2027 Alaska

Come along with St. Olaf for unparalleled access to raw, majestic wilderness — massive glaciers calving, abundant wildlife (whales, eagles, bears), and unique Indigenous cultures — all experienced during long daylight hours. We’ll view dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and charming Gold Rush towns, experiencing a blend of rugged adventure and comfortable exploration with the renowned National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions team.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike through lush forests and muskegs, kayak into secluded inlets, and cruise by Zodiac among electric blue icebergs and curious wildlife.
• Encounter iconic Alaska wildlife such as humpback whales, bears, otters, and bald eagles.
• Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring grandeur of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve or Glacier Bay’s outer coast during a full day of exploration.
• Meet our conservation partners from the Alaska Whale Foundation (schedules permitting) and learn how you can contribute to their research throughout your voyage.
• Discover Alaska’s seldom-seen, vibrant marine life revealed by our undersea specialist.
• With National Geographic Explorers-in-Training, our exclusive family program, kids and teens will learn about this wild corner of the world—from its massive glaciers to humpback whales. 

If you’re looking for a travel experience that feels truly otherworldly, there is no better time to head north than the weeks surrounding the summer solstice. Imagine a world where the sun seems to refuse to set, casting a permanent, golden “magic hour” glow over the landscape that breathes life into every mountain peak and coastal fjord.

For those who love capturing memories, this magic “hour” lasts for several hours, providing soft, ethereal lighting that you simply cannot find anywhere else, any other time.

It’s a rare chance to step outside the standard rhythm of day and night and witness the Earth at its most radiant. It isn’t just a vacation; it’s a shift in perspective that stays with you long after the sun finally dips below the horizon.

See more details below and use the Register Now button to join us.

This expedition starts in Juneau and ends in Sitka. You can view – and download and print, if you wish – the most up-to-date itinerary here.

After a 30+year career in banking and wealth management in the Twin Cities, Megan returned to the Hill in 2018 as a Senior Development Officer.  She graduated from St. Olaf in 1986 with a B.A. in Economics.  Megan’s assigned geographical territories include the Southeast U.S. (Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas), Colorado, Nebraska, and the Twin Cities. Megan also leads the planning for St. Olaf’s milestone 50th Reunion.

Her favorite spot on the Hill?  Any Adirondack chair within earshot of the memorial wind chimes and during any season, except winter!

National Geographic Quest is a smaller expedition ship with only 50 cabins for a total of 100 guests. She was purpose-built to explore the North American coast, and her design and engineering were informed by National Geographic’s nearly 40 years of experience in this region.

Examples of features unique to Lindblad Expeditions include twin boarding platforms that enable the expert team to load two Zodiacs at once, so you can get off the ship quickly to take advantage of wildlife sightings and maximize exploring time.

She also features a shallow draft, allowing the Captain to navigate the inner reaches and provide more intimate experiences.

Your time on board will be equally rewarding as your time on shore. Each ship in the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet is a destination in its own right, featuring thoughtfully curated amenities and cultural experiences that connect you with the region you explore through culinary delights, performances by local musicians, daily recaps, and more.

Strong relationships with local experts, farmers and artisans help infuse an authentic sense of place into your onboard experiences while creating a more well-rounded story. No matter which ship carries you to your destination, your time on board will be as rewarding as your time on shore.

Public spaces include a main dining area; global gallery; fitness center; lounge with full-service bar and state-of-the-art presentation facilities; observation deck; mudroom with lockers for expedition gear; partially-covered furnished sundeck; plus open access to the Bridge, the Captain, officers and on-duty wildlife spotters. Meals are served in the dining room at a single seating with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menus feature sustainable choices, local where possible.

Get more information and view photos of NG Quest here.

Discover the wonders of the world together on a transformative small-ship adventure. A voyage with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is a wonderful fit for families—whether you are parents traveling with grade-schoolers, or grandparents bringing the entire crew on a multigenerational adventure. With activities that seamlessly combine learning and fun and a team of dynamic experts leading the way, every day is full of discoveries that awaken new passions no matter your age.

There’s something for everyone on this expedition — whether it’s a child captivated by wildlife, a teenager eager for the thrill of kayaking or a grandparent who never misses a naturalist talk. With a variety of daily activities both on board and ashore, you’ll find plenty of choice and flexibility for the whole family. And as long as an adult accompanies the youngest explorers, you can easily split up so everyone gets to follow their own interests, ensuring every day is filled with adventure for all.

Children and teens are invited to participate in the exclusive National Geographic Explorers-in-Training program on this voyage. Developed in conjunction with National Geographic Education and led by certified field educators, this interactive curriculum connects young travelers with nature and teaches them to embrace the mindset of a National Geographic Explorer — to discover the world like scientists and tell the stories of their surroundings.

For a glimpse into what to expect from expedition cruising for families, take a look at this excellent article.

Prices listed are per person, based on your cabin and occupancy choice.

Double occupancy, per person
Category 1: $9,590
Category 2: $10,260
Category 3: $10,980
Category 4: $13,180
Category 5: $14,500

Single occupancy, per person
Category 1: $19,180
Category 2: $20,520

$500 discount extended to all guests under the age of 18.

Inclusions

• Excursions, hotels, and airport transfers, as indicated in the itinerary  
• Selection of exploration tools curated to your destination, such as Zodiacs and glass-bottom boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment (including wetsuits, masks, and fins), and other state-of-the-art gear 
• Guidance and company of our leading expedition staff  
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary, both aboard and onshore. Meals are inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible
• Hors d’oeuvres inspired by regional cuisine and locally sourced where possible 
• 24-hour access to snacks, premium coffees and teas, non-alcoholic beverages, and filtered water 
• Beer, wine, cocktails, liquors and spirits. A selection of premium brands are available for purchase
• As part of our Suite Amenities program, complimentary laundry is available on suites booked on National Geographic Quest Category 5
• Complimentary Starlink-enabled Wi-Fi internet is available to all guests aboard our National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet, enabling email, messaging, and social media. Enhanced and Premium internet packages are available for purchase, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
• Presentations on your destination by expedition staff and expert guest speakers  
• Complimentary reusable water bottle to fill at onboard water refill stations 
• Onboard physician consultations (where available)
• Morning stretch classes and 24-hour access to exercise equipment where available  
• 24-hour access to lounges, observation decks, library stocked with regionally relevant literature, and other shared spaces  
• Assistance by the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions certified photo instructor  
• Access to the OM System Photo Gear Locker with the latest gear to try out on loan (aboard our National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet, except in Galápagos)  
• Park and site entrance fees, special access permits, and port taxes 

Exclusions

• Airfare, pre- and post-expedition extensions, additional hotel nights, and private transfers 
• Any passport, visa, and immigration fees 
• Laundry, spa treatments, scuba diving, and phone services (except when indicated as included) 
• Additional costs associated with medical services outside onboard physician consultation (where available)
• Enhanced and premium Wi-Fi plans, which may enable video chat, web browsing, and streaming (connectivity permitting)
• Crew gratuities 

Deposit upon registration: 15% of the cabin fare per person.

Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure date.

Cancellation Fees
120 or more days — No penalty: Advance Payment will be credited toward your next expedition*
119-90 days — 50% of trip cost**
89-0 days — 100% of trip cost**

*Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking.

**Trip cost is the total price paid including extensions, charter airfare, and other additional services.

Read the Terms & Conditions and Release & Waiver.

Prepare for Your Adventure by checking out a variety of resources, including frequently asked questions, general health information, included travel insurance, safety overview, and more.