2009 – 8 Days from $3,990
Blue-ice glaciers calving into the sea with a thundering roar highlight this Alaska cruise aboard the Spirit of Yorktown. This small ship can maneuver through narrow fjords and get close to the coast for the best wildlife viewing. Cruise Glacier Bay, Frederick Sound, and the Tracy Arm Fjord. Raft through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, and see eagles up close at a rehabilitation center. Take a rail excursion on a narrow gauge railway dating from the Klondike gold rush. Tour the frontier towns of Sitka, Skagway, and Haines, and see a large collection of totem poles.
• Indicates day of cruising
• Day 1: Welcome to Alaska’s capital city
Tour begins: Juneau. A transfer is included from Juneau International Airport to the Spirit of Yorktown; you may embark beginning at 4:00 PM. Accessible only by water or by air, Juneau is America’s most remote capital city. If time allows, take a stroll through this charming and historic town. Meet your fellow Alaska cruise explorers at dinner this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 2: Return with us to the days of the Gold Rush
The Spirit of Yorktown docks at Skagway, one of the gateways to the Yukon during the days of the great Gold Rush of 1898. A memorable highlight of your Alaska cruise will be a rail journey aboard the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway as you view Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch. Spirit of Yorktown remains dockside throughout the evening before setting sail for Haines; take time to explore Skagway’s Gay-Nineties atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 3: River rafting amidst the Cathedral Peaks
After the Spirit of Yorktown docks at Haines, set off on a river-rafting adventure through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. As your raft floats down the river, look to the trees to spot the magnificent Bald Eagles, while keeping an eye out for the bears and wolves that prowl the riverbank.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 4: Fjords and glaciers
Be sure to be on deck as the Spirit of Yorktown cruises into the spectacular Tracy Arm Fjord. The scenic beauty through which you’ll sail is unsurpassed. Listen for the telltale sounds of mighty Sawyer Glacier calving and setting new icebergs free in the waters of the fjord as your ship approaches. As your Alaska cruise takes you through Frederick Sound, keep a sharp lookout for members of Alaska’s largest community of humpback whales.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 5: Sitka’s cultural and natural wonders
Sitka, once the center of the Russian fur-trading empire, still reveals traces of its cultural past in sights such as St. Michael’s Cathedral, the center of the Russian Orthodox faith in Alaska. At the Alaska Raptor Center, be eye-to-eye with some of the most impressive birds of prey in North America and pause to appreciate what the Center does to try to return injured raptors to the wild. Later, explore more of the cultural history of Sitka at the Sitka National Historic Park. If time and weather are permitting, you'll have a chance to take an optional kayak adventure (at an additional charge).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 6: Sheltered passageways of the Icy Strait
Today, your Alaska cruise takes you through the cold – yet sheltered – waters of the Icy Straight, where humpback whales love to swim and play; keep your eyes peeled! The Icy Strait is an important feeding area for marine mammals who are drawn to the unusual abundance of plant plankton found in the waters during summer.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 7: A day at sea in nature’s wonderland
You are in for a real learning experience today when a National Park Service ranger boards the Spirit of Yorktown for your cruise through Glacier Bay. The incredible glacial wilderness takes on new meaning through the ranger's running commentary; glean good insights into what's on land - and what's beneath the waters. Your highly skilled Captain maneuvers the Spirit of Yorktown close to the magnificent and ancient ice formations of world-famous Glacier Bay and near the shoreline of Glacier Bay National Park in search of Alaska’s native wildlife. If you look carefully, you might spot bears, mountain goats and, if you’re really lucky, a magnificent humpback whale breaking the placid surface of the bay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Spirit of Yorktown
Day 8: Journey home
Tauck's Alaska cruise through the Inside Passage ends: Juneau International Airport. Disembark the Spirit of Yorktown by 9:00 AM as your Alaska cruise concludes. A transfer is included from the dock to Juneau International Airport for flights departing as early as 6:00 AM. Please allow a minimum of two hours for flight check-in.
Meals: Breakfast
Luggage Responsibility ― Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Protection Plan for more information.
Travel with Children –
Tauck is not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for any travelers, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard for these letters, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, www.weather.com.
2009 Itinerary
• Indicates day of cruising
• Day 1: Welcome to Alaska’s capital city
Tour begins: Juneau. A transfer is included from Juneau International Airport to the Spirit of Yorktown; you may embark beginning at 4:00 PM. Accessible only by water or by air, Juneau is America’s most remote capital city. If time allows, take a stroll through this charming and historic town. Meet your fellow Alaska cruise explorers at dinner this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 2: Return with us to the days of the Gold Rush
The Spirit of Yorktown docks at Skagway, one of the gateways to the Yukon during the days of the great Gold Rush of 1898. A memorable highlight of your Alaska cruise will be a rail journey aboard the White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway as you view Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch. Spirit of Yorktown remains dockside throughout the evening before setting sail for Haines; take time to explore Skagway’s Gay-Nineties atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 3: River rafting amidst the Cathedral Peaks
After the Spirit of Yorktown docks at Haines, set off on a river-rafting adventure through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. As your raft floats down the river, look to the trees to spot the magnificent Bald Eagles, while keeping an eye out for the bears and wolves that prowl the riverbank.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 4: Fjords and glaciers
Be sure to be on deck as the Spirit of Yorktown cruises into the spectacular Tracy Arm Fjord. The scenic beauty through which you’ll sail is unsurpassed. Listen for the telltale sounds of mighty Sawyer Glacier calving and setting new icebergs free in the waters of the fjord as your ship approaches. As your Alaska cruise takes you through Frederick Sound, keep a sharp lookout for members of Alaska’s largest community of humpback whales.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 5: Sitka’s cultural and natural wonders
Sitka, once the center of the Russian fur-trading empire, still reveals traces of its cultural past in sights such as St. Michael’s Cathedral, the center of the Russian Orthodox faith in Alaska. At the Alaska Raptor Center, be eye-to-eye with some of the most impressive birds of prey in North America and pause to appreciate what the Center does to try to return injured raptors to the wild. Later, explore more of the cultural history of Sitka at the Sitka National Historic Park. If time and weather are permitting, you'll have a chance to take an optional kayak adventure (at an additional charge).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 6: Sheltered passageways of the Icy Strait
Today, your Alaska cruise takes you through the cold – yet sheltered – waters of the Icy Straight, where humpback whales love to swim and play; keep your eyes peeled! The Icy Strait is an important feeding area for marine mammals who are drawn to the unusual abundance of plant plankton found in the waters during summer.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard the Spirit of Yorktown
• Day 7: A day at sea in nature’s wonderland
You are in for a real learning experience today when a National Park Service ranger boards the Spirit of Yorktown for your cruise through Glacier Bay. The incredible glacial wilderness takes on new meaning through the ranger's running commentary; glean good insights into what's on land - and what's beneath the waters. Your highly skilled Captain maneuvers the Spirit of Yorktown close to the magnificent and ancient ice formations of world-famous Glacier Bay and near the shoreline of Glacier Bay National Park in search of Alaska’s native wildlife. If you look carefully, you might spot bears, mountain goats and, if you’re really lucky, a magnificent humpback whale breaking the placid surface of the bay.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Spirit of Yorktown
Day 8: Journey home
Tauck's Alaska cruise through the Inside Passage ends: Juneau International Airport. Disembark the Spirit of Yorktown by 9:00 AM as your Alaska cruise concludes. A transfer is included from the dock to Juneau International Airport for flights departing as early as 6:00 AM. Please allow a minimum of two hours for flight check-in.
Meals: Breakfast
Don’t miss the spectacle of blue-ice glaciers calving and Alaska’s incredible wildlife on this wonderful Alaska cruise through the Inside Passage!
Inclusive Prices
Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All accommodations, cruise ship transportation, sightseeing, admissions, shore excursions, port fees, luggage handling, the rail adventure aboard the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad , the rafting journey through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, wine with dinner aboard Spirit of Yorktown cruise ship, and the services of the Tauck Director and ship crew are included. A representative of Tauck will meet you at Juneau International Airport and provide transportation to Franklin Dock to board Spirit of Yorktown, regardless of the day or time of your arrival, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight arrival information at least two weeks before your departure date. Tauck will also provide transportation from the Spirit of Yorktown to Juneau International Airport on the day of your departure.
Ship Accommodations – Tauck's price includes all ship accommodations with private baths. The Tauck standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. On board Spirit of Yorktown, each stateroom has two twin beds; there are a limited number of staterooms where the twin beds can be joined together to form a queen size bed. Triples consist of two twin beds and one pull-down berth.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
Tauck Director –Alaska’s Inside Passage is conducted by two Tauck Directors who will remain with the group throughout the duration of the tour. Your Tauck Directors are professional, fully trained employees of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All appropriate gratuities for bellmen, doormen, dining room servers, drivers, ship staff, local guides and Tauck Directors are included.
No Options Sold – Tauck Directors sometimes assist with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Ship Accommodations – Tauck's price includes all ship accommodations with private baths. The Tauck standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. On board Spirit of Yorktown, each stateroom has two twin beds; there are a limited number of staterooms where the twin beds can be joined together to form a queen size bed. Triples consist of two twin beds and one pull-down berth.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
Tauck Director –Alaska’s Inside Passage is conducted by two Tauck Directors who will remain with the group throughout the duration of the tour. Your Tauck Directors are professional, fully trained employees of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All appropriate gratuities for bellmen, doormen, dining room servers, drivers, ship staff, local guides and Tauck Directors are included.
No Options Sold – Tauck Directors sometimes assist with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Not Included
Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from Tauck for travel originating in the United States.
Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours ― To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, Tauck will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through Tauck. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. If you wish to spend additional nights, p lease consult the Extend This Journey section on this website and discuss it with the reservations agent when you book your tour.
Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours ― To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, Tauck will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through Tauck. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. If you wish to spend additional nights, p lease consult the Extend This Journey section on this website and discuss it with the reservations agent when you book your tour.
Luggage Responsibility ― Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Protection Plan for more information.
Personal Expenses – Phone calls, room service, alcoholic and bar beverages, mineral water, soft drinks, laundry, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees (if applicable), airport and departure taxes, and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Additional Information
Airline Security Measures ― In the U.S., you must provide identification in the form of a passport at the time of airport check-in for travel to international destinations. Your passport name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket or you may be denied boarding.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, and aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, and aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
You may also visit the U.S. Transportation Security Administration Internet website to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items by clicking here.
Air Services ― Airfare may be purchased through Tauck for travel originating in the United States. By using Tauck's air services, you agree that Tauck, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, is acting only as your agent and is not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by Tauck. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline (and not Tauck), even if purchased through Tauck. Tauck is not liable for, and does not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to, seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). Tauck must handle ticketing for Tauck's special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Special fares cannot be combined with any other promotional offer. Tauck's air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a Tauck tour. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Cruise Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The cruise begins at 4:00 p.m. on board the Spirit of Yorktown in Juneau. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. The ship departs at 6:00 p.m. sharp. The tour ends on the day of your departure by 9:00 a.m. We will provide transportation to Juneau Airport or the Westmark Baranof, if you choose a post-stay visit. When departing from Juneau, allow at least 2 hours for flight check-in.
Holidays and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and local holidays locally observed.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – Tauck pledges to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. Tauck reserves the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by Tauck. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecasted at the time of publication.
Membership will be granted to all persons. Tauck reserves the right to terminate the tour of any persons who are abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
Photography on Tour – Occasionally, Tauck will use photographs taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for promotional purposes. If you prefer that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Holidays and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and local holidays locally observed.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – Tauck pledges to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. Tauck reserves the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by Tauck. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecasted at the time of publication.
Membership will be granted to all persons. Tauck reserves the right to terminate the tour of any persons who are abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
Photography on Tour – Occasionally, Tauck will use photographs taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for promotional purposes. If you prefer that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Preparing to Go
Air Conditioning – The staterooms on board Spirit of Yorktown are air-conditioned.
ATM and Credit Cards – We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing for this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be “suspicious” charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Clothing and Packing – The weather in Alaska is unpredictable. We suggest you bring clothes that can be layered for various weather conditions. Slacks, a sweater or fleece, a lightweight jacket and a raincoat are versatile clothes for touring in Alaska, and comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in are a must! If you plan to spend a lot of time on deck viewing glaciers and wildlife you should consider packing a pair of long johns, gloves, and a scarf. Binoculars and umbrellas are provided on the ship.
Clothes that require little care are best. There is no laundry on board Spirit of Yorktown, however, the Cruise Director can direct you to self-service laundries in particular ports, subject to the ship's schedule. Irons are available on board.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack:
ATM and Credit Cards – We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing for this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be “suspicious” charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Clothing and Packing – The weather in Alaska is unpredictable. We suggest you bring clothes that can be layered for various weather conditions. Slacks, a sweater or fleece, a lightweight jacket and a raincoat are versatile clothes for touring in Alaska, and comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in are a must! If you plan to spend a lot of time on deck viewing glaciers and wildlife you should consider packing a pair of long johns, gloves, and a scarf. Binoculars and umbrellas are provided on the ship.
Clothes that require little care are best. There is no laundry on board Spirit of Yorktown, however, the Cruise Director can direct you to self-service laundries in particular ports, subject to the ship's schedule. Irons are available on board.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
Following is a list of recommended items to pack:
- Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for on board
- Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken, or hiking boots for onshore
- Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
- Shorts, slacks and jeans
- Tee shirts
- Thick socks
- Sweater or fleece
- Light and heavy-weight jackets
- Long johns, gloves, scarf and hat
- Raincoat and rain hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera, lenses, batteries and plenty of film
- Telephoto lens
- Copies of your travel documents that should be safely secured in your in-room safe while traveling
Elevation - The maximum elevation on this tour is 2,890 feet (881 meters).
Health – Cruising Alaska’s inside passage is very relaxing and the pace is leisurely. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. There is a slight to moderate amount of walking during our onshore excursions. However, for the most part, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion. Spirit of Yorktown has three decks and no elevator, so you will need to be able to climb stairs. There are approximately 14 steps on each staircase between decks.
The rafting journey through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is a float trip. There is no white water, so this adventure is suitable for most everyone. Optional excursions for those seeking adventures that are more active include kayaking and helicopter tours which can be separately purchased.
Tauck is not able to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. We regret that we cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you need such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist you.
If you routinely require oxygen, please notify Tauck so that special arrangements can be made with Cruise West, the operator of Spirit of Yorktown.
To safeguard the health of their passengers, Spirit of Yorktown maintains a non-smoking policy in the interior areas of the ship. Smoking is permitted in designated areas on outer decks only.
Because you will be cruising within U.S. territorial waters, you are always within reach of U.S. medical facilities; therefore, a physician will not be onboard. The officers on board Spirit of Yorktown are trained in CPR and handling emergencies.
Spirit of Yorktown is registered in the United States. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
No vaccinations are currently required for travel to Alaska. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, pre-recorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website at www.cdc.gov
Luggage Restrictions ―
Checked Luggage – General
Health – Cruising Alaska’s inside passage is very relaxing and the pace is leisurely. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. There is a slight to moderate amount of walking during our onshore excursions. However, for the most part, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion. Spirit of Yorktown has three decks and no elevator, so you will need to be able to climb stairs. There are approximately 14 steps on each staircase between decks.
The rafting journey through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is a float trip. There is no white water, so this adventure is suitable for most everyone. Optional excursions for those seeking adventures that are more active include kayaking and helicopter tours which can be separately purchased.
Tauck is not able to accommodate wheelchairs on this tour. We regret that we cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you need such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist you.
If you routinely require oxygen, please notify Tauck so that special arrangements can be made with Cruise West, the operator of Spirit of Yorktown.
To safeguard the health of their passengers, Spirit of Yorktown maintains a non-smoking policy in the interior areas of the ship. Smoking is permitted in designated areas on outer decks only.
Because you will be cruising within U.S. territorial waters, you are always within reach of U.S. medical facilities; therefore, a physician will not be onboard. The officers on board Spirit of Yorktown are trained in CPR and handling emergencies.
Spirit of Yorktown is registered in the United States. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
No vaccinations are currently required for travel to Alaska. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, pre-recorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website at www.cdc.gov
Luggage Restrictions ―
Checked Luggage – General
While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We ask that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.
Many carriers require checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage size and weight may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage size, piece or weight policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.
Many carriers require checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage size and weight may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage size, piece or weight policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage
Although oversized bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not allow for access during daytime travel.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not allow for access during daytime travel.
Travel Document Requirements – Alaska’s Inside Passage begins and ends in Juneau, Alaska, U.S.
In general, visitors to the U.S. must provide:
- A valid unexpired passport and visa
- Citizens of countries authorized to participate in the Visa Waiver Program are required to present an unexpired machine-readable passport
- Mexicans may provide a passport and valid DSP-150 (BCC) in lieu of a visa
- Canadians flying to or through the United States are required to have a valid passport or a NEXUS card, when used at a NEXUS kiosk at designated airports.
If you are frequent traveler to the U.S. from Canada, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, as mentioned above, which is joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at Vancouver International Airport, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here.
If you not a U.S. citizen, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department’s Internet site by clicking here.
We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
If you not a U.S. citizen, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department’s Internet site by clicking here.
We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Travel with Children –
Age Recommendations – Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting – Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility – We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. For safety and security purposes, children under 18 years of age must be booked into a room with at least one accompanying adult. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with Tauck, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Babysitting – Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility – We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. For safety and security purposes, children under 18 years of age must be booked into a room with at least one accompanying adult. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with Tauck, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so.
CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.), any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., will be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so.
CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.), any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., will be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Tauck is not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for any travelers, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard for these letters, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Destination Information
Cell Phones – We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that guests refrain from cell phone usage during motor coach travel, group functions, sightseeing and when the Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There are usually many opportunities to make or receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine if your service extends to Alaska.
Currency and Exchange Rates – The U.S. dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards and travelers’ checks are widely accepted. Travelers’ checks should be taken in U.S. dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Shipboard accounts will be set up prior to your arrival to charge bar services, wine, and gift items. You may settle your account with U.S. travelers’ checks, a personal check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express.
To obtain the most current exchange rate, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the Internet website www.oanda.com
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – If you are not a resident of the United States, you are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $100 USD on items that you bring into the U.S. To find out more information on what information must be provided to U.S. Customs and Border Control (CBP) upon entry, please refer to the CBP internet website by clicking here. You should also refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
The individual states within the U.S. levy sales taxes on consumer goods and services. There is no federal tax similar to the Value Added Tax (VAT) used in other countries that would permit non-residents to obtain refunds of the sales taxes levied by each state.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine if your service extends to Alaska.
Currency and Exchange Rates – The U.S. dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into 100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are widespread and credit cards and travelers’ checks are widely accepted. Travelers’ checks should be taken in U.S. dollars to avoid hassles. Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Shipboard accounts will be set up prior to your arrival to charge bar services, wine, and gift items. You may settle your account with U.S. travelers’ checks, a personal check, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express.
To obtain the most current exchange rate, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the Internet website www.oanda.com
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – If you are not a resident of the United States, you are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $100 USD on items that you bring into the U.S. To find out more information on what information must be provided to U.S. Customs and Border Control (CBP) upon entry, please refer to the CBP internet website by clicking here. You should also refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
The individual states within the U.S. levy sales taxes on consumer goods and services. There is no federal tax similar to the Value Added Tax (VAT) used in other countries that would permit non-residents to obtain refunds of the sales taxes levied by each state.
Electrical Current – The electrical current in Alaska and on board Spirit of Yorktown is 110 V, 60 Hz, AC, which accommodates standard U.S. plugs having either two flat pins or two flat pins and a round grounding pin. If you bring electric devices that are not compatible with this system you should bring the appropriate adapters and converters.
Internet Access is not available on the Spirit of Yorktown cruise ship. The Westmark Baranof has one complimentary internet terminal in its main lobby
Time Zones – Alaska is 9 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From early April to late October, Alaska switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 8 hours behind. In June, Alaska is 4 hours behind New York City.
To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, www.timeanddate.com.
Weather – The weather in Alaska is varied and unpredictable. From June through September the inside passage enjoys mild weather with rain, mist and clouds occurring regularly. Average temperatures range from 45 to 65°F (7 to 18°C), sometimes soaring above 80°F (26°C) on a clear, sunny day.
Internet Access is not available on the Spirit of Yorktown cruise ship. The Westmark Baranof has one complimentary internet terminal in its main lobby
Time Zones – Alaska is 9 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From early April to late October, Alaska switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 8 hours behind. In June, Alaska is 4 hours behind New York City.
To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, www.timeanddate.com.
Weather – The weather in Alaska is varied and unpredictable. From June through September the inside passage enjoys mild weather with rain, mist and clouds occurring regularly. Average temperatures range from 45 to 65°F (7 to 18°C), sometimes soaring above 80°F (26°C) on a clear, sunny day.
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|
Juneau, Alaska
|
|||
|
|
Average Temperature
|
Average Rainfall
|
||
|
Month
|
Hi/Lo ºF
|
Hi/Lo ºC
|
Inches
|
Millimeters
|
|
January
|
31 / 21
|
-1 / -6
|
4.8
|
122
|
|
February
|
34 / 24
|
1 / -4
|
7.0
|
178
|
|
March
|
39 / 28
|
4 / -2
|
3.5
|
89
|
|
April
|
48 / 33
|
9 / 1
|
3.0
|
75
|
|
May
|
56 / 40
|
13 / 4
|
3.5
|
88
|
|
June
|
62 / 46
|
17 / 8
|
3.4
|
85
|
|
July
|
64 / 49
|
18 / 9
|
4.1
|
105
|
|
August
|
63 / 48
|
17 / 9
|
5.4
|
136
|
|
September
|
56 / 44
|
13 / 7
|
7.5
|
192
|
|
October
|
47 / 38
|
8 / 3
|
8.3
|
211
|
|
November
|
38 / 29
|
3 / -2
|
5.4
|
138
|
|
December
|
33 / 24
|
1 / -4
|
5.4
|
137
|
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, www.weather.com.
If You Have To Cancel
Cancellation Fees–Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in Tauck incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, Tauck will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in its Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, Tauck offers a Tauck Protection Plan.
If you choose to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, your cancellation penalties will be reduced. Please click here for more details.
If you choose not to purchase the Tauck Protection Plan, you will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
If you choose to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, your cancellation penalties will be reduced. Please click here for more details.
If you choose not to purchase the Tauck Protection Plan, you will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
60 days or more before departure
$950 per person (the amount of the deposit)
59-30 days before departure
50% of the cost of the tour per person
29-1 days before departure
100% of the cost of the tour per person
$950 per person (the amount of the deposit)
59-30 days before departure
50% of the cost of the tour per person
29-1 days before departure
100% of the cost of the tour per person
Did you know that you can link-up Tauck itineraries to create longer journeys? Many of these trips are in the same region, and depending upon availability you might connect with them before or after your trip. Alternatively, you might find one of these options better suited for your interests and preferences or for when you are available to travel.
You might also be interested in ...Grand Alaska aboard Princess
Combine a weeklong Princess cruise through glacier-strewn waterways with a visit to Denali National Park, rail trips, a floatplane tour, and rafting in a bald eagle reserve on this unforgettable Alaska travel adventure.Grand Alaska aboard Regent Seven Seas Mariner
Land and sea vistas highlight this Gulf of Alaska cruise tour aboard Regent Seven Seas Mariner. Witness bald eagles, totem poles, calving glaciers, and the gold rush frontier as you travel by cruise ship, floatplane, paddlewheel boat, and vintage railway.
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