July 11th - 18th, 2014
Imagine sitting on the deck of a private 60-foot boat off Alaska’s coast. A humpback whale as long as a bus leaps out of the water nearby. Another whale swims by with her calf, touching fins in what looks to be a gesture of affection. Watch, photograph and get immersed in the experience with your friends…
Peek into the lives of these gentle giants as they migrate from their summer feeding grounds in the Arctic to winter breeding grounds around the equator. In addition to whales, we’ll see glaciers and fantastic scenery, luminescent icebergs, sea birds, and plenty of other wildlife. We may see bald eagles, harbor seals, Alaska brown bears, sea lions, Dall’s porpoises and orca whales. Enjoy your summer in Alaska with Natural Exposures!
Meet Daniel and Tanya Cox
2014 Alaska Whale-Watching Photo Expedition I Travel Plans
Friday, July 11 (D)
Meet the group in Juneau, Alaska, capital of the Land of the Midnight Sun. We’ll embark at 4:00 pm. Welcome dinner on the boat.
For six nights, we’ll tour Alaska’s Inside Passage on a custom-designed private cruiser built for extended trips throughout southeast Alaska. Thanks to a specially engineered layout, everyone has a clear view regardless of their position on the main level or observation deck.
Following the whales is our prime interest, however, there will be time also for exploring the Inside Passage’s bays, coves and fjords with glaciers, seals sunning themselves on icebergs with pups or maybe pop a kayak into the water for a whale’s eye view. Anglers will appreciate casting a line into Alaska’s cold, clean water.
Saturday, July 12 (B, L, D)
Today we head south to Endicott Arm to spend some time at the face of Dawes Glacier photographing glacial calving. We’ll search for whales and also keep an eye out for seals, birds, and ice floes. Tonight we overnight at Ford’s Terror, a stunning glacially carved cove.
Sunday, July 13 (B, L, D)
This morning we’ll continue to cruise south to look for humpback whales in Frederick Sound—home to a large population of humpbacks. We’ll spend the day looking for and tracking whales, while also seeking other wildlife such as sea otters and dolphins. Later in the day we’ll stop at a popular sea lion haul-out to observe and photograph these eared seals. Watch for Alaska brown bears that can possibly be seen along the coastline.
Monday, July 14 (B, L, D)
We’ll spend another day in Frederick Sound looking for humpback whales bubble-net feeding, breaching, and training their calves. To score a big meal of herring, the whales dive beneath the fish, and blow a circle of bubbles around them. This “net” traps the herring and the whales swim up from below with their mouths open, eating their fill of fresh seafood.
Loons, cormorants, albatross, scoters, murres, herons, eagles, and other birds also live in this area.
Tuesday, July 15 (B, L, D)
We’ll start the day with a trip to Kake to refuel, a small Native village which boasts the world’s tallest totem pole. The fish hatchery is a favorite fishing spot for brown bears. In the afternoon we head back to Frederick Sound to overnight and search for whales.
Wednesday, July 16 (B, L, D)
More opportunities to to search, follow and photograph whales.
Thursday, July 17 (B, L, D)
We’ll make our way back to Juneau, looking for whales including orcas and Dall’s Porpoises as we go. We arrive back at the dock by evening. Farewell dinner and one night’s stay at Juneau Aspen Suites Hotel.
Friday, July 18
Depending on the time of your flight, you may be able to explore one or more of Juneau’s museums, wander around the docks, or sneak in a little shopping. Then it’s time to head home. Transfers provided to the airport.
Guest Limits
10 Guests Maximum
Trip Cost
EARLY BOOKING RATE
$4800 per person based on double occupancy
Book after September 1, 2013, add $300Single supplement: Not available on vessel
Single supplement in Juneau (one night): $100Deposit
$500 Per person due at time of booking
Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check acceptedDeposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.
Installments
January 15, 2014: $2500 First Installment
April 15, 2014: Final PaymentDeposit by Visa, MC, paypal or check. Check only for first installment and final payment. Please make check payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:
Natural Exposures
810 N. Wallace, Suite E
Bozeman, MT 59715Included
- Six nights accommodations on the whale photography boat
- One night hotel accommodation in Juneau on July 17
- Private small group travel with Daniel J. Cox teaching one-on-one in the field
- Transfers to/from the boat, transfer from hotel to airport on return
- All meals on the boat, snacks, beverages
- Farewell dinner in Juneau
- Option to fish for halibut and possible salmon, rods included
Not Included
- Flights to/from Juneau (JNU)
- Refund if the weather is not cooperating. This would include flight rescheduling fees or extra hotel nights.
- Alcoholic beverages and some non-alcoholic beverages (can be purchased in Juneau before departure on boat)
- Gratuity for guide and boat staff
- Fishing licenses (license can be purchased in Juneau)
- Any fees associated with packaging fish (cleaning, vacuum seal) to take home
- Kayak rental
- Travel Insurance/Medivac insurance
Flights to Book
July 11, 2014
Arrive Juneau (JNU) by 3:00pmJuly 18, 2014
Depart Juneau (JNU) any time of dayTravel Insurance
Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:
Global Rescue
(use code natexp)Allianz Global Assistance
(use travel agency ID F203564)Terms & Conditions
Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.
By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY
Accommodations for 2014 Alaska Whale-Watching Photo Expedition I
July 11-16, 6 Nights
60-Foot Private Boat
This Alaskan life-long owned family business has chartered their boat for over 20 years. They have worked with photography groups and know our needs.The 60-foot vessel is specifically suited for whale-watching in Alaska. No matter where you are on the main deck or the observation deck, you’ll have a great view. The vessel has the latest in electronic navigational equipment and contains a large generator for A/C electricity. Power strips are provided on main level to charge camera batteries and computers.
Most people like to spend their days on the observation deck enjoying the 360-degree viewing. There’s enough room for camera tripods or just stretching out after a day of incredible touring.
The main deck has a large eating and sitting area for computer processing and workshops with Dan.
The lower level has five private staterooms with bunk beds and sink in each. Boat guest rooms are simple. Bunk comes with linens and towels for guests. One lavatory downstairs, another lavatory with shower is located on main level. If you are traveling by yourself, we’ll do our best to find you a roommate.
July 17, 1 Night
Juneau Aspen Suites Hotel
Aspen Suites Hotel in Juneau is in the heart of one of the most scenic state capitals in the nation. Close to the Juneau Airport and Alaska Marine Ferry Dock, Aspen Suites Hotel Juneau is also just minutes from the awe-inspiring Mendenhall Glacier. Guest rooms are generously sized kitchen suites, larger and wider than standard hotel rooms.Helpful Information for 2014 Alaska Whale-Watching Photo Expedition I
July in Alaska has 24 hours of light.
We cannot guarantee whales or wildlife but we are going at the best time of the year for the whales and summer young. Our boat captain has the experience needed to work with the whales and our needs.
Each guest will receive a full itinerary, including suggested camera gear, clothing, etc., and “goodie box” closer to trip departure. Dan will call each guest to discuss camera gear and answer any questions you may have. You are welcome to bring a video camera if you prefer this media format.
FISHING LICENSES
Licenses can be purchased in Juneau. Possible halibut (primary) and salmon fishing from the vessel.
Have a question?
Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.
Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers
"If you ever want to travel to another country and you want to go first class, travel with Natural Exposures. They are number one in showing their guests the best time ever in the classiest way. I would recommend Natural Exposures Tours to everyone. If you want to go in style, go with NE!"
Michelle Duggan, Massachusetts
"Tanya and Dan’s logistic skills provide a seamless photo tour where one can truly enjoy the experience. With unlimited photographic opportunities Dan’s instruction has taken my photography to a higher level."
Linda Henry, Oregon
"What a trip
What a group
What a fabulous everything
To our next encounters with nature"Maud and Leon Soriano, Florida
"I just wanted to again thank you for a wonderful week of photography and relaxation away from the office. It was a really a good group."
Sue Wolfe, Texas
