JUNEAU KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Inside Passage on Paddle and Wave: Kayaking the Last Frontier from Juneau to Sitka
A 7-night/8-day small-ship expedition that blends rainforest hikes, glacial-fjord kayaking, and lodge-side wilderness immersion—this guide explains what to expect and how to pack.
Inside Passage on Paddle and Wave: Kayaking the Last Frontier from Juneau to Sitka.
The Last Frontier Adventure sails the Inside Passage between Juneau and Sitka on a dynamic 7-night/8-day itinerary, spending most days in remote locations where guided rainforest hikes, glacial-fjord kayaking, and shoreline exploration across Baranof Island’s “Waterfall Coast” intersect with wildlife-rich stops such as Glacier Bay National Park and the operator’s exclusive Orca Point Lodge.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Glacier Bay National Park and Dawes Glacier
Glacier Bay’s 65-mile fjord and its eight tidewater glaciers are a central focus of the voyage, with the Margerie Glacier famous for dramatic calving displays and a National Park Ranger program augmented by a Native Huna Tlingit interpretive naturalist.
Humpbacks and Marine Mammals in Frederick Sound
Frederick Sound is scouted for humpback whales whose lunge feeding, breaching and other surface behaviors make for strong viewing and photography opportunities, alongside other marine mammal and seabird encounters around protected waters and islands.
Orca Point Lodge and Hobart Bay Exclusives
Guests gain special-access experiences ashore—relaxing evenings at the operator’s own Orca Point Lodge on Colt Island, guided hikes and skiff rides in Hobart Bay through an exclusive local agreement, and hands-on shoreline interpretation and local cuisine.
What the day feels like
What the voyage feels like
This is a small expedition rhythm of active days and remote overnights: mornings and afternoons framed by guided hikes through rainforest trails and paddles in protected bays or glacial fjords, interspersed with skiff excursions and ship-based wildlife searches; evenings are for lodge-side meals, interpretation with Park Rangers and indigenous naturalists, and quiet time on secluded beaches.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this expedition matches best—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring layered synthetic or wool clothing, a warm hat and gloves, comfortable waterproof walking shoes or all-terrain footwear, sunscreen and sunglasses, and your personal jacket (waterproof jackets, pants and boots are provided onboard).
Binoculars are provided free but guests are recommended to bring personal optics; birders should bring field guides, and swimmers may want a swimsuit for optional cold-water swims.
Pack adequate clothing for the voyage (there is no laundry onboard), bring prescriptions and eyewear spares, and consider a journal or sketchbook for the many scenes you’ll encounter.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Last Frontier Adventure?
The program is a 7-night/8-day expedition sailing between Juneau and Sitka.
What activities are included?
Guided rainforest hikes, kayaking in glacial fjords and protected bays, skiff rides, wildlife searches, and time ashore at Orca Point Lodge are featured throughout the itinerary.
Is gear provided for wet activities?
Waterproof jackets, pants and boots are provided for use during the cruise, though guests are recommended to bring a personal jacket and layered clothing.
Will I have opportunities to see whales and other wildlife?
Yes—the itinerary includes whale-scouting in Frederick Sound, Glacier Bay National Park wildlife programming, and regular searches for marine mammals and coastal species in remote areas.
Are transfers provided at the end of the voyage?
Yes—transfers to your hotel or the airport from Juneau at disembarkation are complimentary.
Do guests visit private or exclusive shore locations?
The operator has private access agreements, such as exclusive visits to Hobart Bay and use of Orca Point Lodge on Colt Island for shore-based experiences.