The forces of nature are on full display in the Inside Passage - mountains eroded by the crushing force of massive glaciers, icebergs plunging into cold aquamarine seas, land and marine animals struggling to feed and raise young during the short arctic summer. This exclusive small ship program offers unparalleled access to quiet coves, and the flexibility to linger while sea lions battle on rocky shores, or bears scavenge the beaches at low tide. One of the highlights of this program is two days in Glacier Bay, allowing ample time to hike scenic trails or observe the abundant wildlife while kayaking or relaxing on deck.

We will be cruising with a new tour operator in July of 2010 through the Inside Passage of Alaska. Our tour operator Orbridge has over 30 years of combined experience, and represents a new breed of alumni travel with a focus on a few select destinations and intimate departures with top accommodations and small, deluxe ships. All programs are designed with the understanding that education is an essential part of travel, and the itineraries, excursions, staff, local guides and lectures are all geared to provide guests an in-depth view of a region, ecosystem, or culture.

One of the primary advantages of seeing the Inside Passage on the 36-passenger Safari Explorer is the remarkable degree of flexibility built into the itinerary. Except for a stop at Bartlett Cove in Glacier Bay Natural Park (and, of course, arrival and departure days), there is no need to be at any particular place at a fixed time during this program. This means that you will have the opportunity to watch while whales breach and play, to kayak near rafts of inquisitive sea otters, to float on the swell as icebergs crash into the sea. In other words, you will have the luxury of time to appreciate the wild beauty of the Inside Passage, and the freedom to just be.

For more information and to view the online brochure click here.