Wilderness Exploration Cruise & Crab Feast

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Your excursion begins as you board your motorcoach and leave downtown Ketchikan behind on a narrated drive that follows the coastline. En route to George Inlet Lodge, you'll pass such scenic sites as a cannery, an old sawmill, totem poles and waterfalls.

Upon arriving at the lodge, you'll board an enclosed tour boat and cruise the George Inlet waterway on a seven-mile journey that explores the region's history and natural beauty. You'll pass the George Inlet Cannery and learn of fish traps and "pirates" that plagued the area. View the Mahoney Glacial Cirque, with snow-capped mountains and 2,000-foot waterfalls, the site of an abandoned short seam gold mine. A river at the bottom of the valley boasts bears, eagles and salmon that return to spawn annually. Orcas, sea lions and seals frequently visit the area in search of the abundant food supply.

Next, you'll cross the fjord to a remote crab estuary and view the Tongass rainforest in all its splendor. This isolated cove is home to hundreds of Dungeness crab. Volunteer tour participants will assist in pulling up crab pots and you'll view them up close while learning of their anatomy and life cycle before the crab are set free. Once the pots are reset, you'll return to the George Inlet Lodge for a not-to-be-missed meal.

You'll relax in the rustic charm of the lodge, an early 1900s cannery bunkhouse. After a quick lesson in the art of crab cracking, you'll enjoy the delicious delicacy of this Alaskan favorite. Your banquet will include succulent Dungeness crab with butter, fresh salad and cheesecake smothered in Alaska blueberries. You'll hear tall tales and try your hand at a crab shell stacking competition.

Your excursion concludes with a scenic drive back to the pier, and memories of a crabbing adventure that will last a lifetime.

Special Notes:

Dress warmly in layers and wear shoes with good traction. Vegetarian and non-crab options may be substituted. There are numerous steps to negotiate at the lodge, but van rides are available to those who want to eliminate this portion. Tour order may vary.

Provided: Rain gear, life jacket

Meal: Dungeness crab, salad and cheesecake with blueberry topping. Complimentary soda, coffee, tea, beer and wine. One glass of beer or wine is complimentary, additional glasses are available at additional cost.

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.