is required to secure your booking. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss alternatepayment options. Be aware that there is a 3.5% convenience charge when using a credit card.
Good To Know
All booking requests will be processed directly on our website. If you prefer you can call and book directly with M Squared Enterprises. DBA A Whale’s Song Expeditions
Sometimes, there are elements outside our control, for example, the lodges raise the price after our tour is announced. The chance is small, but we reserve the right to raise the price if we can’t avoid it.
All expeditions are subject to the realities of the natural world. Although we will do everything in our power to stay on the planned itinerary, circumstances including but not limited to weather and oceanconditions may make us alter the itinerary. Payments are not refundable for any itinerary change.Furthermore, we make no guarantees of seeing any specific species.
Tax
Sitka City sales tax will be added to the cost of all expeditions:
5% October – March
6% April – September
Gratuities
Fees do not include gratuities.
Adjusting Your Reservation
You must contact our office directly to make any adjustments to your reservations. These include times,dates, number of guests attending, and type of activity. A new confirmation will be emailed to you once
the changes are completed. Adjusting your reservation does not exempt you from any penalties for which you may be responsible.
Deposits
For all Tours or Expeditions, we require a deposit in the amount of 25% of the total amount due.
Payment of Balance Due
Multi-Day Tours or Expeditions, the balance is due 120 days prior to the date of the tour. The credit card that was provided for the deposit will be charged.
Cancellations and Refunds – if you must cancel
We know that plans can change, and unforeseen circumstances can happen. We strive to provide the best customer service available and at the same time be able to give quality service to our clients by keeping our groups small and our rates affordable. Our cancellation policy ensures that we can keep our rates affordable for future tours so that we can continue to provide our clients with the best photography experience. All cancellations shall be made in writing by email and sent to Neil@awhalessongexpeditions.com as soon as possible.Full Day, Multi-Day Tours or Expeditions and Charters cancellations or changes made greater than 120 days before the tour start date, we will refund your payment minus a $250 processing fee.
• There are no refunds for cancellations or changes made less than 120 days before the tour or expedition start date. However, if we or you can fill your spot, we will refund your payment minus a $250 processing fee. We will be happy to apply your deposit to another one of our future Tours or Expeditions instead, (subject to availability).
• In the very unlikely event that a tour is canceled, we will refund the tour fee to participants. Expenses related to travel and lodgings not provided by us will not be refunded. Some tours require that you obtain Trip Cancellation & Travel Insurance after booking your trip with us. Proof of having travel insurance is required 90 days before the tour starts. Please contact us for any additional questions with regards to our cancellation and refund policy.
Cancellations & Refunds – If A Whale’s Song Expeditions must cancel
Please Note: All Tours will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Due to safety concerns or unforeseen circumstances, the captain may choose times of the day when weather and ocean conditions are more favorable. In the rare event that we, A Whale’s Song Expeditions, must cancel a Tour, you can choose to reschedule (subject to availability) or receive a full refund.
If the tour fails to reach the required minimum number of guests within 150 days before the scheduled departure, the tour will regrettably be canceled to maintain the quality of the experience offered. Guests affected by the cancellation will be provided with the option to reschedule, subject to availability, or receive a prompt full refund of all payments made towards the tour. It is strongly recommended that guests consider obtaining comprehensive trip insurance to safeguard their travel plans, as unforeseen circumstances can arise. This insurance can offer coverage for trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events, ensuring protection of their investment in the tour.
Credit Card Statement
Your credit card statement will display M Squared Enterprises, (our legal business entity name) as the company authorized to bill your bank or credit card.
Credit Card Charges
By making your reservation online or by telephone you agree to authorize M Squared Enterprises LLC DBA A Whale’s Song Expeditions, to bill your credit card the agreed-upon amount for your reservation.The credit card charges are authorized verbally and/or electronically by you, the reservation holder, and are valid in lieu of a signed credit card authorization form. A 3.5% credit card convenience fee will be added to all in-person and telephone transactions.
Liability Waiver
All tour and Expeditions participants are required to complete a hold harmless liability waiver before the start of the tour.
Travel Insurance
Sometimes life happens and you must cancel because of unforeseen circumstances. We highly recommend protecting your travel investment and purchasing a trip insurance policy that includes emergency evacuation coverage. Travel insurance provides you with trip cancellation/interruption, travel delay, medical expenses, emergency assistance, air flight, baggage, and baggage delay coverages. Medical coverage purchased with your policy is crucial if you do not have health insurance. Proof of comprehensive travel Insurance is required for the following tours and expeditions:
• 13-Day Photography Tour
• 9-Day Photography Tour
Please note: A Whale’s Song Expeditions does not recommend or endorse any plan or insurance company as everyone has different insurance requirements.
Safety
With all the uncertainty around us, we understand more than ever the need for personalized service and our impeccable attention to detail. In line with our personalized approach and our commitment to you, we have implemented several policies to keep you safe. Our small groups also ensure that you have a safe environment to enjoy the beauty of nature. On 9-Day and 12-Day Photography Tours – For the safety of all participants in the extremely remote setting of our adventure, we provide a medical form that each traveler must complete and submit before departure. Your privacy is our priority, and we guarantee the strictest confidentiality of your information. Specific food allergy information will be shared solely with the lodges tasked with meal preparation along our journey. This medically pertinent data will be maintained onboard throughout the trip, serving as a vital resource in case of any urgent medical situations.
• Hand sanitizer is available for our clients to use during tours.
• Our Captain is first aid, CPR and AED trained and certified by the US Red Cross and will conduct
daily safety checks during the duration of the tour.
• We will conduct a pre-Tour safety briefing with opportunities for our clients to ask questions.
Confidentiality
M Squared Enterprises DBA A Whale’s Song Expeditions respects our guest’s privacy rights and will hold all information from the Guest in relation to the purchase as confidential. Under no circumstances will your information be handed to a third party, except as required for billing and regular tour operations (e.g., Lodge reservations, etc.)
Committed to transparency and service excellence, we’re rolling out a dynamic fuel surcharge model linked to the price of Brent Crude Oil per barrel. Exciting news! As part of this model, the surcharge amount will progressively decrease with more participants joining our tours. For each additional traveler beyond the minimum, expect a remarkable 18% reduction in the surcharge per guest. When the price of Brent Crude Oil climbs above $80 per gallon, a fuel surcharge ranging between $75 and $93 per guest will be implemented for every $5.00 increase in oil prices. This flexible structure aims to buffer the impact of fuel cost fluctuations on our operations while maintaining competitive pricing, ensuring unparalleled travel experiences for our esteemed participants. The surcharge amount will be assessed and imposed in accordance with the specified departure date. Kindly refer to the chart detailing the fuel surcharge.
If the tour fails to reach the required minimum number of guests within 150 days before the scheduled departure, the tour will regrettably be canceled to maintain the quality of the experience offered. Guests affected by the cancellation will be provided with the option to reschedule, subject to availability, or receive a prompt full refund of all payments made towards the tour. It is strongly recommended that guests consider obtaining comprehensive trip insurance to safeguard their travel plans, as unforeseen circumstances can arise. This insurance can offer coverage for trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events, ensuring protection of their investment in the tour.
For the safety of all participants in the extremely remote setting of our adventure, we provide a medical form that each traveler must complete and submit before departure. Your privacy is our priority, and we guarantee the strictest confidentiality of your information. Specific food allergy information will be shared solely with the lodges tasked with meal preparation along our journey. This medically pertinent data will be maintained onboard throughout the trip, serving as a vital resource in case of any urgent medical situations.
The primary activities will occur aboard boats or similar vessels to facilitate access to premier photography spots. Guests should feel confident boarding and disembarking boats and be prepared for extended periods spent on the water Guests can join terrestrial photography excursions, exploring trails with varying terrain, covering distances of up to 2 miles offering breathtaking scenery and wildlife photo opportunities.
Previous Guests Rave About A Whale's Song Expeditions
Thank you for many things. More importantly, thank you for your expertise with regard to seamanship and the ability to line the catamaran up for good photographic opportunities. Also, for your personality and enthusiasm for your life {not job} in your fabulous office.
Once again, many thanks for an unforgettable trip.
I had a brilliant holiday, so many amazing wildlife encounters, and the scenery was stunning.
Neil and Bret, thanks for taking such good care of us – it would not have been the same without you both. Now I need to get cracking on reviewing my over 13,000 photos and lots of videos – more emails with photos/videos to come….. I’m trying to remember which time zone I’m in 😅 My brain is ‘foggy’ today 😅
Take care all
Warmest regards and Clear skies
It took us a week to get over the jetlag, will take a lifetime to stop yearning to be back!
Best Wishes
I am still trawling through all my pictures that capture my memories of an unforgettable experience with you and my fellow travelers aboard Catdaddy.
Thank you again for hosting me on such a fabulous trip
very best wishes
