Sea Otters, Raptors & Bears, Oh My!

OVERVIEW

Observe many of Alaska’s most iconic animals by cruising the surrounding waters, visiting a center for injured birds of prey, and touring a facility for rescued bears. After boarding a deluxe catamaran at the pier, you will spend the next three hours or so viewing the indigenous wildlife in the passages and bays near Sitka. The conditions are ideal for supporting a variety of animals, and sightings are frequent wherever you look. You might gaze up to see bald eagles soaring overhead. Whales often breach the water’s surface in a magnificent display of size and power. Sea otters, sea lions and seals typically frolic near the rocky coast. You might also scan the forest edge for brown bears and black-tailed deer. A naturalist will be on board to explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem as your skilled Captain maneuvers the vessel to provide the best-possible views. Following your viewing adventure at sea, you will drive to the nearby Alaska Raptor Center, where injured birds of prey receive medical treatment in hopes of releasing them back into the wild. A wildlife interpreter will guide you through the Bald Eagle Flight Building, and introduce you to some of the “raptors in residence” perched in outdoor habitats. Afterwards, you’ll have some time to explore the river trail and enjoy interactive exhibits. Your adventure continues with a narrated drive along a winding, coastal road to visit the Fortress of the Bear rescue facility at Silver Bay. Here, you can view and photograph brown and black bears up-close from a raised platform, and learn about an Alaskan family’s dream: offering a life-saving alternative for bears caught in conflict with their human neighbors. Following your visit, you will transfer back to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise waters teeming with whales, sea otters and other marine life.
• Watch bald eagles and other raptors being rehabilitated.
• Photograph brown and black bears up close at a rescue facility
• Learn about the wildlife from various naturalists.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.