Bear Paw Charters

For adventure lovers of all kinds, Alaska’s endless breathtaking moments make for the ultimate getaway. And a great way to explore them all is aboard the luxurious yacht, the M/V Bear Paw, out of Sitka. Whether you’re an avid angler looking for remote waters or a photographer in search of the perfect bear shot, Bear Paw Charters can make it happen, with first-class accommodations and fresh cuisine. Take one of their tours or rent the whole boat out for a private charter.

The yacht features three staterooms with king-size beds and high-end bedding. Mahogany woodwork and high-end furnishings fill the spacious common areas, and covered viewing decks are perfect for gazing out at the stunning Alaskan landscape. A small crew of three has perfected the art of personal, casual service that fits perfectly with Alaska’s ethos. And you won’t want to miss the captivating tales of Captain Bill!

Sailing from Sitka, you can explore Alaska or travel the Inside Passage down to Washington State, looking for whales and bears and having the chef prepare whatever fresh fish you catch—salmon, halibut, Dungeness crab, spotted prawns, shrimp, and more. Beer and wine are available; liquor is BYO.

Bearpaw offers especially exciting opportunities for photographers of all levels with the following tours.

Whales, Whales and Humpback Tails

Aboard the luxurious M/V Bear Paw, you’ll pass highlights like Baranof Island, which is not only stunningly scenic but boasts one of the world’s densest populations of humpback and killer whales. And keep an eye out for another dense population, coastal brown bears, as they emerge from hibernation to feast on shoreline grasses. As you continue, take advantage of the calm waters to do some fishing, or set out on a kayak or paddleboard. Keep your camera at the ready for Sitka blacktail deer, eagles, sea otters, harbor seals, and especially the majestic coastal brown bears in their endless pursuit of salmon—out on a tender, you may get within 50 feet of them! You’ll hit a couple hot springs along the way and have the chance to capture amazing sunset photos, working with your photo pro to get the perfect shots.

Inside Passage

This cruise on the M/V Bear Paw heads northbound from Friday Harbor to Alaska in June and heads southbound in September from Ketchikan to Washington State through British Columbia. Along the way, you’ll spend 2 full days in search of the “spirit bear”—the rare white version of the Kermode bear exalted by indigenous peoples of the area. Capturing one on camera is a highlight like no other. Also keep an eye out for black bear and coastal brown bear.

Of course, that’s not all you’ll see. Humpback whales will be traveling south at the same time, offering amazing photo ops. Sea otters, sea lions, grizzly bears, killer and orca whales, Dahl’s porpoise, and many other critters are also on the viewing menu, as well as the amazing coastal scenery. Take out a kayak for a paddle in the calm waters and see the historic Green Island Lighthouse standing like a sentry. Make a stop in the quaint town of Ganges, famous for its coffee, before finishing your unforgettable trip outside Seattle.