10 Nights Alaskan Explorer Cruise | Juneau roundtrip

Type of Vessel

Uniquely designed to navigate the inland waterways of the Pacific Northwest, the brand new American Constellation brings guests to beautiful ports the larger ships can't access. In the intimate atmosphere onboard, guests will find the largest staterooms in the industry, spacious lounges, as well as observation decks and private balconies that offer spectacular views of the passing landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Juneau, Alaska / Mendenhall Glacier: Arrive a day before your cruise begins to maximize your time exploring Juneau and viewing the breathtaking Mendenhall Glacier, one of the most beautiful glaciers in North America. Downtown, enjoy Juneau's unique shops and native heritage sites. Forested islands, quiet coves, and rugged coastal mountain ranges greet you as soon as you leave the dock.
On this excursion through the city of Juneau, your guide will share the colorful history of Juneau's gold rush era and point out buildings of historical significance. As the excursion takes you away from downtown Juneau, experience the wonders of nature with breathtaking views of Mendenhall Glacier. At its widest point, this glacier is an impressive half a mile wide, with ice about 1,000 feet deep. This journey will stop at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you can discover the mystery behind this magnificent geological phenomenon from an unobstructed vantage point. Further explore this towering glacier along one of its many nature trails and witness the grandeur of this impressive feat of nature, before returning to the ship's gangway.

Day 2 | Skagway, Alaska: Located at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage, Skagway was central to the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897. Known as the "Gateway to the Yukon," the restored town is true to its past with vintage streetcars reminiscent of the old frontier and gold-rush-era buildings, now preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Vintage locomotives from The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad continue to run past the iconic Chilkoot trail, offering sweeping mountain views on the way up to Canada.
Skagway has called itself the "Gateway to the Yukon" since the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898. This experience offers an overview of the town, a spectacular ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow gauge railroad into British Columbia, a journey over the scenic Klondike Highway, and time to explore historic Skagway's attractions and shops.

Day 3 | Haines, Alaska: As you explore Haines, the onboard expert and a local guide will take you through the valley describing the different species along the way. Get a up-close view of bald eagles which are among the most populous of over 260 species of birds in Chilkat Valley. Take advantage of the variety of activities available in Haines, including a guided wildlife expedition or a private kayaking trip on Chilkoot Lake.
Enjoy a historic walking journey led by a local guide who will give you an insider's look at life in this small Alaskan town. Start at Fort William H. Seward, the first permanent Army base in Alaska. Learn about the rich history of the Chilkat Valley, including the pre-contact days of the Tlingit, the arrival of the missionaries, the US Army and Fort Seward period, as well as more modern times. Admire the views from Officer's Row, and visit Soap Suds Alley and the Parade Grounds. Explore the famous Hammer Museum, one of the prime attractions on Main Street. Hear stories about local controversies and the challenges of remote Alaskan living.
Knowledgeable and experienced local naturalists will guide you through the "Valley of the Eagles" to take in Alaska's magnificent nature and wildlife in six different wildlife habitats: ocean, estuary, river, lake, muskeg, and rainforest. Nestled between rugged glaciers and snow-capped mountains, the fertile Chilkoot Valley provides you with the potential to observe a wide variety of wildlife including brown bears, bald eagles, whales, seals, and river otters.
As you make your way to the Chilkat River to begin your rafting excursion, take a scenic riverside drive along Haines Highway, declared A National Scenic Byway. Witness glacier-clad mountains thrust to the sky, colorful wildflowers line the road, and green riverside channels that provide habitat for moose, bear, and trumpeter swans. After boarding your raft, enjoy a rapid-free, scenic float down the Chilkat River through the famous Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, home of the world's largest concentration of Bald Eagle. Paddling is not required, as your expert guide will push the raft along, explaining the natural history of the area, the Chilkat Indian heritage, and fun facts about bald eagle ecology.
Sea kayaking is a great way to explore the scenic wonders of Alaska. Outfitted with the proper gear, you will soon be gliding silently along the shores of the pristine Chilkoot Lake. The excursion begins with a seaside drive to Chilkoot Lake State Park which features a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, a turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and important Tlingit cultural sites. Keep an eye out for wildlife; bald eagles, brown bear, and migratory birds, all of which are often seen here. Arrive at the lake, take in the scenery and board your sea kayak. This lake is uncrowded, and the scenery is spectacular. Huge waterfalls spill off of the cliffs surrounding the lake, lush green forests line the shore, and wildlife abounds.

Day 4 | Glacier Bay, Alaska: Covering 3.3 million acres of dynamic topography, Glacier Bay is the world's largest biosphere, comprised of massive glaciers, temperate rainforest, and snow-capped mountain peaks. American Cruise Lines is one of a few cruise lines allowed privileged access into this natural wonder. Immerse yourself in its majesty as you enjoy spectacular views and breathtaking moments. From the comfort of your private balcony, witness the native wildlife, including seals, whales, eagles, bear, and more.
| The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is like no place else on earth. The park includes magnificent glaciers, towering snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and miles of pristine coastline. Experience all of Glacier Bay's beauty from the comfort of the American Constellation. A National Park Service Ranger will board the ship for the day and will provide expert narration as you cruise through Glacier Bay, identifying wildlife including orcas, humpback whales, brown bears, and bald eagles. Your journey will include a stop at a majestic tidewater glacier where you may hear the sounds of a calving glacier. American Cruise Lines has also made special arrangements to have an Huna Tlingit Cultural Interpreter join you on board who will share with you the fascinating human history and family stories of Glacier Bay's native clans and people.

Day 5 | Glacier Bay, Alaska: Glacier Bay is too magnificent to just spend a single day. Enjoy more time in this natural wonder as a park ranger joins us on board providing expert commentary on the landscape and native wildlife.

Day 6 | Petersburg, Alaska: Founded more than 100 years ago by Norwegian fishermen, Petersburg is a thriving fishing community that maintains its strong Norwegian heritage and continues to make its living from the sea. Located on Frederick Sound near the summer feeding grounds of hundreds of humpback whales, this authentic Alaskan town is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. Explore its beautiful seaport, charter a fishing boat for the afternoon, or learn about the area's rich history at the Clausen Museum.
Petersburg's location is in the heart of southeast Alaska, making it ideal for major industry commercial fishing. Led by local fishermen and fishery biologists, enjoy a one hour narrated dock walk through Petersburg's boat harbors. Enjoy a discussion about various fishing boats, methods of fishing, permits, processing and more.
In the company of a small group of fellow American Cruise Lines guests, enjoy a half day of fishing aboard the "First Choice” fishing charter. Admire the scenic splendor of southeast Alaska as you enjoy the thrill of the catch. All equipment is provided and you will even be able to keep your delicious catch to ship home.
Enjoy a self-guided visit of the Clausen Museum at your leisure. Established in 1968, the Clausen Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and telling the story of those who have lived and worked in Petersburg and the surrounding area.

Day 7 | Ketchikan, Alaska: Ketchikan, Alaska is truly the beginning of the last frontier, where animals may actually outnumber people. Located in the midst of the Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan is home to black bears, mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles. Witness the incredibly rich Alaska native culture and the many Native American totem poles on display throughout town. Enjoy the scenic views of nearby Misty Fiords National Monument, a glacier-carved wilderness featuring snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and salmon spawning streams.
Feel the energy of the "Salmon Capital of the World" as you pass by its diverse local fishing fleet. Motor down the channel for up-close views of local fishing canneries, seaplane docks, and Ketchikan's waterfront community. Travel by the salmon ladder on Ketchikan Creek viewing the spawning grounds and live salmon in season, as well as to Creek Street where you will learn of Ketchikan's colorful past and salty beginnings.

Day 8 | Wrangell, Alaska: Natural beauty abounds in Wrangell with a variety of landscapes including mountains, islands, and rainforest. Explore the city of Wrangell and walk among the petroglyph carvings as you enter the "Gateway to the Stikine River." Visit places along the river where miners camped and garnets were mined during the Gold Rush. Savor the flavors of fresh salmon and halibut, view bears on the mountainside, participate in native Tlingit culture, or stop and pick from the abundance of wild blueberries, huckleberries, and salmon-berries.
Discover the highlights of this truly Alaskan town with its colorful history and Native American culture. Explore Wrangell's famous anthropological sight, Petroglyph Beach where you can view Chief Shakes Tribal House and rock carvings. Enjoy a petroglyph rubbing demonstration before heading to the Wrangell Museum which houses a rich assortment of over 5,000 historic photos, native artifacts, and a collection of Tlingit petroglyphs.
Climb aboard a jet boat and explore the historic Stikine River. The Stikine River, or Stik-Heen, which means "Great River" in Tlinglit, is the fastest navigable, free-flowing river in North America and is truly a photographer's dream. This natural habitat is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, brown and black bear, and the bald eagle. The Stikine River was also the primary means of river transport during the Gold Rush. View the picturesque scenery of this historic river, including massive glaciers that descend to the shores of the river and arcing mountains that extend to the sky.

Day 9 | Cruising the Inside Passage and Frederick Sound: Spend the day cruising the Frederick Sound and Inside Passage. Surrounded by majestic snow-covered mountains, the glacier-fed waters of the Frederick Sound are abundant with krill and herring, making it one of the world's premier locations to observe humpback whales. Thousands migrate here to feed on the super nutrient-rich waters, as do orcas, sea lions, porpoise, and harbor seals. Along the shoreline, you may also spot black and brown bears as well as Sitka black-tailed deer.

Day 10 | Tracy Arm, Alaska: Fifty miles southeast of Juneau is Tracy Arm, a long, narrow fjord leading to the mile-wide South Sawyer Glacier. Witness seals lounging on small ice floes, as you sail under the 1,500-foot-high vertical cliffs of Tracy Arm surrounded by the magnificent sight of hundreds of waterfalls cascading down its towering sides. Indulge yourself at the one-of-a-kind Hot Chocolate Bar on the sun deck, as the onboard naturalist provides expert commentary on this natural wonder. There is a sense of excitement as you anticipate the next waterfall, mountain goat, or bear, on your way to the crystal blue glacier.

Day 11 | Juneau, Alaska : On your return, spend some time in Juneau. Explore the impressive collection of museums, shops, and attractions in the heart of Alaska's capital.

Guest Services

The all-American crew from American Cruise Lines simply provides you with the best possible cruise experience by offering an unsurpassed level of attention. Whether onboard or ashore, each member of the crew will work with you to help accommodate your specific interests, tastes, and needs. Attentive and personalized service is the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Food and Dining

Meals are served in the spacious dining salon, which accommodates all passengers at one seating. The day's menu is announced well in advance, and consists of fresh meats and seafood, as well as in-season fruits and vegetables. Special menus are available to passengers on restricted diets. Most special dietary needs can be accommodated, though advance notice. All meals are prepared to order. Coffee, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available 24 hours a day.

Onboard Activities/Events

Let American Cruise Lines guide you through the origins and rich traditions of music on America's legendary rivers and waterways. These shores are home to many celebrated styles of music including Country, Jazz, Blues, and Rock n' Roll. Onboard and ashore, enjoy music inspired by each unique region and learn its impact on the development of American music. Also enjoy daily entertainments from historians, naturalists, and local experts that join every cruise. Daily lectures ranging from history to culture to cuisines.
Alaska holds some of the greatest scenery and wildlife on the planet. Seasoned Alaskan travelers, the onboard experts share their knowledge of the area in an entertaining and fun way. While cruising, discover fascinating facts on the region's flora, fauna, geology, and wildlife as well as the history of the native people.

Shore Excursions

Enjoy an in-depth exploration of Alaska. Led by the expert guides, visit scenic landscapes, view native wildlife, and experience the very best this magnificent region has to offer. Shore Excursions include Chilkoot Lake Wildlife Kayak Journey, Signature Fishing Charter, Yukon Gateway Journey, Interpretive Glacier Bay Program and the Stikine River Jet Boat Experience.

Staterooms or Cabins

Owner's Suites | At up to 450 square feet, the American Constitution Owner's Suites are both spacious and elegantly appointed. Located on a private deck, each secluded suite offers distinguished travelers amazing views from the private walk-out balcony. The well-furnished suites come fully equipped and offer a sitting area, writer's desk, sliding glass door, and full-size bathroom.
Veranda Suites | With a generous up to 450 square feet of relaxing space, each includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.
AAM Staterooms | Located on the fourth deck at 368 square feet of space, designed to offer the privacy you desire while cruising. These spacious staterooms are elegantly furnished and feature floor to ceiling sliding glass doors that lead to a private walk-out balcony where the grandness of the Pacific Northwest scenery can be enjoyed.
AAC Staterooms | Featuring the most modern amenities, these spacious staterooms offer the perfect retreat for travelers. With over 350 square feet, each offers all of the comforts of a fine hotel and is configured to maximize the interior living space. These stateroom also feature full sliding glass doors and a private walk-out balcony which provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
AAL Staterooms | Offering all the comforts of home and amazing panoramic views. At 350 square feet, each stateroom includes an interior entrance, expansive private walk-out balcony, and a large sitting area. These staterooms are the perfect sanctuary to relax in after a day of exploration.
AA Staterooms | Centrally located while offering amazing views and easy access to the lounge areas. You will enjoy the expansive views out of your own large opening picture window. Each stateroom comes equipped with a large closet and hotel-size bathrooms.
Single (Private Balcony) Staterooms | Solo travelers will find relaxing comfort in these staterooms complete with a walk-out private balcony. Enjoy one of the largest Single staterooms in the industry at 238 square feet, featuring a comfortable twin bed, large sliding glass door, and spacious full-size bathrooms.
Single Staterooms | Find modern amenities and relaxing comfort in 226 square feet Single staterooms. With a large picture window, twin beds and sizable bathrooms, these Single staterooms are perfect for solo travelers.