Itinerary:  Anchorage – Whittier – Anchorage
Details: Leave from the designated hotel in the morning, and travel to the old naval port town of Whittier. On the way you can enjoy the picturesque scenery of lofty mountains, icy glaciers, crystal clear lakes, and the twisting ocean shoreline of Turnagain Arm. Just before arriving in Whittier, you’ll pass through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the longest double-use highway and railroad tunnel in the U.S. at 4.05 km. Once in Whittier, visit the famous Begich Towers residential building (outside only) and take in the naval port town scenery (about 20 min. total). Around noon you’ll board the Glacier & Marine Life Cruise* (about 5 hours total, includes western-style box lunch, narration in English) to soak up the magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers of Prince William Sound. The glaciers end in steep cliffs of ice, and when sunlight hits the ice, it seems to glow from within. When you hear a glacier let out a deep rumble, you may witness pieces of the glacier falling off into the water. You’ll be able to observe up-close floating icebergs and where the glaciers meet the sea, and have the opportunity to see all types of marine animals (such as sea lions, sea otters, and seals) as well as birds. It is suggested that you bring a warm jacket, hat, etc. Estimated return to Anchorage is between 8:00-8:30pm.
Whittier:
One of the most interesting towns in Alaska, Whittier was a naval port during the Cold War. After the naval facilities were abandoned, they were converted into Begich Towers, the most unique residential building in America. Most of the 200-some residents of the town live in the building, and there is also a school, post office, and supermarket inside. Whittier is also the gateway to access many famous glaciers, and is surrounded by 3,500 ft. (1,067 m) tall mountains. It was first chosen as the site for a military base in World War 2, and today has evolved into a world-class cruise ship port, attracting visitors from all over the world.