Fortress of the Bear & Silver Bay Homestead Cruise
Description
Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure packed with amazing wildlife, hands-on experiences, and fun for all ages! Your journey on the Fortress of the Bear & Silver Bay Homestead Cruise begins with a narrated motorcoach tour through Sitka, leading to an exciting stop at the Fortress of the Bear, a special sanctuary for rescued orphaned brown and black bears. Kids will love watching these playful giants up close as they splash, climb, and interact in their spacious habitats. As you observe, friendly guides will share the heartwarming story of how these bears were saved and now live happy, enriched lives.
Next, hop aboard a comfortable excursion boat for a scenic cruise through a glacier-carved fjord. Along the way, keep an eye out for eagles soaring overhead, sea otters floating nearby, and maybe even a whale or two! As your family enjoys the incredible sights, your guide will point out interesting landmarks and share fun stories about Alaska’s past.
At the head of Silver Bay, step ashore at a private Alaskan homestead, where kids and parents alike can explore, learn, and relax. Gather around a cozy campfire for s’mores and hot cocoa, soak in the breathtaking views, and hear fascinating tales about how Alaska’s Indigenous people have thrived in this wilderness for thousands of years.
The adventure continues as you cruise back in search of more wildlife, including sea lions, brown bears, and other incredible animals. The fun doesn’t stop there—on the final stretch of your journey, a scenic drive through Sitka will introduce you to even more family-friendly attractions like the Alaska Raptor Center and Sitka National Historic Park, perfect for exploring on your own after the tour.
From up-close bear encounters to boat rides, wildlife spotting, and s’mores by the fire, Alaska Bears & Silver Bay Homestead is the perfect adventure for families looking to experience the best of Alaska together!
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
What will the weather be like?
The weather in Sitka is quick to change. It may be raining in the morning and sunny in the afternoon. Or it can rain all day long. Dress in layers, and make sure to bring a warm jacket. We advise to stick with wool, fleece or synthetics and to stay away from cotton. Pack a hat, gloves, rain gear and sunglasses, just in case.
What is the difficulty of this tour?
What sequence does this tour run in?
The tour sequence may vary (with the cruise before Fortress of the Bear). Your tour may end downtown at the Sitka Visitor Center or the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal. Free shuttle buses, departing every few minutes, provide transportation between downtown and the Cruise Terminal.
What if our cruise ship's schedule is canceled or delayed?
We will try our best to work with you to reschedule the tour to a later time. If that is not a possibility or your ship doesn't make it into port, then you will receive a refund, less any non-refundable fees.
What should we wear and bring?
This tour operates rain or shine, and rain is common as we lie in a temperate rainforest! For comfort, we typically recommend long pants, closed-toed shoes and a waterproof jacket. Some guests choose to bring a small bag or backpack along to store extra layers, a bottle of water and cameras.
Is there a restroom on board the boat?
Yes, there is a small restroom on board the boat.