How to Book Private Excursions

[Cattravel10]

I've always done excursions through the ship but am thinking differently for next summer. Specifically I'm looking at Sitka for a sea otter and wildlife quest and Juneau, whaling watching. Have heard excellent comments about Harv and Marv. How do you book these and prices. Thank you in advance.

[jg226]

In Sitka, I recommend Capt. Davey. You can email him at alaskadavey@gci.net. A three hour tour is $135 and a four hour tour is $160. His website has a lot of great info on it http://www.puffinsandwhales.com/. In Juneau, if you want to keep with the small, personal service, then the best way to go is Harv and Marv's. E-mail Eileen at eileen@harvandmarvs.com. Eileen is Marv's wife and she'll be able to set you up with everything you need. The trip cost, at this time, is $136.50 per person. Their website has all the information http://www.harvandmarvs.com/. One bit of advice, BOOK THESE TRIPS AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE! These are small vessels - six passangers each, and I can personally attest that these tours fill up fast! If Harv and Marv is unavailable, you could also try Orca enterprises. Capt. Larry is also great, but I recommend calling Carol at 1-888-733-6722. They're not too quick on the email requests! Their rates vary so check the website http://www.orcaenterprises.com/. The only alternative I know of for the Sitka trip is one offered by Allen Marine called the Sea Otter and Wildlife Cruise - but I guarantee that trip is available through whatever ship you may sail on. The only downside to that excursion is that it will contain way more than six people, it's still a very enjoyable trip mind you, just a bit bigger.

[CruisinRoxy]

A good way to get an overview of activities / excursions / adventure is to go to the site www.alaska.org .There is a section on day tours / trips. Many of the local businesses you see on these CC forums are listed there, and you can compare. You can also google the individual Alaskan cities. I also found www.juneau.com, www.skagway.com, and other to be very helpful.

Have fun!!