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 Unga Island
Take a memorable Alaska cruise adventure to Unga Island, Alaska. Set your sights on the untouched wilderness of Unga Island, an under-the-radar gem nestled within the Aleutian chain of Alaska. A journey to this remote island is like stepping back in time, offering a tranquil respite from the modern world. Famed for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife, Unga Island is a paradise waiting to be explored by the intrepid traveler. This ancient island offers a unique opportunity to delve into the mysteries of Alaska's past, with its deserted ghost town and intriguing rock formations that paint a picture of its fascinating geological history.
Unga Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Its dramatic cliffs dive into the crystal-clear waters, creating a stunning contrast that can be best appreciated from the deck of a cruise ship. The island's landscape is a testament to the power of the elements, with its wind-sculpted rocks and treeless terrain dotted with wildflowers in the summer. The deserted village of Unga, once a thriving fishing settlement, stands as a haunting reminder of the island's past. At low tide, the ship provides a panoramic view of the shoreline's intriguing petrified wood formations, a unique spectacle that makes Unga Island a must-visit destination.
While aboard the cruise, you can immerse yourself in enlightening lectures about the native Aleut people and their deep connection to this land. These lectures cover the tribes' history, rich cultural heritage, and their relationship with the sea, which has sustained their way of life for generations. Understanding the native communities' profound connection with their environment deepens the appreciation of the breathtaking views outside your cabin window. The ghost town of Unga, now home to abandoned structures and an old Russian Orthodox Church, further narrates the tale of human resilience and adaptation in this harsh landscape.
The scenic beauty of Unga Island
Unga Island offers a multitude of photographic opportunities. The juxtaposition of its stark, treeless landscape against the azure sea makes for striking landscape photos. The ghost town of Unga, with its decaying structures and rustic Russian Orthodox Church, presents unique opportunities for capturing hauntingly beautiful images. Wildlife enthusiasts can snap pictures of the myriad of seabirds nesting in the island's cliffs, or if luck permits, capture the antics of sea otters and seals in the surrounding waters.
Landscapes
The landscape of Unga Island is a visual symphony of rugged cliffs, sweeping grasslands, and azure waters. Wildflowers add a splash of color to the island's canvas during the summer months. The distinctive petrified wood formations along the shoreline, visible at low tide, are nature's artwork, sculpted over millions of years. This barren yet beautiful terrain, shaped by the relentless Aleutian weather, offers an unparalleled spectacle of the raw, untamed Alaskan wilderness.
Wildlife
Unga Island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The island's rocky cliffs serve as the perfect rookery for various seabirds, including puffins and kittiwakes. The surrounding waters are teeming with sea otters, seals, and a variety of fish species. During the summer months, one might even spot a whale breaching in the distance, making for an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Attractions and Activities
Unga Island provides ample opportunities for adventure. The deserted village of Unga, accessible by skiff or zodiac, is a must-visit for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. For nature lovers, guided hiking trips unravel the island's unique geology, revealing its wind-eroded sea stacks and petrified wood formations. Bird watchers can delight in spotting a variety of seabirds, including puffins and kittiwakes, nesting in the rocky cliffs. The surrounding sea offers exciting opportunities for marine wildlife spotting, with sea otters, seals, and a variety of fish often sighted.
Best time to visit Unga Island
The optimal time to visit Unga Island is during the mild summer months, from June through August. During this time, the landscape transforms into a verdant expanse teeming with wildflowers, while the surrounding waters come alive with marine life. These months also offer the longest daylight hours, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration. Whale migrations occur during this period, making it an exceptional time for whale watching.
Unga Island, Alaska Cruise Schedule 2024
A voyage to Unga Island is not just a journey through the pristine Alaskan seascape, but also a journey back in time. Its untouched wilderness, intriguing past, and unique geological formations make this island a jewel in the Aleutian chain. As you soak in the serene ambiance, spotting wildlife and exploring the ghost town, you'll gain a deeper understanding of Alaska's enduring spirit and nature's timeless artistry. In the solitude of Unga Island, you'll find an unforgettable adventure, etching this Alaskan experience into your memory for a lifetime.
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