Alaska is one of the most unforgettable cruising destinations, and small ship sailing is the key to getting the most of its magnificent sights. Sailing the region on a smaller ship allows you to get up close and personal with awe-inspiring wildlife, stunning glaciers and dramatic landscapes, all in off-the-beaten-path locations.

Here are six remarkable Alaska destinations you can explore on a more personal, small-ship adventure. These unique ports-of-call offer unforgettable life-expanding moments that will leave you with memories of a lifetime.

Wrangell

At the heart of the Tongass National Rain Forest sits Wrangell, one of the thousands of islands of the Alexander Archipelago. Wrangell offers a wonderful diversity of experiences, from the city of Wrangell – a true Alaskan frontier town — to a host of natural wonders. One must-see is Petroglyph Beach State Historic Site and Totem Park, where you can witness 40 petroglyphs created by the Tlingit people thousands of years ago. Other highlights include the Stikine River, Shakes Glacier and Anan Creek Bear Observatory. Anan Creek boasts the largest pink salmon run of the Inside Passage – which means you may see bears catching salmon as they jump upstream.

Misty Fjords

When you visit Misty Fjords, you will understand why the explorer John Muir proclaimed it one the most beautiful places he had ever seen. Located in Alaska’s extreme southeastern Panhandle region, Misty Fjords National Monument, a section of the Tongass National Forest, consists of over two million acres of deeply cut fjords cradled in valleys between mountain ranges rising 2,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level and extending as much as 1,000 feet below the surface. Just imagine sailing among virgin forests and waterfalls or exploring the fjords by kayak — or seeing them from above on a floatplane flight.

Rudyerd Bay

This deglaciated fjord is a wonderland of granite cliffs, lush greenery, and waterfalls. As part of Misty Fjords National Monument, this breathtaking bay receives more than 150” of rainfall per year. Gliding along the shore you might see coastal wolves, mountain goats and bears. Rudyerd Bay’s waters offer an unparalleled opportunity to view orca and humpback whales, sea lions and Dall’s porpoises, as well as birds including bald eagles and ravens.

Klawock

The Tlingit village of Klawock sits midway along the western coast of Prince of Wales Island — known locally as “P.O.W.” The fourth largest island in the United States, it is a vast, wildlife-rich wilderness of more than 2,500 square miles. Sailing into one of the two fjord entrances to the village, you are treated to incredibly scenic views of jagged mountains and lush islands. In one of Alaska’s most impressive totem parks, 21 masterfully carved poles stand atop a hill overlooking the harbor, and you can meet the carvers and watch them work. Beyond the village, outdoor adventures abound, whether from paddling a canoe along the rugged coast to hiking through old-growth forest to fishing for king, sockeye and coho salmon.

Sitka

It’s no exaggeration to say the city of Sitka is unlike any other. Located on Baranof Island, it's the oldest city in Alaska and only assessable by air or sea. Sold to the U.S. by Russia in 1867, the city acquired great wealth during its logging, gold and fur trade booms — leading to its nickname, “The Paris of the Pacific”. The city’s streets reflect both Tlingit cultural tradition and Russian architectural influence, making it a uniquely fascinating place. The surrounding areas offer fishing, hikes in the Tongass rainforest, exploring the coastline by private vessel. From fly fishing for salmon or Dolly Varden trout to connecting with its wonderful people, you will always have more to discover in Sitka.

Inian Islands

If the Inian Islands could be described in one word, it would be “dramatic.” As the gatekeepers to the northern entrance of the fabled Inside Passage, the Inian Islands are exposed to the high-energy seas of the Pacific Ocean. Tidal currents surging through the narrow channels separating the islands can be severe, justifying nicknames like ‘The Laundry Chute’. For millennia, the islands provided a rich bounty for Tlingit fisherman, but today the Inian Islands Institute provides access to the abundant and protected waters for scientific research. Sitka black-tailed deer and brown bears frequent their rugged and rocky shores, while sea lions get their fill of salmon before hauling out to rest on the many rocky outcrops. Sea otters, bald eagles, and humpback whales frequent the area in great numbers during the summer months.

Ventures by Seabourn®

In Wrangell, the Inian Islands, Misty Fjords, and Sitka you may enjoy our optional Ventures by Seabourn excursions led by our world-class Expedition Team. These unique, expedition style excursions let you to get up close to Alaska’s breathtaking mountains, glaciers, and unforgettable wildlife on Zodiac®, kayak, catamaran, and trekking adventures. Many excursions launch directly from your ship, where you can kayak or cruise in a Zodiac with our Expedition Team guides through tranquil fjords, watch for wildlife along forested shores, or see glaciers calving from sea-level.

Experience Alaska with the advantages of an ultra-luxury small-ship cruise.

In 2026, Seabourn Encore will sail Alaska for the first time, so you can get the same small ship Alaska experience – now with all veranda suites offering sweeping ocean views. You’ll also savor world-class dining and culinary experiences that rival the finest restaurants anywhere, including Solis, featuring timeless Mediterranean cuisine. Seafood lovers will delight in Seabourn’s Sushi restaurant with each dish prepared with the finest ingredients and freshest of fish.

Guests who want to enjoy the ultimate in luxury and relaxation can book time in The Retreat. Escape to a tranquil oasis, where 15 private cabanas offer a luxurious respite from sun and wind. Each cabana, surrounded by a central whirlpool, is a personal haven of comfort featuring a large HD flat screen TV and a custom-stocked refrigerator. Indulge in personalized spa treatments while an attentive concierge staff caters to your every need and enjoy a gourmet lunch for an unparalleled VIP experience.

If you’re ready to experience The Great Land, Seabourn is ready and waiting to fulfill all your Alaska dreams.