Message: I am contemplating in going to Alaska this summer. I do not like big ships and I love hiking. the trip I am thinking about is thru a nature club on a small yacht,but it only goes to Tongass National Forest (sitka, wrangell, chatam straight, fredrick sound, barnoff warm springs, admiralty island national monument, Anan Creek).
i have only 10 days and I know that Alaska is huge and I cannot see it in one time.
My question is for someone who has been there. Is this a very limited trip ?. Am I better off on the Big cruises that take you to more places ?

Would missing Glacier Bay or Kenai be a big loss. is Tongass less impressive ?
and if someone has gone on a trip with a nature club that could be recommended. ( no backpacking, I am going with my husband)
thanks

Another option that you might want to think about is what I did last year. Take the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry and pick your own route and stops. The boats are not as big as the cruise ships and you can pick the stops you want. I am going back up again and plan to take the ferry part of the time. You can't beat the price either! Enjoy your trip. You will LOVE Alaska.

Actually cruise ships can be better values than the Alaska marine sailings. So compare- allow plenty of time to explore the ports since the Alaska ferries arrive and depart 24 hour/day. With meals, lodging, and transportation included on cruise ships that are also based on passenger scenery etc. it can be a better value especially on a $500 inside cabin. But you nature club trip sounds IDEAL and I would think this would offer supurb experiences.

I would not choose an itinerary that does not include Glacier Bay.

Hi madi,
Also check out Cruise West, they have a website of the same name...they are eco- adventure oriented small ships and you can even cruise during the day and stay on land with some packages. No frills, family owned...have fun !