Fortress of the Bear & Silver Bay Homestead Cruise
Description
Are you looking for a unique adventure that takes you to a remote Alaskan hidden gam? Look no further than the Fortress of the Bear & Silver Bay Homestead Cruise.
Your adventure begins with a fully narrated motorcoach tour through Sitka, leading you to Fortress of the Bear, a sanctuary for orphaned brown and black bears. Here, you’ll witness these magnificent creatures up close as you learn about their rescue, rehabilitation, and the inspiring efforts of the couple who founded this incredible facility. Currently home to five brown bears and three black bears, the sanctuary offers an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of these rescued animals.
Next, set off on a comfortable excursion boat to explore a glacier-carved fjord along Silver Bay’s rugged coastline. As you cruise past historic sites and scenic landscapes, your guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s natural resources and their lasting impact on Southeast Alaska’s culture and economy. At the head of Silver Bay, step ashore at a private Alaskan homestead, where knowledgeable wilderness guides will introduce you to the traditional survival skills used by the region’s original inhabitants for thousands of years. Take in the breathtaking views, enjoy a crackling campfire with s’mores and cocoa, and experience the serene beauty of this remote setting.
Back aboard your expedition craft, continue your journey north in search of sea lions, brown bears, and other local wildlife. Your adventure concludes with a scenic drive, passing landmarks like the Alaska Raptor Center and Sitka National Historic Park, offering ideas for further exploration before returning to your ship. The Fortress of the Bear & Silver Bay Homestead Cruise is the ultimate blend of wildlife, history, and authentic Alaskan culture.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the weather be like?
The weather in Sitka is quick to change. It may be raining in the morning and sunny in the afternoon. Or it can rain all day long. Dress in layers, and make sure to bring a warm jacket. We advise to stick with wool, fleece or synthetics and to stay away from cotton. Pack a hat, gloves, rain gear and sunglasses, just in case.
What is the difficulty of this tour?
What sequence does this tour run in?
The tour sequence may vary (with the cruise before Fortress of the Bear). Your tour may end downtown at the Sitka Visitor Center or the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. Free shuttle buses, departing every few minutes, provide transportation between downtown and the Cruise Terminal.
What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?
We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.
What should we wear and bring?
This tour operates rain or shine, and rain is common as we lie in a temperate rainforest! For comfort, we typically recommend long pants, closed-toed shoes and a waterproof jacket. Some guests choose to bring a small bag or backpack along to store extra layers, a bottle of water and cameras.
Is there a restroom on board the boat?
Yes, there is a small restroom on board the boat.