Alaska Leisure-Learn
July 1 - 11, 2012

SUNDAY, JULY 8 — KETCHIKAN — 2:00PM-11:00PM

¨ Ketchikan, on the southwest side of Revillagigedo Island, grew up around salmon canneries and sawmills. Ketchikan's name supposedly comes from the native term "Katch Kanna", which roughly translates: "spread wings of a thundering eagle." At one time Ketchikan was proclaimed the “Salmon Capital of the World.” An outstanding collection of totem poles make a visit to Ketchikan essential for anyone interested in Native art. Travelers flock to Ketchikan for their first look at the North Country, and are rarely disappointed.

¨ The second shore excursion MDC is recommending to experience together in Ketchikan, Misty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer. If you choose to participate there will be a supplement of $169 per person. You will have the opportunity to participate with MDC or select a personal option from the choices Regent offers as you register for this sailing. If you choose to participate with MDC, you may also select as many other excursions from the Regent offerings as long as the tour departures do not overlap and the tour desired has availability.

2:30PM—7:00PMMisty Fjords and Wilderness Explorer—Explore one of nature's most spectacular creations during this scenic and exhilarating cruise to Misty Fjords.

Depart the pier aboard one of Alaska's fastest and most luxurious sightseeing vessels for the scenic cruise out of Ketchikan's picturesque harbor. Along the way, you will pass by colorful fishing boats and float planes, and watch for marine and coastal wildlife.

Next, you will pass the rugged coastlines bordering Revillagigedo Channel and proceed into the Behm Canal, which is surrounded by the pristine beauty of Misty Fjords. A stop will be made to view an active bald eagle's nest and a Tlingit pictograph. You will also see New Eddystone Rock, an immense volcanic spire rising from the emerald sea, then take a leisurely visit to Rudyerd Bay, an ice-carved masterpiece deep within the monument.

While gliding quietly beneath its 3,000-foot vertical cliffs, you will learn about the fjord's natural history, feel the mist of glistening waterfalls and listen to the call of seabirds nesting on a rock face sculpted by glacial forces.

On the cruise back to Ketchikan, you will be served a selection of snacks and beverages while watching for whales, seals, eagles and other wildlife species. Your crew will be on hand to serve you and provide interesting commentary throughout the tour. You will also have the opportunity to experience native culture and history presented by a Tlingit storyteller, observe a native artist at work or watch a tour-related video presentation.

Please note: The ride from the pier to the Misty Fjords is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. Although wildlife sightings are common, they are not guaranteed. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Dress warmly in layers, bring a rainproof jacket to wear on the topside Observation Deck, and your camera.

 

MONDAY, JULY 9 — PRINCE RUPERT — 8:00AM-6:00PM

¨ The port of Prince Rupert is the largest community on British Columbia's north coast. Deep-green fjords and coastal rain forest surround this quaint fishing town, located on Kaien Island at the mouth of the Skeena River, where the Tsimshian people have been for thousands of years. Prince Rupert was, at the time of its incorporation in 1910, poised to rival Vancouver as a center for trans-pacific trade. Prince Rupert turned instead to fishing and forestry.

 

TUESDAY, JULY 10 — SEYMOUR NARROWS

¨ 10:00AM-12:00Noon—Join MDC for a Leisure-Learn meeting. 

¨ Tonight, MDC will be dining together and celebrate another incredible Leisure-Learn trip. (Time and Location to be announced)

 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11—VANCOUVER ARRIVAL/DISEMBARK —7:00AM

¨ “Gassy Jack” Deighton saw a chance to make money from the miners on their way to the Yukon and the saloon he built became the focus of the shanty town known as Gas Town. From here, modern Vancouver was born - Canada’s third largest city. The government persuaded the settlers to change the name of the town to Vancouver, after Captain George Vancouver, who sailed the area’s waters in 1792. Today Vancouver offers travelers tram rides to the top of Grouse Mountain, the lovely Ming Dynasty Gardens, historic Gas Town and picturesque Stanley Park.

¨ Your Alaskan Leisure-Learn ends today. After disembarking the Navigator you will depart for the Vancouver Airport and connections home. Thank you for choosing to explore Alaska with Regent Seven Seas Cruises…and MDC Leisure-Learn!

DAILY ITINERARY