Coastal Alaska is incredibly beautiful. A vast area of fjords, channels, rivers, glaciers and bays, all of which can be best appreciated from the deck of a ship as she weaves her way through the seemingly endless coastal wilderness. This voyage which we are offering in conjunction with our associates at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises aboard their luxurious vessel, the Hanseatic Inspiration, promises to be an expedition in the truest sense, an exciting journey of wildlife discovery and spectacular scenery.
Sailing between Vancouver and Seward, this voyage is perfectly timed for wildlife viewing and August is traditionally one of the months of the ‘salmon run’ which attracts bears to the rivers. The ship will follow a flexible course, the day to day itinerary will be determined by weather and wildlife sightings and the lanes frequented by the big resort ships will be avoided whenever possible navigating instead the narrow fjords and passages. Witnessing this vast landscape has a humbling effect on those who journey along its dramatic fjord and coastal scenery, past towering mountains, their foothills covered with never ending spruce forests. We will also visit small communities along the way such as the fishermen of Petersburg and the residents of Elfin Cove giving us a unique insight into the way of life in these remote areas.
These are perfect waters for small ship cruising as we get close to glaciers and rivers and view wildlife such as bird colonies, bears and swooping bald eagles if we are lucky. Words cannot adequately describe what it feels like to stand on the crest of an age old glacier, see a whale gracefully breach above the sea’s surface or watch a grizzly hunt for spawning salmon in the gushing Alaskan rivers. You will be able to appreciate the peace and beauty of Alaska, explore in small parties ashore and visit places to which the passengers aboard the big ships will never be taken.
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
2025 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Vancouver, Canada.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Vancouver.
Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore independently. Take a stroll around this charming city and perhaps visit Chinatown, Gastown and Stanley Park. This afternoon meet at the hotel for a transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration which is moored in the city. After settling in to your cabin, there will be a safety briefing followed by an introduction to your expedition team before enjoying dinner on board as we set sail.
Days 3 & 4 British Columbia’s Inside Passage, Alaska.
Pioneers once came here in search of gold, but today Alaska’s treasure is its wild beauty. Guided by the same feeling of great freedom experienced by the early settlers, our adventure begins with a two day cruise through British Columbia’s Inside Passage. From one of the observation areas, enjoy views of myriad islands, thickly wooded mountains and small settlements slowly passing by on the shore. You might catch your first glimpse of bald eagles flying through the air, and maybe even whales which are common in these waters in the summer months. Alternatively, join one of the informative lectures about Alaska’s varied history, wildlife and nature.
Day 5 Wrangell.
The picturesque city of Wrangell is one of the country’s oldest settlements. We will spend the day here and have an opportunity to join one of the optional experiences including a bear watching excursion, a trip through the former gold-digging territory of the Stikine or a hike in the Tongass National Forest. Alternatively, spend the day exploring Wrangell at your own pace.
Day 6 Petersburg.
In Petersburg we will visit one of Alaska’s major fishing communities. Although the Tlingit and other indigenous groups had been in this area for centuries, it was only after Norwegian Peter Buschmann (after whom the town is named) settled here, starting the first cannery and attracting more immigrants from Scandinavia — hence the nickname “Little Norway” — that a permanent town evolved. The fisheries are keen on a sustainable catch and the Petersburg Marine Mammal Centre supports research and education. Take the chance to explore the harbour and meet the fishermen or alternatively join an optional flight or jetboat tour to the LeConte Glacier where perhaps you may see mountain goats and black bears.
Day 7 Kupreanof Island.
Our visit to this island will incorporate meeting the local people – the Tlingit people. Visible from afar, the world’s largest totem pole carved from a single tree trunk symbolises their culture. Our team of experts will explain the meaning of this totem pole on our shore excursion. From here, we may see more of the whales, sea lions and bald eagles that inhabit the area.
Day 8 Cruising in Endicott Arm & Tracy Arm.
A journey along the winding Tracy Arm Fjord leads us some twenty miles through an ethereal wilderness of soaring peaks and high cliffs, crystalline icebergs and tumbling waterfalls to the foot of the twin Sawyer Glaciers. These icy blue glaciers are unrivalled in their majestic beauty. Not only is the wildlife enchanting, but the steep rock faces and rugged glacier ice is worth observing. Meanwhile, in Endicott Arm our naturalists will be on hand for sightings of whales and sea lions.
Day 9 Chichagof Island.
The small settlement of Elfin Cove on Chichagof Island is one of approximately 1,100 islands off the coast of Alaska and accessible only by boat or float plane. After transferring ashore by Zodiac, you are free to explore this unique and seldom-visited fishing community by strolling along the elevated boardwalk that serves as the town’s sidewalk and Main Street. Elfin Cove has something for everyone: photography buffs can try to capture the picturesque setting and colourful fishing boats on film; wildlife enthusiasts may be rewarded by the sight of a sea otter, harbour seal or bald eagle.
Day 10 Hubbard Glacier & Tsaa Fjord.
During the morning we will approach the Hubbard Glacier. This glacier commences in Canada and after some 80 miles terminates in Disenchantment Bay making it the longest glacier in North America and while cruising we hope to see some glacier calving. We will then start heading northeast and while we cruise the Gulf of Alaska you will witness spectacular scenic views of the Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve. Later we hope to enter Tsaa Fjord where, with Mount St Elias framing an imposing 18,000 feet backdrop, we will see the mighty Malaspina and Guyot Glaciers.
Day 11 At Sea.
Spend today at sea. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to watch for wildlife.
Day 12 Kodiak Island.
We will spend a day on Kodiak Island. Alexander Baranov established a trading post at St Paul Harbour in 1792 when Kodiak became the first capital of Russian America and it was a major fur trading centre for many years. During our time here you can see the Russian Orthodox Church and Kodiak History Museum. Alternatively an optional tour will take you to Fort Abercrombie State Park where a walk along the coastal forest path will pass Arctic flower meadows and there is the possibility of sightings of whales off the coast.
Day 13 Homer.
The port of Homer is the starting point for number of optional excursions including bear watching tours and a seaplane flight to Brooks Falls, where you may be lucky enough to see brown bears fishing for salmon. Another option is a flight to Lake Clark National Park where, on a hike with a ranger, you may be able to witness brown bears in their natural habitat. Alternative choices include a hike to the glacial lake or a relaxing boat trip.
Day 14 Katmai National Park.
Spend the day cruising in the sprawling bays of Katmai National Park which spans over four million acres of remote, wild and spectacular countryside. Join the naturalists on deck as we search for wildlife and if we are lucky we hope to see bears in the vegetation near the coast.
Day 15 Seward to Seattle.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Anchorage for our scheduled flight to Seattle. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and the evening is free to explore.
Day 16 Seattle to London.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to London.
Day 17 London.
Arrive this morning.
Shore Excursions: Please note that shore excursions are not included in the price and details of what excursions will be available along with prices will be sent to you three months before departure.
2026 Itinerary
Day 1 London to Vancouver, Canada.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 2 Vancouver.
Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore independently. Take a stroll around this charming city and perhaps visit Chinatown, Gastown and Stanley Park. This afternoon meet at the hotel for a transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration which is moored in the city. After settling in to your cabin, there will be a safety briefing followed by an introduction to your expedition team before enjoying dinner on board as we set sail.
Days 3 & 4 British Columbia’s Inside Passage.
Pioneers once came here in search of gold, but today Alaska’s treasure is its wild beauty. Guided by the same feeling of great freedom experienced by the early settlers, our adventure begins with a two day cruise through British Columbia’s Inside Passage. From one of the observation areas, enjoy views of myriad islands, thickly wooded mountains and small settlements slowly passing by on the shore. You might catch your first glimpse of bald eagles flying through the air, and maybe even whales which are common in these waters in the summer months. Alternatively, join one of the informative lectures about Alaska’s varied history, wildlife and nature.
Day 5 Ketchikan, USA.
We arrive into the USA at Ketchikan, a centre of Native American culture which provides fascinating insights into Alaska’s soul. From here, optional excursions include bear watching at Anan Creek where, with luck, you will spot black and brown bears. Alternatively take a flight over the Misty Fjords to see the deep inlets, snow-covered mountains and roaring waterfalls or join a jeep and canoe trip on Revillagigedo Island.
Day 6 Wrangell.
The picturesque city of Wrangell is one of the country’s oldest settlements. We will spend the day here and have an opportunity to join one of the optional experiences including a bear watching excursion to Anan Creek, a trip through the former gold-digging territory of the Stikine or a hike in the Tongass National Forest. Alternatively, spend the day exploring Wrangell at your own pace.
Day 7 Petersburg.
In Petersburg we are visiting one of Alaska’s major fishing communities. Although the Tlingit and other indigenous groups had been in this area for centuries, it was only after Norwegian Peter Buschmann (after whom the town is named) settled here, starting the first cannery and attracting more immigrants from Scandinavia — hence the nickname “Little Norway” — that a permanent town evolved. The fisheries are keen on a sustainable catch and the Petersburg Marine Mammal Centre supports research and education. Take the chance to explore the harbour and meet the fishermen or alternatively join an optional flight or jetboat tour to the LeConte Glacier where perhaps you may see mountain goats and black bears.
Day 8 Kupreanof Island.
Our visit to this island will incorporate meeting the local people – the Tlingit people. Visible from afar, the world’s largest totem pole carved from a single tree trunk symbolises their culture. Our team of experts will explain the meaning of this totem pole on our shore excursion. From here, we may see more of the whales, sea lions and bald eagles that inhabit the area.
Day 9 Cruising in Endicott Arm & Tracy Arm.
A journey along the winding Tracy Arm Fjord leads us some twenty miles through an ethereal wilderness of soaring peaks and high cliffs, crystalline icebergs and tumbling waterfalls to the foot of the twin Sawyer Glaciers. These icy blue glaciers are unrivalled in their majestic beauty. Not only is the wildlife enchanting, but the steep rock faces and rugged glacier ice is worth observing. Meanwhile, in Endicott Arm our naturalists will be on hand for sightings of whales and sea lions.
Day 10 Chichagof Island.
The small settlement of Elfin Cove on Chichagof Island is one of approximately 1,100 islands off the coast of Alaska and accessible only by boat or float plane. After transferring ashore by Zodiac, you are free to explore this unique and seldom-visited fishing community by strolling along the elevated boardwalk that serves as the town’s sidewalk and Main Street. Elfin Cove has something for everyone: photography buffs can try to capture the picturesque setting and colourful fishing boats on film; wildlife enthusiasts may be rewarded by the sight of a sea otter, harbour seal or bald eagle.
Day 11 Hubbard Glacier & Tsaa Fjord.
During the morning we will approach the Hubbard Glacier. This glacier commences in Canada and after some 80 miles terminates in Disenchantment Bay making it the longest glacier in North America and while cruising we hope to see some glacier calving. We will then start heading northeast and while we cruise the Gulf of Alaska you will witness spectacular scenic views of the Wrangell-St Elias National Park and Preserve. Later we hope to enter Tsaa Fjord where, with Mount St Elias framing an imposing 18,000 feet backdrop, we will see the mighty Malaspina and Guyot Glaciers.
Day 12 At Sea.
Spend today at sea. Maybe join a lecture or find a spot on deck to watch for wildlife.
Day 13 Kodiak Island.
We will spend a day on Kodiak Island. Alexander Baranov established a trading post at St Paul Harbour in 1792 when Kodiak became the first capital of Russian America and it was a major fur trading centre for many years. During our time here you can see the Russian Orthodox Church and Kodiak History Museum. Alternatively an optional tour will take you to Fort Abercrombie State Park where a walk along the coastal forest path will pass Arctic flower meadows and there is the possibility of sightings of whales off the coast.
Day 14 Homer.
The port of Homer is the starting point for number of optional excursions including bear watching tours and a seaplane flight to Brooks Falls, where you may be lucky enough to see brown bears fishing for salmon. Another option is a flight to Lake Clark National Park where, on a hike with a ranger, you may be able to witness brown bears in their natural habitat. Alternative choices include a hike to the glacial lake or a relaxing boat trip.
Day 15 Katmai National Park.
Spend the day cruising in the sprawling bays of Katmai National Park which spans over four million acres of remote, wild and spectacular countryside. Join the naturalists on deck as we search for wildlife and if we are lucky we hope to see bears in the vegetation near the coast.
Day 16 Seward to Seattle.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Anchorage for our scheduled flight to Seattle. On arrival transfer to our hotel for an overnight stay and the evening is free to explore.
Day 17 Seattle to London.
After breakfast in the hotel transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to London.
Day 18 London.
Arrive this morning.
Shore Excursions: Please note that shore excursions are not included in the price and details of what excursions will be available along with prices will be sent to you three months before departure.
Dates and Prices
2025 Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy27 July to 12 August 2025 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £11495 | £10995 |
2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £11995 | £11495 |
3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £12495 | £11995 |
4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £12995 | £12495 |
5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £12795 | £12295 |
6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £13495 | £12995 |
7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £13995 | £13495 |
8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £14495 | £13995 |
9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | £16495 | £15995 |
10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | £20495 | £19995 |
4 (Sole) Balcony cabin for Sole Use Deck 5 | £17495 | £16995 |
5 (Sole) French balcony cabin for sole use | Not Available | Not Available |
2026 Itinerary
Prices per person based on double occupancy22 July to 8 August 2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £12995 | £12495 |
2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £13495 | £12995 |
3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £13995 | £13495 |
4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £14495 | £13995 |
5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £14295 | £13795 |
6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £14995 | £14495 |
7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £15495 | £14995 |
8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £15995 | £15495 |
9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | £17995 | £17495 |
10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | £21995 | £21495 |
4 (Sole) Balcony cabin for Sole Use Deck 5 | Not Available | Not Available |
5 (Sole) French balcony cabin for sole use | £18995 | £18495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI270725/SCHI220726
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Overnight hotel accommodation with breakfast in Vancouver & Seattle • 13 or 14 nights aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration on a full board basis • Mini-bar with soft drinks in your cabin restocked each day • Expedition team including onboard lectures • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes • Landing fees • Loan of waterproof boots, parka, binoculars and hiking poles during cruise.
Not Included: Travel insurance, shore excursions (further details of the optional excursions will be available to pre-book three months before departure and payment will be made on board), Canadian and US visa/visa waiver.
NB: All bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 20% deposit and the balance payment will be due 150 days before the date of departure. Please also note that between 149 and 70 days before the date of departure, cancellation charges shall be 40% of the total holiday price payable.
Shore Excursions: Please note that shore excursions are not included in the price and details of what excursions will be available along with prices will be sent to you three months before departure.
During this voyage you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings will be made by Zodiac landing craft. This cruise will appeal to the more adventurous and those who enjoy the natural world.
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Deckplan
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Also of Interest
Northwest Passage
An expedition in the Wake of Legendary Explorers aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Itinerary at a glance
- Seattle / Seward / Alaska Peninsula / Aleutian Islands / Pribilof Islands / Nome / Chukchi / Beaufort Seas / Northwest Passage / West Greenland / Kangerlussuaq
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000