Sitka Excursion....3 choices...which one???

[SakeDad]

OK....down to 3 choices in Sitka. I'm traveling on the HAL Noordam in May. They are:Captains Choice tour, Sea Otters & Wildlife or the Sitka Photography tour.....any help deciding which one? They are all about the same time and cost.

[Budget Queen]

The independent boat tours are superior out of Sitka. Fewer people and more personal attention and flexability of routing. Is your interest varied wildlife?? Photography is Alaska, opportunities are endless without having to take a specific tour. Is there a further description of where this goes?

[SakeDad]

Thanks BQ!! Here are the two I'm looking at....but it sounds like a day on my own may be just as good. I'm already doing excursions everywhere else so maybe one day off won't be so bad. Let me know what you think...

Captain's Choice Wildlife Quest & Beach Trek

PricePrice $159DurationApproximately 3 hours (2-hour cruise; 1 hour on beach) DescriptionEmbark on an intimate wildlife viewing adventure aboard a small, deluxe catamaran and step ashore on a remote island to explore the rugged coast. Your knowledgeable Captain will use his understanding of tides, weather and seasonal conditions to design an expedition uniquely suited to the day. The maneuverability of a waterjet-powered craft will allow you to explore areas unreachable by conventional boat. Whales, sea otters, puffins and brown bear are just a few of the species that thrive in Sitka Sound's pristine environment. As animals are sighted, the Captain will skillfully maneuver the vessel to provide optimal viewing, and an expert naturalist will explain their fascinating life-cycles and behaviors. Enjoy the encounter from the comfort of the spacious, window-lined cabin, or experience it with all your senses from outside on deck. Next, go ashore on a remote island. Delight in a quiet exploration of colorful tide pools, trace the meandering tracks of wildlife, or settle on a giant beach log to reflect on the stunning beauty around you. While beachcombing, keep an eye out for Japanese fishing floats and exotic flotsam. Enjoy a snack on the relaxing cruise back to Sitka.

 

OR

 

Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest

PriceAdult $114; Child $85DurationApproximately 3 hours Description Enjoy guaranteed wildlife viewing on this award-winning cruise through one of the world's most beautiful coastal environments. Visit the topside observation deck for unparalleled photo opportunities and the opportunity to observe sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, brown bears, black-tailed deer, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds. An on-board naturalist will explain the workings of this remarkable ecosystem. You'll also learn about the sea otters' recovery following their near extinction at the hands of Russian fur hunters in the early 1800s. The waterjet-driven tour vessel has been specially designed to navigate southeast Alaska's narrow island passages, allowing for spectacular wildlife viewing at close range, and features a warm and comfortable cabin with enclosed seating, large windows, a snack bar, and restrooms. This tour guarantees you will see an otter, a whale, or a bear. If not, you'll receive a us$100 cash refund ($50 refund per child) as you disembark the vessel. The tour includes admission into St Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, should you choose to explore the area on your own either before or after the tour.

[Budget Queen]

My opinion- the second tour. I want as long as possible on the water. :)