Alaska's Islands cruise, whales & glaciers

Planet

Three generations of one family have dedicated themselves to creating a company that is environmentally responsible, community-centered, and totally committed to delivering a rewarding vacation experience. They ensure that they give back to the community and practice sustainable tourism. They use organic materials and foods wherever possible, including locally-harvested crab, halibut, shrimp and wild Alaskan salmon, accompanied by a wide array of Pacific Northwest wines and Alaskan microbrews.

By using small ships they ensure that any detrimental effects of cruising are minimised, while they work to maximise the benefit. All passengers are given in depth briefings about the local environment, the threats to it, and how to help sustain it.

The vessels managers believes strongly in sustainable tourism practices and prides itself on “green” operations. Therefore, the reduction of consumable resources such as paper is one of its goals. To that end, all documentation that the company creates will be forwarded via e-mail unless hard paper copies are requested.

People

The owners of this vessel don't just support the local community, they are the local community. The vessel is owned by members of the Kaagwaantaan Clans, one of the clans of the The Tlingit people of Southeast Alaska.

As with any locally owned tourist operation, they know and intrinsically understand that the preservation of the community and environment is vital to their own livelihood. It also means that they have a deep knowledge and understanding of the local communities and environment, and are more than happy to share this knowledge with their passengers.

The vessels are built and maintained in the owners own shipyards, bringing much needed employment to the community as well as meaning that they can build the vessels to their own, exacting, specifications.

Purchasing local seafood goes beyond great taste and convenience. The fishing men and women of Alaska are our friends and family members. Each small fishing vessel is a family business, which boosts our local and state economies. The fishery is managed with great care to assure the longevity of wild stocks, which will allow this healthy resource to remain intact for generations to come. We’re proud to serve wild Alaska seafood, thus supporting the region’s vibrant commercial fishing industry.