Juneau is Southeast Alaska most complete charter base for explorer yacht voyages, positioned at the junction of several of the region most rewarding expedition routes. The six explorer yachts available in these waters carry the range, tenders and crew experience needed for remote Alaskan passages where anchorages are unmarked and tidal ranges can reach seven metres. From Juneau, explorer charters reach Tracy Arm Fjord, Glacier Bay National Park, Yakutat Bay and the outer coast passages toward Prince William Sound.
An explorer charter from Juneau typically costs between 75,000 and 150,000 euros per week before the advance provisioning allowance, which runs at around 30 to 35 percent due to fuel distances, crew positioning and National Park permit costs at Glacier Bay. The season runs from late May through mid-September, with the most demanding outer-coast passages best attempted in July and August when weather windows are most reliable.
A two-week explorer itinerary from Juneau might head south first through Frederick Sound and Chatham Strait, transiting the narrows at Sergius Narrows on the tide before dropping into Sitka Sound. Returning north, Tracy Arm Fjord provides the dramatic turnaround before re-entering Gastineau Channel. A second week pushes north to Glacier Bay, with time for kayaking in Muir Inlet and an overnight at the head of Tarr Inlet beneath Margerie Glacier. Haines and Skagway offer cultural depth at the northern end of Lynn Canal.
