Whittier to Vancouver

With a population of only about 200, the small and quirky hamlet of Whittier is the gateway to beautiful Prince William Sound as well as Anchorage, which is only 60 miles away. Established as a secret military outpost during World War II, Whittier now attracts visitors for its unspoiled glaciers and wilderness. Glacier cruises along Prince William Sound make for a memorable afternoon – think sheer fjords, seaside mountains and calving tidal glaciers. A picturesque train journey to Anchorage along the Alaska Railroad is another fantastic diversion; you’ll enjoy awe-inspiring views of Turnagain Arm Fjord and Portage Valley. Chugach State Park is also nearby and excellent kayaking and hiking opportunities abound.

Hoonah means “where the north wind doesn’t blow” in the language of the Tlingit Indians, who make up about 70% of the population of this village on the lee side of Chichagof Island. However, wildlife outnumbers everyone, so watch for bears, eagles and humpback whales, which migrate here in the summer.

With a population of only about 200, the small and quirky hamlet of Whittier is the gateway to beautiful Prince William Sound as well as Anchorage, which is only 60 miles away. Established as a secret military outpost during World War II, Whittier now attracts visitors for its unspoiled glaciers and wilderness. Glacier cruises along Prince William Sound make for a memorable afternoon – think sheer fjords, seaside mountains and calving tidal glaciers. A picturesque train journey to Anchorage along the Alaska Railroad is another fantastic diversion; you’ll enjoy awe-inspiring views of Turnagain Arm Fjord and Portage Valley. Chugach State Park is also nearby and excellent kayaking and hiking opportunities abound.

For a state capital, Juneau maintains a surprising small-town charm, in part because it can only be reached by sea or air due to the surrounding wilderness. Collections from the indigenous people are displayed in the Alaska State Museum. Visit Mendenhall Glacier for outdoor adventure.

Totem poles are one of Ketchikan’s chief attractions, and the best places to view them are Saxman Village and Totem Bight State Park. Drop by the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to learn about the local cultures and ecosystems.

British Columbia’s most northern coastal city, Prince Rupert sits on the very edge of the wilderness. The majority of its attractions revolve around the outdoors, such as sport fishing or a walking tour of the bonsai-like forest at Oliver Lake. Wildlife abounds, including bears, mountain goats and a variety of migrating whales.

By far the largest port on Regatta’s Alaska cruises, Vancouver offers every imaginable big-city attraction. Explore the Museum of Anthropology and the Vancouver Art Museum for culture. History flourishes in the Gastown district, which borders vibrant Chinatown. Or enjoy a break from the bustle in Stanley Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks.