Alaska Inside Passage by Private Yacht (Whales, Bears, Eagles, Glaciers, and More)

July 29 - August 6, 2026

Join us for an instructional photography adventure in Alaska’s stunning Inside Passage aboard a private yacht. This trip is designed to help you capture Alaska’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife from a private yacht, combined with land excursions to some of the region’s most photogenic locations. We’ll travel to remote areas that larger vessels can’t access, offering opportunities to photograph coastal fjords, glaciers, mountain scenery, bears, whales, eagles, and rich temperate rainforests.

$10,995
Deposit: $2000

Join us for an instructional photo tour and workshop in Alaska, the Last Frontier. This trip is designed to help you capture the state's awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife from the unique perspective of a private yacht. We’ll visit remote locations that large vessels can’t access, providing exclusive opportunities to photograph dramatic coastal fjords, glaciers, towering mountains, dense forests, and an abundance of wildlife, including coastal brown bears, black bears, whales, and bald eagles.

Bears
We'll have chances to photograph bears in multiple areas during the trip. One of the standout experiences is our visit to Anan Creek Bear Observatory, a premier location for observing black bears catching salmon. From the boat landing, a well-maintained forest trail leads us to a viewing platform above a waterfall, where black bears—and sometimes brown bears—gather to feed. The salmon run also attracts bald eagles, gulls, and harbor seals. A creekside photo blind gives an even closer view for more intimate photography opportunities.

Whales and other Wildlife
Much of the trip takes place in prime humpback whale habitat, where the calm waters of the Inside Passage offer outstanding opportunities for whale photography. The region is also renowned for its dramatic scenery and diverse array of wildlife. While exploring nearby areas, we’ll search for bears, bald eagles, puffins, seals, Dall’s porpoise, and sea lions. With so much happening in these rich habitats, there will be plenty of chances to photograph Alaska’s remarkable wildlife.

Fjords and Glaciers
Snowcapped mountains, glaciers, rivers, and fjords create a scenic backdrop throughout much of the tour. One of our stops is Tracy Arm Fjord, known for its striking beauty and dramatic tidewater glaciers.

The Yacht
Our base for the tour is an 87-foot private yacht that provides a comfortable and well-equipped home on the water. The open design features four spacious common areas with views from every room, along with indoor lounges, a large dining area, and wraparound outdoor decks—most of them covered—for stable, low-angle photography close to the water.

Two skiffs allow for shore excursions and more photo opportunities. The experienced crew includes a captain, co-captain, mate, and chef. Photography instruction will be available throughout the trip from tour leader John Slonina, who will be on board to help you get the most out of each scene.

Included in Price:

  • 7 night’s stay on a private Yacht (double occupancy). There are no single occupancy rooms.

  • 1 night's stay in a hotel

  • All meals

  • Professional Instruction in photography, wildlife identification, and behavior

Not Included in Price:

  • Air travel is NOT included.

  • Tips to the Yacht company staff

Alaska Yacht (Inside Passage) Photography Tour

GROUP SIZE
A small group size
plus 2 tour leaders

FITNESS LEVEL
Participants should be able to climb in and out of boats with photo gear in slippery conditions and handle varying sea conditions. The area is sheltered, with minimal swell, but this tour isn’t suitable for those prone to sea sickness.

GETTING THERE
We will begin the tour in
Juneau, AK (JNU) with flights
offered by Alaska Airlines.

SKILL LEVEL
Beginners to professionals are welcome.
The participants should have a working knowledge of their camera, a love of nature, and enjoy the company of other people.

QUESTIONS
Email
john@sphotography.com