Privilege abounds as you sail through Southeast Alaska west of Juneau. At 3.3 million acres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve is massive. Orange-beaked puffins, guillemots, and marbled murrelets are just a few possible sightings. Keep a tally, and the list will grow.

Arriving at South Marble Island, you can hear and smell ‘em before you see ‘em, it’s a haulout for sea lions. Perched above around the bend, watch for mountain goats, and lower along shore, foraging bears. Up bay, glacial silt turns the water a milky white. Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers, one holding steady, the other retreating. Lounging harbor seals laze on bits of bergs. And if time allows, tuck up in Tidal Inlet. End this very full day with your feet up for the sail into Icy Strait.

Nearly to the Pacific Ocean, Icy Strait is remote and wild. The plan? Whales and marine mammals. Spouts and fin slaps are certain giveaways. More rollicking sea lions and birds. But don’t forget to look straight down. Porpoises and dolphins may hitch a ride on the bow wave. And don’t worry about missing any wildlife; it’s a favorite mission of the crew to point out any creatures they spot. Make a break for it and head for a quiet pocket along the rugged coastline. A different sort of wild than the open strait, muskeg leads to forest bushwhacks. Skiff the shore and down along kelp-threaded channels.

Kick off the morn with on-deck yoga stretches (your guides love it when you join them). Meander through glacier-carved fjords along the Chichagof coast. Then stop. It’s a prime time to lower the kayaks and skiffs. Closer inspection by skiff, moss-dripping trees run right down to the water. Any bears in there? With one of the world’s largest populations of bears, it’s possible.

Go searching for giant trees and tidal pools. Hiking in the Tongass, it won’t take long to find them. Your eagle-eyed guides lead the pack and pull up the rear. Later, wend along a twisting channel known for dramatic currents. Peril Strait runs 50 miles to Salisbury Sound.

There aren’t many straight lines along Baranof Island. Its western side is spattered with remote, uninhabited islands. These features mean endless opportunities for adventure. Secluded coves. Treecovered islets. Drop anchor, pick your modus operandi, and get going. Kayak, paddle board, or skiff, you’re on the level with curious sea lions and possibly whales.

Rocky intertidal zones make good beach combing. Turn a stone or two to see what’s underneath. There are no groomed trails here, get out on a guided hike John Muir would approve of. Toast your voyage with a Farewell Dinner and a “photo journal” of your trip. A gift to you, from your expedition team.