Alaska and its Fur Traders - with National Geographic

Located along the Bering Strait at the westernmost point of Alaska, Nome offers the rustic charm of a former gold-mining town, set in the middle of magnificent wilderness. As you weave in and out of the brightly coloured houses, you will discover the pioneering legacy that still marks local traditions. Fishing, reindeer rearing, sledge-racing... People here live from their manual labour. The surrounding plains provide stunning vantage points for observing Arctic fauna.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Located on Amaknak Island and linked via bridge to Unalaska Island, Dutch Harbor is a place of historical significance, stunning natural beauty and resilient people. While intriguing museums recall a turbulent past, today Dutch Harbor embraces the peaceful nature of its scenic surroundings and thrives as a fishing 'village' that brings in the largest catch in the country.

Dutch Harbor is the main delivery port for the crab fleet featured on the Discovery Channel's hit reality show, "The Deadliest Catch."

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Icy Bay, located on the remote Gulf of Alaska coast, offers dramatic landscapes of towering glaciers and pristine waters. Known for its stunning glacial scenery, the bay is surrounded by the Guyot, Yahtse, and Tyndall glaciers, which calve spectacular icebergs into the water. This area is perfect for wildlife spotting, with frequent sightings of seals, sea otters, and a variety of seabirds.

The rugged beauty of Icy Bay provides a sense of adventure and tranquility. With its awe-inspiring ice formations and serene environment, Icy Bay is a breathtaking destination.

Sitka is nestled on the west side of Baranof Island. As the east is covered with snowcapped mountains and the west is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, recreational fishing and hiking have become what Sitka is most famous for. As well as their historical landmarks, picturesque views and authentic dining experiences.

Top Things to Do in Sitka:

• visit Sitka Totem Park, home to authentic Tlingit and Haida totem poles nestled in a rainforest of giant Sitka spruce trees 
• hike through the Starrigavan with plenty of bird and wildlife viewing opportunities
• explore Sitka via kayak 

Kake, a small Tlingit village on Kupreanof Island in Southeast Alaska, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The village is home to one of the world's tallest totem poles, standing at 132 feet, which represents the rich traditions and artistry of the Tlingit people. Visitors can explore the Kake Tribal Heritage Center to learn more about the local culture and history.

The surrounding wilderness is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching are popular activities, with opportunities to see bald eagles, black bears, and humpback whales. The tranquil environment and friendly community make Kake a delightful and enriching destination.

Prince Rupert, located on British Columbia's northern coast, is a picturesque port city known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled on Kaien Island, the city offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and access to some of Canada's most pristine wilderness areas. The local culture is deeply influenced by the indigenous Tsimshian people, with numerous totem poles displayed throughout the city, adding a profound cultural dimension to the scenic landscapes.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from the lush rainforests of the nearby Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary to the rugged beauty of the North Coast Trail. Prince Rupert is also a popular destination for fishing, whale watching, and exploring the remote beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest, making it a vibrant gateway to adventure in the wilds of northern British Columbia.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.

This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Alert Bay, located on Cormorant Island in British Columbia, Canada, is a culturally rich destination known for its deep indigenous roots, specifically those of the Kwakwaka'wakw people. The U'mista Cultural Centre is a highlight, showcasing potlatch artifacts and masks reclaimed from museums and private collections worldwide, providing insights into the vibrant traditions and history of the First Nations.

Cruise ships anchor nearby, and passengers can easily walk or take a short ride to explore the community's totem poles, traditional big houses, and local art galleries. Alert Bay is not just a place to visit but an opportunity to experience the living culture of the Kwakwaka'wakw, set against the backdrop of the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Vancouver is the ideal home port to begin or end an Alaskan adventure. Blessed with stunning vistas and exciting activities, Vancouver offers the perfect blend of urban and natural experiences. Vancouver is a must for any cruise itinerary, and because it's a compact, walkable city right on the edge of nature, adding on just a couple of extra days to explore will give you an authentic taste of what makes this place so attractive to visitors.

Located in the heart of Vancouver’s waterfront, 'Canada Place' (cruise terminal) can service up to three luxury cruise ships at any given time.