photo safari alaska

Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness—Alaska

Breaching humpbacks, wildlife and landscape photography in alaska’s inside passage by luxury private yacht.

Imagine capturing this peak moment in Alaska with your camera: a mighty launch rockets 40 tons of twisting whale skyward. Pectoral fins fling sparkling sheets of water, as the 45-foot-long body is almost entirely out of the water in a spectacular breaching display. This is a frequent occurrence during the summer months in Southeast Alaska where one of the world’s greatest populations of humpback whales resides.

Chatham Strait, Frederick Sound, and the spectacular wilderness waterways of the Inside Passage are the summer feeding grounds for more than 500 humpback whales. Every year whales migrating from their winter breeding grounds in the warm waters of Hawaii, Baja California and southern Japan join the year-round population of humpback whales in the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska. Mothers with their young calves and their accompanying escorts often travel thousands of miles on this epic annual journey.

Our small photo group, cruising in a private world-class 84-foot expedition yacht, follows the largest congregations of these magnificent leviathans—with a daily itinerary and agenda that is totally ours to choose!  There is no comparison to the intimate proximity to wildlife that is accessible with this type of small boat cruising in contrast to the giant city-sized cruise ships carrying thousands of passengers that normally traverse the Inside Passage.

Humpback whales offer some of the most exciting photographic moments of all the marine mammals. Besides breaching, they often repeatedly slap their mighty tails or clap their 15-foot-long pectoral fins in the same fashion. Their cooperative bubble-net feeding displays are absolutely breathtaking! It’s an incredible scene to photograph, and we are on hand at the peak of the season to experience this truly amazing spectacle! Countless miles of dense gnarly old-growth forests, calving blue glaciers and serrate snowcapped mountains provide a pristine backdrop for classic Alaskan maritime imagery counterpointed with the smooth reflective water.

In addition to humpback whales, there may be good opportunities to capture images of orcas, Steller sea lions, sea otters, bears and bald eagles. Depending on our travels we may see spawning salmon, possibly being fed on by brown and black bears. Birdwatchers enjoy encounters with gray petrels, black-legged kittiwakes, common murres, pigeon guillemots, (endangered) marbled murrelets, arctic terns, gulls, and a variety of northwestern forest birds while we are ashore.

Join us for this unique, world-class photo shoot in the realm of the humpback whales of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Each day brings new adventures amidst this pristine Alaskan wilderness. This all-inclusive luxurious photo cruise features comfortable en suite accommodations, three hearty gourmet meals each day, all beverages including select wines with dinner, and the use of sea kayaks and rigid-hulled inflatable skiffs for shore excursions. With incredible images created with the assistance of today’s image stabilized/vibration reduction lenses and digital technology, this tour defines the best of “topside” whale photography for years to come.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1  (Jun 24, 2024) Participants should arrange to fly to Petersburg, a small charming fishing port centrally located on Alaska’s Inside Passage.  Our hotel offers an airport shuttle.  We meet in the lobby of our hotel for a short orientation followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 2 After lunch we begin cruising the scenic Alaskan waterways.  We should have plenty of excellent photo opportunities, including a stop at a Steller sea lion haul out and good sightings of harbor seals, Dahl porpoises and, perhaps, orcas, on our way to the humpback "core" grounds in Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait. (BLD)

Day 9 We return to Petersburg in the afternoon and transfer to our hotel. We have time to explore the area prior to our last group dinner. (BLD)

Day 10 (Jul 3) The hotel shuttle transfers you to the airport for your departing flights. (B)

About Our Vessel

Our luxurious private expedition yacht is the 84-foot Northern Song , a rugged steel cruiser built in 1997, perfect for exploration of Alaska’s legendary Inside Passage.  Northern Song  offers an ideal balance of public and personal space with ample outdoor areas for wildlife observation, plus a spacious salon with a fully-equipped media suite. The huge pilot house can seat 10 for whale spotting  and general sightseeing. Best of all, the boat is well-suited for photography in both fair and moderately inclement weather with a great deal of bow space for shooting marine mammals, birds and landscapes. Your fishing, crabbing and shrimping aspirations can be fulfilled during quiet times with the purchase of an Alaska fishing license. We believe  Northern Song is among the finest boats available for whale photography in Southeast Alaska

Click to view larger image

Rate Schedule

The spacious Master Stateroom on the Main Deck features a queen bed and en suite bathroom with separate bathtub/stall shower.  $15,995 per person, double occupancy. (The boat has one of these suites)

The three Guest Staterooms are on the lower deck and feature private bathrooms with showers. Each of these staterooms feature double lower beds and single upper berths.  $14,995 per person, double occupancy

Tour Details

2024 Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness—Alaska: Easy Activity Level: Luxury yacht transportation. Seventy-five percent of our photography will take place from the boat. Expect mostly calm water but seasickness prophylaxis is recommended for those who may be affected until you “get your sea legs.” Shore excursions will be undertaken whenever possible to stroll secluded beaches and explore rain forest trails. Kayaks are available.

Special Terms and Conditions Apply

Tour Highlights

• Eight days on board a luxurious private yacht designed to get “up-close and personal” to breaching whales and other photogenic Alaskan wildlife
• Photograph one of the world’s most spectacular examples of animal cooperation—humpback bubble-net feeding
• Cruise Alaska’s legendary and unspoiled Inside Passage at prime whale-viewing time
• Towering snowcapped mountains and glaciers of Tongass National Forest provide dramatic landscape photography opportunities
• Tour group size limited to only 7 participants
• A trip a non-photographing spouse will thoroughly enjoy
• Includes all meals, two nights hotel lodging, boat and ground transportation, entrance fees, photo guide and instruction

Tour Leaders

YouTube Video

Trip Reports

Where Humpbacks Breach, Alaska 2023 Trip Report

Humpbacks, Eagles and Alaska’s Herring Spawn 2023 Trip Report

Humpbacks, Eagles and Alaska’s Herring Spawn 2022 Trip Report

Day 2 After lunch we begin cruising the scenic Alaskan waterways.  We should have plenty of excellent photo opportunities, including a stop at a Steller sea lion haul out and good sightings of harbor seals, Dahl porpoises and, perhaps, orcas, on our way to the humpback “core” grounds in Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait. (BLD)

Joseph Van Os Photo Safaris Enrollment Information

2024 whales, wildlife and wilderness—alaska.

Jun 24 – Jul 03 2024

ENROLLMENT CONDITIONS 1. REGISTRATION A deposit and completed and signed Registration Form are required to reserve a place on a Van Os Photo Safari.

2. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS All prices are quoted in US dollars and all payments must be paid in US dollars. For deposits only we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Final payment of the trip fee is due 120 days prior to departure and may be paid by check or bank transfer. If you wish to make your final payment with a credit card a 3% convenience fee will be charged.

We must receive written notice of your cancellation. Based on the cancellation date the following applies:

Trip deposits are non-refundable . 150-91 days before the trip start date: We will refund any payments made exceeding 50% of the total trip cost. 90-61 days before the trip start date: We will refund any payments made exceeding 75% of the total trip cost. Within 60 days of the start of the trip: No refund.

If, on the trip start date , your space has been resold and the tour is full—as designated by “Limit” number of travelers on the tour website page—we will refund your payment, minus the non-refundable trip deposit and any discounts given to resell your space.

No partial refunds are made for unused portions or services of a trip for any reason. Trips are sold as a package only. This policy also applies to tour extensions and independent travel arrangements. Cancellation fees are not transferable.

Emergency evacuation insurance is REQUIRED for this tour. Upon request, we can provide travel insurance options that includes the required medical evacuation insurance. Participants purchasing trip insurance on their own should confirm that emergency evacuation is included in their policy.

3. TRIP INSURANCE We strongly encourage you to protect your travel investment and purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes emergency evacuation coverage.     We can provide travel insurance options, or it can be purchased online. A CANCEL FOR ANY REASON policy is available. Trip participants without travel protection insurance are considered “self-insured.” Without insurance you assume all risks and losses for any conditions requiring your cancellation.

4. HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS Van Os Photo Safaris are within the capabilities of average people in good health. Some of these trips require the capability of walking for several miles over uneven trails, stepping from a small boat to a wave-washed rocky beach, flying in small planes and helicopters, and occasionally hiking at high elevations—all while carrying an assortment of camera equipment. If you have concerns about your own capabilities and/or fitness as it relates to a trip, please inquire with our office before reserving a space. By forwarding a signed Registration Form and trip deposit, you certify that you do not knowingly have any physical or other conditions of disability that would create a risk for you, or other trip participants and you agree to inform our office in writing if changes in your health, including viral illnesses, occur any time prior to the tour. We reserve the right to request a doctor's statement of good health. The company's or trip leader's judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual's ability to embark upon or to continue a trip. Once a trip has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. We assume no responsibility for medical care or for special dietary requirements. Tour members are asked to refrain from smoking with or near the group.

5. CONTACT SCHEDULE Participants will receive three emails before the trip departs: 1. Initial Tour Information sheet confirms the deposit and provides pre-departure information. 2. Invoice/Practical Information provides clothing and photo gear recommendations, climate data, and applicable health advisories. Visa information will also be included (if applicable). 3. Final Tour Information includes arrival instructions, itinerary revisions (if any), hotel addresses, trip telephone contact information and participant list. We provide the trip leader's telephone number(s) and/or email address with final documents so you can inquire about special photographic questions you may have regarding your trip. We welcome your calls or email messages to [email protected].

6. PHOTO SAFARI TRIP FEE INCLUSIONS Information supplied upon enrollment describes the specific details that are included in your trip fee. Generally, these include lodging in double room occupancy, all meals (specified in the itinerary as BLD denoting breakfast, lunch, or dinner), ground transportation during the trip in vans or small busses, internal tour air transportation as specified, meal and baggage tipping, and guide services provided by the trip leaders. Not included are airfare or other transportation from your home to the trip staging location, airport departure taxes, insurance, alcoholic beverages, and bar expenses (plus bottled water and soft drink expenses on international tours outside of North America), tips and gratuities to local guides, phone calls, passport or visa expenses, laundry, or items of a personal nature. Gratuities to Van Os Photo Safaris trip leaders are optional and always appreciated. Rates are based on group tariffs; if the trip does not have sufficient registration, a small party supplement may be charged.

Most of our trips are priced in double occupancy (shared) accommodations. Single accommodation is available for a supplemental cost in many locations; see the pre-departure trip information or call our office for details. You will be charged the single supplement fee if you desire single accommodation or if you wish to have a roommate, but one is not available. In some remote locations, clients with single rooms are infrequently compelled to share a room due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, appropriate per diem refunds will be made reflecting the direct cost of the single room at the facility where clients are required to share. There is no additional single supplement fee on ship-based cruises if you request a roommate and one is not available.

Cost increases may occur unexpectedly due to rising costs of airfares, ground transport, fuel surcharges, accommodations, and currency fluctuations, among others. Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. may be compelled to amend prices, and we reserve the right to do so without prior notice. An increase in trip prices shall not be sufficient grounds for any refund of funds paid for the trip other than as determined by the terms of our cancellation policy.

7. LOGISTICS Whenever possible, our trip participants are lodged in comfortable, modern hotels. We select among the best available accommodations but refrain from extravagance. Some interesting photographic destinations are far removed from modern amenities, however, and where necessary we will be accommodated in rustic country inns, cabins, or tented camps.

Meals are always a special part of our trips for the camaraderie they engender and the opportunity they provide to try new foods from different areas. Depending on the trip and specific locale, participants order restaurant meals from the full menu or, less frequently, table d'hôte. Some trips include picnic lunches in the field. Fruit juice for breakfast and coffee or tea is included with the meals. Soft drinks are included with meals on tours within North America. Participants are responsible for their own bar tab (including bottled water, soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages on tours outside of North America) at restaurant lunches and dinners.

Our itineraries are intended as examples only. Participants should allow for flexibility due to changes in weather, natural history or cultural events, or other logistical arrangements deemed necessary by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or our leaders.

The second tour leader (and any subsequent additional leaders) listed for each trip on the website will be added as the group size warrants. If only one space remains on a trip, and logistics permit, we accept two people traveling together, even if it exceeds the trip maximum.

8. RESPONSIBILITY Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. and/or their Agents act only as agents for the passenger (trip participant) in regard to travel including, but not limited to, sightseeing, meals, lodging, transportation, and all other services whether by railroad, motor coach, automobile, van, boat, ship or aircraft or any other conveyance, and they assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned for any reason whatsoever, or through the acts, bankruptcy or default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the trip.

They can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay, cancellations or changes in flights or other tour services, and by force majeure including sickness, weather, strike, war, volcanic eruption, terrorist acts, political unrest, quarantine, epidemics, pandemics and outbreaks, or other causes. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as trip fees provide for arrangements only for the times and locations stated. Baggage is at the owner's risk entirely.

The right is reserved to 1) substitute hotels of similar category for those indicated and to make any changes in the itinerary or transport where deemed necessary, or caused by changes in flight schedules or equipment substitution; 2) cancel any trip prior to departure due to low enrollment, in which case full refund of the paid trip funds will be given, but Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. is not responsible for any other trip preparation expenses such as penalized or non-refundable air tickets, visa fees, travel insurance premiums and medical related expenses; 3) At the company’s sole discretion, suspend or postpone any trip due to force majeure or disease outbreak in which case the trip may be rescheduled, or a refund issued less any non-refundable deposits paid to tour component providers on behalf of the passenger, or a travel credit given, but Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. is not responsible for any other trip preparation expenses such as penalized or non-refundable air tickets, visa fees and medical related expenses; 4) substitute trip leader(s) for the leader(s) originally specified, in which case the substitution is not a basis for participant cancellation or refund other than provided by our normal cancellation policy; or 5) accept or retain any person as a member of any trip.

Trip prices are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of publication and are subject to adjustment in the event of any change therein.

A signed Registration Form with the Enrollment Conditions and Release and Assumption of Risk sections must be returned by each participant prior to the commencement of the trip. Participation by any trip member will be declined in the absence of the signed Registration Form including the Release and Assumption of Risk section, with no trip fee refund. No modification to the Registration Form including the Release and Assumption of Risk section will be accepted.

Should Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or anyone acting on their behalf be required to incur attorney's fees and any costs to enforce this agreement, the enrolling trip participant(s) agree(s) to indemnify and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. In the event a lawsuit is filed, the enrolling participant(s) agree(s) to do so solely in the County of Lewis in the State of Washington.

ENROLLMENT CONDITIONS AGREEMENT & RELEASE & ASSUMPTION OF RISK

I have read, understand, and agree to the terms, conditions, and provisions of the enrollment information, as stated on the Van Os Photo Safaris Inc. website and the Enrollment Conditions section of this form, especially noting the policy on cancellations, refunds, and limitations on responsibility.

I am aware that during any trip or tour that I am voluntarily participating in under the arrangements of Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., a Washington corporation, and its employees, agents and associates, certain risks and dangers exist while traveling in the United States, foreign countries, and wilderness areas in any country or territory that include the possibility of property damage, bodily injury, and death. There is a possibility of accident or illness occurring without access to immediate or timely medical treatment or facilities. There is a risk of tropical or communicable diseases that may require quarantine and removal from the tour at my expense, food-related illnesses, the risk of personal injury and property damage or delay or inconvenience by forces of nature, wildlife or wildlife models, quarantine, political instability, acts of terrorism, strikes, government restrictions or regulations change, thefts, and the risk of accidents during travel while on foot or by aircraft, train, automobile, van, bus, boat, ship, or other conveyance. I understand that such risks cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of this trip or tour.

In consideration of, and as part payment for the right to participate in such trips, tours and/or other activities and services arranged for me by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, agents and associates, I have and do hereby assume all risks, and hereby release Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, shareholders, agents and associates, and will hold them harmless from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, debts, claims, and demands of every kind and nature, howsoever caused, which I now have or which may arise of or in connection with any of my trips or tours and participation in any activities arranged for me by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, agents and associates.

Should Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or anyone acting on their behalf, be required to incur attorney's fees and costs to enforce this Agreement, I agree to indemnify them and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. In the event any lawsuit is filed, I agree to do so solely in the County of Lewis in the State of Washington and further agree that the substantive law of that state shall apply in that action without regard to the conflict-of-law rules of that state. The terms hereof shall serve as a release and assumption of all risk for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, and for all members of my family.

Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. may take photos and video during your photo tour and use them for promotional purposes. By making a trip reservation with us, you agree to let us use your name and likeness in any images and video in which you may appear, for our promotional materials, website, or advertising. We may also use any written reviews or photos and video you may provide us with for use on our website and in any advertising and all other forms of publicity. If you prefer to be excluded from this proviso, please let your tour leader know at the beginning of your trip.

If any part, article, paragraph, sentence, or clause of this Agreement is not enforceable, the affected provision shall be curtailed and limited only to the extent necessary to bring it within the requirements of the law, and the remainder of the Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. I acknowledge that if anyone is hurt or property is damaged during my participation in this activity, I may be found by a court of law to have waived my right to maintain a lawsuit against Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, shareholders, agents, and associates, based on any and all claims from which I have released them.

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Anchorage & Cook Inlet Sunset Photo Safari

Learn from resident photographers and see sites locals treasure..

Photo Journey:

Home » City-Based Day Tours » Anchorage » Anchorage & Cook Inlet Sunset Photo Safari

Day Tour Details

What's included:.

• Transportation throughout Anchorage area
• Guide services for photography
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included:

Transportation to departure point in downtown Anchorage.

I have been back a week from our Glaciers and Wildlife tour and we are still smiling and basking in the glow of our wonderful time. We kept being amazed at how well we were taken care of by everyone. The Major Marine Tours was a class act from seamanship to the... Read more  

Larry | Oregon

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Ultimate Alaska Wildlife Photo Expedition

Physical Rating: Moderate to Difficult

Nat hab's alaska bear camp, alaska grizzly encounter: kodiak to katmai, exploring alaska's coastal wilderness.

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Ketchikan Photo Safari

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• Reviews (4)

Excursion Overview

See ketchikan through a different lens.

As part of a small group (maximum of 9), spend 3 hours in the Ketchikan area, traveling with your Ketchikan Photo Safari guide who shares great insight and knowledge. You will visit multiple sights to be given the best possible opportunities to use your photographic equipment to achieve iconic photos of the Ketchikan area "off the tourist-beaten path." Flowers, totems, rainforests, beaches, boats, mountains, creeks, waterfalls, and the chance of wildlife encounters entice us to discover them all. Enjoy narration of local culture, art, history, commerce, and lifestyle between stops, and gain helpful tips and techniques on your cell phone, point-and-shoot, or DSLR camera. Ketchikan Photo Safari welcomes the novice to the professional. You can expect 7-8 separate photo sites. Enjoy complimentary snacks of gourmet cookies and locally brewed coffee, and bottled water. This is an experience that will be time well invested in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• 3 hours with an award-winning photographer
• Photographic technique discussion
• Snacks & beverages including gourmet cookies, locally brewed coffee, & bottled water

Requirements:

• Please note: Camera is NOT provided. Please bring your own phone, camera, and/or equipment.

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 20 minutes - meet & greet your tour guide
• 20 minutes - Rushing Waters site
• 15 minutes - Flowing Waters site
• 15 minutes - Cape Fox Totems site
• 20 minutes - Totem Heritage site
• 15 minutes - Creek Street site
• 15 minutes - Mountain Vista site
• 20 minutes - Bar Barbor site
• 20 minutes - Deep Woods site
• 10 minutes - Ocean Front site
• 10 minutes - Ocean Vista site
• 20 minutes - transportation back to the cruise ship terminal

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the Berth 2 near the Bronze Statue. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket voucher.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible. Guests need to be able to climb in and out of the van. Walkers and canes can be accommodated. Please leave a comment during checkout if accessibility accommodations will be required.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cameras are not provided on this excursion. Please bring your own phone, camera, or device to take photos with.

All Ketchikan Photo Safari guides are equipped with modern Mid-High Roof Ford Transit Passenger Vans for ease of entry and exit for your comfort and safety.

Wildlife is abundant and sightings are possible on any tour; however, this is not a designated wildlife viewing tour. Eagles, Harbor seals. and salmon are commonly seen but nothing is guaranteed.

Yes! There are several restroom stops throughout the tour. Just let your driver know that you would like the next available restroom stop.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On jun 2023.

This was an excellent tour. Our guide, Nicole, was fantastic. We learned a lot of new tricks with our iPhone cameras. More importantly, we saw some really scenic and historic sites that were off the beaten path, and we learned about the history of the town and surrounding areas. I highly recommend this tour.

On Jun 2022

Our guide, Ben, found some great spots for photos. He provided technical assistance as well as history for the area. Would highly recommend this tour.

I can not recommend this excursion enough. Not only did we visit beautiful spots around Ketchikan and learn about the area, but I learned great photo techniques that I did not realize were available on my IPhone. My husband brought a camera and he got some fabulous photos as well.

On May 2022

Well done with a small group tour in Ketchikan! Some good techniques for better picture taking - you do not have to be a pro. Wish we had an extra hour.

• Reviews Showing: 4

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Duration: 3 hours

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Adult (Age 13+): $ 135.00

Child (12 and under): $ 95.00

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• Copyright 2024 Alaska Shore Excursions

Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Photo Safari

Step into Alaska with a naturalist photography guide. You will capture Juneau`s top sites and abundant marine wildlife on the same excursion! Your naturalist photography guide will lead you to local photo hot spots while sharing tips and techniques to help enhance your images. Some of the touches that set this tour apart include: A small group size limited to 14, an informative and entertaining media show, a naturalist photo guide that travels with you throughout the tour, and our unique customized safari vessels that offer the best vantage on the water.

By Land: Guided Trail Walk & Photo Shoot

You’ll enjoy a professional instructional slide show in the vehicle en route to the Mendenhall Glacier. Your photo guide works to inspire and educate while leading you to explore the Trail of Time capturing the natural history of the glacier. Walk an easy permitted trail through the shelter of the forest to photograph the signs of glaciation. Our aim is to step away from the crowds and capture the area`s hidden places before stopping to shoot the glacier itself. The itinerary is personalized and kept flexible in order to allow for those unexpected events that often become the highlights of an Alaskan vacation.

By Sea: Photograph Whales & Marine Wildlife

Next you will board our safari vessel for an unforgettable journey as you learn about life and living in the waterways of Stephens Passage. These boats are designed to get you up close and personal with the environment. The sheltered cabin has large panel windows that open from within to give you unrestricted views while keeping you dry on a rainy day. Padded arm rests fold over the sills to provide a steady platform for photographing marine life and shoreline activity. These are the only crafts of their kind in Southeast Alaska, custom built specifically for marine wildlife photography; there is simply no better vantage available.

On this tour the star of the show is different every day: Wildflowers in bloom, soaring eagles, spawning salmon, light on a foggy glacier, migratory birds, bubble feeding humpback whales, curious sea lions, sleek killer whales, and even lumbering black bears are possibilities. Your guide will provide photo coaching while helping you take full advantage of the opportunities each day presents. Come and learn about Juneau’s natural wonders and colorful history as you strive to capture that decisive moment in the medium worth a thousand words.  Each guest also receives access to a complimentary photo tutorial, “Tips and Pics from Juneau’s Photo Guides”.

View tour details

• Tour Time: 5 hours
• Sea Time: 2.25 hours
• Trail Time: Approximately 1.25 hours
• Elevation: Less than 50′
• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Includes: Water, granola snack and all transportation *We encourage guests to bring a reusable water bottle to minimize plastic use*
• Adult Price:$219.00
• Child Price:$219.00

WHALE SIGHTINGS ARE GUARANTEED OR EACH GUEST WILL RECEIVE $100 CASH BACK AT THE END OF THE TOUR *May through September Only*

We believe the value of this excursion is built upon the expertise of your guide and the unique sights, vantages and stories provided throughout the tour experience. Group size is limited to 14 participants to create a comfortable and interactive atmosphere. From DSLRs to iPhones and Androids, our instructors works individually with each participant to ensure that everyone’s photographic abilities are improved. Your guide is with you for the entirety of the tour. Make sure your batteries are charged and bring plenty of memory or film. Expect some walking to get the best vantage and experience. Camera towels and rain jackets/ponchos are also provided. This tour operates in all weather conditions and may run in reverse order.

Select Your Cruise Line to Book this Tour : why ?

SHORE EXCURSION OF THE SEASON

As chosen by Juneau cruise line passengers. Highlights:

• Guaranteed Whale Watching (May 15th – Sept 15th)
• Mendenhall Glacier views
• Capture the story of the place
• Custom Safari Vessels

Guide lines

This tour has three parts to it. Travel time, a photo safari by sea and a trail walk at the Mendenhall Glacier. As a local naturalist and photo guide, I enjoy helping people not only get better pictures but also telling them about things they see on the tour. People really get the opportunity to understand and capture the highlights of Juneau through this tour. – Cam Byrnes

Gastineau Guiding supports responsible viewing practices adhering to the Alaska Humpback Whale Approach Regulations and does not intentionally approach whales within 100 yards. Our tours are operated under special use permit in the Tongass National Forest. We are an equal opportunity service provider. Persons with disabilities should inquire at least 48 hours in advance about the specific risks and challenges associated with this tour.

• Our Environmental Commitment
• 10 Reasons to Take our Alaska Photo Tours
• Anchorage Northern Lights Forecast
• Learning Center
• Trip Planning Resources
• Guide Corner

Alaska Photography Day Tours

• Sunset Photo Safari
• Anchorage Aurora Quest
• Anchorage PhotoWalk
• InstAlaska Smartphone Photography
• Turnagain Arm Highlights
• Anchorage Winter Wonderland Tour

SPECIALTY TREKS

Alaska Photography Specialty Tours

• Focus on Feathers
• Drone Dreamscapes

Moose Photo Safari

• BROWN BEAR PHOTO SAFARI
• HELICOPTER PHOTO TOURS

MULTI-DAY TREKS

Alaska Multi-Day Photo Treks

• TREASURES OF THE SOUTHEAST
• BROOKS RANGE AUTUMN WORKSHOP
• BROOKS RANGE SPRING AURORA WORKSHOP
• Alaska Winter Wonderland Photo Workshop

PRIVATE TREKS

Private Alaska Photo Tour and Guiding

• HALF-DAY PRIVATE TREK
• FULL-DAY PRIVATE TREK
• FULL-DAY PRIVATE ITINERARIES
• MULTI-DAY PRIVATE ITINERARIES
• Alaska Nightscapes
• Private Aurora Tour

• ANCHORAGE PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES
• PRIVATE PHOTOGRAPHY INSTRUCTION

• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• WHAT TO BRING

For this tour, we are selecting the best time of year and the best location to see and photograph moose in the vicinity of Anchorage. You will be transported to the hillside above Anchorage, where your guide will take you on a hike into the heart of the moose rutting area in Chugach State Park   and Kincaid Park . The Moose Photo Safari is photographic fun for the dedicated wildlife photographer who wants to capture this magnificent animal in its prime habitat while moose are engaging in a variety of mating behavior. Departure times vary according to sunrise. Throughout the tour, you’ll be offered creative and technical support by your Alaska Photo Treks guide. If you are traveling to Alaska to photograph wildlife, this is one of the best ways to spend time with and photograph our magnificent moose! The price is $450 for a solo tour or $275 per person in a group of 2-10.

Departure Times

• Sep 15-22: 7:00 a.m.
• Sep 23-29: 7:15 a.m.
• Sep 30-Oct 6: 7:30 a.m.
• Oct 7-15: 7:45 a.m.

What's Included

What to bring, booking policies & liability waiver.

• OUR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT
• 10 REASONS TO TAKE AN ALASKA PHOTO TOUR
• ANCHORAGE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST
• LEARNING CENTER
• TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES
• GUIDE CORNER
• (907) 350-0251
• [email protected]

Ketchikan Photo Safari ALASKA - Daily small-group Guided Tours

What our customers are saying, great trek around ketchikan.

Be warned, Trip Advisor failed to follow up on our reservation with us and this tour operator.  A quick phone call to Rob fixed the problem on Sunday morning so off we went to see Ketchikan & Ward Cove. Capt Rob Holston is a local and knows the area well. Forget the junk shops and see some beautiful vistas and hidden gems. As a photographer I appreciated his technical & practical suggestions and the places we went  resulted in some beautiful images. My wife had a blast with her iPhone camera too. The gourmet cookies and fresh brewed coffee were great. Before you order salmon to ship home ask him about Fish From Trish, the fish lady. 5 stars and future repeat customer. Would recommend for friends and family.

johnny wrote a review Oct 2021   Marble Falls, Texas

Best way to see & learn about the local sights

The only negative to this trip was the weather, since it rained on us the whole time. Even so, Rob made the trip very entertaining with his interesting trivia about the area, funny stories about the locals of Ketchikan from both the past and the present, and great advice relating to photo composition, depth of field,  light compensation & such for both smart phones and regular cameras. Even with that advice though, I'll admit the weather prevented some good shots, but I still had a great time, and I would absolutely do this again in a heartbeat, regardless of the weather.

DPGuest wrote a review Oct 2021

Sightsee and learn,

Review of: Photo Safari in Ketchikan, Alaska. Spend 3 hrs "off the tourist beaten path".

Best shore excursion of our cruise.  Rob is very genuine and eager to provide a worthwhile experience. Made a very wet day enjoyable and informative. Great trip! Gave great tips for working with phone camera and DSLR. The dock tour was unexpected and informative.  Very worthwhile

 Philip B wrote a review Sep 2021

Great Photo Trip

Milford_PaMooseman wrote a review Sep 2021

Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania469 contributions254 helpful votes

Great way to learn about Ketchikan and get great tips for taking pictures! Our guide was excellent. He was humorous as well as informative. He took us to several sites that we never would have gone. I have been taking pictures for 30 years and still learned things especially about my phone’s capabilities! I highly recommend this trip!

debi sisk wrote a review Sep 2019

I did this photo safari while cruising Alaska. Felix was our guide and he was friendly, knowledgeable, and very helpful in getting me the best pictures of the areas we visited. The van was clean, roomy and very comfortable. The areas we went to were not just the average tourist spots. He helped us all to set our cameras to the best settings for the scene. His knowledge of Ketchikan was interesting and insightful. I would highly recommend adding this to your itinerary whether you are a professional or a novice photographer like me. We had really rainy, windy weather on our visit, but it was still my favorite part of the cruise! I just wish we had more time to see everything! Highly recommend this tour, well worth the money spent! I will do this again when I get back to Ketchikan! Thank you Felix for a wonderful trip!

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Alaska's Whales & Glaciers Photo Safari (JU57)

Port of Call

Activity Level & Duration

Experience Type

Scour the seas in search of whales, glaciers and wildlife with the guidance of a professional photographer guide.

A Nature Photographer's Dream

Take photos while walking paths lined with wildflowers and snap shots of sea life out on the open ocean.

Know Before You Go

View important additional information to help you prepare for this exciting adventure.

Watch CBS News

See the full list of past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 4:36 AM EDT / CBS News

A  rare total solar eclipse was visible in parts of the United States Monday. Those in the path of totality  had the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044 .

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse was the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse stretched from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse started  on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse left North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse attracted millions of spectators. Some areas where the event was most visible declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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