Join UVA Alumni, Parents and friends as we partner with Lindblad Expeditions aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Questand sail through fast-moving channels where whales return to feed year after year and bears, sea lions, and eagles can be spotted in their natural habitat. Get a closer view of curious wildlife among electric blue icebergs on a cruise by Zodiac. And spend a full day in Glacier Bay National Park with guidance from a park ranger and Tlingit cultural interpreter.
Make the expedition as active as you choose, joining different naturalists in exploring each day for more viewpoints and learning. Go for a hike in the wild remote areas of Tongass National Forest by special permit, kayak into secluded inlets, paddle board along the rugged coastlines, and discover Alaska’s seldom-seen, vibrant marine life revealed by an undersea specialist.
All the while, explore under the sure guidance of a professional expedition leader, veteran naturalists, a photo instructor, undersea specialist, and wellness specialist––the largest and most knowledgeable expedition team in Alaska. Their knowledge and passion are key to your once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Program Highlights
Six days cruising the protected British Columbian Inside Passage –– one of the most spectacular coastal waterways in the world
Onboard naturalist guides to help identify the natural wonders and incredible wildlife of the Inside Passage
Kevin and a Glacier in Tracy Arm FjordScenic cruise into stunning Tracy Arm Fjord featuring the South Sawyer Glacier
Hike through lush forests and muskegs, kayak into secluded inlets, and cruise by Zodiac among electric blue icebergs and curious wildlife
By special permit, spend a full day exploring Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Discover Alaska’s seldom-seen, vibrant marine life revealed by our undersea specialist
Hike and kayak in the wild remote areas of Tongass National Forest by special permit
If schedules permit, our conservation partners from the Alaska Whale Foundation will come aboard to meet with us and speak about the local whale population
Our Forest Service Special Use Permit for Tongass National Forest enables you to hike and kayak in wild and remote areas of Southeast Alaska.
Prices start at $7560 per person, based double occupancy and cabin selection.
FACULTY
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STEPHEN CUSHMAN
Robert C. Taylor Professor of English
Steve has taught at UVA since 1982. With a B.A. from Cornell and a Ph.D. from Yale, he has brought to UVA students his commitment to American writing, environmental writing, and the American Civil War era. His teaching has been honored with an All-University Teaching Award, the first Mayo Distinguished Teaching Professorship, the Cavalier Distinguished Teaching Professorship, and a State Council of Education for Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award. A poet as well as a scholar, he has published twelve books, most recently The Generals' Civil War: What Their Memoirs Can Teach Us Today (University of North Carolina Press, 2021) and Keep the Feast: Poems (Louisiana State University Press, 2022). For more about Steve, visit http://www.engl.virginia.edu/people/sbc9g or https://stephencushman.com/
Trip Itinerary
DAY 1 – Sunday, August 20, 2023
Juneau, Alaska / Embark
Fly from Seattle to Juneau. Explore the newly constructed Alaska State Museum, with its sprawling collection of natural history and cultural artifacts, and explore downtown Juneau.
Embark the National Geographic Quest and settle into your cabin before dinner. Later, explore the port of Juneau on your own.
Dinner (D) National Geographic Quest
DAY 2 – Monday, August 21, 2023 Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness
Voyage into Tracy or Endicott Arm, both spectacular fjords, with waterfalls cascading from glacially carved walls. See the soaring Dawes or South Sawyer Glacier up close and take a cruise in a Zodiac for an unbeatable view among sculpted icebergs. Keep an eye out for harbor seals, harbor porpoises and arctic terns.
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DAY 3 – Tuesday, August 22, 2023 Petersburg
Visit the small, true Alaskan fishing town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, which still retains much of its Norwegian heritage. Explore a unique Southeast Alaskan ecosystem, the “muskeg,” with stunted trees and carnivorous plants. There is an opportunity to stretch your legs with an optional bike ride around town. This evening, enjoy a crab feast.
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DAY 4 – Wednesday, August 23, 2023 Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait
These waters are prime areas for both killer whales and humpback whales. It's not uncommon to observe their fascinating behavior—breaching, tail-slapping and variations on feeding—as we fill the deck and listen to the play-by-play from our expert naturalists. We'll explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, we’ll have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up close exploration.
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DAY 5 – Thursday, August 24, 2023 Icy Strait and the Inian Islands
Explore among the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea otters reside. We’ll search for marine mammals in the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around the Island to hike where sightings of bald eagles are very common.
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"Pirates" delivering hot cocoa on Glacier Bay
DAY 6 – Friday, August 25, 2023 Glacier Bay National Park
We spend the entire day amidst the coves, fjords, tidewater glaciers and majestic mountains of Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll see glaciers that end abruptly at the water’s edge and observe them “calving”—tons of ice crashing into the sea— accompanied by an exhilaratingly thunderous sound. Mountain goats scaling the peaks as well as harbor seals, Steller sea lions and puffins are some of the creatures we may observe. A visit to Tidal Inlet may bring the sight of brown bears lumbering up the hillside. A native Tlingit interpreter joins us onboard to share the legend of the area.
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DAY 7 – Saturday, August 26, 2023 Southeast Alaska’s Islands, Bays and Fjords
Today, nature is our guide as we set forth with the flexibility to take advantage of wildlife and weather conditions. We may stop at an isolated beach to take a closer look at tide pools, beachcomb, and hike stunning forest trails. Keep an eye out for old bear tracks worn into the soil as you move from forest to meadow. Sightings of bald eagles are very common. If conditions permit, we'll do some kayaking, always watching for marine and terrestrial life.
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DAY 8 – Sunday, August 27, 2023 Sitka / Disembark ship
After breakfast we disembark in Sitka, southeastern Alaska’s only oceanfront town. Sitka has a strong Russian heritage, which is readily apparent as you visit the onion-domed St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Church. At the Raptor Rehabilitation Center, we have close views of species normally seen at a distance in the wild— bald eagles, hawks, falcons and owls. Transfer to the airport for flights home.
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Post Extension details
Currently N/A.
Trip Details
Accommodations
Trip Details
Accommodations: National Geographic Quest
The 100-guestNational Geographic Quest was purpose-built to explore the North American coast, her design and engineering informed by our nearly 40 years of experience in these regions. Her twin boarding platforms, for example, were suggested by a veteran staffer. Enabling our team to load two Zodiacs at once means guests get off the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximize exploring time. A shallow draft allows her captain to navigate the inner reaches and provide the intimate, "insider" experiences in these charismatic regions. Modern cleaned-lined, with large expanses of glass to keep you connected to the extraordinary views, National Geographic Quest enables you to see, do, and experience the best of her geographies.
50 Outside Cabins: All feature windows or portholes, private facilities, climate controls, hair dryers, and TV, plus Ethernet, Wi-Fi connections, and USB ports for mobile devices. Category 4 cabins have step-out balconies. There are six connected cabins.
Dining: Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, and local where possible.
Public Spaces: Reception; main dining area; global gallery; fitness center; lounge with full-service bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities; observation deck; mudroom with lockers for expedition gear; partially covered furnished sundeck; plus, open access to the Bridge, the Captain, the officers, and on-duty wildlife spotters.
Wellness: A fitness center with elliptical, treadmill, weights, resistance bands; LEXspa treatment room, staffed by wellness specialists.
Special Features: A certified photo instructor, undersea specialist and video chronicler. Internet access. Elevator.
Expedition Tools: A fleet of eight Zodiacs, 24 kayaks, paddleboards; an ROV, hydrophone, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope; snorkeling gear, and wetsuits for all guests (where applicable).
Noteworthy Feature: The design of the outside decks—with the perfect wildlife viewing platform. And the way the proximity of the lounge to the deck gives you instant access to spontaneous sightings. Have your camera ready!
Meals
20 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Program fees
Prices are based upon cabin selection and are per person, double occupancy, voyage only.
Book now and receive a $700 air credit per person. Credit will be deducted from cabin fare prior to any additional applicable savings.
Cat. 1: $ 7,560 ($6,850 after air credit.)- Main Deck #301-306 Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. 136 square feet
Cat. 2: $ 8,390 ($7,690 after air credit.)- Main Deck #307-315 Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two portholes. 161 square feet
Cat. 3: [SOLD OUT] $ 8,880 ($8,180 after air credit.)- Upper Deck #201-206 Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk and two large view windows. 151 square feet
Cat. 4: $ 9,870 ($9,170 after air credit.)- Upper Deck #207-229 Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, a writing desk, large view window and small, private balcony. 151 square feet
Cat. 5: $10,920 ($10,220 after air credit.)- (SUITE): Observation Deck #101-108 Cabins feature two single beds that can convert to a Queen, large view windows, an expanded bathroom, writing desk, ample storage space, and a convertible sofa bed to accommodate a third person.
Category 4 Cabin
There is no single supplement on solo cabins on this departure date. Valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, not applicable on extensions, and may not be combined with other offers. Call for details.
Family Savings: On this departure date, every two full-paying adults are welcome to bring a child (22 and under) at 50% off and a second child for FREE. Offer applicable only on bookings of two double-occupancy cabins, and second cabin must be in same category or lower as first cabin.
Single parents and grandparents may redeem offer when booking a single double- or triple-occupancy cabin, pending availability. Valid on cabin fare only, not valid on extensions or airfare. Please call for details
Category 3 Cabin
NOTE: Sole Occupancy cabins are available in Categories 1 and 2 only.
Third person rates are available in Category 5 cabins at one half the double occupancy rate.
Certain offers may be combinable, up to two savings opportunities, except where noted otherwise.
Connecting Cabins via internal doorway access:
Main Deck: #312-314, #311- 315, #306-308, #305-307
Upper Deck: #224-226, #225-227
Price includes:
Accommodations aboard ship
All meals and non-alcoholic beverages aboard ship
All shore excursions, sightseeing and special access permits
Round-trip transfers for guests using group flights
Use of kayaks and paddle boards
Services of the Expedition Leader, naturalist staff and expert guides
All port charges and service taxes
Gratuities to local guides
Price does not include:
Airfare
Extensions
Flightseeing
Discretionary gratuities to ship’s crew
Passport and visa expenses (if required)
Travel protection plan
Meals not indicated on itinerary
Items of a personal nature such as certain premium brands of alcohol, Wi-Fi, etc.
Anything not listed as included
How to Register
Ready to register? The best way to do this is by phone so that we can ensure we are meeting all of your needs. Please call us at 434-243-4984 or 866-765-2646. Or, e-mail cavaliertravels@virginia.edu with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
A deposit of $750 per person is required to reserve your spot. Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure (May 22, 2023).
Deposits can be made via Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or check.
Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
Terms & Conditions
Please read this information carefully, as payment of a $750 deposit per person represents your acceptance of the following Terms and Conditions.
Cavalier Travels reserves the right to use photos that might include you in marketing materials and for other purposes unless you specify otherwise.
COST INCLUDES: All accommodations aboard ship; all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship; all shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees, per itinerary; use of kayaks and paddleboards; round-trip transfers for guests using group flights; local transportation to/from sites of interest; gratuities to local guides and drivers; and the services of our expedition staff. Unused services or items included in this program are non-refundable.
NOT INCLUDED: Airfare; REAL ID, passport, or visa expenses if necessary; travel protection plan; individual transfers; meals not indicated; flightseeing; items of a personal nature such as certain premium brands of alcohol, Wi-Fi, and laundry. Gratuities to ship’s crew are at your discretion.
AIRFARE: Airfare is an additional cost. Lindblad Expeditions will assist in making your air arrangements for a $50 per person service fee.
DEPOSITS: To reserve your place, an advance payment of US$750 per person is required at the time of reservation and is payable by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or check. Receipt of advance payment indicates your acceptance of our complete terms and conditions.
Once your reservation is confirmed, we urge you to use your personalized online account for important information to help you prepare for your voyage. Managing your documents online will facilitate fast and accurate communication and allow you to provide us with pertinent details we require in order to complete your reservation. Your online account gives you access to your Expedition Guide, which includes valuable information specific to your voyage. You can also use your online account to make easy payments, view recommended flights and reading material, packing list, and so much more.
FINAL PAYMENT: Payment is due 90 days prior to departure (May 22, 2023). Lindblad Expeditions reserves the right to cancel your reservation if payment has not been received by final payment due date.
TRAVEL PROTECTION PLAN: Travel and medical insurance are available at an additional cost. Information will be sent to you upon registration.
ENTRY AND VISA REQUIREMENTS: Guests are advised to verify travel documents (REAL I.D./passport/transit visa/entry visa) for the country through which they are transiting and/or entering. Reliable and most current information regarding international travel can be found by contacting the consulate/embassy of the country(s) you are visiting or transiting through. We will not be responsible if you are denied entry or transit into a country if you are unable to provide valid documents as per the country’s requirement.
SMOKING AND VAPING POLICY: Allowed only in designated outdoor areas.
RESPONSIBILITY AND OTHER TERMS & CONDITIONS: Certain other provisions concerning, among other things, limitations of Lindblad Expeditions’ and National Geographic Expeditions’ (a division of National Geographic Partners, LLC) liability for loss of property, injury, illness, or death during the voyage will be provided to all guests on the ship’s ticket sent prior to departure or upon request. By registering for a trip, the guest agrees to all such terms and conditions.
NOTE: Itinerary and prices listed are as of publication date and are subject to change. Under normal conditions the total expedition price is guaranteed at the time of booking. However, the expedition pricing is determined far in advance of initial departure on the basis of then-existing projections of fuel and other costs. not limited to increases in the price of fuel, currency fluctuations, increases in government taxes or levies, or increased security costs, the right is reserved to adjust the price of your expedition or add a surcharge to cover such unexpected increases. We will always provide an explanation of the reason for increase in costs.
DAY 2 – Monday, August 21, 2023
These waters are prime areas for both killer whales and humpback whales. It's not uncommon to observe their fascinating behavior—breaching, tail-slapping and variations on feeding—as we fill the deck and listen to the play-by-play from our expert naturalists. We'll explore spectacular bays and inlets, following bear trails and salmon streams. Once ashore, we’ll have the opportunity to walk along a quiet forest trail. The still waters are excellent for kayaking, offering another option for up close exploration. 
Accommodations: National Geographic Quest
