alaska (inside Passage Route South) – Nature’s Gold Rush
on the Hanseatic Inspiration

Alaska (Inside Passage Route South) – Nature’s Gold Rush

Two Inside Passage cruises in summer 2025: south (INS2532) or north (INS2533) along the same route Alaska’s wilderness up close: only possible in this intensity with a small expedition ship The journey is the destination: surrounded by mighty mountains, dense forests and ice-blue glaciers Wildlife sightings in the natural habitat of bears, bald eagles and whales Explore the history of the indigenous peoples, settlers and gold prospectors at authentic sites

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Alaska (Inside Passage Route South) – Nature’s Gold Rush

Day 1

Seward, Alaska

It is hard to believe that a place as beautiful as Seward exists. Surrounded on all sides by Kenai Fjords National Park, Chugach National Forest, and Resurrection Bay, Seward offers all the quaint realities of a small railroad town with the bonus of jaw-dropping scenery. This little town of about 2,750 citizens was founded in 1903, when survey crews arrived at the ice-free port and began planning a railroad to the Interior. Since its inception, Seward has relied heavily on tourism and commercial fishing. It is also the launching point for excursions into Kenai Fjords National Park, where it is quite common to see marine life and calving glaciers.

Day 3

Homer, Alaska

At the southern end of the Sterling Highway lies the city of Homer, at the base of a narrow spit that juts 4 miles into beautiful Kachemak Bay. Glaciers and snowcapped mountains form a dramatic backdrop across the water. Founded in the late 1800s as a gold-prospecting camp, this community was later used as coal-mining headquarters. Chunks of coal are still common along local beaches; they wash into the bay from nearby slopes where the coal seams are exposed. Today the town of Homer is an eclectic community with most of the tacky tourist paraphernalia relegated to the Spit (though do note the Spit has plenty else to recommend it, not the least of which is the 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains); the rest of the town is full of local merchants and artisans. The community is an interesting mix of fishermen, actors, artists, and writers. Much of the commercial fishing centers on halibut, and the popular Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby is often won by enormous fish weighing more than 300 pounds. The local architecture includes everything from dwellings that are little more than assemblages of driftwood to steel commercial buildings and magnificent homes on the hillside overlooking the surrounding bay, mountains, forests, and glaciers.

Day 4

Kodiak, Alaska

Today, commercial fishing is king in Kodiak. Despite its small population—about 6,475 people scattered among the several islands in the Kodiak group—the city is among the busiest fishing ports in the United States. The harbor is also an important supply point for small communities on the Aleutian Islands and the Alaska Peninsula.Visitors to the island tend to follow one of two agendas: either immediately fly out to a remote lodge for fishing, kayaking, or bear viewing; or stay in town and access whatever pursuits they can reach from the limited road system. If the former is too pricey an option, consider combining the two: drive the road system to see what can be seen inexpensively, then add a fly-out or charter-boat excursion to a remote lodge or wilderness access point.Floatplane and boat charters are available from Kodiak to many remote attractions, chief among them the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge , which covers four islands in the Gulf of Alaska: Kodiak, Afognak, Ban, and Uganik.

Day 5

Tsaa Fjord, Icy Bay, Alaska

Part of the Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park, Icy Bay is a body of water in south-east Alaska that was formed in the past 100 years due to the retreat of the Guyot, Yahtse and Tyndall glaciers. Icy Bay lives up to its name with an active tidewater glacier often clogging the fjord with icebergs. Here you can witness fantastic representations of geologic action over thousands of years whilst soaking in the magnificent views and exploring the landscape up-close.

Day 10 - 11

Petersburg, Alaska

Petersburg lies on the northern end of Mitkof Island, in the Inside Passage, on the banks of Frederick Sound where it joins the Wrangell Narrows. It is halfway between Juneau, 120 mi to the north, and Ketchikan 110 mi to the south. Remnants of fish traps and ancient petroglyphs indicate that this area was used by the Tlingit people as a summer fish camp. For more than 1,000 years In 1897 Peter Buschmann, a Norwegian immigrant, settled here. The place was named Petersburg after him, and was incorporated as a town in 1910. It flourished as a fishing port, and even today, it remains an island community that makes its living from the sea. It is the largest home-based halibut fleet in Alaska, and is ranked the 15th-most lucrative fisheries port in the United States by volume.

Day 12

Wrangell, Alaska

A small, unassuming timber and fishing community, Wrangel sits on the northern tip of Wrangel Island, near the mouth of the fast-flowing Stikine River—North America's largest undammed river. The Stikine plays a large role in the life of many Wrangel residents, including those who grew up homesteading on the islands that pepper the area. Trips on the river with local guides are highly recommended as they provide, basically, an insider's guide to the Stikine and a very Alaskan way of life. Like much of Southeast, Wrangel has suffered in recent years from a declining resource-based economy. But locals are working to build tourism in the town. Bearfest, which started in 2010, celebrates Wrangel's proximity to Anan Creek, where you can get a close-up view of both brown and black bears. Wrangel has flown three different national flags in its time. Russia established Redoubt St. Dionysius here in 1834. Five years later Great Britain's Hudson's Bay Company leased the southern Alaska coastline, renaming the settlement Ft. Stikine. It was rechristened Wrangel when the Americans took over in 1867; the name came from Baron Ferdinand Petrovich von Wrangel, governor of the Russian-American Company. The rough-around-the-edges town is off the track of the larger cruise ships, so it does not get the same seasonal traffic that Ketchikan and Juneau do. Hence, it is nearly devoid of the souvenir shops that dominate so many other nearby downtown areas. But the gift shops and art galleries that are here do sell locally created work, and the town is very welcoming to visitors; independent travelers would do well to add a stop in Wrangel during their Southeast wanderings.

Day 14

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver's ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, and it's easy for visitors to see why. It's beautiful, it's outdoorsy, and there's a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there's easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America's best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver's landscaping also adds to the city's walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada's third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn't have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Hanseatic Inspiration, Exterior cropped

Searching for the unknown and finding your inner self in the process. Respectfully encountering nature and perceiving yourself as part of it. Appreciating foreign cultures and gaining profound insights. For more than 30 years, we have been offering expedition cruises that touch your soul.Whether you’re heading to the Hebrides or the Azores, to Antarctica or the South Seas, intensive adventures on spectacular routes both near and far await you with the HANSEATIC inspiration – and you’ll share your personal expedition with a small group of no more than 230 passionate explorers. Welcome on board!Please note: The HANSEATIC inspiration is an international ship, with all cruises conducted in both English and German.

A new kind of freedom between adventure and pleasure.Come with us on a culinary voyage of discovery around the globe: on board, three spacious first-class restaurants create a unique and indulgent combination of expedition spirit with international gourmet cuisine. Spend your days and evenings however you wish thanks to flexible mealtimes, a free choice of seating and attentive 24-hour cabin service.

The spacious HANSEATIC Restaurant of the new expedition class redefines on-board cuisine. From breakfast to dinner, experience our endless variety of creative cuisine at any time of day. Where your ship drops anchor, our top chefs will look to local specialities and conjure up for your plate the aromas of South Africa, the far north, or Europe. Daily changing menus will send your taste buds on a global tour of discovery – accompanied by a selection of wines to suit every palate.

Specialty restaurants

Our speciality restaurants will take you on a culinary voyage of discovery: explore exquisite Japanese creations and Peru’s modern and fashionable cooking at the Nikkei on the HANSEATIC inspiration. The Hamptons offers new culinary highlights of the North American east coast on the HANSEATIC nature. Enjoy french cuisine in the specialty restaurant l'esprit on the HANSEATIC spirit. Exploring the world has never tasted so good!

Expeditions bring you particularly close to the elements. The same applies to our Lido Restaurant. Have breakfast under an open sky, or enjoy a juicy steak cooked to perfection on the large outdoor barbecue – garnished with breathtaking panoramic views. Watch our gourmet chefs at work in the open show kitchen or head straight to the ice cream station for dessert. And why not? After all, the daily grind is far away.

That special touch

Land on a secluded island in a Zodiac and enjoy barbecued fish and chilled drinks with your feet in the sand. Or celebrate with a glass of champagne against a stunning icy backdrop. Our service and ingenuity continue ashore – with a barbecue on the beach, a reception in the ice or exotic delicacies in the depths of the rainforest. This is the feeling of true expedition. This is the taste of true delight.

The glass balcony beneath your feet allows you to hover above the water and reveals the endless expanse and beauty of the ocean. Watch whales and large porpoises as they follow the ship, thrilling you as they leap and swim. Being so close to creation is an indescribable feeling.

Inspiration Walk

The deck tour at the bow offers extraordinarily intensive experiences: when whales jump for joy and polar bears take an icy bath, you will be the first to see these fascinating natural spectacles.

Stroll the spacious decks and feel the stars almost within reach – the terraced Observation Deck with a panoramic view is but one place to fulfil your dream. You can also quench your thirst for adventure in the comfortable surroundings of the Observation Lounge. The large full-glass windows provide a 180-degree view of the moon and sea while you reflect on your unforgettable travel days over a glass of wine.

Library

You are welcome to borrow a book on board at any time. Our library is located in the Observation Lounge (Deck 8) and is stocked with a selection of the latest fiction books, travel literature and information about the cruising area.

Hanse Atrium

Draw on our experts’ wealth of knowledge during their daily presentations in the HanseAtrium, the new multifunctional lounge with state-of-the-art technology. Visit the lounge to prepare for upcoming excursions and shed more light on impressions gained (so-called precaps and recaps). Discuss your latest discoveries, enjoy fascinating, relaxed film evenings or listen to our experts’ enthralling travel reports. In the evening, the HanseAtrium is transformed into an atmospheric bar where you can see out the day and reflect on your experiences.

Located on Deck 4.

Hapag Lloyd Cruises Hanseatic Nature Reception

Post

The Reception staff will post your postcards and letters from all ports where this facility is available. Your onboard account will be debited with the appropriate charges.

Announcements

To create the full expedition experience, commentaries are provided for interesting passages during the cruise and special animal sightings are reported. The ship’s position is reported in the morning on days at sea. We will also announce via the loudspeakers when the local authorities have cleared the ship and we can go ashore. The volume can be controlled individually in each cabin/suite.

Means of payment

The on-board currency is the euro. An account will be set up for you so that you can make cashless payments during the cruise. You can find out your current account balance at any time using the infotainment system in your cabin/suite. You can then settle the entire account at Reception at the end of your cruise. We accept German EC/Maestro cards and the following credit cards: Mastercard, American Express and Visa. You can also pay in cash. Please note that, in general, foreign currencies cannot be changed on board.

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In today’s seemingly fully developed world, there are still opportunities to make great discoveries and enjoy extraordinary cruises. Where large cruise ships have to turn about or can only sail past, you will experience a renaissance of wonder. Regions that often have no beacons, pilots, harbours, hotels or airports. These are the expedition destinations of our new expedition ships HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration & HANSEATIC spirit, where your curiosity sets the course. Rather than journeys from A to B, these ships offer intensive discoveries from A to Z.In our travel diaries and our films, we take you along on our expeditions and provide intensive insights even before you travel.

Ocean Academy

A large Study wall and an interactive Study poster display the latest fascinating articles and information on various disciplines and cruise experiences are enhanced with scientific content. A separate area with binocular microscopes allows you to discover natural wonders, together with your experts, that cannot be seen with the naked eye. And whenever inquisitiveness takes hold, sit back in a comfortable Study Seat with a swivel touchscreen and immerse yourself in the world of science – away from the presentations and scheduled events.

On our expeditions, the Zodiacs are often lowered into the water several times a day. These expedition rubber boats can take you ashore whenever there is no harbour. A sense of pure adventure is never far behind. You will discover nature from a unique perspective in small groups and with no long waiting times.

Camping in the Antarctic

Surely the purest way to experience the sixth continent! Take the unique opportunity to pitch your tent in the endless ice. An intensive experience in the tradition of great pioneers. This activity is offered on selected expeditions with the HANSEATIC nature, the HANSEATIC inspiration and the HANSEATIC spirit.

Conquer the polar waters by kayak in small groups of no more than twelve participants. We offer tours with instruction from an experienced kayak guide on selected cruises on our new expedition ships. These excursions are ideal for beginners with previous experience.

Hikes

Your experts will accompany the hikes and landings and draw your attention to details that often go unnoticed by an untrained eye. Snowshoe hiking in Antarctica is a very special experience. Not only will you enjoy spectacular views, you will gain deep insights into the wonders of our planet.

Hapag Lloyd Cruises - Hanseatic Expedition Ships - Nature Wildlife Excursions Expeditions Zodiacs _1_ (1)

Whales up ahead? Disko Bay in sight? About to pass through the Kiel Canal? Expedition highlights are particularly spectacular under an open sky – and your experts will always be present on the many open deck spaces to provide background information and valuable details that you won’t find in any guidebook. Yearning to explore a specific topic? The experts will be delighted to answer your questions – the thirstier you are for knowledge, the better. After all, what would an expedition be without curiosity?

Exciting and informative: our experts are the perfect accompaniment for your expedition and provide you with invaluable knowledge on board and ashore. Benefit from their inexhaustible know-how during Zodiac rides and landings, in fascinating presentations and personal conversations.

Broadening horizons: whenever possible, you will head ashore and out in the Zodiacs with our experts. This reveals exciting background information and trains you to spot extraordinary things that other travellers would miss. Priceless if this fixes your attention to a particular experience just at the right moment.

A new perspective on nature and culture: complex links and scientific research are made understandable with “living” examples. Our experts have visited each destination many times and conducted in-depth studies and research or written about them in books. As a result, they serve as travel companions, field guides and bridges between cultures.

Our expedition ships as a place of learning: as part of short excursions together and on plenty of Zodiac rides with your experts, you will gain exciting insights and learn new information. On board, interesting exhibits turn into exciting research subjects. Examining, discussing and looking under the microscope will quench your thirst for knowledge.

Organised Shore Activities

From natural excursions and active tours to culinary discoveries and cultural treasures – our organised shore activities provide you with a wealth of exciting experiences. Of course, our programmes are for small groups. They are also planned with great care and you will be accompanied by experienced tour guides. You will receive a detailed itinerary, including prices, around three months prior to departure.

For these great seafarers, the waterways of the world’s oceans were unpredictable routes filled with unknown perils. Today, the uncertainties and hardships of earlier explorers have given way to the many years of experience of the people on board our expedition ships. However, the passion for new destinations has remained and will ensure unforgettable moments during your expeditions.

The 85th line of latitude – 480 km from the North Pole. Thick fields of pack ice cover the water. There seems no way of getting through this untouched landscape of ice with its bizarre floe shapes. But thanks to the long-time experience of the people on board – the captain, officers, expedition leaders and cruise directors – even spectacular routes like the Northeast Passage will be conquered. They know where to find the most beautiful aspects of the polar regions.

A breathtaking Zodiac ride, a challenging hike, a day in the Arctic ice – then close your eyes, feel the heat and indulge your senses: for example, in the Finnish sauna with its astounding view of the vast ocean. A steam sauna will pamper you with gentle heat before the fresh ocean breeze revitalises your body on the adjacent external deck. Thanks to its flexible canopy, the large pool area can be enjoyed whatever the weather – let your mind drift on the spacious Sun Deck or in the warm water of the pool!

Feel like getting active? The fitness room and separate course room – both with an ocean view – can be used from morning to night. Our fitness coach will show you what to do and help you with the right movements. He or she will also answer any questions you may have about your health. A wide range of courses – on deck (weather permitting) or in the fitness room – will revive your spirit. Invigorated and relaxed, you are ready for your next adventure.

OCEAN SPA

A place of relaxation with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, ice fountain and relaxation room. From professional partial- and full-body massages to classic cosmetic treatments and moments of indulgence for your hair, hands and feet, you are in the best possible place. Carefully selected natural products with premium plant ingredients and vegan formulas enhance your beauty while helping to preserve the environment. Holistic. Natural. Sustainable.