ocean victory cruise alaska

Ocean Victory: How this new, small ship is a game changer for Alaska cruises

Editor's Note

Note: TPG contributor Jeri Clausing sailed on Ocean Victory on a free trip provided by American Queen Voyages. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and weren't subject to review by the line.

When it comes to cruising in Alaska, there have long been just two distinct options: the big ocean liners that cruise-averse travelers love to hate and the small ships that cater to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure over amenities.

I've generally avoided both, being put off by the crowds and mass-market feel of traditional ocean liners and too spoiled by years of luxury travel to be tempted by the more basic adventure ships.

Enter Ocean Victory, which merges luxury and adventure for an experience that is as unique to Alaska's waterways as its pointy, submarine-looking X-bow nose. The new 186-passenger expedition ship is operated during the summer Alaska cruise season by American Queen Voyages, a company best known for its red paddle-wheelers that ply America's rivers.

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Ocean Victory marks the company's first foray into Alaska and expedition cruising. The itineraries are designed to appeal to a younger demographic than AQV's more senior-oriented river, Great Lakes and coastal cruising trips.

Judging from the reactions of passengers and travel advisors on its inaugural sailing, the ship is going to be a huge hit. On its face, the blue and white polar-class vessel radiates pure adventure. It features retractable, over-the-water observation decks that offer in-your-face wildlife viewing and special lower deck doors and a fold-out platform for launching kayak and Zodiac expeditions. The ship is so hardy it will spend winters sailing Antarctica for Albatros Expeditions.

Inside, the contemporary boutique-hotel vibe says pure comfort. Balcony cabins and spacious suites come equipped with large televisions, luxury bedding and heated bathroom floors. The ship is laden with amenities, including a small spa, fitness center, infinity pool, two outdoor hot tubs, two dining areas and three bars.

I was hooked the minute I boarded the vessel for a three-day preview sailing to showcase the new ship to travel advisors and other industry VIPs as it made its way from Bellingham, Washington, to Vancouver, British Columbia. I ended up liking it so much that I cast aside other obligations to stay on board for its 10-day maiden sailing through Alaska's lesser-traveled passages, islands and remote towns.

My only regret: not being able to find an excuse to stay on even longer.

Immersive experiences ashore

Ocean Victory offers what AQV founder John Waggoner calls "encounter" travel, or "getting deeply immersive in things through experiences," with its adventure offerings and itinerary that sails into lesser-traveled areas of southeast Alaska.

Setting out from Vancouver to Sitka, Alaska, the ship spent the first two days at sea, veering off from Canada's more widely traveled Inside Passage. Instead, it sailed through the narrower Fiordland Conservancy area and past the ghost town of Butedale, British Columbia, known for its proximity to a concentration of white-furred black bears known as spirit bears.

My shipmates and I made good use of the scopes and binoculars the ship provides in guest cabins and across the ship to search for wildlife. Though we weren't lucky enough to spot one of the rare bears, over the course of our sailing we saw whales, bears, sea lions, otters, moose and bald eagles — both from the ship and from the water.

Our first stop was Ketchikan, Alaska, the only port on Ocean Victory's itinerary that's also a regular stop for the big cruise ships. We docked a few miles from the heart of town, away from the larger vessels, but Ocean Victory provided plenty of shuttles, as well as options for a free, traditional city highlights tour. Passengers could also pay extra for more culture- and culinary-focused excursions.

Related: The 6 coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

After that, the itinerary alternated between expedition days and stops at lesser-visited ports, such as Alaska's Wrangell Island, population 2,500.

There, I passed on the group excursions, opting instead to wander the streets and then join AQV's culinary ambassador Regina Charbonneau for an informal "pub crawl" and a fish-and-chips lunch at what appeared to be the town's only, and very popular, diner. She was on board to start developing regionally focused menus as well as some culinary-focused excursions, which she said will include local diners and dive bars.

As a fellow writer and I wandered the main street, which was delightfully devoid of souvenir shops, we heard an odd, and quite loud, water-like sound coming from the sky.

"Oh, that's the raven," said Zak's Cafe owner Catherine George-Byrd, who had emerged to see if she could help the two startled visitors on Wrangell's otherwise empty main street. "It's imitating dripping water. Some imitate cats, others crying babies."

I didn't expect to be learning about local wildlife from a friendly diner owner, but that's just the kind of random encounter I came to expect on Ocean Victory. I likely would not have experienced this type of local interaction while wandering the souvenir and jewelry stores that dot the streets of the larger ports frequented by the big cruise lines.

For instance, in Kake, Alaska, population 500, the town mayor greeted us on arrival. We saw the world's tallest totem pole and went to the community gym to meet residents committed to keeping their indigenous Tlingit culture alive. Their children performed traditional dances and a woodcarver taught us how totem poles are made. A bonus: A local World War II veteran was there, and he and a fellow veteran sailing on Ocean Victory sang "The Marines' Hymn" together.

In Petersburg, Alaska, we hopped aboard the 13-passenger Point Retreat jet boat operated by a father-son team, Rob and Teagen Schwartz, who promised to get us closer to the LeConte Glacier than any of the other small boats in the town, which gets regular visits from small adventure ships but not the larger ocean liners.

On the way, they took us on a detour along the coast to see whales and bears – a route that also took us past Bootleg Creek, where Rob said his great-grandfather used to buy moonshine from a man who in 1929 was found "deader than a doornail, curled up with a bottle."

Ultimately, they kept true to their word, navigating for nearly two hours through dense fields of breathtaking blue and white icebergs while regaling us with stories of life in the Last Frontier.

Sea days with extra adventure

Every other day, Ocean Victory anchored in remote passages and fjords, where we spent the day exploring from the ship's fleets of kayaks and Zodiacs. Sea days on big ships are full of trivia contests, poker games and line dance lessons; on this small ship, they offered extra adventure.

While Ocean Victory is the first adventure offering from AQV, the expedition team and onboard naturalists are seasoned experts, having collectively sailed hundreds of Alaska and polar cruises.

The naturalists taught us how sea otters carry their young, pulled glacier ice onto the Zodiacs to show off the pieces' unique formations and gave informed narratives about the flora, fauna and geology of our surroundings. They were also expert spotters, helping us find everything from starfish to moose, bears and mountain goats on the surrounding coasts and cliffs.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

The company has also teamed up with founder John Waggoner's alma mater, California Polytechnic State University, as well as whale and wildlife experts from the Sound Science Research Collective and the Sitka Sound Science Center, who will conduct whale and marine biology research from the ship.

Between the water outings on expedition days, two recent graduates of Cal Poly gave fun hands-on lessons about our surroundings. We peered through microscopes at sea algae, watched them make miniature glaciers that model ice floes and learned about everything from whale snot to regional plants and wildlife from the expedition team's naturalists. I was engaged and involved, not falling asleep in the back of a huge ship's theater.

Casual luxury on board

Where Ocean Victory really sets itself apart from traditional adventure operators is with the onboard experience. Most adventure ships in Alaska are quite basic, with few onboard amenities other than a simple dining hall and lounge and cabins featuring fixed twin or queen beds and picture windows. Ocean Victory ups the ante, offering the type of public spaces and accommodations you would expect to find on luxury river and yacht cruises.

The cabins are spacious, even by ocean liner standards, and offer all the amenities of a luxury hotel. Most have private balconies; some feature picture windows or French balconies, and a few are suites with separate living and sleeping areas. My deluxe balcony cabin featured a queen-size bed, sitting area with a small couch and a desk that offered a comfortable working space. The Wi-Fi worked well except when we anchored in the remote Gut Bay, Alaska.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

My favorite spot was Deck 8, which has a large glass-walled lounge with a bar and a variety of tables and comfortable chairs, as well as a large outdoor observation deck. It was great for reading or relaxing and taking in the sweeping views.

The deck's casual-dining area with indoor and outdoor seating will be the perfect spot for barbecues and other informal meals. Unfortunately, it was not operating on the first sailing (never mind that it was still too cold for outdoor dining). The weather was perfect for relaxing in the Deck 7 hot tubs under the stars, even if the weather didn't allow a dip in the infinity pool.

Deck 5 is the main public area, with a central lounge, private library area and a lecture hall, all surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows. The lecture hall is laid out theater-style, but the seating is more lounge-style with comfortable chairs, bench seating and tables in each row.

Just behind the lectern are doors that lead to the fold-down, over-the-water observation decks. Whenever the officers or expedition leaders spotted a whale, bear or other interesting creature, announcements were made and activities halted, so passengers could grab binoculars or a scope and hit the decks to take in the views.

The main dining room has the formal feel you would expect to go along with its fine-dining options. But this is Alaska, so passengers are equally welcome in dresses and heels or jeans and sneakers. The menus change daily, with a good variety of gourmet meat, fish and vegetarian options. I was a fan of the homemade soups and the outstanding pasta options from the ship's Italian chef that changed daily.

I didn't use the spa, which looks to be more substantial than what's offered on other adventure ships in Alaska. The menu showed ample offerings from traditional massages to hot therapies, even manicures, pedicures and hair-cutting and -styling services.

Evenings were for casual socializing, listening to stories from the naturalists after dinner or simply sipping wine in the spacious lounge while the onboard pianist tickled the keys.

Oh, and did I mention the service? Whenever you turn around, there's a crew member at the ready. I barely needed a key as my cabin attendant always seemed to know when I was coming down the hall and would be there to open the door for me. As soon as I left for coffee or breakfast, he was there ready to clean up and take care of all the little extras, like filling my water bottle, without being asked.

Bottom line

While a few smaller luxury ships sail Alaska, Ocean Victory stands apart with its hybrid mix of intimacy and adventure.

"We're right in the sweet spot," Waggoner said.

I couldn't agree more. It's a sweet spot that I predict will be a huge hit with cruisers and non-cruisers alike who are seeking a truly immersive Alaska vacation.

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Ocean Victory

• Ocean Albatros
• Inspiration
• Diversity & Inclusion Manifest
• Green initiative

Ocean Victory joined our fleet in November 2021 and was established as one of the most modern small ship vessels in the market.

 This stylish cruise ship is ideally suited for our business model of small ship expeditions and is deployed and dedicated to varied Antarctic region voyages.

With a total of 93 comfortable staterooms for our guests, all with a view of the ocean, (and 90% with their own balcony), several restaurants, a wellness area, an Albatros Nordic Bar, an open deck dining facility, a modern lecture lounge, and other amenities, the vessel is also environmentally-friendly onboard, with an implementation of the Green Initiative Program, ensuring both absolute comfort and sustainability for our guests.

Facts about Ocean Victory

• Ship details
• Practical Info

TECHNICAL DETAILS

With one of the highest Polar code 6 and Ice class 1A, Ocean Victory is the ideal vessel for small-ship cruising due to her sturdy construction and X-Bow®-Infinity class, which provides high stability in rough weather and allows for the smoothest movements on high waves, and a Solas 2012 classification which facilitates a safe return to port.

The vessel is part of a brand new generation of low-energy vessels, with 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines, all controlled electronically to optimize speed and fuel consumption.

• X-Bow for more stability and comfort
• One of the highest Polar code Class 6
• One of the highest Ice Class 1A
• 4 diesel engines and 2 electro engines
• Solas 2012 classification
• Environmentally friendly in all matters
• Green initiative program 
• Albatros Nordic Bar Lounge
• Albatros Ocean Shop
• Albatros Observation Lounge
• Observation Sliders
• Polar Spa / Wellness Area / Gym
• Modern lecture lounge
• 93 spacious comfortable staterooms 
• Dedicated single state rooms 
• All staterooms with Ocean View
• 90% of all staterooms with Panoramic Balcony
• Restaurant on Deck 5
• Observation Speciality Restaurant on Deck 8
• Jacuzzies and Pool Bar

In our specialty restaurant, you have the possibility to take in all the wonderful views from the top deck. We have a special menu such as hot stones and steaks.

If the weather allows, we do not miss the chance to offer you a wonderful BBQ lunch on our BBQ Deck. A great way to enjoy the pristine surroundings, while enjoying a delicious grill meal.

Dinner always starts with delicious hot soups, cold cuts, and crisp, fresh salads. Several choices of entrees are offered each evening, to accommodate different tastes and dietary requirements; always including a meat choice, fish choice, and vegetarian choice.  

After dinner, freshly prepared desserts, including ship-made ice cream or cakes are a great way to end a meal and satisfy any sweet tooth.

A selection of wines and beers is available to perfectly compliment your visit to our restaurant… and if you’re interested in relaxing during your time off from activities and landings, delight onboard Ocean Victory by raising your glass to the experience of a lifetime!

Our bar is fully equipped with a variety of cocktails, beers, non-alcoholic beverages, and more, to quench your thirst and reward the explorer in you.

What makes a good expedition? It is a combination of its landings and the experiences onboard the ship. At Albatros Expeditions, we are honored to have an amalgam of experts in our expedition team, from climatologists and geologists to renowned photographers, all eager to share their adventures and knowledge with our guests.

Honoring the great explorers, the lecture room allows for an adventure within an adventure. Here you can find sagas, narratives and practical information on the polar regions, in various languages and subjects. From encyclopedias of the polar wildlife and fauna to narrations of the many challenges faced by the first expeditions, this is the perfect location for entertaining your brain while we sail.

Celebrate your dream polar adventure, engage in conversation and relax while admiring the icy landscape of the polar regions. At our Observation Lounge, we aim to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere with great views and relaxing seating areas.

Complement your journey and step into the Polar Spa for an escape within your escape. Our destination-inspired treatments are unique, just like the places, we visit.

Even though you’re on vacation, you won’t want to skip this gym. In Albatros Fitness, you can stay in shape with weight machines and cardio equipment while connecting to the sea with floor-to-ceiling windows for a little motivation.

The Albatros Nordic Bar Lounge provides a bit of warm Nordic hospitality to the Antarctic. Offering a large choice of drinks, including wine tasting menus from Gerard Bertrand, this is the perfect place to relax after an unforgettable day and make new international friends.

The mudroom is utilised for passenger embarkation and disembarkation via our Zodiac boats. It is the place for guests to store their expedition gear, jackets, and boots and get set for their shore-landings.

Ocean Victory features two jacuzzis an infinity swimming pool and an outside bar on the upper deck, allowing spectacular views of the polar landscape outside in a relaxing environment.

Premium suite 45 m2 – PS The largest of all the staterooms on board the Ocean Victory is the Premium Suite. This 2-bedroom suite features a double bed (or twin beds), a sofa bed, table and chair, a balcony, and a spacious bathroom. Located on deck. 4. This category is available upon request. Please refer to Albatros Expeditions for price.

All stateroom types contain a safety box, television, refrigerator, several 230 W power and USB outlets—additionally, bathrobes, slippers, toiletries (body wash, lotion, shampoo) and a hairdryer are also included.

Junior suite 39 m2 The 4 Junior Suites aboard Ocean Victory have a great view from their location high up on the ship on deck 7. The suites feature a double bed or twin beds, sofa bed, seating area, a spacious bathroom, and a private balcony. The suite can accommodate up to 3 people.

Balcony Suite 25-32 m2 Ocean Victory has 6 Balcony Suites on board located on Deck 4 & 6. The suites feature double or twin beds, a bathroom and a large balcony. The balcony suites can host 2 people.

Two of the Category B Suites are larger in size and are equipped with HCP facilities, such as larger bathrooms and easy-access doorways.

Balcony State Stateroom app. 18-22 m2 The most abundant type of stateroom on Ocean Victory, the Balcony State Staterooms are located on decks 4 & 6. They have a balcony, a double bed or two single beds, a bathroom. Several of the Balcony Staterooms also include a seating area complete with a table and chair. Additionally, a select few of the Balcony Staterooms are equipped with a sofa that can serve as a bed for a third occupant.

If you prefer to book two staterooms with connecting doors, this is possible under this category upon request.

Albatros State Stateroom (Porthole) 22 m2 The standard stateroom on Ocean Victory is close to the Mudroom and has quick access to the zodiac platforms for disembarkation during landings. This is very convenient if you have more limited mobility and would like a short distance to the zodiacs. The staterooms are perfect for those who wish a comfortable base during their stay onboard Ocean Victory. The standard staterooms all have a double bed or 2 single beds and bathroom. The staterooms are located on deck 3 except for 1 which is located on deck 4.

French Balcony Stateroom 16 m2 The French Balcony Stateroom is a standard stateroom with a French balcony, one queen-sized bed (150x200 cm), floor-to-ceiling windows and a bathroom. All French Balcony Staterooms are located on Deck 7.

Triple Stateroom (Porthole) 22 m2 There are four Triple staterooms on board Ocean Victory featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms. Triple staterooms are normally with twin beds however a double bed can be accommodated.

Single Stateroom (Porthole) 18 m2 Standard single stateroom onboard, located on deck 3. This is a conveniently located stateroom close to the Mudroom which facilitates access to the Zodiacs during embarkation and disembarkation to begin your adventures on the Zodiacs. Single staterooms are normally with a porthole, double bed (200*90), reading light, and a sitting chair.

BRIDGE Due to its important role as a control center for all nautical and technical processes, the ship's bridge is a vital, sensitive place. Therefore, the bridge may not be accessible to the public at all times. Conditions permitting, we will be happy to welcome you into the bridge for a visit. Guests must be accompanied by the expedition leader.

JACUZZIS The ship features two jacuzzis on the upper outside deck (deck 7), allowing spectacular views of the polar landscape outside in a relaxing environment.    Please note, that there is no lifeguard on duty, and the jacuzzis will not be accessible if weather and wind conditions render them unsafe to use. It is to be expected that the use of these facilities will be on certain calm days and within certain hours, so if you plan on using them, please confer with the expedition staff onboard. The jacuzzis (hot tubs) can normally be used much more frequently and whilst the ship is moving.

STATEROOM SERVICE Your stateroom is serviced daily. We provide a turn-down service. We provide meals to the room only for serious cases of guests being sick. Our suites will have VIP services.  

STATEROOM LAYOUT/DIMENSIONS Please note! The layout, illustration, and dimensions of the cabin categories shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of the staterooms. The actual cabin layouts and sizes may vary.

ZODIAC LANDINGS One feature of our expedition cruises includes landings and excursions aboard Ocean Victory's fleet of 18 inflatable, motorized rubber "Zodiac" boats. The Zodiac brand has earned a well-deserved reputation as the sturdiest and safest small watercraft available. These boats have a low draft and great stability. Zodiacs are constructed for professional use and are outfitted with a top-quality outboard engine, yet their design minimally impacts the environment.

The Zodiacs are designed to provide unrestricted access to the world’s last great frontier. Their versatility enables us to make landfall on remote shores, cruise along awe-inspiring coastlines, and share breathtakingly close encounters with whales, seals, penguins, seabirds, and more. We will come within arm’s reach of icebergs and set foot on land discovered by pioneering explorers just over a century ago. Your safety and comfort are our #1 priority, and your expedition leader will carefully plan for as many Zodiac excursions as possible, dependent upon the local weather and prevailing conditions. In each case, the expedition leader makes the final decision if the landing is possible or not. Safety regulations apply on landings. All guests receive mandatory instructions on the safety guidelines. Life jackets are mandatory to wear.

Please note, that we highly recommend the use of waterproof bags in order to protect your personal camera or binoculars, as both hands must be free of everything during boarding. Participation is fairly easy and comfortable for able-bodied guests but can be more challenging for those with physical handicaps.

CRUISE CARD / PAYMENTS / CREDIT CARDS At the time of embarkation, you will receive your personal cruise card, which you should always have with you. This card is used on board as a payment instrument and identity card. All on-board purchases from the boutique, bar, internet, telephone, laundry, and the like are charged to your shipboard account.

To activate your personal onboard account, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. At the end of the voyage, your account will be settled by the payment methods mentioned above.

There is no currency exchange office onboard the vessel. Onboard payment will be completed by your cruise card. For stays ashore during the cruise, we recommend changing a minimal amount of the local currency in small bills, as most of the ports and airports have exchange offices. Alternatively, lots of shops and restaurants accept international credit cards. In bigger ports and cities, you have the possibility to withdraw cash from ATMs.

If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount that you authorize will be charged to the shipboard account. Be sure to contact your credit card provider regarding the use of your credit cards overseas. Any questions regarding the bill can be addressed to the Reception.

GRATUITIES Following international standards in the service industry, it is customary to leave a gratuity for the ship’s crew at the end of the voyage. All gratuities will be divided among the crew. Typically, the recommended amount is approximately 13.50 USD per person per day. Gratuity is, of course, not required and any gratuity payments are voluntary. If you choose to leave a gratuity for the crew, the amount that you authorize will be charged to the shipboard account.

DRESS CODE The dress code on board is casual. Ties, jackets and evening dresses you may leave at home. It is rather more important to wear the right clothes in order to adapt to the different weather conditions. We recommend comfortable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof clothing. Also, you should have a pair of gloves, thermal underwear, and sturdy footwear in your luggage. For the captains and farewell cocktail, we recommend a smart casual dress style. For specific packing recommendations, refer to the specific itinerary of interest.

ENVIRONMENT As a tour operator for cruises in the Polar Regions, which are some of the world’s most pristine environments, we extremely emphasize environmental awareness as well as sustainability. One of our top priorities is to protect the environment and minimize our CO2 emissions. All waste will remain onboard the vessel until we return to shore and it's possible to dispose of waste. We ask that you show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.

INTERNET / PHONE Keep in mind, that we will be cruising in a very remote region of the world. Where accessible, internet access is available for an extra charge. Mobile phone reception may be possible in select regions along our route. For further details please contact your mobile phone operator. Prices can be found in the information folder in your stateroom. Please ensure that your ‘Data Roaming’ function is switched off.

LANGUAGE ONBOARD The official language aboard our vessels is English; however, our expedition leaders and crew are knowledgeable in a variety of languages. If there is a large group, who desires communication in their own language, we will make special arrangements to accommodate their needs.

PASSPORT / VISA Each guest is responsible for ensuring that he/she meets the applicable passport and visa requirements for the duration of the trip. The passport is the only valid proof of identity for all trips with the Ocean Victory. Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after arriving home from your destination. Although some countries may require shorter periods, we implement this 6-month prerequisite to avoid situations where a country’s validity requirements may be amended between the time of your booking and departure. The name in your passport must be identical to the name in all travel documentation. Costs incurred due to insufficient travel documents are the responsibility of the passenger. Please note that passports will be collected for clearing formalities at the beginning of the voyage. The passports will be kept safely by the Purser during the whole voyage and will be handed out on the last day. We, therefore, recommend preparing copies of all documents before you start your travels.

RECEPTION The daily office hours of the board reception are from 06:00 until 23:00.

ALBATROS OCEAN BOUTIQUE The selection of items available for purchase varies by ship and may include a range of warm and practical clothing, as well as souvenirs, local arts, and postcards at reasonable prices. A small selection of soap, toothpaste, and other sundries are also sold.

AVAILABLE SEATING SPACE Shackleton Lecture Room: 185 Nordic Lounge: 50 Beagle Restaurant: 166 Beagle Specialty Restaurant: 40 Observation Lounge: 67 Panorama Specialty Restaurant: 46

HEALTH / MEDICAL EMERGENCY Each of our vessels has a small medical facility equipped with the necessary equipment and medicine to handle small emergencies. The infirmary is always staffed by a professionally licensed, English-speaking physician. Should a serious incident occur, the nearest hospital will be contacted. All guests must have personal travel/health insurance. Although we do not have an official requirement regarding personal fitness, you should be able to move on board and ashore without the help of others.  Due to safety reasons, a cruise is only possible for pregnant women until the 24th week of pregnancy. The state of pregnancy must be presented by a medical certificate.

SAFETY / SECURITY ON BOARD Our ships comply with all safety regulations and are ice-class vessels suitable for sailing in polar environments. Upon arrival on the vessel, there will be a mandatory passenger briefing and safety drill before departure. We will provide security information and practical details regarding life onboard and introduce key personnel. You will be informed where the safety equipment is located and how it is used. Each stateroom is equipped with lifejackets. Once onboard, please familiarize yourself with the ship's emergency rescue plan.

PHYSICAL DISABILITIES / WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY The Ocean Victory has two cabins available to guests requiring wheelchair access. Guests needing any form of assistance, and those who are physically disabled must be accompanied by someone who will take full responsibility for any needed assistance during the cruise and in the event of an emergency. Moreover, guests requiring a wheelchair must provide their own collapsible wheelchair. Please be aware that some ports of call, shore excursions, docks, gangways, and other requirements may preclude a wheelchair-bound guest from leaving the vessel; that decision will be made by the Expedition Leader or ship’s captain and is binding.

SEASICKNESS / STABILISATORS The ship is equipped with stabilizers in order to reduce the ship’s roll. However, these expeditions are hosted in remote regions, and it is possible to periodically encounter changing environments and climate patterns, including rough seas and large swells. Seasickness medication work solely or in part to help cure nausea for most people. These medicines can cause sleepiness. If you are prone to motion sickness, consult with your doctor prior to departure to help ensure your comfort while travelling.

SMOKING For safety reasons and to protect the health of our guests and employees, smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the outside decks. Smoking is not permitted inside the vessel, in the stateroom or near the Zodiacs. Please remember to respect our natural environments and dispose of cigarette butts in designated bins.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS All meals on board the vessel is chef-prepared. If you have special dietary requirements (food allergies, intolerances, health conditions or religious preferences), please inform us as early as possible - ideally, no later than 2 weeks before departure. In order to ensure efficient service, please re-confirm your requirements with the crew upon boarding the ship.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS The ship has a 220v / 50 Hz cycle system. Please check your appliances before use. 110-volt appliances require an adapter prior to use aboard the ship. The electrical outlets on board Ocean Victory are the so called ‘F-type sockets’, round 2-pin, 220-240 V, grounded, used in continental Europe and Russia. They take C, E, and F-type 2-pin plugs.

WATER There are several water stations onboard Ocean Victory. Normally, water is not rationed, but we do advise our guests to pay attention to their water consumption.

LAUNDRY If you wish to have some laundry done while aboard the ship, laundry service is available for an additional fee.

ONBOARD BRIEFINGS The Expedition Leader will conduct regularly scheduled briefings to highlight key points in the itinerary, organize excursions and communicate important information.

CHILDREN Due to safety precautions, children under 12 years of age will be taken into consideration on each landing. It is entirely at the Expedition Leader’s discretion to permit children on excursions and shore landings.

ITINERARY & PROGRAM CHANGES As this is an expedition cruise to the world’s most remote region, we are at the mercy of Mother Nature. We have planned itineraries for each tour package, but to ensure to safety of our guests and crew, we may be forced to change the route.

RULES FOR LANDINGS & EXCURSIONS When ashore, it is very important to show deep respect for the unique nature and act according to the motto: leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories. We also ask that you remain together with your group, as we are truly in the wild and must remain extra vigilant of the wildlife and weather conditions around us. Walking around independently is strictly prohibited. It is essential to abide by the strictly communicated safety rules.

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Review: Ocean Victory

Reviewed by Stefanie Waldek

What is the line? American Queen Voyages

Name of ship? Ocean Victory

Passenger occupancy? 186

Itinerary? Ocean Victory sails 12- and 13-day itineraries between Sitka and Vancouver.

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

American Queen Voyages is best known for its fleet of paddlewheelers that sail America's waterways, but it entered the expedition cruising world in 2021 with Ocean Victory, an ocean-going, ice-rated ship.

Tell us about the ship in general:

The 186-passenger expedition vessel is easy to recognize in port or at sea, with its distinctive inverted X-Bow and a bright blue wave painted across its exterior. In the summer, she travels Alaska as part of American Queen Voyages' fleet, but in the northern winter (austral summer), she heads south for Antarctica with Albatros Expeditions. As an expedition ship, she carries with her a small flotilla of Zodiacs (small inflatable boats) for off-ship exploration, which is my favorite "amenity."

Who is onboard?

Right now, most passengers are American Queen Voyage loyalists—typically older couples. But given the expedition-style excursions in some locations, I could see the demographic tipping slightly younger in the coming years. Most passengers on my ship had never experienced expedition-style sailing before.

Describe the cabins.

I stayed in a Deluxe Stateroom with a Private Veranda, the most common accommodation on the ship. It's reasonably spacious for two people. The living area has a loveseat and a desk next to the queen-size bed—my husband and I didn't feel like we were tripping over one another at all, even when we had all our rain gear hanging up to dry. The balcony is large enough to fit two chairs, which are perfect for enjoying views of the Alaskan wilderness and spotting wildlife. The bathroom is well-designed with a large walk-in shower and a decent amount of counter space.

Beyond this standard cabin type, there are smaller cabin categories, which either have no balcony or a French balcony, as well as larger suites that doubled the size of my cabin.

Tell us about the crew.

Because the ship is so small—and itineraries are 12 to 13 days long—you really get to know the crew. I found the dining room wait staff to be exceptional, learning your preferences (both in cuisine and with whom you'd like to sit) very quickly.

There's also a large expedition staff ranging from expedition leaders and naturalists in a variety of scientific fields to interns from Cal Poly, with whom American Queen Voyages has a partnership. These staffers gave lectures, hosted hands-on science demonstrations, and provided guidance ashore, particularly on expedition excursion days. Dawn, our expedition leader, deserves a shoutout. She is extremely knowledgeable about Alaska and was able to guide us to a humpback whale bonanza when we were surrounded by dozens of singing whales—not a bad day.

What food and drink options are available on board?

On our sailing, two dining venues were open to guests: a main dining room open for three meals a day, plus a café-like room open for breakfast and lunch. They serve identical menus during buffet breakfasts and lunches, while dinner is à la carte and includes a fair number of local delicacies, such as king crab and Alaska sockeye salmon. Each dinner menu offered meat, fish, pasta, and vegetarian items that changed daily and typically skewed American and continental. But given how intimate the ship is, guests could easily make special requests of the chef (and some did). There are also two bars onboard, one adjacent to the lecture hall and the other in the observatory lounge, where most guests spend their days.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

There's a spa treatment room as well as a fitness center onboard, but they're fairly basic facilities.

How about the activities and entertainment?

As a small expedition ship, there aren't very many "typical" cruise amenities. Though there's a pool on the sun deck, it wasn't filled on our sailing due to rough seas. Two hot tubs, however, were available, and if you plunked yourself in, a server would magically appear and take your drink order—even after dinner, in our case.

Onboard activities are more education-based than entertainment-based, spanning lectures and hands-on science "experiments" that helped explain everything from geologic history in Alaska to how mammals handle swimming in cold water. Even some of the evening entertainment is educational in nature—for instance, trivia night with Alaska-based questions or bar talks with the expedition staff about their global adventures. For more traditional entertainment, a pianist hosted singalongs in the lounge each night.

How was the experience for families?

Our sailing was particularly light on families, but I do think the overall experience is definitely child-friendly, particularly for inquisitive minds who love getting out into nature.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

Ocean Victory sails 12- and 13-day itineraries between Sitka and Vancouver, which includes two days at sea on the Inside Passage. While it stops at the cruise hotspot Ketchikan, most of its other ports of call are small towns like Kake and Wrangell where the big ships can't go, allowing for non-crowded excursions with local guides to learn about the people and wildlife of Southeast Alaska outside of the main tourist destinations.

But my favorite excursions were the Zodiac cruises on what the ship calls "expedition days." We sailed to scenic locations in places like Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, where we hopped in the Zodiacs and explored the shoreline, looking for waterfalls, wildlife, and even icebergs. On one such cruise, we were surrounded by a raft of more than 100 otters, including mothers with pups. On other expedition days, we navigated through icebergs to spot seals lounging on icy perches and took a ship-wide a polar plunge. This is what makes American Queen Voyages stand out in Alaska—other expedition ships here are typically much smaller and more basic in accommodations and amenities, whereas Ocean Victory provides a much more comfortable home base for soft adventure mixed with sightseeing.

Anything we missed?

One thing to note is that if you board in Sitka, transfers to the pre-voyage hotel are not included—and there are very few cabs (and no Uber) in Sitka. The walk into town would take some 30 minutes, but it's not a fun journey in the rain with suitcases. I recommend calling cab companies at least a day ahead of arrival, so you don't end up in the queue of passengers trying to get a ride at the same time. While I found the cruise's pre-departure communication lacking, it didn't take away from the amazing experience I had onboard!

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

American Queen Voyages fills a gap in the Alaska cruise market with Ocean Victory —it's an upscale small ship that combines comfort with more adventurous expedition-style excursions.

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American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Victory Review, An Ideal Ship For Alaska — UPDATE: AQV Shuts Down Feb 20, 2024

Aug 26, 2022 | 4

American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Victory

By Anne Kalosh

Update Feb 24, 2024: The three riverboats of American Queen Voyages, including the American Queen , ceased operations earlier this week as will the company’s pair of coastal ships. The bottom line is that the line never recovered from the COVID period, and the American Queen was the only member of the fleet that turned a profit.

American Queen Voyages ‘ (AQV) first expedition ship, Ocean Victory , is winding down its inaugural Alaska season and will return in summer 2023 so it’s a good time to take stock of the experience.

If you’re reading QuirkyCruise, you’re probably already a “small is beautiful” advocate, and this 186-passenger ship is just right for nudging into coves and inlets and up close to glaciers.

It can visit small communities like Kake Tlingit Village, Petersburg and Wrangell without overwhelming them.

Ocean Victory has a fleet of kayaks for exploring. Here, Misty Fjords, Alaska. * Photo: Michel Verdure

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“Encounter” Travel Offered by Ocean Victory

A marine biologist by education, American Queen Voyages (AQV) founder and Chairman John Waggoner took personal interest in assuring Ocean Victory’s expedition program is rich with science under the guise of the line’s “encounter” travel, delving deeper into the destinations and getting to know the local people.

American Queen Voyages founder and Chairman John Waggoner, left, and Brendan Applegate geared up for a Zodiac adventure. * Photo : Anne Kalosh

Part of this is having students aboard from California Polytechnic State University , Waggoner’s alma mater, on Ocean Victory’s deep expedition team.

The team, which can number 18 on some voyages, mingles the enthusiastic and knowledgeable students with seasoned authorities in a wide range of fields, from geology to whale communications.

There’s even an expedition photographer and an expedition musician.

Waggoner also tapped David Giersdorf, whose family pioneered expedition cruising in Alaska, to help craft the itineraries and shoreside experiences, capitalizing on his vast, decades-long expertise.

Destinations on these 12- or 13-day trips, sailing between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Sitka, Alaska, are Kake and Frederick Sound, Endicott Arm, Tracy Arm, Petersburg, the Waterfall Coast (Gut Bay), Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Ketchikan and Metlakatla and Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet) in Canada’s Inside Passage.

Close-up glacier view from a Zodiac — Endicott Arm, Alaska. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

Coming Back Transformed

I spent a few days onboard at the start of the inaugural season (May 2022), and the bar was set high before our first Zodiac adventure, when Expedition Leader Jessika Picinich briefed passengers.

“After a trip, you come back with memories. After an expedition, you come back transformed,” she said.

On a Zodiac with Waggoner and passengers, Caleb, a Cal Poly student, retrieved a long, thick ribbon of bull kelp from the water, tearing off a piece to munch on as he explained this marine algae is a source of nutrients for many species.

Eagle-eyed Caleb, one of the Cal Poly students on the expedition team. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Two professional expedition leaders in our boat included the U.S. Coast Guard-licensed Zodiac captain, who on a very windy day with plenty of waves and spray, adroitly steered closer to harbor seals as they popped their heads out of the water and near stellar sea lions splayed across a sandy islet.

Caleb pointed out Brandt’s cormorants, common murre, guillemots, oystercatchers and Canada geese.

We were not in Alaska but en route, stopping to explore Washington’s Sucia Island Marine State Park . Sucia’s shores are dotted with islands, whose rock is primarily sandstone carved into intriguing curves and formations.

Caleb talked about the flora, including madrones, trees with distinctive orange-red flaky bark.

Capturing a shot from a Zodiac off Sucia Island. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Chilled and damp but exhilarated, I hopped from the Zodiac back aboard Ocean Victory where Hotel Director Bertrand Petyt surprised us with cups of thick, rich hot chocolate. Not Swiss Miss, either, but real gourmet stuff.

And this wasn’t just showing off for Waggoner — it’s the kind of thoughtful touch AQV routinely provides throughout.

And it was the ideal cap to a preview of the adventures that would come in Alaska where the ship’s sea kayaks would be deployed along with the Zodiacs for experiences up close to glaciers, icebergs and wildlife.

Petyt, a luxury cruise veteran — and it showed in the finesse of his team’s many thoughtful touches and service refinements — knew Alaska from previous ships. He said Ocean Victory is different.

It frequents “small places. It’s all about discovery, exploring the wildlife and about learning,” he said, noting one facet of that is bringing Native story-tellers on board.

Ocean Victory doesn’t have a traditional bow but there are plenty of other open-deck spaces for wildliffe viewing and lots of veranda rooms. * Photo: Michel Verdure

The Small But Mighty Ocean Victory

Ocean Victory i s perfectly crafted for “encounter” travel.

At 7,400 gross tons, it is small enough to visit really cool places and people, yet large enough to house roomy accommodations, most with verandas, and ample public spaces.

Top deck Jacuzzi and comfy spots for lounging. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

These include a main lounge/lecture theater, an observation lounge with spotting scopes, a library, gift shop, sea-view fitness center, small spa, an outdoor pool with two Jacuzzis and a mudroom for expedition gear.

The sea-view fitness center. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

There’s a main restaurant and a casual bistro.

A cozy corner of the main restaurant. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

A wing of the elegant dining room. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

X-BOW Advantages

The ship’s distinctive inverted bow, Ulstein Design’s patented  X-BOW, is not only eye-catching, it makes for a smoother ride, less vibration and reduced noise.

Check out that X-BOW!. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

This creates a smaller acoustic footprint, according to a scientist who’s part of the Sound Science Research Collective led by Dr. Michelle Fournet, which has a partnership with AQV that sends experts on whale acoustics aboard to enrich the experience.

They drop hydrophones from Zodiacs so passengers can hear the whales, give informative briefings and conduct research that travelers can participate in. The collective is studying the impact that underwater noise from ships has on whales’ ability to hear each other and communicate.

At season’s start, in Vancouver, Rosalind Campbell, councillor of the Musqueam Indian Band, welcomed Ocean Victory and its travelers to her people’s ancestral lands. She said she’d never cruised before but was tempted by this vessel.

And Kathy deLisser, regional vice president – Canada for Ceres Terminals, called Ocean Victory one of Vancouver’s “coolest” ships.

“This ship represents the latest and greatest in sustainability,” added Carmen Ortega, trade development manager, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, who singled out Ocean Victory’s use of cleaner fuel and its X-BOW.

Ortega’s especially pleased about the quiet since for several years the port authority’s Enhancing Cetacean Habitat and Observation (ECHO) Program has encouraged ships to voluntarily slow down to reduce noise in key feeding areas for southern resident killer whales.

RELATED: Read our expert tips for spotting whales and knowing what you’re seeing.

John Waggoner’s Favorite Perch

Ocean Victory carries 18 Zodiacs, sea kayaks and other exploration tools. The spacious main lounge/expedition lecture theater is fronted by large flat screens, with smaller ones positioned throughout.

A lecture on whale soundings in Ocean Victory’s main lounge with its many flat-screens. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Steps away are two viewing platforms, one on each side of the ship.

These are key since Ocean Victory doesn’t have an observation bow. Because the platforms are directly over the water, they afford stunning views.

They are Waggoner’s favorite perch. “When you get near a pod of killer whales or dolphins, you are right over the water,” he said.

John Waggoner with a whale expert on one of Ocean Victory’s retractable observation platforms — his favorite perch on the ship. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Locally Sourced Specialties

When it comes to dining, the noted American chef Regina Charboneau, AQV’s culinary ambassador, is just one reason why the food is so good.

In Alaska, fresh seafood is abundantly available and served onboard.

David Kelly, executive vice president, AQV, ensures salmon, king crab and other delicacies are featured when available.

A king crab boil may be held on the top deck where there’s indoor-outdoor seating at the bistro with its big, drop-down windows that can be opened in fine weather. This casual venue typically serves a menu similar to the main dining room and has an evening prime rib carving station.

Alternative dining high on Deck 8 in the Panorama Restaurant. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

Drop-down windows in the top-deck Panorama Restaurant. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

There may be two or three nights of special deck barbecue events per voyage.

But the main dining room, though elegant, is casual, too — as suits expedition cruising.

However, passengers get elevated service there and throughout, consistent with the AQV experience on the lakes and rivers “so what we’re known for resonates across all seven vessels,” Kelly said.

David Kelly calls Ocean Victory “an elegant expedition experience.” * Photo: American Queen Voyages

(The company also operates the American Queen, American Duchess, American Empress and American Countess riverboats and coastal vessels Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator .)

RELATED: Enjoy Writer Karl Zimmermann’s review of American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Voyager on the Great Lakes.

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An Elegant Expedition Experience aboard Ocean Victory

This is an “elegant expedition experience,” Kelly said, unlike the family-style dining on some expedition ships.

When there’s a buffet at lunch, the chef is out front, preparing a special made-to-order pasta. Waiters assist, carrying plates to the table.

The chef’s daily pasta station. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Hotel Director Betrand Petyt with afternoon snacks. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Passengers dine well. Here, grilled lobster tail, but fresh Alaska seafood is more commonly served onboard. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

Accompanying cocktails, the hors d’oeuvres and canapes are a step above, such as scallops or melon and Parma ham with little vials of injectable sauce. I loved the always-available coffee, tea, cookies and fresh fruit station in the main lounge/lecture theater.

Besides a hot drink when alighting from a chilly Zodiac trek, there are hot face towels, and “Having the hotel director there or the captain or the expedition director to greet guests back is key,” Kelly said.

One of his favorite luxurious touches is the heated bathroom floor in all accommodations.

My bathroom, with heated floor, a standard feature in all Ocean Victory accommodations. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

But this is not a formal ship, with no formal attire required. “If you been out on a Zodiac all day and you’re cold and wet, we want you to come home, get showered and go to dinner comfortably,” Kelly said. “If you meet people on a Zodiac, you can join them for dinner. The venues lend themselves to being social and having a good time.”

Well-Thought-Out Accommodations

During my short shakedown trip, I snagged one of the nicest suites onboard, suite #703, up top near the bridge. But everyone I talked to seemed pleased with their accommodations and the ones I saw were similar in style to mine, if not as spacious.

It was a proper suite, two rooms: a living area with sofa, a large flat-screen television and a refrigerated mini-bar, and a bedroom with a desk and a walk-in closet with two hanging racks, deep drawers, safe and bathrobes.

The bathroom, with shower only, had the standard heated floor, especially nice when coming in from outdoors with cold, wet feet.

My suitcase in 703, home sweet home — for a few days, anyway! * Photo: Anne Kalosh

Anne’s abode — Suite 703, a deluxe suite with private veranda high on Deck 7 next to the bridge. * Photo: American Queen Voyages

Seated at the desk in the bedroom beside sliding glass doors onto a huge veranda, I really appreciated how comfortably and thoughtfully designed that suite was.

The desk was the right height for writing and had good lighting and plenty of outlets and USB ports.

Plenty of well-placed outlets and USB ports for convenient charging. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

There were lots of hooks on the walls, great for hanging damp expedition gear (boots and things can be stored in the mudroom’s lockers), and ample shelves and cabinets.

The blue, gray, silver and white color palette was just right for expedition cruising, and large prints of nature scenes graced the walls.

My suite was quiet, with no vibration to rattle doors or glasses on the table.

The veranda, furnished with three chairs and a small table, was large enough to host a small whale-watching party. I frequently stepped outside to soak in the views.

2023 Ocean Victory Schedule

Ocean Victory returns to Alaska in 2023 with two itineraries: Sitka to Vancouver, 13 days and 12 ports (with fares starting at $4,199), and Vancouver to Sitka, 12 days and 11 ports (fares from $3,699).

American Queen Voyages’ Mike Hicks on the top deck with Ocean Victory alongside at Vancouver’s Canada Place. * Photo: Anne Kalosh

The season stretches from early May through September.

These cruises book well ahead. It’s not too soon to start thinking about an Alaska trip in 2023, when a very strong season is forecast by all lines.

If I were going, I’d choose a small expedition ship for the best, most authentic and educational experience, away from the crowds of the big-ship ports.

And Ocean Victory , with its great facilities, many creature comforts and, most important, environmental and enrichment aspects, fits the bill.

Interested in this Cruise?

Here’s booking info for American Queen Voyages’ Ocean Victory in Alaska in 2023.

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© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Anne Kalosh

Anne Kalosh has written about cruises for decades and her favorites involve small ships. She is the editor of Seatrade-Cruise.com and senior associate editor of Seatrade Cruise Review.

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What a great read. The ship is so attractive inside and a contrast to the powerful wiz-bang exterior paint job but then I am a traditionalist.

I would like to be aboard when innovative bow gets a test in rough seas.

Thank you for introducing the ship for Quirky Cruise.

Thanks, Ted. Hotel Director Bertrand Petyt, a seasoned cruise ship officer, was aboard Ocean Victory’s maiden Antarctica season (when it was chartered to another operator). He recounted 10.5-meter waves and told me: “It’s a ship made for extreme weather, and it was amazing. The X-BOW cut through the waves. It was stable.”

Thanks for the review. We are considering this cruise summer 2023. I am not seeing laundry services anywhere on this ship. How do you deal with laundry issues on a 12 day cruise?

Thanks. There is laundry service onboard, but no self-service laundry.

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800-221-2216

Expedition cruise to alaska - 13 day southbound adventure.

Overall Rating based on 2 Reviews

Our Distinctive A+R Style + Luxury Small Ship

• With a full fleet of 20 Zodiacs and dozens of sea kayaks, our exclusive voyage is enhanced by truly up-close exploration in untouched places visited only by the privileged few.
• Explore Frederick Sound by Zodiac… With our state-of-the-art hydrophones, you might even listen in as humpback whales engage in their unique bubble-net feeding behavior, using columns of bubbles to herd and corral their prey!
• With our extended itinerary, you’ll spend two days navigating the waters of the Fords Terror Wilderness - where the majesty of the Tracy and Endicott Arms rival the most spectacular of Norway’s fjords.
• Discover the aptly named “Waterfall Coast” of Baranof Island, where countless cascades run the gamut from splashing veils of water to thundering falls that tumble down the mountainside.
• Visit a longhouse to learn about the heritage of the Tsimshian, an indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest coast.
• Venture deep into the remote Kynoch Inlet where old-growth Sitka spruce forests provide prime habitat for black bears, grizzlies, Sitka deer, wolves and bald eagles.
• Every day of your cruise, on-board and on-excursion, is enriched by the expertise of our shipboard team including experienced expedition guides and guest marine biologists from California Polytechnic State University.
• With a pre-cruise night at our deluxe hotel in Sitka; 11 nights in an outside stateroom aboard the brand new Ocean Victory ; 33 meals with free-flowing wine at dinner; Open Bar; complete program of shore excursions including guided expeditions by Zodiac and kayak; shipboard talks; and airport transfers.

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Welcome to Sitka, Alaska

Aspen Suites Hotel - Sitka, Alaska

Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted to our deluxe hotel in the heart of this charming seaside community. Against a beautiful mountain backdrop, Sitka traces its “modern-day” history to 1799 when it was founded by Alexander Baranov, the first Governor of Russian America. Before then, the island was inhabited by Tlingit Indians. Take the rest of this day to relax and enjoy as you wish.

Enjoy Sitka + Embark our Luxury Small Ship

Ocean Victory - Alaska

After breakfast, our guests have the morning free to explore this inviting and historic town at their own pace. Just a 5-minute walk from our hotel, the 175-year-old St. Michael’s Orthodox Church is a National Historic Landmark regarded as a fine example of Russian Orthodox architecture. Also nearby, the Sheldon Jackson Museum offers insight into Alaska’s indigenous peoples including Aleut, Athabascan and other Northwest Coast cultures.   Later this afternoon, you’ll be escorted to the pier to board our state-of-the-art ship. Settle in to your outside stateroom as our voyage gets underway. This evening, you’ll sit down to an elegant 5-course meal with free-flowing wine and complimentary cocktails.  Meals B+D

Tlingit People of Kupreanof Island + Frederick Sound

On the northwest coast of Kupreanof Island, the remote village of Kake lies deep inside the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the United States. With most of the homes clustered along the shore between the water and the dense forests, Kake is home to about 500 residents of Tlingit heritage, most of whom continue to live off the land through hunting, fishing and gathering vegetation. Standing guard over the village is a 132-foot totem pole; carved from a single tree, it is regarded as one of the tallest in the world. Spending time here in Kake this morning, you’ll be immersed in the traditions of the Tlingit and a way of life that has changed little over the generations.   Later today, you’ll join our team of experienced naturalists to explore Frederick Sound by Zodiac. Surrounded by the majestic, snow-capped peaks of the Coast Range which soars to nearly 10,000 feet, these glacier-fed waters are rich will krill and herring – making this one of the premier places on the planet to observe humpback whales. Orcas, Steller sea lions, Dall porpoises, harbor seals and numerous seabirds also thrive in Frederick Sound. With state-of-the-art hydrophones, you might even have a chance to listen in on humpbacks as they engage in bubble-net feeding. Using vertical columns of bubbles to herd and corral their prey, this unusual form of ocean-feeding has been observed only among humpback whales and promises a fascinating topic to explore further with our expert marine biologists from California Polytechnic State University.  Meals B+L+D

Tracy Arm + Fords Terror Wilderness

Encompassing more than 653,000 acres set aside by Congress in 1980, this spectacular wilderness area is home to two of Alaska’s most spectacular fjords. World travelers claim that both Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm can easily rival any of Norway’s best-known fjords. Nature and local conditions will determine our exact route, but over the next two days, our vessel will navigate deep into these pristine waters.   In the 20-mile inlet of Tracy Arm, you’ll behold high-alpine glaciers, sheer rock walls that reach over a mile high and waterfalls that cascade down into cold waters that range from emerald green to steely blue. At the head of the fjord, an active tidewater glacier calves the numerous icebergs that we’ll encounter throughout the day. And always, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for whales, bears, mountain goats, harbor seals and a remarkable variety of birds including eagles, arctic terns, kittiwakes and pigeon guillemots. Making our voyage unique from other cruises, our ship is ideally equipped to anchor here in a secluded cove of the Captain’s choice.  Meals B+L+D

Endicott Arm

Thrill to a second day of cruising in the Fords Terror Wilderness. As conditions permit, today will likely find the Ocean Victory exploring where the larger cruise ships don’t venture. With rugged mountain terrain, deep valleys and towering waterfalls, the Endicott Arm is heralded for its pristine, breathtaking beauty. The icy waters are strewn with icebergs and the untouched shores provide prime habitat for bears, deer, mountain goats, eagles and harbor seals. At the end of the fjord, Dawes Glacier promises a spectacular sight!   You can take it all in from the comfort of our luxury ship, or venture out with our expert marine biologists and expedition guides to explore by Zodiac or kayak. Whatever mode fits your style, your day will be enhanced by our team’s extensive knowledge of Alaska’s glacial geology, ecosystems and wildlife.  Meals B+L+D

Petersburg + The LeConte Glacier

Today our ship will dock in Petersburg, right alongside a fleet of working fishing boats that ply the abundant offshore waters. The harbor here is protected and fairly shallow, making it inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Going ashore, you’ll discover weathered boathouses and tidy homes – some painted with flowery Rosemåling designs that bear witness to the town’s founding in 1897 by Norwegian families. With its main street built on pilings at water’s edge and the century-old Sons of Norway Hall as a focal point, the overall impression is one of timeless, picturesque charm! Your tour of Petersburg includes a dance performance at the Sons of Norway Hall followed by a tasting of traditional Norwegian pastries. And without the crowds of tourists that descend upon other, better-known ports, your time in Petersburg is sure to be a highlight of the voyage.   Later today, our captain will navigate into a 12-mile long fjord at the head of LeConte Bay where 4,000-foot peaks tower over the scenery. Our destination is the spectacular LeConte Glacier. The Tlingit people who first settled here long ago called these waters Xeitl Geeyi – which translates to “Thunder Bay.” Indeed, the echoing crashes of icebergs calving from the highly active LeConte Glacier reverberate through the valley and must have inspired stories of a powerful thunderbird perched in the ice field above. Today, the bay is filled with icebergs that have been sculpted by the warm summer air and the lapping of the waves. Back onboard the Ocean Victory , you’ll enjoy another elegant 5-course meal accompanied by free-flowing wine and cocktails.  Meals B+L+D   Enhance this day with a Premium Excursion to the LeConte Glacier by Jetboat or Sport Fishing along the Inside Passage . Capacity on these tours is limited, so we encourage you to add your excursion when you book your cruise. Click Here for details on all our available excursions for this 14-day voyage.

Discover the Waterfall Coast

With narrow straits and shallow entrances to secluded bays, the remote east coast of Baranof Island is inaccessible to larger commercial ships. With skillful navigation, our Captain and crew will guide the Ocean Victory through this untouched wilderness – aptly named for the many waterfalls that plunge into the sea from the island’s high mountain peaks. Ranging from splashing veils of water to thundering cascades, the splendor of the Waterfall Coast is truly remarkable. As this unforgettable day unfolds, you can choose your vantage point: From any of our ship’s indoor and outdoor viewing areas to exciting up-close exploration by Zodiac or kayak. Whichever you choose, our marine biologists and experienced guides are there to enhance and enrich your exploration – helping to keep an eye out for the resident wildlife.  Meals B+L+D

Wrangell + Stikine River

Strategically situated on the north end of Wrangell Island near the mouth of the Stikine River, the small but lively town of Wrangell is one of the oldest in Alaska. Now home to just over 2,000 residents, Wrangell Island was first inhabited by the Tlingit who settled in the region thousands of years ago in hunter-gatherer communities. The town you’ll see today traces its modern-day history to the arrival of Russian traders in the mid 1800’s and saw rapid growth with the Stikine River Gold Rushes that lasted for the latter half of the century. Gong ashore this morning with a native Alaskan guide, you’ll visit the newly restored Tribal House and delve into the island’s multi-cultural history at the Wrangell Museum. Just north of town at Petroglyph Beach State Park, you’ll discover nearly 50 rock carvings that are believed to be at least 1,000 years old. The adventurous can choose from a variety of available excursions from jet-boating to charter-boat fishing.   Later after the captain skillfully has skillfully navigated the waters of the Stikine River Delta, our team of Cal Poly marine biologists and expedition guides will lead your search for bears, Sitka deer, salmon runs and a variety of migratory birds.  Meals B+L+D   Enhance this day with one of our Premium Excursions: Glacier Discovery by Jetboat , Wild Bears of Anan , Fishing the Inside Passage or a Jetboat Adventure on the Stikine River . Capacity on these tours is limited, so we encourage you to add your excursion when you book your cruise. Click Here for details on all our available excursions for this 14-day voyage.

Misty Fjords National Monument

Encompassing vast tracts of land and sea, the incomparable Misty Fjords National Monument is a kaleidoscope of granite sea cliffs, deep fjords, protected coves, rocky islets and forested bays. Dall porpoises, humpbacks, orca whales and sea lions feed in its pristine waters and the shores are home to abundant wildlife including mountain goats, brown bears, black bears, moose, wolves and wolverines. The National Monument is also a paradise for birdwatchers with hundreds of species of sea and shorebirds. With our full fleet of 20 Zodiacs and expert team of marine biologists from California Polytechnic State University, you’ll spend an unforgettable day exploring this untouched wilderness.  Meals B+L+D

Ashore in Ketchikan and Metlakatla, Alaska

This morning’s guided excursion explores the charming and colorful port of Ketchikan, starting with Creek Street – a boardwalk perched on pilings along the banks of Ketchikan Creek. Once home to the town’s Red Light District, its historic buildings are now small museums, locally owned stores and galleries. In the summer months, salmon, seals and otters can be seen in the rushing waters of the creek. Then delve into the history and traditions of the region’s indigenous communities at Saxman Village. At the Totem Heritage Center, you’ll discover the largest collection of authentic and unrestored 19 th -century totem poles along with informative displays of baskets, masks and vintage photographs.   This afternoon, the Ocean Victory will call on Annette Island where we’ll go ashore in Metlakatla, a small native community sitting amidst a lush temperate rainforest. By special arrangement, you’ll visit a traditional longhouse to learn about the heritage of the Tsimshian, an indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest coast. After a welcoming dance, you’ll have a chance to explore a variety of art and artifacts including the Four Clan mural that covers the front of the longhouse, traditional canoes and intricate cedar bark baskets. Back onboard, you’ll sit down to another elegant dinner enhanced by free-flowing wine and our Open Bar.  Meals B+L+D   Enhance this day with an all-you-can-eat Dungeness Crab Brunch at the historic George Inlet Lodge. Capacity is limited, so we encourage you to add this excursion when you book your cruise. Click Here for details on all our available excursions for this 14-day voyage.

Exploring the Fiordland Conservancy, British Colombia

Rich with marine life and breathtaking scenery, the Fiordland Conservancy is a realm of enchanting inlets, bays, islands and fjords. Waterfalls and glaciers punctuate the coastline and the mountains are cloaked with old-growth Sitka spruce and coastal western hemlock forests – prime habitat for black bears, grizzlies, Sitka deer, wolves and bald eagles. This pristine marine conservancy is also ideal for up-close exploration and our fleet of 20 Zodiacs and dozens of kayaks afford intimate exploration with our experienced expedition guides. Venturing into the remote and secluded Kynoch Inlet, you’ll be mesmerized by the tumbling cascades of Kynoch Falls and towering granite cliffs that plunge into the dark, seemingly bottomless waters. Conditions permitting, we’ll also explore Culpepper Lagoon; situated at the head of Kynoch Inlet, this rarely visited spot offers an inspiring and transformative wilderness experience.  Meals B+L+D

Sailing the Storied Inside Passage

Shaped by the staggering force of massive glaciers during the Ice Age, the Inside Passage stretches north from Vancouver Island to the wildly beautiful coastline of Southeast Alaska. With its shallow draft and low-impact design, our luxury ship seems purpose-built to explore the pristine waterways and channels of the Inside Passage. Whether you’re in the spacious Observation Lounge or out on our one-of-a-kind viewing platform, your discovery of these wildlife-filled fjords and lush island vistas promise intimate up-close experiences reserved only for the privileged few. And with our experienced, sharp-eyed expedition team on hand, this day of cruising offers a terrific chance to see whales, porpoises and sea lions. Throughout the day, there will also be enlightening talks with our guest marine biologists from California Polytechnic State University.   Tonight’s Farewell Dinner features another 5-course gastronomic experience accompanied by complimentary wine and cocktails.    Meals B+L+D

Disembark in Vancouver

After breakfast and disembarkation, we’ll take you to the airport for your onward flight.  Meals B

Our 12-Day Northbound Cruise  

Port Charges of $649 per person are additional.

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Every A+R Journey is carefully crafted with more than 7 decades of expertise helping our guests to experience the world in a more authentic and caring way. Choose from more than 105 Original Journeys With Never More than 16 Guests or book your tour as a Completely Private Experience – whether it’s just the two of you, a small group of friends, or your entire family.

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Expedition Cruise to Alaska - 12 Day Northbound Adventure

Introducing the Ocean Victory … Carrying only 200 guests, our luxury vessel heralds a new era in sustainable low-impact expedition cruising. Accompanied by our unequaled shipboard team of expert marine biologists and expedition guides, our unique itinerary reveals Alaska like never before, taking you to smaller ports and remote wilderness areas inaccessible to larger cruise ships.

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Victory Cruise Lines Will Send New Ocean Victory to Cruise Alaska

In case you missed it, Victory Cruise Lines – a small ship cruise line – was recently purchased by American Queen Steamboat Company. Now, Victory Cruise Lines is on the verge of expansion. And this includes building the new Ocean Victory and adding Alaska cruises to their itineraries. 

American Queen Steamboat Company recently announced it will add a third ship to Victory Cruise Lines, the 200-passenger Ocean Victory . With a little over a year until the launch of Ocean Victory,  some details about this small ship and its Alaska Inside Passage expedition cruises have been released. 

What we know about Ocean Victory

Victory Cruise Lines has partnered with California Polytechnic State University marine biologists, scientists and naturalists among its expedition team of 19 who will lead excursions, provide education lectures and act as a resource for all guests.

Ocean Victory will feature 93 staterooms, of which, 68 will have balconies. Nine staterooms will have French balconies and 16 staterooms will have  panoramic windows. Keeping with a 2-to-1 guest to crew ratio, there will be 100 crew members to welcome the 200 passengers.

Onboard venues include two restaurants, plus an al fresco dining area, piano bar, library, gym, heated outdoor pool, spa services and jacuzzi, plus observation and lecture lounges. There’s also a dedicated expedition and adventures launching platform. 

The ship is equipped with 20 Zodiacs and dozens of kayaks so guests, under an expedition leader’s guidance, can paddle or motor up-close and personal to some of Alaska’s most breathtaking glaciers.

Ocean Victory Alaska Cruise Itineraries

The new small expedition ship will offer two different Alaska Inside Passage itineraries. Departing from Vancouver, Ocean Victory continues northbound for 12-days en route to Sitka, Alaska. The southbound cruise from Sitka back to Vancouver cruise is a 13-day voyage with the additional day spent navigating through Tracy Arm and visits to several glaciers.

There is also a special 12-day Hidden Coast itinerary between Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle, W.A.

North to Alaska from Vancouver, BC to Sitka, Alaska

The 12-day cruise departs May 21; June 11; July 2, 23; August 13 and September 3. 

Ports of call include:

• A pre-cruise hotel in Vancouver, B.C.
• Ketchikan and Metlakatla
• Misty Fjords National Monument
• Wrangell and the Stikine River Wilderness
• Waterfall Coast of Baranof Island
• Petersburg and Le Conte Glacier
• Tracey Arm for Sawyer Glacier
• Kake and Frederick Sound
• Sitka, Alaska

Fares start at $4,199 per person, plus port fees, taxes and gratuities.

Southbound from Sitka to Vancouver

This 13-day cruise departs May 31; June 21; July 12; August 2, 23; September 13

• A pre-cruise hotel in Sitka, Alaska
• Endicott Arm, Ford’s Terror, Dawes Glacier
• Petersburg and a visit to LeConte Glacier
• Waterfall Coast on the east side of Baranof Island
• British Columbia Inside Passage 
• Vancouver, B.C.

Fares start at $4,999 per person, plus port fees, taxes and gratuities.

Special 12-day “Hidden Coast” cruise from Vancouver to Seattle departs on September 24, 2021

Ocean Victory explores the ports and sights along Vancouver Island. Guests will visit the Copeland Island Marine Park and U’Mista Cultural Center, one of the longest operating First Nations’ cultural facilities in British Columbia.

On the southbound leg, the ship cruises past Cortes Island, Von Donop Inlet and Desolation Sound.

Ports of call include: 

• Pre-cruise hotel in Vancouver, B.C.
• Princess Royal Reach and Princess Louisa Inlet
• Copeland Islands Marine Park
• Alert Bay and U’Mista Cultural Center
• Cortes Island and Von Donop Inlet
• Desolation Sound
• “Sunshine Coast” and  Pender Harbour
• Gulf Islands and Ganges
• Victoria Island
• Seattle, Washington.

Reservations for Ocean Victory Alaska cruises are now open. Bookings before March 31, 2020 receive up to $1,400 savings per stateroom.

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• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise Plus Packing List
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Ocean Victory

Aboard the 189-passenger Ocean Victory , is built for a single purpose — to take you into the world’s most sensitive environments with conscientious attention to protecting them. The unique combination of environmental responsibility, exceptional expertise, and indulgent comfort is a first in Alaska — a new way to explore.

Experience an innovative design that brings a new level of responsible travel. Built for exploration in earth’s most fragile places, Ocean Victory uses the cleanest available fuel, offers unique access to wilderness waters, and provides an unparalleled platform for discovery.

Observation Lounge

Wraparound windows at the very front of the ship make the perfect place for relaxing. This will easily become your favorite place on the ship as you laze in 360-degree swivel chairs to capture the view from every angle. Always with your favorite snacks and beverages at hand.

Glass end walls make for unprecedented views while you enjoy a wilderness swim on deck. This refreshing pool is one of a kind. Swim from end to end as though into infinity as the wonderment of the wilderness surrounds you. Then relax in one of the two roomy hot tubs.

Indulge in a specialty massage, a rejuvenating facial, a pampering mani-pedi. Come in from your day of exploring and treat yourself to a makeover – new haircut, new make-up? Or take care of those muscles you may have used a bit more than usual. An expert staff is here to take care of you.

Expedition Lecture Room

Great sitelines, wonderful acoustics, and beautiful outdoor views make a perfect combination. The very heart of your journey will beat here, as experts in history, culture, marine life, natural environment, marine biology, and many other fields share with you their insights.

Panorama Specialty Restaurant

On this comfortable deck, tuck into some vacation reading, look ahead on where you’re headed or reminisce on where you’ve been. Sink into a comfy sofa or chair, and appreciate the breeze as we sail along, or gather near the bow to watch the spectacle of passing through a lock.

Ocean Victory Details

Accommodations.

Ocean Victory features 93 suites, of which 68 have balconies, nine French balconies and 16 panoramic windows. Your stateroom is your spacious, luxurious retreat in the middle of the world’s most beautiful wilderness. From fine linens to pampering amenities, this is your home at sea.

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Expedition cruising in Alaska: How to see the wilder, less visited side of the 49th state

KUIU ISLAND, Alaska – Move over, Captain Kirk.

In a remote bay in southeast Alaska’s Alexander Archipelago, expedition leader Mark Cassio was briefing our group of adventure travelers in the lecture hall on the Ocean Victory about the following day’s itinerary.

“You will boldly be going where no one has gone before,” he told us, only half-joking about our stop at Kuiu Island, part of the massive Tongass National Forest. “This is a place that cruise ships – even expedition ships – rarely get to see. You truly are 21st-century explorers.”

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The next day, we had the entire bay to ourselves to explore the area’s abundant wildlife on the Ocean Victory’s kayaks and Zodiacs – 10-passenger motorized inflatable boats.

With the help of the ship’s naturalists, we spotted sea otters, bald eagles and jumping chum salmon. We even got within 30 yards of a humpback whale – close enough to hear the animal expel air through its blowhole.

Take a look at the gallery:

What is an Alaska expedition cruise?

Expedition cruising in Alaska can offer travelers a far different – and more enriching – experience than the mega-ships that overrun ports like Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan with passenger counts that sometimes exceed the entire local population.

On our 11-day journey from Sitka to Vancouver that zig-zagged about 1,500 miles through the Inside Passages in Alaska and British Columbia, we rarely encountered any other ships. The small towns we visited along the way – Kake, Petersburg and Wrangell – seemed far more authentic than the congested ports-of-call on most Alaskan cruise itineraries.

“We have the luxury of having a narrower vessel, a much shallower draft, and that allows us to sneak into some of these places and then put our toys in the water – like our Zodiacs – to get everyone even closer to something like a tidewater glacier,” said Cassio.

Indeed, we got within 200 yards of three different turquoise-colored glaciers, often hearing a thunder-like crackle when a piece of ice would break off – known as calving – creating waves that would gently rock our Zodiacs.

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Sailing on American Queen Voyages' Ocean Victory

The year-old, 185-passenger Ocean Victory is operated by American Queen Voyages, best known for its fleet of red paddlewheel-propelled boats that cruise the Mississippi, Ohio and Columbia rivers.

The Ocean Victory cruises in Alaska under the American Queen brand from May through September before heading south to cruise in Antarctica for a company called Albatros Expeditions.

Our sailing was about 60 percent full – 114 passengers and 106 crew members, including a 15-person expedition team of marine biologists, ornithologists and botanists.

When they weren’t presenting lectures and leading “hands-on science” demonstrations in the ship’s onboard laboratory, the expedition team took us on Zodiac and kayak trips through secluded bays and some of the most scenic fjords in North America, including Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm and Misty Fjords.

Southeast Alaska has been inhabited by the indigenous Tlingit (pronounced Klink-it) peoples for thousands of years. Our port visits offered an opportunity to learn about the Tlingits’ history and traditions. 

Twice during the voyage, members of local Tlingit communities came onboard to present lectures about their culture and teach us a few words of the Tlingit language.

Here are the leading sites to see at or near three off-the-beaten-path Alaskan towns at which we stopped on our expedition cruise through the Inside Passage.

Kake's Tlingit heritage

Few cruise ships stop in this town of just 550 residents at the tip of Kupreanof Island in Frederick Sound. Pronounced “cake,” the word means “dawn” in the Tlingit language.

Kake makes claim to having the world’s largest totem pole carved from a single tree – a Sitka spruce. Our guide told us there are other places that profess having taller totem poles, but those were made by stacking two or more trees on top of each other, which is “just plain cheating.” 

We walked up a small hill to see the 132-foot-tall structure, which was erected in 1971.  It took five carvers more than a year to complete it.

Our group gathered at the base of the pole and listened to Falen Mills, a member of Kake’s Tlingit community, sing traditional songs and explain the cultural importance of totem poles to the Tlingit people. We also witnessed a wood-carving demonstration by a Tlingit elder in the town’s school gymnasium.

Petersburg's Norwegian history

Compared to Kake, Petersburg is a metropolis with about 3,100 residents. The endless supply of ice from nearby LeConte Glacier led Peter Buschmann, a Norwegian fisherman for whom the town is named, to settle here in the late 19th century. So many of his countrymen followed him that the town has been dubbed “Alaska’s Little Norway.”

We got a taste of Petersburg’s Norwegian culture at the Sons of Norway Hall, just a short walk from where the Zodiacs dropped us off in the harbor. The hall was built in 1912 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Inside, we sampled traditional Norwegian pastries and watched a troupe of schoolchildren – called the Leikkaring Dancers – perform traditional Norwegian dances.

Petersburg is a gateway to the LeConte Glacier, the northern hemisphere’s southernmost tidewater glacier. I took a one-hour jetboat ride from Petersburg to see the glacier’s magnificent turquoise-colored ice cliffs.

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Wrangell: Indigenous culture and feasting bears

The town of Wrangell, with a population of about 2,100, is on Wrangell Island in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. At 16.7 million acres, the forest is roughly the same size as West Virginia.

Like Kake, Wrangell offers an interesting glimpse into Tlingit culture. We visited Chief Shakes Tribal House, named after a line of like-named Tlingit clan leaders.

At the Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park a mile outside of town, we saw dozens of ancient petroglyphs carved into metamorphic rocks, depicting whales, salmon and other figures important to the Tlingit people.

About 30 miles southeast of Wrangell – a one-hour jetboat ride – is the famed Anan Wildlife Observatory. There are few places on Earth where you can get so close – within a few yards on a covered viewing platform – to safely watch brown and black bears hunt for salmon.

During my mid-August visit, the Anan Creek was full of pink salmon, which made a hearty feast for the several bears hunting that day, needing to fuel up for their upcoming winter hibernation. ( See a video of the bears here .)

The U.S. Forest Service only allows 60 visitors a day during the peak summer months.  The Ocean Victory received an allotment of 20 permits on the day of our Wrangell port stop. 

Fortunately, I had booked the excursion several weeks in advance of the sailing; otherwise, I likely would have missed out on what proved to be my most memorable adventure of the trip.

Rejoining the crowds in Ketchikan

It wasn’t until we got to Ketchikan, a port stop on almost every Inside Passage cruise, that we encountered throngs of tourists. There were so many cruise ships docked that the Ocean Victory had to park at Ward Cove, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan.

After more than a week of relative solitude, I had no desire to take a shuttle bus into town to rub elbows with thousands of passengers crowding the boardwalk on Creek Street, taking selfies and hunting for souvenirs.

I was perfectly content spending a quiet day on the ship, reading a book and watching the spruce and cedar trees in Tongass National Forest change to varying shades of green as the sun peeked in and out of the clouds.

Plan your Alaska cruise

• Alaska Visitor Information Centers:  https://alaska.org .
• Tongass National Forest:  https://fs.usda.gov/tongass .
• American Queen Voyages:  https://www.aqvoyages.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at [email protected] or visit his website at https://global-travel-info.com .

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Ocean Victory to Alaska 7/7/23?

By OneTimeCruiser01 , June 19, 2023 in American Queen Voyages

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OneTimeCruiser01

Hi there! New member and first post!  We are doing our very first cruise in July! We chose Ocean Victory because we wanted the "small ship" and "close-up" experience. We're excited to have the chance to get out on the water and see some stuff that is not part of a routine Alaska cruise.  Wondering if any other Cruise Critic members are going to be on the same trip? 

Anyone who has done this trip and has some advice about stuff not to miss? Our stops are Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, Kake, ending in Sitka.  

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We are going to be on the cruise following yours so will be interested in any comments you get and your own observations.

• 5 weeks later...

Submitted a review of the cruise, which was mostly positive except that I brought home a case of COVID as a souvenir 😞   As far as stuff not to miss. We were reluctant to splurge further on "premium" excursions after laying out so much for the cruise itself. We ended up booking independently for the Stikine River jet boat tour in Wrangell. We went with Alaska Vistas, which has a storefront right at the dock, and ended up saving $200 AND going with a smaller group (7 people) AND getting to get out of the boat a couple of times which was not an option on the tour set up by Ocean Victory. We enjoyed our trip and getting to talk to the captain and move around the boat a little more. Would recommend!  The other passengers RAVED about the Anan Bear Observatory. They saw so. many. bears. And the creek was full of salmon. We just couldn't stomach the extra $1000 it cost, though. We did see eagles, salmon and bear in Kake on our last port day. It did not cost anything!

The whale watching tour out of Petersberg also got rave reviews. The winner of our photo contest got a picture of a breaching humpback whale almost completely out of the water- truly the shot of a lifetime! They also saw whales bubble feeding. We did not go on the tour, though I was tempted, because we saw whales EVERY DAY from the deck of Ocean Victory. On the cruise through Frederick Sound after our day in Petersberg, we had glassy calm seas and after dinner there were humpbacks all around the ship for more than an hour. We saw whales spouting and diving everywhere. 

For Ketchikan the walking tour with the former mayor got good reviews. No one booked the zip lining tour, I'll be interested to hear if they continue to offer it. We went hiking. The Deer Mountain trail above town is a good hard climb but very pretty and gets you into the rainforest. We took a cab to the trailhead and walked back to town afterward. Lastly, we didn't want to pay $50 each for a ride from the dock to the airport. We contacted Amy with Sitka Shuttle and she picked us up from the dock at exactly the time we requested, drove us in a comfortable van to the airport and charged us $20 each. Find her online and set it up before you leave and save a few bucks.  We had a wonderful time on our cruise, except for the COVID thing. Ended up with 11 cases onboard at the end of the cruise. If you're worried, bring a mask. Look at my review for additional details!

Host Jazzbeau

How was the ship?  I'm still getting used to the look of this new design, which they say makes it sail better in rough conditions.  But how is the inside?

We did Alaska on Princess and enjoyed it.  But if we go back, I would like to be on a small ship like these.

On 7/20/2023 at 7:47 PM, Host Jazzbeau said: How was the ship?  I'm still getting used to the look of this new design, which they say makes it sail better in rough conditions.  But how is the inside?   We did Alaska on Princess and enjoyed it.  But if we go back, I would like to be on a small ship like these.

It is a very new ship. I think this is only it's second year in service. Mostly everything was in good condition and clean and working well. There was plenty of room to move around, halls were wide, the forward observation lounge was comfortable and had great visibility, there were plenty of places you could sit in a comfortable chair or couch and look out the window. I did like that the ship is designed so you can see the scenery! Decks are spacious, and they have two observation platforms on deck 5 forward that are extended in good weather and make viewing and photographing whales easier! There are two bars. A main dining room and a more casual dining area that serves breakfast and lunch only. Deck 8 has outdoor seating available for dining, which was used on a couple of warm days. They also have a self serve automatic machine that brews "fancy" coffees (lattes, cappuchinos, etc) available 24 hours a day and 24 hour a day chocolate chip cookies, too! 

There is a nicely stocked library which I used to get ideas about what to do on port days (there were a ton of Alaska guidebooks available). Two open air hot tubs on deck 7 that were open 10 AM to 10 PM.   The main stairway indoors is pretty steep, big steps. But they have a nice elevator if that is challenging for you. The fitness center has cardio machines and a weight machine (and a scale, if you want to track how much weight you are gaining) and it got a lot of use! There is a spa but I didn't use the services so not sure what it is like. 

The "mudroom" where you gear up for zodiacs and kayaks has a cubby assigned to each cabin for you to store your lifejackets and wet gear. 

The pool was not opened during our cruise. I wonder if they get much use of it at all.

There are board games and chess/checker tables available. 

There are maps everywhere that you can consult to follow your route. 

Thanks so much.  That is exactly the information I was looking for.  And great pictures too!

On the 7/18 cruise, which we are on now, there was no other place to eat besides the main dining room. On port days a smaller eating area on deck 8 was opened in lieu of the main dining room.

I would have enjoyed an alternative to the main dining room.

As on the previous cruise the pool was never filled with water, but the hot tubs were open.

Have not felt any motion at all as seas have been calm with minimal swell.

The deck 8 observation lounge is a very nice area to view the sights, however the music from the speakers was extremely loud and totally annoying. They did turn it down when asked however.

We are on deck 6 and smelled cigarette smoke in the hallway most of the time. Even after complaining we could still smell it coming in from the crew smoking area. I heard other passengers complaining of cigarette smoke in the deck 7 hallway.

We wanted a cruise that had not many passengers (110 on our sailing), not visiting cities everyone who has done Alaska has already seen, and anchoring in remote coves with opportunities to see wildlife...we got all of that.

The expedition team is a great bunch of enthusiastic kids. I call them kids because I am almost 80 and they are all in their 20's and early 30's. You can tell they like their jobs.

Other staff very caring and efficient.

I would have enjoyed an alternative to the main dining room. ------------------------ Interesting! We had around 145 passengers on board. I wonder if they only open the 8th floor restaurant if they have a minimum number of passengers. My husband heard that they have to throw out uneaten food from the buffets, so maybe a smaller number of guests causes more food wastage if they have both dining areas open for breakfast and lunch?  It sounds like a few minor issues but overall a good experience so far? I do recall occasionally smelling cigarette smoke in the stairwell, but never noticed it on deck 7 where we were. How do bigger ships handle smoking areas for passengers and crew? I hope the remainder of your trip is enjoyable! 

DaveinCharlotte

On 7/27/2023 at 7:25 PM, gbldcl said: On port days a smaller eating area on deck 8 was opened in lieu of the main dining room.  

Wow.  Are you saying that on port days the main dining room was closed -- dinner available only at the Bistro?  This itinerary visits a port on most days, right?  Or did you mean just the embarking/disembarking port days?

craftygrandma

The bistro was opened for lunch on port days, dining room was opened for dinner every night.

On 7/29/2023 at 7:27 AM, DaveinCharlotte said: Wow.  Are you saying that on port days the main dining room was closed -- dinner available only at the Bistro?  This itinerary visits a port on most days, right?  Or did you mean just the embarking/disembarking port days?

MDR was open for dinner and breakfast everyday. Closed for lunch on port days.

We leave on August 8th from Sitka.  Its my mother and myself.  Did you see anyone using a walker?  My mom is concerned she won't be able to get into the zodiacs.  

Do they have single kayaks?  I will be doing that alone.  

Thank you for your great review.  

------------------------------

Yes, there were several people with walkers. Depending on how mobile your mom is, she may be able to get into the zodiacs. She will need to negotiate two steps- one on to the side of the zodiac and then a wooden step they put in the boat to make the step down easier. Usually at least 2 staff to assist people in and out of the boat. No single kayaks but they'll pair you up with another single or a staff member. 

Forgot to add- there are stairs to negotiate from level 4 into the "mudroom" and from the mudroom down to the level where the zodiacs launch from. Hopefully your mom can negotiate stairs? It would probably be a good idea to chat with the expedition team when you get aboard to see what they can do to accommodate.

For the stairs down to the mud room, talk to the expedition staff - on our cruise they mentioned that they had a “secret” way to accommodate those who couldn’t manage the steps.

Thank you for the replies.  I think my mom will be fine.  I'm getting really excited.   

Enjoy!  It was one of my favorite vacations ever!

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Discover our newest ship – Ocean Victory

by 2020admin | Oct 30, 2020 | Canada , Cruises , Destinations , Guest Lecturers , Land Tours , Small Ship Cruising | 0 comments

The magnificent M/V Infinity Class Ocean Victory joined our fleet in 2021 and has taken guests to some of the most remote locations in Alaska since her debut.

Ocean Victory is the first ship of her kind to sail to Alaska and combines the ultimate protection of the environment with the perfect comfort of our guests, as she uses the cleanest available fuel. This small-ship has a maximum capacity of 200-passengers, accompanied by 100 crew members – a 1:2 ratio that ensures superb service, immersive shore excursions, onboard enrichment and a lecture program provided by world-class experts in history, culture, marine life, natural environment, marine biology, and many other fields.

Equipped with 20 Zodiacs and dozens of kayaks, Ocean Victory is able to offer an in-depth exploration of Alaska’s natural, historic and cultural treasures as she sails from Vancouver, BC, to Sitka (13 days) and Sitka to Vancouver (14 days), visiting smaller ports not accessible to larger cruise ships.

These bucket-list ‘Discover Beyond’ journeys invite you to explore the stunning Waterfall Coast, the Canadian Inside Passage, the Fjordland Conservancy, Misty Fjords National Monument and many other amazing destinations. Under the direction of expert naturalists, take guided Zodiac expeditions and contribute to professional marine experiments. Listen to the language of gray whales, appreciate local art, be welcomed into a traditional Tlingit tribal house and so much more.

Ocean Victory has 93 suites, of which 68 have balconies, nine of them French, 16 with panoramic views. Wraparound windows at the front of the ship offer the perfect place for relaxing, glass end walls on the pool deck provide an unprecedented backdrop for a wilderness swim in the heated pool. Take breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Panorama Specialty Restaurant, or the open-deck dining area, then relax in the piano bar, library, gym, spa and Jacuzzi, or observation lounge.

Signature elements include a patented X-bow design for a smoother, more comfortable ride with ultra-low levels of noise and vibration; Rolls Royce Zero Speed Stabilizers to reduce rolling; and a computer-controlled, Dynamic Positioning System, which automatically maintains the vessel’s position, utilizing its own propellers and thrusters, for top-rated ship manoeuvrability.

If you would like to discuss further, or to book, please call 01223 568904.

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Expedition cruising in Alaska: How to see the wilder, less visited side of the 49th state

KUIU ISLAND, Alaska – Move over, Captain Kirk.

In a remote bay in southeast Alaska’s Alexander Archipelago, expedition leader Mark Cassio was briefing our group of adventure travelers in the lecture hall on the Ocean Victory about the following day’s itinerary.

“You will boldly be going where no one has gone before,” he told us, only half-joking about our stop at Kuiu Island, part of the massive Tongass National Forest. “This is a place that cruise ships – even expedition ships – rarely get to see. You truly are 21st-century explorers.”

The next day, we had the entire bay to ourselves to explore the area’s abundant wildlife on the Ocean Victory’s kayaks and Zodiacs – 10-passenger motorized inflatable boats.

With the help of the ship’s naturalists, we spotted sea otters, bald eagles and jumping chum salmon. We even got within 30 yards of a humpback whale – close enough to hear the animal expel air through its blowhole.

More: World-famous wine, Dijon mustard from taps: Highlights of a France river cruise

What is an Alaska expedition cruise?

Expedition cruising in Alaska can offer travelers a far different – and more enriching – experience than the mega-ships that overrun ports like Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan with passenger counts that sometimes exceed the entire local population.

On our 11-day journey from Sitka to Vancouver that zig-zagged about 1,500 miles through the Inside Passages in Alaska and British Columbia, we rarely encountered any other ships. The small towns we visited along the way – Kake, Petersburg and Wrangell – seemed far more authentic than the congested ports-of-call on most Alaskan cruise itineraries.

“We have the luxury of having a narrower vessel, a much shallower draft, and that allows us to sneak into some of these places and then put our toys in the water – like our Zodiacs – to get everyone even closer to something like a tidewater glacier,” said Cassio.

Indeed, we got within 200 yards of three different turquoise-colored glaciers, often hearing a thunder-like crackle when a piece of ice would break off – known as calving – creating waves that would gently rock our Zodiacs.

More: Cruising Nova Scotia and eastern Canada: Lighthouses and whale watching

Sailing on American Queen Voyages' Ocean Victory

The year-old, 185-passenger Ocean Victory is operated by American Queen Voyages, best known for its fleet of red paddlewheel-propelled boats that cruise the Mississippi, Ohio and Columbia rivers.

The Ocean Victory cruises in Alaska under the American Queen brand from May through September before heading south to cruise in Antarctica for a company called Albatros Expeditions.

Our sailing was about 60 percent full – 114 passengers and 106 crew members, including a 15-person expedition team of marine biologists, ornithologists and botanists.

When they weren’t presenting lectures and leading “hands-on science” demonstrations in the ship’s onboard laboratory, the expedition team took us on Zodiac and kayak trips through secluded bays and some of the most scenic fjords in North America, including Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm and Misty Fjords.

Southeast Alaska has been inhabited by the indigenous Tlingit (pronounced Klink-it) peoples for thousands of years. Our port visits offered an opportunity to learn about the Tlingits’ history and traditions. 

Twice during the voyage, members of local Tlingit communities came onboard to present lectures about their culture and teach us a few words of the Tlingit language.

Here are the leading sites to see at or near three off-the-beaten-path Alaskan towns at which we stopped on our expedition cruise through the Inside Passage.

More: Cruising in Hawaii: What it was like to sail on one of the first ships back

Kake's Tlingit heritage

Few cruise ships stop in this town of just 550 residents at the tip of Kupreanof Island in Frederick Sound. Pronounced “cake,” the word means “dawn” in the Tlingit language.

Kake makes claim to having the world’s largest totem pole carved from a single tree – a Sitka spruce. Our guide told us there are other places that profess having taller totem poles, but those were made by stacking two or more trees on top of each other, which is “just plain cheating.” 

We walked up a small hill to see the 132-foot-tall structure, which was erected in 1971.  It took five carvers more than a year to complete it.

Our group gathered at the base of the pole and listened to Falen Mills, a member of Kake’s Tlingit community, sing traditional songs and explain the cultural importance of totem poles to the Tlingit people. We also witnessed a wood-carving demonstration by a Tlingit elder in the town’s school gymnasium.

Petersburg's Norwegian history

Compared to Kake, Petersburg is a metropolis with about 3,100 residents. The endless supply of ice from nearby LeConte Glacier led Peter Buschmann, a Norwegian fisherman for whom the town is named, to settle here in the late 19th century. So many of his countrymen followed him that the town has been dubbed “Alaska’s Little Norway.”

We got a taste of Petersburg’s Norwegian culture at the Sons of Norway Hall, just a short walk from where the Zodiacs dropped us off in the harbor. The hall was built in 1912 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Inside, we sampled traditional Norwegian pastries and watched a troupe of schoolchildren – called the Leikkaring Dancers – perform traditional Norwegian dances.

Petersburg is a gateway to the LeConte Glacier, the northern hemisphere’s southernmost tidewater glacier. I took a one-hour jetboat ride from Petersburg to see the glacier’s magnificent turquoise-colored ice cliffs.

More: Cruising the Galapagos: Exploring the islands' wild wonders from a small ship

Wrangell: Indigenous culture and feasting bears

The town of Wrangell, with a population of about 2,100, is on Wrangell Island in the heart of the Tongass National Forest. At 16.7 million acres, the forest is roughly the same size as West Virginia.

Like Kake, Wrangell offers an interesting glimpse into Tlingit culture. We visited Chief Shakes Tribal House, named after a line of like-named Tlingit clan leaders.

At the Petroglyph Beach State Historic Park a mile outside of town, we saw dozens of ancient petroglyphs carved into metamorphic rocks, depicting whales, salmon and other figures important to the Tlingit people.

About 30 miles southeast of Wrangell – a one-hour jetboat ride – is the famed Anan Wildlife Observatory. There are few places on Earth where you can get so close – within a few yards on a covered viewing platform – to safely watch brown and black bears hunt for salmon.

During my mid-August visit, the Anan Creek was full of pink salmon, which made a hearty feast for the several bears hunting that day, needing to fuel up for their upcoming winter hibernation. ( See a video of the bears here .)

The U.S. Forest Service only allows 60 visitors a day during the peak summer months.  The Ocean Victory received an allotment of 20 permits on the day of our Wrangell port stop. 

Fortunately, I had booked the excursion several weeks in advance of the sailing; otherwise, I likely would have missed out on what proved to be my most memorable adventure of the trip.

More: Cruising Portugal's Douro Valley is a tranquil way to explore a historic wine region

Rejoining the crowds in Ketchikan

It wasn’t until we got to Ketchikan, a port stop on almost every Inside Passage cruise, that we encountered throngs of tourists. There were so many cruise ships docked that the Ocean Victory had to park at Ward Cove, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan.

After more than a week of relative solitude, I had no desire to take a shuttle bus into town to rub elbows with thousands of passengers crowding the boardwalk on Creek Street, taking selfies and hunting for souvenirs.

I was perfectly content spending a quiet day on the ship, reading a book and watching the spruce and cedar trees in Tongass National Forest change to varying shades of green as the sun peeked in and out of the clouds.

Real ID deadline: When you'll need it to fly, how to get one, what you can use instead

Plan your Alaska cruise

• Alaska Visitor Information Centers:  https://alaska.org .
• Tongass National Forest:  https://fs.usda.gov/tongass .
• American Queen Voyages:  https://www.aqvoyages.com .

Dan Fellner of Scottsdale is a freelance travel writer. Contact him at [email protected] or visit his website at https://global-travel-info.com .

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

Vancouver to Sitka

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Explore the picturesque waters of the Canadian Passage
• Visit an intricate network of waterfalls and glaciers
• Discover the history and culture of Ketchikan
• Enjoy the scenic geological wonder of Misty Fjords
• Wildlife Viewing
• Village Visits
• Small Ship Cruises
• North America
• Pacific Northwest
• United States
• British Columbia
• Endicott Arm
• Frederick Sound
• Inside Passage
• Misty Fjords National Wilderness
• Vancouver, BC
• Baranof Island
• Canadian Inside passage
• Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet)
• Johnstone Strait

Full Itinerary

Day 1: hotel stay in vancouver, bc, day 2: vancouver, bc | embark.

• Accommodation
• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Canadian Inside Passage

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet)

Day 5: ketchikan & metlakatla, ak, day 6: misty fjords, ak, day 7: wrangell, ak, day 8: waterfall coast (gut bay), alaska, day 9: petersburg, ak, day 10: tracy arm | endicott arm fjord, ak, day 11: kake & frederick sound, ak, day 12: sitka, ak | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

Ocean Victory

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $250 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 71 days prior to departure by Check, VISA, MasterCard, or Discover

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• American Queen Steamboat Company - Terms and Conditions 2022 - American Queen Voyages

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 11 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
• 11 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Unlimited Wifi
• Gratuities to Onboard Crew
• Port Taxes & Fees
• Open Bars & Lounges throughout the vessel including a juice bar every morning
• In-Room Dining
• Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
• Live, Daily Onboard Entertainment & Enrichment
• Locally Sourced & regionally Inspired Cuisine from land and sea
• Gourmet Selections of freshly prepared choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Unlimited Beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees
• Unlimited Guided Tours designed with your comfort in mind aboard private, deluxe motorcoaches
• 1-night Pre-cruise Hotel Stay with free ground transfers between hotel and vessel
• Unlimited Expedition Adventures by Zodiac or Kayak
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Optional Premium Shore Excursions - highly recommend booking these in advance. If interested, ask us for a detailed list of premium excursions for your cruise as these vary depending on your departure date.
• Transfers to and from the airport

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North america travel guide.

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• Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari
• Camp Denali Lodge
• A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii

Why Travel With Adventure Life

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Ocean Victory cabins and suites

Ocean victory staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Ocean Victory cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Albatros Expeditions (American Queen Voyages) en-suite amenities and services.

The Ocean Victory cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

2-Room Captain Suite

Layout (floor plan).

Cabin amenities include:

• separate bedroom with double bed (King-size) convertible to twins
• separate living room (with sofabed)
• en-suite bathroom
• floor-ceiling windows opening to a step-out balcony
• two 42-inch smart HDTVs
• free pair of binoculars (per suite)
• free bottle of champagne (per suite)
• free minibar (replenished upon request)

Captain Suite bonus perks include (one per person) mug, drink bottle, 3-in-1 polar jacket, drybag backpack, 1-hour spa treatment (massage or facial).

2-Room Junior Suite

• separate bedroom with double bed (convertible to twins)
• free minibar (stocked once only / not replenished)

Junior Suite bonus perks include (one per person) mug, drink bottle, 3-in-1 polar jacket, drybag backpack, 1-hour spa treatment (massage or facial).

Balcony Suite

Balcony Cabin

Porthole Cabin

Select cabins have single sofabed (pull-out couch) for a 3rd passenger.

Ocean Victory cabins review

Follows the review of Ocean Victory ship cabins as amenities, furniture and included (complimentary) services:

• All staterooms are outside, with either step-out balcony, French Balcony or Porthole windows.
• Most staterooms (80% of all, excepting only Deck 3 cabins with Portholes) are with a private, step-out balcony accessible from the living area via sliding, floor-ceiling glass door. Each balcony is furnished with a small table and two deck chairs. 60% of all cabins can be booked with triple occupancy (accommodate a 3rd person on a pull-out couch/sofabed).
• Hotel beds (King-size or two twin, size 200 x 160 cm, ample under-bed storage space for suitcases), sleeping couch (sofabed), bedside cabinets, mirrored vanity (writing desk / dressing table) with chair, built-in dressers with drawers, mini-bar / refrigerator, 42-inch smart HDTV (local and satellite reception), phone (onboard communication only), digital clock / alarm, seating area (small table with 1 or 2 armchairs), spacious wardrobe (closet with hangers, drawers, electronic safe), individual climate control, medical emergency button.
• Each stateroom has a private, full-size bathroom with shower / WC, hairdryer, premium bath amenities.

Suites are in 3 categories - CS-Captain's, JS-Junior and BS-Balcony. These are the largest staterooms, with double-size balconies and offering extra amenities, such as in-room dining service (continental breakfast served on the balcony).

The ship Ocean Victory has a total of 20 pairs of connecting cabins (balconied) that can be booked as one stateroom for up to 6 persons (perfect for families). There are no wheelchair-accessible cabins (for passengers with disabilities).

Ocean Victory cabin and suite plans are property of Albatros Expeditions (American Queen Voyages) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

7 Reasons You’ll Love An Expedition Cruise In Alaska

A laska is vast and wild, a place where travelers can explore miles and miles of remote coastlines, parks, and forests. The Last Frontier sits at the very top of the destination wish list for many people. When you go to a place that is such a special mix of impressive geological formations and fascinating creatures, it’s best to do it in a way that gets you up close. This is where an expedition cruise shines. Some places in the world are best explored via small-ship cruising. Think Antarctica, the Galapagos, the fjords of Norway, and, of course, Alaska!

I sailed on an expedition cruise to Alaska on the 186-passenger ship Ocean Victory from American Queen Voyages. Our 10-day sailing from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Sitka, Alaska, delivered a mix of delightful experiences that revealed why cruisers are flocking to adventure voyages.

Dozens of expedition ships have been built and debuted over the past few years, and the number of travelers taking expedition cruises has grown dramatically during the past decade (2012 to 2022), rising from just under 70,000 people to more than 367,000, with the number expected to approach 500,000 annually by 2027, according to a market report by Cruise Industry News .

I have taken expedition cruises on a variety of cruise lines, including incredibly active and immersive off-the-grid voyages with UnCruise Adventures in places like Alaska and Costa Rica, as well as luxurious sailings around the Galapagos with Silversea and to Antarctica with Ponant.

My trip on the small ship Ocean Victory represented more of a light expedition adventure. This is an ideal journey for people of all ages and ability levels who are seeking their dream trip to Alaska but want to avoid the large crowds of mass-market ships.

Here is why.

1. You’ll See The Best Wildlife On An Expedition Cruise

As we pulled away from Vancouver on Ocean Victory , I could feel the sense of anticipation among the 124 cruisers onboard as they wandered the outer areas of the eight-deck ship and made new friends. Members of the expedition team, led by Liz Gifford, introduced themselves and explained what we would be doing during our voyage.

The animals were going to be the primary entertainment, of course.

We spotted seabirds, Steller sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and a large pod of humpback whales bubble-net feeding as we sailed for two days from Vancouver toward Ketchikan. 

Brown bears, mountain goats, orcas (and several other whales), otters, seals, and eagles are the big ones you’ll be on the lookout for. Cruisers also get a chance to spot a wide array of marine birds and other creatures in the tidal zones and rainforests like sea stars, anemones, and banana slugs.

Pro Tip: Book your expedition cruise for May or June if you want to see the best wildlife activity. Bears are awakening from hibernation and very active feeding along the shorelines. This is also when birds fill the skies and forests and flowers come into bloom. The colors and sights are most vibrant as Alaska awakens during the spring.

2. You’ll Get A Chance To Explore Remote Fjords And Historic Port Towns

Small expedition ships can reach deep into fjords or navigate to remote bays and islets that the large cruise ships can’t reach. This means that you’ll be up close to glaciers — and often get a chance to move even closer via Zodiac tours or kayaking outings. 

Our skiff tour into Tracy Arm Fjord during our cruise on Ocean Victory brought us up close to South Sawyer Glacier. The ship stayed in the bay all day as we went out to see mountain goats scrambling along the hillsides, waterfalls streaming down the cliffs and blue ice calving from the glacier wall and crashing into the water with the sound of thunder.

We also kayaked around Punch Bowl Cove during our full day at Misty Fjords National Monument. This day was pure bliss. The weather was clear and sunny, and we were the only people in the majestic fjord surrounded by steep granite walls and birds lazily tracing circles overhead. The only sounds while we paddled — other than chatter among our small group of kayakers — were gentle swooshes of the kayak strokes dipping into water that was as smooth as glass.

At Port Malmesbury, we got into the waters to see bald eagles, otters, and whales. American Queen Voyages offers a mix of expedition days and port visits with shore excursions on its trips to Alaska, and we enjoyed port stops in Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and Sitka, where the program included excursions like forest walks and museum visits. In Wrangell, for example, passengers on Ocean Victory joined a cultural discovery tour to visit a Tlingit tribal house followed by a tour of Wrangell Museum and a stop at Petroglyph Beach to see ancient rock carvings.

Some expedition lines, such as UnCruise Adventures, offer more intense activities, including long hikes and bushwhacking outings in old-growth rainforests. You can even do things like tidepooling (shore walks at low tide), snorkeling, and standup paddleboarding in beautifully serene locations.

Pro Tip: Check the lineup of activities available during the cruise itinerary to find the right expedition cruise line for you.

3. You’ll Savor Great Scenery When You Cruise In Alaska

Your expedition voyage is built around beautiful destinations, and ships like Ocean Victory are designed with spaces that seamlessly connect the inside with the outdoors. We enjoyed the top sun deck with its loungers and two hot tubs located aft of the ship. This is the perfect spot at sunset for a drink at the bar and to slide in for a soak to soothe your body after a day full of adventures.  

The ship also has large glass windows in the main lounge and restaurant, as well as an Observation Lounge on Deck 8 and innovative bow viewing platforms on Deck 5. Additionally, there are open deck areas on Decks 5 and 6, so passengers have a great variety of spots to see the outdoors or pop outside to watch birds or whales, as we did many times during our voyage.

You can borrow binoculars for use throughout your cruise, and Ocean Victory features scopes on tripods placed strategically in the observation areas so you can zoom in on the shoreline or scan the skies for animals.

Pro Tip: Be dressed and ready to go to the outer decks when announcements are made that animals are in sight. You might see bears feeding at the shoreline or humpback whales bubble-net feeding. Carry around your camera, binoculars, hat, and jacket in case conditions call for them, so you can quickly move to a nice viewing area. Also, consider booking a cabin with a balcony or direct access to an outer deck. This way, you can fully enjoy the outdoors and have opportunities to spot wildlife and incredible scenery at all times.

4. You’ll Share Intense Experiences With New Friends

Small-ship cruise travel brings together groups of well-traveled people who share common interests. There are no casinos or production shows onboard most traditional expedition ships. 

Ocean Victory offers a main lecture lounge where naturalists and guest lecturers give talks on subjects like humpback whales, the indigenous people of Alaska, or the Tongass Forest. We’ve made new lifelong friends on these trips, and you’re likely to, as well, because you meet like-minded travelers with similar interests, such as a passion for active travel and learning. 

It’s a blast to join trivia contests and sing-a-longs after dinner or just sit and chat about each day’s wonderful activities with new friends over dinner or while having drinks at the bars or lounges.

5. You’ll Wander Beyond Your Comfort Zone

An expedition cruise is a great time to try something new. It might be your first time in a Zodiac zipping around in the waters with the wind in your face and riding the gently bucking waves. You might catch a splash, too, if you’re seated right up front. Try kayaking. Get on a paddle board or venture out on a hike into the forest. You’ll be on the lookout for bears, deer, and birds. You might even get the chance to jump in the frigid waters if your cruise ship offers a polar plunge. We did the Punch Bowl Plunge on Ocean Victory to cap our day at Misty Fjords, and dozens of people gleefully participated.

Pro Tip: Pack the right kind of clothes. Typically, you’ll want to have the proper footwear, rain gear, and you’ll need clothes that you can wear in layers. Consult the pre-trip packing list provided by American Queen Voyages, and take it to heart.

6. You’ll Enjoy An Immersive Way To Learn Something New

The expedition leaders onboard these cruises have a passion for the environment, travel, and active adventures. On Ocean Victory , we had a team of 18 naturalists, kayak guides, and Zodiac drivers who together had a wealth of information. Many had degrees or certifications in topics covering marine science, conservation, or backcountry survival.

Our crew on Ocean Victory hosted daily enrichment talks, hands-on science sessions, and informal post-dinner “after hours” chats. We learned about plankton, algae, humpback whale migration, seals and sea lions, and how to tie a series of knots. A guest lecturer also joined the cruise to give talks about indigenous culture in Alaska and the art and history of the Haida and Tlingit people.

Of course, you’re constantly experiencing wonderful new things off the ship, such as engaging with your guides and new friends when out in the wild spotting animals, or visiting quirky towns and villages in Alaska. We had great chats with residents in Petersburg and Kake to learn what life is like in such a remote and harsh part of the world.

7. You’ll Be Inspired To See Even More

Once you’ve visited Alaska on an expedition cruise, you’ll be hooked. It’s one of my favorite destinations (likely my favorite). The continuous animal activity, beautiful scenery, and daily chance to get out to do something active and exhilarating make it a breathtaking experience.

American Queen Voyages offers expedition cruises to Alaska between May and September on Ocean Victory .

For more information on Alaska cruises, check out these articles:

• Alaska By Small Ship Cruise: Wilderness, Solitude, And Wildlife Sightings
• 6 Fabulous Perks Of Cruising Alaska In The Fall