| Port: | Ketchikan, Alaska |
| Duration: | Approximately 3 hours (1 hr. cruise, 20 min. research and 1:40 survival training |
| Provided: | Rain Poncho, binoculars, survival guides, water, coffee, tea, and a survival snack |
Board an expedition catamaran for a true Alaskan adventure to learn first-hand, how important it is to respect and connect with your natural environment.
You will learn basic wilderness survival skills inspired by the areas native culture. You'll also make a valuable contribution to a very important research project.
After boarding your expedition catamaran – a jet boat equipped with comfortable amenities – your small group will voyage to a remote island. Here, you will meet up with a wilderness skills instructor to explore an old-growth rainforest and learn a few tricks of the survivalist's trade. In a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, join in the fun of building a debris shelter, collecting wild edibles and starting your own fire. As you gather around the campfire, your guide will recount true tales of Alaskan survival.
Back aboard the vessel, you'll set out to learn about one of the most recent threats to our local ecosystem: the invasive green crab. This invertebrate is slowly making its way north towards Alaska. The more research we contribute to the Smithsonian and the University of Alaska, the better we will be able to intercept them. In this quest, you will haul sampling pots and have the opportunity to discover and handle a variety of fascinating creatures that inhabit the ocean floor.
While cruising through Tongass Narrows and Nichols Passage, your friendly Alaskan crew will point out interesting sights and provide commentary. Be sure to scan the waters and coast for the many species of animals that thrive here; your captain will maneuver the vessel to provide the best-possible views.
Please Note: Participants should be in good health, at least 6 years of age, and able to hike up to 1/4-mile over wet, uneven terrain. The waterjet-powered catamaran includes a main deck with restroom, comfortable upholstered seating for 24 passengers, wrap-around outside viewing decks, and drop-front bow for beach landing. We recommend dressing warmly in layers and wearing sturdy footgear, as this tour operates in all weather conditions.