Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay - Wilderness Legacy
The ultimate adventure for Alaska's most active intrepids: explore secluded wilderness, marvel at glaciers, and encounter incredible wildlife.
SPECIAL OFFER
7.8*
ECO SCORE
86
PASSENGERS
8
DAYS
3.5/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Alaska: Drink It In
Welcome Aboard the
Wilderness Legacy
Set out on the ultimate Alaskan adventure aboard the Wilderness Legacy. This week-long expedition plunges you into Southeast Alaska's wild backcountry. Begin in Juneau, and kayak, hike, paddleboard, skiff, and bushwhack through secluded, rarely-visited areas. Discover Hobart Bay’s serene waters, marvel at LeConte Glacier’s stunning ice, and trek through the misty forests of Thomas Bay. Experience whale watching at Kuiu Island, seek out Coastal Brown Bears near Chichagof Island, and explore the untouched parts of Glacier Bay National Park. Return to Juneau with a heart full of memories and stories of incredible wildlife encounters.
- • With special access to less-visited areas, you’ll kayak in front of massive glaciers and get up close to wildlife. The perfect expedition for travelers who don’t just want to see Alaska, but truly experience it.
• This itinerary is action-packed: paddle alongside sea otters, mountain bike through the rugged backcountry, or even take a plunge into icy waters, if you dare!
• Snorkel a “cold water tropical reef” amongst the most diverse population of sea-stars on earth.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
SPECIAL OFFER:
$1,000 off Per Person on Most Dates! (Exclusive to Wild Nectar, Not Reflected in Rates Below)
Rates:
From $4,400 per person
April & May offer fewer crowds and early-season wildlife like bears emerging from hibernation.
June to August is Glacier Bay's peak season, offering warmer weather, abundant wildlife, and stunning glacier views.
Ask us for exact dates.
April - August;
Hover here for more information.
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
CARBON
Fantastic advances in minimizing carbon footprints at locations.
ENERGY
On the East African Energy Renewal Board
EDUCATION
Runs local educational facilities for children.
Itinerary
Day 1: Juneau Embarkation
After a day of exploring Alaska’s Capital City of Juneau, you'll board the Wilderness Legacy just in time for a welcome cocktail or glass of Champagne before dinner. The captain and crew will introduce themselves and provide an overview of the adventure that awaits this week with a kick-off toast! Listen for the whistles as the Wilderness Legacy departs. These horns and whistles come from Captain Dan’s family collection…video on! (Dinner)
Day 2: Hobart Bay
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Hobart Bay. Start your day with a refreshing kayak excursion, gliding through calm waters or join our naturalists on an invigorating hike, uncovering the secrets of the local flora and fauna. In the afternoon, you’ll have a chance to spot eagles soaring overhead. For those skilled cyclists, try a short mountain bike excursion deep into the forest. As the day winds down, gather on deck for wildlife watching, an evening happy hour in the lounge or captivating presentation by our expert guides. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 3: LeConte Glacier
Enjoy LeConte Glacier, noted as the southernmost tidewater glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, and an awe-inspiring landscape. Guests witness the glacier's imposing beauty up close, a highlight of the Alaskan wilderness. Realize there are no mega ships at this most amazing glacier, as they are much too LARGE to enter the shallow entrance to this magical wilderness fjord. We will spend most of our day here, exploring by kayak, small boat and if conditions permit, by stand-up paddle board. We may even have a chance to go ashore and frolic amongst icebergs stranded on the beach. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 4: Thomas Bay, Land of Kushtaka
Mist hangs in the air. The soft exhale of a whale wakes you from your well-deserved slumber. The anchor drops into the milky blue waters of Thomas Bay as the summer sun cuts through the mist and the fog lifts. You hear it before you see it – a profound amount of water cuts through the forest in a series of waterfalls known as Cascade Creek. This is a favorite location for crew – one of the very few accessible trails in Southeast Alaska. Not to be missed, we have a level of hiking challenge to suit any skill level. After your foray into the woods, head back to the Legacy for a hearty meal as the boat repositions to the other side of Thomas Bay for new adventures. Water access is unmatched here, a kayak to a salmon run or skiff tour in search of bears wraps up your day. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 5: Whale Watching & Kuiu Island
The west side of Kuiu Island is our playground for the day. We’re in black-bear country now and Kuiu Island plays host to the densest population on the planet of this iconic species. Tucked into a Bay, the waters are calm and filled with the smallest marine mammal on earth – the sea otter. Rafts of otters float by – unperturbed by our presence, and about as cute as one might imagine them to be. Humpback whales patrol the reefs in search of schools of herring – resident bubble-netters are a rare and exciting sight. The cold, nutrient rich waters provide opportunity not just for above-water activities. Try your hand at a snorkel (we have the warmest wetsuits known to man, fear not) and unlock an entire universe of discovery as you peruse the most diverse population of sea-stars on earth – a surprise to many who visit this place. For just a moment, the cold water is forgotten as you’re transported into what can only be described as a “cold water tropical reef”. The Pacific transforms into the wildest touch-tank you can imagine. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Brown Bear Search Near the Shores of Chichagof Island
Seek out the elusive Coastal Brown Bear along this rugged coastline. The East side of Chichagof Island includes three specific areas that have exceptionally good opportunities for sighting these wonderful creatures. Your Captain will use his knowledge to put you in the best spot, which changes regularly. This day may include the opportunity for hikes ashore, kayaking, skiff rides and hopefully watching brown bears from all our small boats and kayaks. The bear population is abundant in this area. The day concludes as we get underway, and guests share their experiences and photos with fellow travelers. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 7: Glacier Bay National Park Outback
This national park covers 3.3 million acres (that’s a tad smaller than the state of Connecticut). Let that sink in. Most visitors see the same sliver of the park as everyone else. Not you. You’re going the furthest and exploring parts that 99% of visitors never go to. Hike the outwash field of glaciers winding down the Fairweather Mountain Range. The cool breeze off the nearby snow and icefields is energizing. As the day winds down, it's time for Captain's Dinner. But that's not all – you'll also get to watch a slideshow of all the amazing things you've done this week. It's like a movie starring you, the incredible explorer. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8: Juneau Disembarkation
Welcome back to Juneau. Enjoy your last breakfast aboard. Check every nook and cranny of your cabin for all of your things and say farewell to the crew as we disembark, get that last family photo and wave goodbye until next time. (Breakfast)
Wilderness Legacy
The Wilderness Legacy is geared up and ready for adventure.
The one-of-a-kind Legacy sails to the farthest reaches, spinning yarns of adventure along the way - like the crew and guests having the time of their lives. Notable features of this one-of-a-kind vessel include beautiful carved wooden cabinetry, a spacious Owner's Suite, and the Sea Dragon (a portable launch platform for kayaks and paddle boards). She is ready for exploration, and has the most spacious viewing decks in the fleet. Wherever she sails she announces her arrival with the blow of a whistle.
• Capacity: 86 Guests
• Cabins: 43
• Specialists: Expert Naturalists, 28 Crew
ACHIEVEMENTS
"Best Adventure Cruise Line 2021" Condé Nast Gold List
"2021: Best Adventure Cruise Line" USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards
"2020: The Top 10 Small-ship Ocean Cruise Lines" Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards
“Outfitted for thrilling backcountry exploration and wildlife encounters, the Wilderness Legacy offers an Alaskan expedition geared towards the more active and spirited explorers among us. Capturing the essence of a bygone era, it is styled like an 1890’s steamer, complete with antique furniture and beautifully carved woodwork. An older but comfortable ship, she provides a warm respite between outings, perfect for travelers prioritizing adventure over lavish amenities. Highly recommended!”
Wild Nectar
Life On Board
Deck Plan
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Questions?
Rates
“This vessel was styled with the Alaska gold rush in mind and offers an opportunity to get as close as possible to humpback whales, orcas, and bears hunting along the shoreline. This operator has been in the region for decades and has fantastic permits for Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage. Focused on the experience rather than luxury, this ship offers an exciting Alaska getaway at an excellent value.”
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
Group transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark day, entry fees to national parks/preserves,
From-the-vessel adventure activities and equipment, exclusive activities and shore visits, all meals aboard the vessel, premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines), non-alcoholic beverages, wellness amenities, onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts, refer to your final guest documents for any additional inclusions specific to your itinerary and vessel.
NOT INCLUDED:
Airfare to and from your home city, discretionary gratuities to the vessel's crew, travel protection, optional excursions and land tours, port taxes/fees.
