FAQs

Alaska is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. As with any travel experience, there may be questions and concerns that arise. We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your dream Alaskan adventure.

What is a custom charter?

Custom charters with Alaska Wilderness Charters are personalized sailing trips designed to meet our client's specific needs and preferences. These charters allow you to choose the itinerary, activities, and menu that fits your interests. Whether you want to go fishing in unspoiled waters, or relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, our custom charters can provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience.

What is included in your charters?

Our custom charters are all-inclusive, which means that we provide everything you need for your sailing trip, including a fully equipped yacht, an experienced captain, a gourmet chef, all meals and beverages, fishing gear, kayaks, and other amenities. You don't have to worry about anything except enjoying your vacation and exploring the beauty of Alaska.

What kind of activities can I do on your trips?

We're glad you asked! Custom charters with Alaska Wilderness Charters offer various activities, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, wildlife watching, glacier viewing, hot springs (and hot tubs) soaking, and more. Our experienced crew will help you plan and organize your activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

What destinations will we visit?

Custom charters with Alaska Wilderness Charters can explore some of the most stunning and remote destinations in Southeast Alaska, such as Endicott Arm, Tracy Arm Fjord, Ford's Terror Wilderness, and Admiralty Island. These locations offer breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and a profound chance to connect with nature.

Do I need to be physically fit to go on a trip?

While our custom charters are designed to be immersive and adventurous, they are also tailored to the abilities and interests of our guests. We work closely with each group to ensure that the itinerary and activities suit their fitness level and preferences. Whether you are an experienced outdoors enthusiast or a novice explorer, we can create a custom charter that meets your needs.

Can you book my hotel and airport transfers?

Alaska Wilderness Charters can direction you to resources to plan and book your lodging and airport transfers. We offer a Trip Planning Guide with details about lodging, packing, and travel arrangements. We have trusted partners who  offer high-quality accommodations and transportation services. All you need to do is provide them with your travel details, and they will take care of the rest.

Will I have some free time each day?

Yes, Alaska Wilderness Charters builds in ample free time each day for our clients. We understand that sailing can be tiring, and clients may want to relax and enjoy the stunning Alaskan scenery. We also provide opportunities for clients to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and whale watching.

What type of luggage should I bring?

Alaska Wilderness Charters recommends bringing soft-sided luggage that is easy to store on the boat. Hard-sided luggage can be difficult to stow and takes up valuable space. We also suggest packing light and bringing only what you need, as storage space on the boat is limited. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities.

What’s the best source for medical advice?

It’s essential to consult with your physician before traveling to Alaska, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides information on health and safety precautions for travelers to Alaska, including recommended vaccinations and tips for avoiding mosquito-borne illnesses.

Can I keep my valuables secure?

Each of our custom charters is equipped with secure storage compartments where you can store your personal belongings and money. We also recommend bringing a small lock to secure your valuable items.

How do I book a custom charter?

Booking a custom charter with Alaska Wilderness Charters is easy and hassle-free. Contact us and let us know your desired dates, itinerary, and preferences. We will work with you to create a personalized sailing trip that meets your expectations. Once the details are finalized, we will provide you with a contract to confirm the booking.

How long are your charters?

We have standardized the length of trips with Alaska Wilderness Charters at eight days. We occasionally book trips for clients with unique requirements, and have scheduled longer charters. These trips need to be planned well in advance. In general, we design trips that fit most of our clients schedules, allowing you to maximize your time in Alaska.

How many people can join a trip?

Alaska Wilderness Charters can accommodate up to eight guests in four cabins on our custom charters. This ensures that the crew can provide personalized attention to each guest and create an intimate atmosphere on board the vessel. By keeping our groups small, we can also access remote and secluded locations that are not accessible to larger ships.

What type of vessel is used for your charters?

Alaska Wilderness Charters uses a 95-foot sailing vessel, the Glacier Bear, for custom charters. The Glacier Bear is a comfortable and well-equipped vessel with four private cabins, a fully equipped galley, a bar, and a spacious salon. Additionally, the Glacier Bear has modern amenities and safety features, including a marine head and shower in each cabin, a freshwater system, and modern navigation and safety equipment.

I am an older traveler. Will I enjoy your trips?

Our custom charters are suitable for travelers of all ages and abilities. Our experienced captain and crew will work closely with each guest to ensure that they are comfortable and safe throughout the trip. We also offer a range of activities and experiences that can be tailored to the interests and abilities of older travelers' interests and abilities, such as birdwatching, photography, and scenic cruising.

Do you have a waitlist?

Our clients rarely cancel their trip dates, but it does happen, Alaska Wilderness Charters has a waitlist for custom charters in the event of cancellation. If the dates you prefer are not available, you can contact us and ask to be put on the waitlist. We will notify you if any cancellations or changes open up the dates you want.

How many days before my trip begins should I arrive?

Alaska Wilderness Charters recommends arriving at least one day before your trip begins. This allows you to acclimate to the time zone, get a good night's sleep, and be ready to start your sailing adventure on time.

Do I need travel insurance?

While not required, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind. Travel insurance can protect you from unexpected events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. You can purchase travel insurance from various providers, including Allianz, World Nomads, and Travel Guard.

How often will I need to perform group chores?

Our custom charters are designed to provide a relaxing and stress-free experience, so you won’t be required to perform group chores. Our crew will take care of all the cooking and cleaning, allowing you to enjoy your Alaskan adventure fully.

Are the trips safe?

Safety is our top priority, and we take every precaution to ensure our trips are as safe as possible. Our crew is highly trained and experienced, and we provide all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets and emergency communication devices. We also closely monitor weather conditions and adjust our itinerary to ensure your safety.

Still have questions?

Alaska Wilderness Charters offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the unspoiled wilderness of Alaska. If you're looking for a summer adventure for your colleagues, group or family, Alaska Wilderness Charters is the perfect choice for your Alaskan vacation.