Date: July 19, 2024
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Nome, St. Matthew Island, St. Paul, Dutch Harbor, Unga Island, Chignik, Katmai National Park, Kodiak, Icy Bay, Sitka, Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary
ALASKA CRUISES
Cruises to St. Matthew Island
Take a memorable Alaska cruise adventure to St. Matthew Island, Alaska. Set sail to the untouched, remote splendor of St. Matthew Island on your Alaskan cruise adventure. This destination, located in the heart of the Bering Sea, offers travelers the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of Alaska. Awe-inspiring landscapes, stark beauty, and an overwhelming sense of tranquility define this isolated island. It's a place where human footprints are few and nature rules, offering a glimpse into the sheer grandeur of Alaska's untamed frontier.
At St. Matthew Island, one can behold Mother Nature's artistry in its rawest form. The island's landscapes offer a mesmerizing blend of coastal cliffs, rolling hills, and tundra plains. One of the highlights that can be viewed right from the deck of your cruise ship is the Hall Island, a smaller island located to the northwest that boasts equally captivating scenery. The dramatic coastline, teeming with wildlife, can leave visitors awestruck at every turn.
While St. Matthew Island is uninhabited today, it carries a rich history that is best learned through onboard educational and cultural lectures. Tales of the island's discovery by Captain James Cook in the 18th century, the temporary settlement during World War II, and its ecological significance are woven into engaging stories that provide insights into the island's past. These lectures often bring to life the unique history of this isolated landscape and its relationship with indigenous communities of Alaska.
The scenic beauty of St. Matthew Island
St. Matthew Island serves as a canvas for photographers, with its stark landscapes, vibrant biodiversity, and dramatic lighting. The most common motifs are the wildflowers blooming against the harsh tundra backdrop, nesting seabirds on the cliffs, and herds of reindeer roaming freely. Unique shots can be captured at sunrise and sunset, when the island's natural beauty is accentuated by the ethereal glow of the Alaskan sun.
Landscapes
The island's landscapes are an exquisite tapestry of barren cliffs, undulating tundra plains, and a stunning coastline. This untouched wilderness, complemented by the sparkling blue waters of the Bering Sea, forms an incredible spectacle that leaves an indelible impression. Whether it's the lichens clinging to the rocky terrain or the colorful wildflowers blooming against all odds, the landscapes here are a testament to nature's resilience.
Wildlife
St. Matthew Island boasts a wealth of wildlife, particularly birds and marine animals. Species such as the McKay's Bunting, the red-legged kittiwake, and the snowy owl find sanctuary here. The island also serves as an important breeding ground for the Northern fur seal. Spotting these creatures in their natural habitat, undisturbed by human presence, is a sight to behold.
Attractions and Activities
Due to its protected status and lack of infrastructure, St. Matthew Island offers limited, but unique, adventurous activities. A careful exploration of the island's tundra and coastal areas, under the guidance of naturalists and crew, offers the chance to discover rare plant species and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Bird watching, wildlife observation, and simply soaking up the natural beauty are among the few off-board activities that can be carried out.
Best time to visit St. Matthew Island
The best time to visit St. Matthew Island is during the Alaskan summer months from June to September. The milder weather and longer daylight hours provide the best conditions for wildlife viewing. It is also during these months that migratory birds nest on the island, providing a truly special experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
St. Matthew Island, Alaska Cruise Schedule 2024
As your journey draws to a close, the memory of St. Matthew Island's untamed beauty and unspoiled wilderness linger. It serves as a testament to nature's grandeur and resilience, offering a glimpse into a world untainted by modern influences. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or a seeker of peace and solitude, a visit to this remote island enhances your Alaskan cruise adventure in a profoundly unique way.
Date: September 1, 2024
Ports of Call: Vancouver, Nome, St. Matthew Island, St. Paul, Dutch Harbor, Unga Island, Chignik, Katmai National Park, Kodiak, Icy Bay, Sitka, Wrangell, Misty Fjords, Inside Passage, Vancouver; View Itinerary