Our adventure begins as we depart Seattle, Washington on Saturday, August 6th, and cruise north to the untouched natural beauty of Alaska.

On Sunday morning we will start the day with a worship service led by Dr. Chappell. The balance of the day will be spent sailing through Alaska’s scenic Inside Passage. While cruising, keep an eye out for wildlife sightings. Often spotted along this route are killer whales, eagles, and the majestic humpback whale. Remember to bring a camera and a pair of binoculars.

Monday brings us to Ketchikan, Alaska. Like many communities in southeast Alaska, Ketchikan is a town surrounded by wilderness. For a taste of Alaska’s past, see the world’s greatest collection of totem poles at Totem Bight or Saxman Village, or walk along famous Creek Street. This important fishing center is also known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.”

On Tuesday morning we will dock in Alaska’s state capital of Juneau. Juneau is a wonderful old mining town resplendent with natural beauty. Visit Mendenhall Glacier - it’s actually within the city limits. For a real treat, sample fresh Alaskan salmon grilled over an alderwood fire at a local Salmon Bake. Optional tours offered in Juneau include: sport fishing, kayaking, dog sledding, and helicopter flights over the glacier fields.

Tuesday afternoon we will sail through Tracy Arm Fjord to the Sawyer Glacier. This 26-mile-long fjord is another of Alaska’s most dramatic glacier settings. The panorama of 7,000-foot mountain peaks and nearly vertical rock cliffs is astounding. Countless waterfalls appear at every turn. Icebergs make their way to the sea in all sorts of wondrous shapes. Tucked away at the end of this remarkable waterway are the twin Sawyer Glaciers. The face of Sawyer Glacier stretches one-third of a mile and calves icebergs big and small. Hundreds of harbor seals dot the floating platforms. Whales and bears may even make an appearance in this magical place where closeness and intimacy make you part of the scene.

Wednesday is a call at rustic Skagway, Alaska. Home to the White Pass and Yukon Route railroad, this Northernmost port of the Inside Passage is best known as the beginning of the Chilkoot trail, used by gold seekers in the late 1800s. In addition to the numerous optional tours offered here, you will enjoy a stroll down the wooden sidewalks in the former gold rush frontier town.

Thursday we will dock in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. Arriving into port by ship is breathtaking, as you skirt hundreds of islands and make your way through narrow, mist-shrouded passageways to this town of 16,000 residents. Because of its moderate climate and mists, it is not unusual to see several rainbows a day. Prince Rupert is also home to Canada’s only Grizzly Bear Sanctuary, the highest concentration of humpback whales in North America, white Kermode bears, and soaring eagles.

Friday is a day at sea with fellowship, inspiring teaching, and great music.

Our magnificent journey ends on Saturday when the ship returns to Seattle, Washington on Saturday, August 13th. We hope you will have an enjoyable cruise and will return with memories to cherish forever!