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BEARS
Q. Will I see bears?
A. We see bears on the majority of our trips. Coastal brown bears (sometimes called grizzly bears) and black bears inhabit the lands and islands of Southeast Alaska. Typically, potential sightings are best early in the season when bears are near the shore in search of food in the intertidal areas or later in the summer near streams when the salmon are spawning. Both species can often be seen from the ship or skiffs throughout the season. Bears tend to stay in the cool shade on warm sunny days and are more difficult to spot in the sunshine. If you take a land tour with us, you will also have a good chance of seeing bears in Denali National Park and Preserve.
FISHING
Q. Is there fishing allowed from the ship or yacht?
A. Not on our larger capacity vessels (60+ guests), but while on board it is possible to purchase fishing excursions in certain areas through our third party outfitters. These excursions would be at an additional cost.
Fishing is allowed on our 12, 22, or 36 guest yachts. Fishing rods are available for guest use and fishing licenses may be purchased on board. Fishing excursions with a third party outfitter can also be arranged, at an additional charge.
Fishing licenses sold aboard our vessels are for catch and release only. We do not sell licenses for catching halibut.
Q. Can the Chef prepare any fish I catch?
A. It is against health regulations for us to prepare and serve any fish you catch while aboard our vessels.
FOOTWEAR
Q. Do I need rubber boots and hiking boots?
A. In Southeast Alaska, the wilderness areas we explore on foot can get pretty muddy, plus we have a fair amount of wet landings by skiff where there's no dock at all. So having proper footwear with good ankle support is absolutely essential. Both hiking and rubber boots are good, but if we had to choose, we'd lean towards the rubber boots (aka the "Alaska tennis shoe", also known as Xtra Tuffs, Wellingtons, gum boots.) Many of our guests hike all week in their rubber "mud" boots!
If you're traveling on one of American Safari Cruises' smaller yachts, there are rubber boots on board for guests to use during wilderness hikes.
MOSQUITOES
Q. Do I have to worry about mosquitoes and other bugs?
A. We've found there aren't a great deal of bugs in most of the areas where we cruise in Southeast Alaska, but they are present in some places. If we do encounter them, your vessel crew can provide you with insect repellent. Mosquitoes are present in the Interior of Alaska and are most numerous in June and July. Guests who are concerned about mosquitoes while on their pre- or post-cruise land package should carry insect repellent with them.
MT. MCKINLEY
Q. Will I see Mt. McKinley?
A. You may see Mt. McKinley if you book a pre- or post-cruise Denali National Park & Preserve land package. Mt. McKinley is often shrouded in clouds, there is "cloud failure" in Alaska that does allow for glimpses of this majestic peak.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
Q. Will I see the Northern Lights?
A. The Northen Lights (or Aurora Borealis) are more prevalent at the end of the summer and require a combination of dark, clear nights and specific solar activity. Crew are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week and should this phenomenon be seen, we will be sure to awaken any interested guests.
ROUGH SEAS
Q. Should we expect to encounter rough seas on our explorations?
A. One of the nice things about our Alaska adventures is that we operate primarily within the waters of the Inside Passage and the vessels are rarely exposed to the open ocean. In the event that we do cross an open passageway or expect unfavorable weather, the Captain will give you plenty of notice so that you can take seasickness medication.
SNORKELING
Q. Can I snorkel in Alaska during my un-cruise?
A. InnerSea Discoveries' Wilderness Adventurer and Wilderness Discoverer are our only vessels equipped for snorkeling in Alaska. And the best chance to do that is on our Inner Reaches Eastern Coves and Western Coves itineraries. Both itineraries base the number of times they snorkel on interest and it being possible within the itinerary. Generally, our goal is provide every guest that wishes to go snorkeling the opportunity to do so. Snorkeling varies greatly based on rainfall and tide, which both affect visibility. There is a nominal daily fee to snorkel.
TIMING OF TRAVEL
Q. What is the best time of year to travel in Alaska?
A. Most travelers choose to visit Alaska between the months of May and September. Each of these months has its benefits. Humpback whales arrive in mid-May and depart in early September. Wildflowers are most prevalent in June and July. Wildlife ashore, such as bears and mountain goats, can be seen throughout these summer months.
WHALES
Q. Will I see whales in Alaska?
A. Very likely. The most commonly seen whales in Southeast Alaska are humpback whales and orca whales. Humpback whales migrate to Southeast Alaska waters to feed and usually begin arriving in early to mid-May and depart by mid-September.
