June 14-July 2, July 2-19, July 19-31, July 31-August 14, August 14-September 1, September 1-16, 2014
Silversea’s third expedition ship, the Silver Discover, is expertly engineered to explore the most isolated archipelagos of the Pacific. Her small size (128 guests) and shallow draft allow close-up access to rugged coasts well beyond the reach of ordinary vessels. And she has been newly refurbished to help guests maximize their experience and build a genuine connection with the regions they visit.
East Asia and Russian Far East Expedition Cruises
Because of its remoteness and impassable ice floes in winter, the Sea of Okhotsk is one of the world’s least-explored and most biologically productive seas. The Kuril Islands are a haven for huge colonies of seabirds. Northern fur seals and Steller sea lions haul out on rocky outcrops. The Stellar Sea Eagle soars overhead, and even whales, once hunted almost to extinction, are now returning to these frigid waters.
On the Kamchatka Peninsula, the world’s largest brown bear hunts along rivers churning with salmon that roar through taiga forests. It is a “Land of Fire and Ice,” a geothermal wonderland for photographers. In the Kronotsky Reserve, geysers gush across a bubbling landscape of smouldering, snow-capped volcanoes, thermal springs and boiling mud pots.
Several expeditions continue from Kamchatka across the Bering Sea to the Aleutians and to the Alaska and Kenai peninsulas, some of the most inaccessible places in North America. These nutrient-rich waters support vast populations of fish, birds from every continent on earth, and countless numbers of whales, dolphins, sea lions and fur seals, and an expedition through this wilderness will surely be a trip of a lifetime!
Wild Siberia: The Sea Of Okhotsk
Otaru (Sapporo) to Otaru (Sapporo) June 14-July 2, 2014
Expedition Highlights
• Discover huge concentrations of seabirds in a frenzy of breeding activity — Northern Fulmars, puffins, guillemots, Black-legged Kittiwakes, auklets, and more.
• Cruise by Zodiac along rocky islets and remote shores to search for the area’s prolific marine and wildlife including bears, arctic foxes, sea otters, seals, whales and the mighty Steller Sea Eagle. • Photograph a variety of stunning scenery, from smoking, snow-capped volcanoes to wildflower- studded tundra.
• Explore rivers churning with salmon as they roar through taiga forests.
• Follow in the historic wake of legendary explorer, Vitus Bering, the founder of Petropavlovsk and one of the earliest Sea of Okhotsk adventure travellers.
Day 1 — Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
Once all guests have embarked, we depart on this spectacular 19-day expedition to Wild Siberia: Kamchatka, Sea of Okhotsk, Sakhalin and Kuril Islands. This afternoon you will be introduced to your Expedition Team and drill. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.Day 2 — Korsakov (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Sakhalin Island, Russia
Today we clear into Russia. Once the formalities are concluded and time permitting, we will explore part of this city founded in 1853 as Sakhalin’s first Russian military post. From here we drive to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the capital of the island with a population of just over 160,000. Founded as a small Russian settlement in the 1880s, the city became a Japanese prefect capital when the southern half of Sakhalin was declared a Japanese colony in 1905; after WWII it was returned to Russia. Highlights include a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, the Regional Museum housed in an impressive former Japanese mansion, and the bustling market. Enjoy a performance of traditional Cossack song and dance.
Day 3 — Tuleniy Island, Russia
Tuleniy means “seal” in Russian, and during the summer months the island is home to literally tens of thousands of northern fur seals and Steller sea lions who come to breed. Our visit at the height of the breeding season is well timed to see not only the seals and sea lions, but also the Black-footed Kittiwake, Tufted Puffin, Common Mure and Pelagic Cormorant that summer on the island.
Day 4 — Piltun Lagoon/Nobilsky Bay, Sakhalin Island, Russia
As we approach Piltun Lagoon, be on the lookout for western grey whales including mothers and their calves. The area is the summer feeding ground for the majority of these endangered mammals, which were thought to be extinct until a small group was discovered near Sakhalin Island in the ‘70s. We may also glimpse spotted seals as our Zodiacs take us ashore to look for Steller’s Sea Eagles, Mongolian Plovers, Red-Necked Stints and other shore birds.
Day 5 — Iony Island
This tiny, isolated island measures just over one square mile, but its significance to the mammals and birds of the Sea of Okhotsk is staggering. Iony is a crucial location for the endangered Steller Sea Lion and home to huge colonies of seabirds numbering in the hundreds of thousands. We cruise around the island and surrounding rocks, enjoying magnificent birding and watching hundreds of sea lions as they haul out on rocks or swim around, driven by curiosity. Dapper, boldly pied Thick-billed Murres crowd the ledges, puffins, fulmars, and kittiwakes fill the air.
Day 6 — Expedition Cruising Around Shantar Islands
Covered with larch and pine forests, this large archipelago offer a wonderful habitat for about 200 bird species including the rare Steller’s Sea Eagle and Blakiston’s Fish Owl. Whales also roam these waters and we have a good chance of seeing these magnificent creatures as we Zodiac cruise around the coastline looking for a spot to land. Spruce forests cover the major islands and the Kamchatka Brown Bear is also common here, as well as sables and martens. Weather and ice conditions permitting we will attempt a landing on one of the islands. We hope to offer birding, botany and photography excursions led by our team of onboard naturalists.
Day 7 — Malminskie Islands and Fedora Bay
These small islands with their breath-taking landscapes form part of the Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve, one of the wildest and least-studied reserves in Russia. The islands are home to a huge colony of Spectacled Guillemots along with kittiwakes, Parakeet Auklets and puffins. There is also a good chance of seeing Steller’s Sea Eagle here. On the mainland, brown bears roam freely, as well as wolves, wolverines, red foxes, weasels, Siberian musk, deer and moose. Going ashore in Fedora Bay gives us a real opportunity to hike in Siberian taiga. The taiga, a Russian word which we have adopted, refers to a forest composed primarily of conifers, and today we will see Dahursk Larch and a mixed variety of deciduous trees such as alder, aspen and mountain ash. Activities will depend on the ice conditions, but there are endless opportunities to explore.
Days 8 — Okhotsk, Russia
This town has featured in Russian Far East history since the earliest Cossack explorers came from the west. The great 17th-century explorer Commander Vitus Bering launched two expeditions from Okhotsk in order to explore the coasts of the Russian Empire, and the town remains to this day, seemingly frozen in time. We cruise up the river by Zodiac to visit the town where we will enjoy some local food tasting and cultural performances.
Day 9 — Talan Island and Zaviyalova Island
We will attempt a landing on this small (1 sq. mile/2.5 sq. km) island; a birdwatcher’s paradise it hosts 12 species of seabirds in one of the largest seabird communities in the Northern Pacific. The Rocky cliffs and slopes are inhabited by Slaty-backed Gulls, kittiwakes, murres, Tufted and Horned Puffins, Parakeet, Crested and Least Auklets, Spectacled Guillemots, Ancient Murrelets and Pelagic Cormorant. Steller’s Sea Eagle and Peregrine Falcon nest on the island too, as do red foxes that are able to reach Talan over the sea-ice in winter. We will use our Zodiacs to explore and experience the magic of this tiny island.
Day 10 — Yamskie Islands and Cape Japon
The huge bay in the northern part of the Sea of Okhotsk is famous for its irregular and very high tides. It is home to four seal species: Bearded, Ringed, Ribbon and Largha, along with the Steller Sea Lion. Many whale species have been seen in the area including Bowhead, Northern Right, Grey, Humpback and Fin.
Your Expedition Leader, Captain and local Russian representatives will find the best place to explore today taking weather and ice conditions into account.
Day 11 — Kvachina River and Utkholok Peninsula
Russia’s 1000-mile long (1600 km) Kamchatka Peninsula contains a vast network of rivers that remain free flowing from headwaters to ocean and is virtually unaltered by human development. This region produces up to one-fourth of all wild Pacific salmon and hosts the greatest diversity of salmon species on Earth. The Utkholok and Kvachina watersheds are some of the most productive and best-protected steelhead rivers on the Peninsula. The river basins, totalling 736,000 acres, drain the rich lowland tundra ecosystems of the western Kamchatka Peninsula, meeting at Cape Utkholok before draining to the Sea of Okhotsk. Your on-board team of Expedition staff will lead various shore walks today.
Day 12 — Kamchatka Peninsula (West Coast)/Expedition/River, Russia
As we make our way south along the Wild West coast of the peninsula, there are a number of potential landing sites mainly at the mouths of rivers (but all are very weather dependent) that offer great wildlife viewing opportunities. Many species of salmon swim upriver throughout the summer to spawn, which in turn attracts many predators like Steller’s Sea Eagles and, of course, the King of Kamchatka – the brown bear. Possible landings include the Khairuzov, Opala and Golynia Rivers. We plan as many landings as are practical and possible along this coast as we make our way south to the Kuril Islands.
Days 13 – 17 — Kuril Islands, Russia
Stretching over 800 miles from the southern end of Kamchatka to Hokkaido, this chain of over 30 volcanic islands is an important breeding ground for Stellar Sea Lions and one of the richest areas in the world for seabirds; up to 14 species of auks, as well as Spectacled and Pigeon Guillemots can be found. As we travel southward, here are some of the places we hope to visit:
Shumshu Island – Watch sea otters at play in the waters surrounding our Zodiacs, and observe the activities of the many cormorants that reside in the harbour-side bird cliffs.
Atlasova Island – At 6,500 ft. (2,000 m), Alaid is the highest volcano in the Kurils, and praised by the Japanese for its almost perfect volcanic cone. We land by Zodiac on the black lava beach to begin our walk to see the remains of the Taketomi tufa cone and the women’s prison, or gulag. Women, many of them political prisoners during the Soviet rule, were sent here to raise foxes for fur.
Onekotan Island – In Russian, Onekotan means “old settlement”. Before the Japanese occupation during WWII, Onekotan was the site of an old Ainu settlement. Ashore we see the cylindrical indentations that formed the bases of the tents that the Japanese stayed in during their occupation. Expedition staff guides us in search of Peregrine Falcon, Tufted Puffins and Wagtails that can often be seen along the beach and open areas near the river mouth.
Lovushki Islands – We search for northern fur seals and Steller sea lions around this cluster of small islands and rocky outcrops. Here have our best views of auklets by far! Aboard our Zodiacs, we drift among them — Whiskered, Crested and Parakeet Auklets. Tufted Puffins with their ridiculous bills and flowing yellow head plumes are also here, and many fulmars.
Matua Island – Matua is home to one of the Kuril’s most active volcanoes, with more than 14 documented eruptions in the past 250 years. Learn about the Japanese military base that was set up here during WWII and how the Japanese used to capture geothermal heat from the volcano to keep the runway open, which normally freezes over during winter. Hikers are rewarded with good views of the abandoned military positions and hopefully get a glimpse of the island’s population of Brown-headed Thrush, Siberian Ruby-throats and alder thickets.
Yankitcka Island – Yankitcka is impressive. It’s actually a sinking volcanic caldera accessible only by Zodiac and only during high tide. Inside the magnificent lagoon with its fumaroles and hot springs, we can still see traces of the tremendous forces that created the island long ago and a visit here is invariably one of the highpoints of the entire voyage. The number of auklets, which breed here is truly incredible, and if we are lucky we may also, catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox or even the rare and elusive Whiskered Auklet.
Chirpoy Island – By Zodiac we search along the coast for profusion of wildlife that live in the area including Steller sea lions, fulmars, kittiwakes, puffins and auklets.
Kunashir – Led by our expedition staff, we go ashore at the mouth of the River Tyatina for explorative walks along the shore and further into the dense vegetation to see a Japanese graveyard.
Day 18 — Korsakov (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Sakhalin Island, Russia
This morning we make a quick technical stop in Korsakov to clear out of Russia. Enjoy a leisurely day on-board the Silver Discoverer as we cruise towards Otaru. In the afternoon join your on-board Expedition team for a video documentary recap of what was surely a spectacular expedition.
Day 19 — Otaru, Japan
After breakfast, disembark Silver Discoverer.
Explorer suite from US$13,535 per person
Northern Explorer: Across The Bering Sea
Otaru (Sapporo) to Seward, Alaska, USA July 2-19, 2014
Expedition Highlights:
• Marvel at spectacular natural landscapes, pristine tundra and massive volcanoes.
• Travel along the historic routes of explorers and traders.
• Be on the lookout for rare wildlife including the western grey whale and Steller’s sea lion.
• Identify countless birds: puffins, guillemots, cormorants, Steller’s sea eagle, Brown-headed Thrush, Siberian Ruby-throats, Alder-thickets, Black legged Kittiwakes, and Crested or Whiskered Auklets.
• Photograph a variety of wildlife including walrus, fur seal, otter, red fox and the enormous Kamchatka brown bear.
• Fly to the famous Valley of the Geysers in the Kronotsky Nature Reserve on an optional helicopter excursion.
• Cruise and explore by Zodiac, watching for walrus haul-outs and sea otters at play in the surrounding waters.
Day 1 — Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
Once all guests have embarked, we depart expedition team on our spectacular 19-day Northern Explorer expedition. This afternoon you will be introduced to your and participate in the safety drill. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.
Day 2 — Korsakov (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Sakhalin Island, Russia
Today we clear into Russia. Once the formalities are concluded and time permitting, we will explore part of this city, founded in 1853 as Sakhalin’s first Russian military post. From here we drive to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, the capital of the island with a population of just over 160,000. Founded as a small Russian settlement in the 1880s, the city became a Japanese prefect capital when the southern half of Sakhalin was declared a Japanese colony in 1905; after WWII it was returned to Russia. Highlights include a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, the Regional Museum housed in an impressive former Japanese mansion, and the bustling market. Enjoy a performance of traditional Cossack song and dance.
Day 3 — Tuleniy Island, Russia
Tuleniy means “seal” in Russian, and during the summer months the island is home to literally tens of thousands of northern fur seals and Steller sea lions. Our visit at the height of the breeding season is well timed to see not only the seals and sea lions, but also the Black-footed Kittiwake, Tufted Puffin, Common Mure and Pelagic Cormorant that summer on the island.
Days 4 –7 — Kuril Islands, Russia
Stretching over 800 miles from the southern end of the Kamchatka Peninsula to Hokkaido in Japan, this chain of over 30 volcanic islands is an important breeding ground for Stellar Sea Lions and one of the richest areas in the world for seabirds; up to 14 species of auks, as well as Spectacled and Pigeon Guillemots can be found in there. As we travel southward, these are some of the places we hope to visit:
• Chirpoy Island – By Zodiac we search along the coast for the profusion of wildlife that lives in the area including Steller sea lions fulmars, kittiwakes, puffins and auklets.
• Yankitcka Island – Yankitcka is impressive. It’s actually a sinking volcanic caldera accessible only by Zodiac and only during high tide. Inside the magnificent lagoon with its fumaroles and hot springs, we can still see traces of the tremendous forces that created the island long ago and a visit here is invariably one of the highpoints of the entire voyage. The number of auklets, which breed here, is truly incredible. If we are lucky we may also catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox or even the rare and elusive Whiskered Auklet.
• Matua Island – Matua is home to one of the Kuril’s most active volcanoes, with more than 14 documented eruptions in the past 250 years. Learn about the Japanese military base that was set up here during WWII and how the Japanese used to capture geothermal heat from the volcano to keep the runway open during winter. Hikers are rewarded with good views of the abandoned military positions and hopefully get a glimpse of the island’s population of Brown-headed Thrush, Siberian Ruby-throats and Alder-Thickets.
• Lovushki Islands –We search for northern fur seals and Steller sea lions around this cluster of small islands and rocky outcrops. Here have our best views of auklets by far! Aboard our Zodiacs, we drift among them — Whiskered, Crested and Parakeet Auklets. Tufted Puffins with their ridiculous bills and flowing yellow head plumes are also here, and many fulmars.
• Makanrushi Island – Explore coast waters home to sea lions and revel in the view of the dramatic Makanrushi volcano.
• Shumshu Island – Watch sea otters at play in the waters surrounding our Zodiacs, and observe the activities of the many cormorants that reside in the harbour-side bird cliffs.
• Atlasova Island – At 6,500 ft. (2,000 m), Alaid is the highest volcano in the Kurils, and praised by the Japanese for its almost perfect volcanic cone. We land by Zodiac on the black lava beach for a walk to see the remains of the Taketomi tufa cone and the women’s prison, or gulag. Women, many of them political prisoners during the Soviet rule, were sent here to raise foxes for fur.
Day 8 — Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Russia
Petropavlovsk, town of Peter and Paul, derives is named from the two sailing ships used by Vitus Bering when the great explorer reached Avacha Bay in 1740. It is the only major city on the peninsula and one of the oldest. Petropavlovsk is also the scientific and cultural centre of the region, and today we’ll see why as local guides take us on a comprehensive tour including the museum of ethnography and natural history, the art school, the gold-domed orthodox cathedral and the marketplace.
As an exciting alternative, guests can purchase a helicopter excursion to the Valley of the Geysers in the Kronotsky Nature Reserve, one of the world’s most active geothermal regions and a region of savage beauty with smoking volcanoes, boiling geysers, bears, wolves and taiga forests. It is easy to understand why the valley is considered an important sacred site by the indigenous people.
Day 9 — Cruising Bering Sea
A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day’s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure and learn more about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields.
Day 10 – 12 — Aleutian Islands, Alaska, U.S.A. (Cross the International Date Line and gain a day)
The Aleutians stretch 1300 miles (2600 km) from Kamchatka to Alaska, onetime stepping stones for Russian trappers and traders, who established settlements on the islands; Dutch Harbour became a trans-shipping point for the gold boomtown of Nome. Today most of the islands form part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, renowned for its dramatic, sea-sculpted coastlines, abundant marine animals and millions of migratory and nesting seabirds — a full 80% of all seabirds in North America use the refuge. For the next few days we will wind through the Aleutians with a fairly flexible itinerary, making the best of the weather and local reconnaissance. Here are some places we hope to visit:
• Attu
Attu is the westernmost point of the United States and the site of the only WWII battle fought on North American soil — over two thousand Japanese soldiers lost their lives at Massacre Bay. The island is an ornithologist’s paradise and today we hope to see some of the Asian migrants that are occasionally spotted. Be on the lookout for Peregrine Falcons, Lapland Longspur and Aleutian Canada Goose.
• Sirius Point, Kiska Island
Kiska Harbour, Kiska Island
A morning Zodiac tour along the cliffs of Sirius point can only be described as “magical”. We search for Least and Crested Auklets, Peregrine Falcons and Laysan and Black-footed Albatrosses, all while keeping an eye open for the sperm whales that frequent the area.
Evidence of the Japanese occupation during WWII haunts Kiska Harbour. Once ashore we see the remains of a Shinto shrine left behind by the 6000 strong occupying force. During our nature walks we hope to see Ptarmigans, Lapland Longspurs and Bald Eagles.
• Adak Island
The high winds of Adak are a blessing for birders; many migrants from Asia and elsewhere can be spotted. Indigenous (but often rare) shorebirds abound, and eagles are ubiquitous. Visitors not insistent upon scoring “First North America” sightings will find plenty of variety to enjoy. Hiking on the tundra may also be possible.
Day 13 — At Sea
A leisurely day at sea to exchange notes with fellow travellers and take advantage of the luxurious amenities aboard Silver Discoverer. Help our birders spot some of the seabirds found far away from their nesting grounds. Enjoy a lecture, an interesting book, or just relax in the comfort of your suite and watch a movie on the in-suite interactive television.
Day 14 — Dutch Harbour, Unalaska Island, Aleutian Islands, Alaska, U.S.A.
Together with the city of Unalaska, Dutch Harbour, is a bustling community with about 4,000 residents. It is connected by bridge to the rest of Unalaska on Amaknak Island, and its name is frequently applied to the entire town. During our city tour, we visit the World War II bunkers and the spectacular Russian Orthodox Church.
Day 15 — Unga Spit, Aleutian Islands, Alaska, U.S.A.
Explore the islands by Zodiac, watching sea lions laze on the rocky shores and delightful sea otters playing in the extensive bull kelp beds which surround the islands. There is a spectacular petrified ancient forest embedded in sea cliffs on this island.
Day 16– 18 Alaska Peninsula, Alaska, U.S.A.
For the last leg of our expedition, we journey along the Alaska Peninsula, which extends 400 miles (644 km) from mainland Alaska toward the Aleutian island chain. The landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, with active volcanoes; towering mountain peaks, rolling tundra, rugged, wave-battered coastlines and the largest brown bear population in the state.
• Semidi Islands
This stunning and nearly uninhabited archipelago is home to some of the largest populations of native and undisturbed wildlife in the United States. There are 2.5 million birds here, almost half the breeding seabirds of the Alaska Peninsula. You’ll find huge numbers of Horned Puffins, Northern Fulmars and jaegers, and over a million murres. Ancient Murrelets and Parakeet Auklets are among the other species found, while the surrounding sea is home to sea otters, sea lions, seals, porpoises and whales.
• Geographic Harbour, Amalik Bay, Katmai National Park
Kukak Bay, Katmai National Park
Katmai National Park is on the top of many “Best of Alaska” lists because of its otherworldly landscape, including 15 active volcanoes. Here we have the opportunity to get up-close and personal to abundant wildlife and raw beauty; the scenery is magnificent at Geographic Harbour at the head of Amalik Bay, and the bears are ubiquitous.
Kukak Bay is well known for its concentration of bears and the salmon on which they feed, and this is one of the prime areas in this region for bear viewing. Enjoy guided excursions to see bears, sea mammals and birds; or, fish for fish and release.
• Chiswell Islands, Katmai National Park
Almost 40 million birds representing 30 species congregate in colonies along the coast of Chiswell Islands. Over 20,000 Horned and Tufted Puffins return to make their nests every summer. Visit rookeries teaming with birds, including Parakeet Auklets, Black-Legged Kittiwakes, Ancient Murrelets and Red Face Cormorants.
Day 19 — Seward, Alaska, USA
Following breakfast, disembark Silver Discoverer.
Explorer suite from US$13,535 per person
Across The Bering Sea To The Land Of The Chucki
Seward, Alaska, USA to Nome, USA July 19-31, 2014
Expedition Highlights:
• Marvel at spectacular natural landscapes, pristine tundra and massive volcanoes.
• Travel along the historic routes of explorers and traders.
• Be on the lookout for rare wildlife including the western grey whale and Steller’s sea lion.
• Identify countless birds: puffins, guillemots, cormorants, Steller’s sea eagle, Brown-headed Thrush, Siberian Ruby throats, Alder thickets, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and Crested or Whiskered Auklets.
• Photograph a variety of wildlife including walrus, fur seal, otter, red fox and the enormous Kamchatka brown bear.
• Cruise and explore remote villages by Zodiac.
Day 1 — Seward, Alaska, USA
Once all guests have embarked, we depart on our spectacular 14-day expedition: Across the Bering Sea to the Land of the Chucki. This afternoon you will be introduced to your expedition team and participate in a safety drill. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in the restaurant.
Day 2–5 — Alaska Peninsula, Alaska, USA
For the first leg of our expedition, we journey along the Alaska Peninsula, which extends 400 miles (644 km) from mainland Alaska toward the Aleutian Island chain. The landscape is breathtakingly beautiful, with active volcanoes; towering mountain peaks, rolling tundra, rugged, wave-battered coastlines and the largest brown bear population in the state.
Chiswell Islands, Katmai National Park
Almost 40 million birds representing 30 species congregate in colonies along the coast of Chiswell Islands. Over 20,000 Horned and Tufted Puffins return to make their nests every summer. Visit rookeries teaming with birds, including Parakeet Auklets, Black-legged Kittiwakes, Ancient Murrelets and Red-faced Cormorants.
Katmai National Park, Geographic Harbour, Amalik Bay, Kukak Bay
Katmai National Park is on the top of many “Best of Alaska” lists because of its otherworldly landscape, including 15 active volcanoes. Here we have the opportunity to get up close and personal to abundant wildlife and raw beauty; the scenery is magnificent at Geographic Harbour at the head of Amalik Bay, and the bears are ubiquitous. Kukak Bay is well known for its concentration of bears and the salmon on which they feed, and this is one of the prime areas in this region for bear viewing. The Silver Discoverer’s Expedition Team will lead a variety of natural history walks and Zodiac tours in search of bears, sea mammals and birds.
Semidi Islands
This stunning and nearly uninhabited archipelago is home to some of the largest populations of native and undisturbed wildlife in the United States. There are 2.5 million birds here, almost half the breeding seabirds of the Alaska Peninsula. You’ll find huge numbers of Horned Puffins, Northern Fulmars and Jaegers, and over a million Murres. Ancient Murrelets and Parakeet Auklets are among the other species found, while the surrounding sea is home to sea otters, sea lions, seals, porpoises and whales.
Unga Island
We will explore the islands by Zodiac, watching the sea lions laze on the rocky shores and the delightful sea otters play in the extensive bull kelp beds that surround. We will end our day at Unga Island. This bar reveals a spectacular petrified ancient forest, embedded in its sea cliffs.
Day 6 — Dutch Harbour, Unalaska Island, Aleutian Islands, Alaska, U.S.A.
Together with the city of Unalaska, Dutch Harbour, is a bustling community with about 4,000 residents. It is connected by bridge to the rest of Unalaska on Amaknak Island, and its name is frequently applied to the entire town. During our city tour, we visit the World War II bunkers and the spectacular Russian Orthodox Church.
Day 7 — St. Paul, Pribilof Islands, Alaska, U.S.A.
Join us for a guided walk to the Salt Lagoon, Town Cove and the Rift Point fur seal haul out. While one of the most notable sights on the island are the northern fur seal rookeries, Saint Paul Island is renowned as a bird watching haven.
Day 8 — St. Matthew Island, Alaska, U.S.A. Hall Island, Alaska, USA
Today you will step upon an Island few have ever even seen. Known as Alaska’s most remote location, and designated in 1909 by Teddy Roosevelt as one of America’s first wildlife refuges, St. Matthew’s will be yours to explore together with your Expedition team. The focus today is on botany and birding. Add McKay’s Bunting, Lapland Longspur, and a myriad of other seabirds to your “life list,” as well as plants alive in purple, pink and blue hues. Another treat you may see is the adorable singing vole, endemic to St. Matthew and the largest mammal on the Island, the red fox.
During lunch the Silver Discoverer will reposition to Hall Island where we use our fleet of Zodiacs to explore the rugged coast of the uninhabited island. Here we hope to witness the vast numbers of Kittiwakes and Guillemots that make their nest on the steep cliffs. Be on the look out for Arctic Fox, Horned Puffins and Walrus that are regularly seen from the Zodiacs.
Day 9 — Provideniya, Russia (Cross the International Date Line and lose a day)
After clearance into Russia through the former Soviet military port of Provideniya, we will be treated to a traditional welcome of Vodka, black bread, and sweets before enjoying a cultural dance performance and joining our local guides for a walking tour of the town and its small museum.
Day 10 — Cape Dezhnev and Big Diomede Island, Russia
An early morning expedition by Zodiac will see us explore Cape Dezhnev, an Inuit people heritage site. At present, only a small historical village is inhabited and a monument to Russian explorer, Semyon Dezhnev, for whom the cape is named, stands there. Next is Big Diomede, located 28 miles (45 km) off Cape Dezhnev and set right in the middle of the Bering Strait. This Island, once a military base during WWII and into the Cold War, is now unpopulated, housing only a Russian weather station and a base of Russian Border guard troops. Less than one mile east lies the International Date Line between Russia and the United States. In addition to learning about the indigenous Inuit heritage we hope to encounter hauled out Walrus.
Day 11— Lorino lage & Yttygran Island, Russia
Our next two stops are located in the Providensky District of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia.
The small village of Lorino is known for its Reindeer Herding and the Chukchi people. After a short welcome ceremony, the villages will show of their skill on dog sleds, and will even offer you the chance to enjoy a ride on a sled; a short “cruise” in a local Skin boat, or participate in the regatta!
Before returning to the ship try some of the local food that the villagers will prepare.
Situated in the Bering Sea we find Yttygran Island. On approach keep a lookout for Grey Whales that are often seen in the area. Located on its northern shore is Whale Bone Alley, aptly named for its large number of carefully arranged whale skulls, whalebones and stones.
Day 12— Provideniya, Russia – Technical stop for outward clearance only
A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day’s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure and learn more about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields.
Day 13 — Nome, Alaska, USA (Cross the International Date Line and gain a day)
Following breakfast, disembark Silver Discoverer.
Explorer suite from US$8,975 per person
The Great Northern Expedition
Nome, USA to Nome, USA July 31-August 14, 2014
Expedition Highlights:
• Marvel at spectacular natural landscapes and pristine tundra.
• Travel along the historic routes of explorers and traders.
• Be on the lookout for rare wildlife including the western grey whale.
• Identify countless birds: White-fronted bean geese, Whooper Swan, Red Knot, Puffins, Auklets, Black-legged Kittiwakes, and the critically endangered Spoon billed Sandpiper.
• Photograph a variety of wildlife including the walrus reindeer, and brown bear
• Cruise and explore remote villages by Zodiac.
• Marvel at the skulls, bones and stones at Whale Bone Alley.
Day 1 — Nome, Alaska, U.S.A.
Once all guests have embarked, we depart on our spectacular 15-day, Great Northern Expedition. This afternoon you will be introduced to your expedition team and participate in the safety drill. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers, and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in the restaurant.
Day 2 — Provideniya, Russia (Cross the International Date Line and lose a day)
After clearance into Russia through the former Soviet military port of Provideniya, we will be treated to a traditional welcome of Vodka, black bread, and sweets before enjoying a cultural dance performance and joining our local guides for a walking tour of the town and its small museum.
Day 3 — Cape Dezhnev and Big Diomede Island, Russia
An early morning expedition by Zodiac will see us explore Cape Dezhnev, an Inuit people heritage site. At present, only a small historical village is inhabited and a monument to Russian explorer, Semyon Dezhnev, for whom the cape is named, stands there.
Next is Big Diomede, located 28 miles (45 km) off Cape Dezhnev and set right in the middle of the Bering Strait. This Island, once a military base during WWII and into the Cold War, is now unpopulated, housing only a Russian weather station and a base of Russian Border guard troops. Less than one mile east lays the International Date Line between Russia and the United States. Along with learning about the indigenous Inuit heritage, we hope to encounter hauled out walruses.
Day 4 — Lorino Village, Russia
Our next stop is in the Providensky District of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia.
The small village of Lorino is known for its Reindeer Herding and the Chukchi people. After a short welcome ceremony, the villages will show of their skill on dog sleds, and will even offer you the chance to enjoy a ride on a sled; a short “cruise” in a local Skin boat, or participate in the regatta!
Before returning to the ship try some of the local food that the villagers will prepare.
Day 5 — At Sea
A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day’s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure and learn more about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields.
Day 6 — Anastasia and Dezneva Bay
Anastasia is the perfect place for bird watching. Time permitting, our onboard ornithologist will offer a hike ashore to see the variety of shore birds that nest in this area. You may even have the opportunity to photograph the walruses hauled-out along the beach.
Our Zodiac fleet is at the ready to explore the region of Dezneva Bay. Some of the animal species we may spot include grey whales, walruses, reindeer, and brown bears. There’s something for our birders as well. Keep on the lookout for the white-fronted bean geese and whooper swans.
Day 7 — Mainapilgino Village and Cape Navarin
Taste local caviar and salmon, and glimpse life infused with time old traditions in the small Chukchi fishing village of Mainapilgino, set on a long spit of land along the Bering Sea. Treating us to some real Chukchi hospitality, the village ensemble will perform some of their traditional dances. Birders rejoice, the village is a breeding spot for many species of migratory birds, including Red Knot and critically endangered Spoon billed Sandpiper.
Boasting one of the most abundant seabird colonies in northeast Russia, is Cape Navarin, located in the northwestern part of the Bering Sea to the south of Anadyr. Tens of thousands of seabirds can be seen on this cape’s spectacular cliffs. Setting out on Zodiac, we will have the chance to look out for birds such as the Tufted Puffin and Black-legged Kittiwake. Another sight to see is the Walrus haul-out. If we are fortunate, we may also come across the Grey Whale, who occasionally moves through these waters.
Days 8-9 – Anadyr Bay and Anadyr Port
Located at the mouth of the Anadyr River is Anadyr Bay and Anadyr Port, the administrative centre of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Russia.
A wild time will be had at Anadyr Bay, as we go in search of Brown Bears, and Beluga and Grey Whales.
Anadyr Port however, will be tamer. We will mix with the locals at the Russian Orthodox Church, the local museum, and attend a cultural performance.
Day 10 — Kresta Bay
We will travel by Ural truck inland from the small harbor of Egvekinot across the expansive tundra, to the point where the 180 Meridian intersects the Arctic Circle. This is an incredible opportunity to experience firsthand the amazing habitat that dominates so much of Chukotka.
Day 11 — Konergino Village and Meechkin Island
Hosting us today is the small village of Konergino, located on the eastern shore of Kresta Bay, south of Egvekinot. Konergino is a reindeer-herding settlement, like other villages in the Iultinsky District of Chukotka Autonomous Okrug. The village’s name is derived from the Chukchi Kei’i'yergyn, meaning “curved valley.”
After Konergino, we venture on to Meechkin Island, where a large walrus haul-out can be found.
Day 12 — Enmelen Village and Rudera Cape
The small village of Enmelen is populated by a mixture of Chukchi and Yupik people, who support themselves through a combination of reindeer herding, and the hunting of sea mammals.
We may count on a warm welcome from villagers, who will treat us to a concert, local food, and Inuit Games.
Day 13 — Preobrazheniya Bay and Achen Lagoon
Roam the blossoming tundra with the Silversea experts in Achen Lagoon, and observe the wealth of bird life in Preobrazheniya Bay. Keep a watch for common puffins, horned puffins, and least auklets. A walk to the cliffs will reveal the fascinating panorama of the bay.
Day 14 — Provideniya, Russia – Technical stop for outward clearance only
A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day’s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure and learn more about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields.
Day 15 — Nome, Alaska, USA (Cross the International Date Line and gain a day)
Following breakfast, disembark Silver Discoverer.
Explorer suite from US$10,495
In The Footsteps Of Vitus Bering
Nome, USA to Otaru (Sapporo), Japan August 14 – September 1, 2014
Expedition Highlights:
• Visit the very remote Russian Far East.
• Marvel at spectacular natural landscapes, pristine tundra and massive volcanoes.
• Travel along the historic routes of explorers and traders.
• Meet the indigenous Chukchi, Aleut and Koryak peoples .
• Be on the lookout for grey whales, reindeer, Arctic fox and brown bears.
• Photograph walrus haul-outs and black lava beaches.
• Identify countless birds including puffins, guillemots, cormorants, Steller’s sea eagle,
Brown-headed thrush, Siberian Ruby throats, Alder-thickets, Black-legged kittiwakes, and Crested or Whiskered Auklets.
• Fly to the Valley of the Geysers in the Kronotsky Nature Reserve on an optional helicopter excursion.
• Cruise and explore by Zodiac, watching for sea otters at play in the surrounding waters.
• See northern fur seals and Steller sea lions in their natural habitat.
Day 1 — Nome, Alaska, U.S.A.
Once all guests have embarked, we depart on our spectacular 15-day, In the Footsteps of Vitus Bering expedition. This afternoon you will be introduced to your expedition team and participate in the safety drill. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers, and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.
Day 2 — Provideniya, Russia (Cross the International Date Line and lose a day)
Though today is technically considered Day 2 of our voyage, it is one very long day that includes crossing the International Date Line and approximately 19 hours cruising the Bering Sea before we arrive in Russia and the former Soviet military port of Provideniya. This coastal area is the easternmost point of the Chukotka region. After making our first shore landing by Zodiac, we will be treated to a cultural dance performance and join our local guides for a walking tour of the town and its small museum.
Days 3–5 — Chukotka Province, Russia
Today we begin our exploration of Russia’s remote northeast, specifically the land of the indigenous Chukchi people. Our adventures will be determined by weather, sea and wildlife conditions. So, in the true spirit of expedition cruising, we embrace this flexibility and pursue the best possible opportunities the day provides. Here are some of the places we hope to visit:
Gabriel Bay
Today we take a hike among the wetlands that dot the coastline, revealing the wildflowers that carpet the tundra, such as forget-me-nots and dwarf azaleas. The animals here regularly move between locations, so finding them is a matter of luck. However, we will be on the look out for walruses, brown bears and Beluga whales.
Dezneva Bay
We plan to cruise and explore this region by Zodiac, hoping to spot many of its animal species, which include grey whales, walrus, reindeer and brown bears. Birders will be on the lookout for white-fronted bean geese and whooper swans.
Lavrova Bay
Go ashore by Zodiac for nature walks amid a landscape surrounded by conical peaks and jagged cliffs, separated by valleys with waterfalls and tumbling streams.
Day 6 — Verkhoturova Island and Tymlat Village, Russia
A short hike up to the cliff tops of Verkhoturov will expose us to a magnificent seabird colony with fantastic views of Tufted Puffins, Brünnich’s Guillemot, Pelagic Cormorants and Black-legged Kittiwakes.
Located in the Russian Far East on the Tymlat River that flows into the Bering Sea, is the Tymlat village. Arriving on Zodiac, we will be treated to some local hospitality and a sampling of their food, which includes: salmon, navaga (a member of the cod family), herring, and caviar. The renowned cultural group, “Mengo”, may even treat us to a performance of folk songs and dance.
Day 7 — Karaginskiy Island, Russia
Our proposed landing site is a patchwork of boggy tundra, ponds, and shingle spits. Mostly uninhabited, this is a great site to view an interesting range of waders including the Pacific Golden Plover, Red-necked Stint and Red-necked Phalarope.
Day 8 — Komander Islands, Bering Sea
The Komander Islands are named after famed commander Vitus Bering who had been commissioned by the Russian Tsar to search for a land bridge between Asia and America. Again, our experiences will be determined by weather, wildlife and sea conditions. Here are some of the places we hope to visit:
Cap Severo-Zapadnyi
Cruising by Zodiac we will get close to the many horned and tufted puffins.
Nikolskoye
Established in 1826 by fur traders, this fishing village on Bering Island has a small museum where we will learn about the Aleut people and their culture. During our visit we will enjoy a concert and be entertained by a presentation of local games.
Days 9–10 — Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia
Scenic bays, picturesque waterfalls, and the rugged crater landscape of extinct volcanoes are characteristic of the panorama that awaits us. Here are some of the places we hope to visit:
Kamenistaya Bay
Here we will have a chance to walk in the meadows and see the amazing landscape of extinct volcanoes and rugged coves.
Chazma River
Follow the lead of the Expedition Team on a nature hike to the area’s hot springs. Birders will be keen to spot at least one Steller’s sea eagle – a species known to frequent this area, and incredibly impressive simply for its sheer size.
Morzovaya Bay
Be on the lookout for the Kamchatka brown bears that often can be seen along the bank of the river that flows into the bay. Here we can also see an abandoned trapper’s hut and an old Japanese shipwreck.
Zhupanova River
By cruising the river with our highly maneuverable Zodiacs, we will have the ability to stop and go ashore wherever we expect to find the best birding and nature walks. Heading upstream, we are likely to spot up to 40 different bird species and may even see brown bears fishing for salmon in the river.
Day 11 — Pertropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy, Russia
Petropavlovsk is the only major city on the peninsula and one of the oldest towns in the Russian Far East. It is also the scientific and cultural centre of the region, and today we see just why that is, as our local guides take us on a comprehensive tour of the city’s highlights. We will visit the museum of ethnography and natural history, the art school, the gold-domed Orthodox cathedral and the marketplace.
As an exciting alternative to the complimentary city tour, guests have the option to book a helicopter excursion to the Valley of the Geysers in the Kronotsky Nature Reserve. These natural hot springs are a truly impressive spectacle and the steaming clouds of mist make it easy to understand why the indigenous people consider the valley an important sacred site.
Days 12–15 — Kuril Islands, Russia
This chain of volcanic islands stretches over 800 miles from the southern tip of the Kamchatka peninsula to the north-easternmost point of Japan, where the archipelago is instead known as the Chishima Islands. As we travel southward, here are some of the places we hope to visit:
Shumshu Island
Watch sea otters at play in the waters surrounding our Zodiacs, and observe the activities of the many cormorants that reside in the harbor-side bird cliffs.
Atlasova Island
At a height of over 2,000 metres, Alaid is the highest volcano in the Kurils. Together with our expedition staff we land by Zodiac on the black lava beach of the island, from where we will begin our walk to see the remains of the Taketomi tufa cone.
Lovyshki Islands
The clusters of rocks that comprise this island group are home to huge populations of sea mammals and birds. At Skala Luvushkky we will go in search of northern fur seals and Steller sea lions and hope to get good views of the pigeon guillemots that often swim around the rocky outcrops of the islands.
Matua Island
Matua is home to one of the Kuril’s most active volcanoes, with more than 14 documented eruptions in the past 250 years. We will learn about the Japanese military base that was set up here during WWII and how the Japanese used to capture geothermal heat from the volcano to keep the runway, which normally freezes over during winter, permanently usable. Hikers will be rewarded with good views of the abandoned military positions and hopefully get a glimpse of the island’s population of Brown-headed thrush, Siberian Ruby throats and Alder thickets.
Yankitcka Island
Yankitcka is a fascinating place. It is actually a sinking volcanic caldera, accessible only by Zodiac and only during high tide. Once inside the magnificent lagoon, we can still see – in the fumarole fields and hot springs – traces of the tremendous forces that created the island long ago. The island is also home to thousands of crested auklets and (if we are lucky) we may also catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox or even the rare and elusive whiskered auklets during our nature walks.
Chirpoy Island
Huge numbers of fulmars, kittawakes, puffins, auklets and Steller sea lions are regularly seen in the area surrounding Chirpoy, and we will have the best opportunity to see them all by exploring with our Zodiacs.
Days 16–17 — Sea of Okhotsk, Russia
Tyuleniy Island
Located off the East coast of Sakhalin Island in the Sea of Okhotsk, we can witness a natural paradise – this small island (only 2 sq. km) is an ideal place to observe large colonies (over 250,000) of northern fur seals and Steller sea lions, as well as tens of thousands of common guillemots and Black-legged Kittiwakes that have made their nests in the cliffs above.
Korsakov, Russia
This port once served as a penal colony and achieved literary fame after a travel report by Anton Chekhov. We will have just enough time to get a glimpse of this city during a brief morning excursion before returning to the Silver Discoverer and beginning the process of immigration clearance out of Russia.
Day 18 — Otaru, Japan
After breakfast, disembark the Silver Discoverer.
Explorer suite from US$12,775 per person
Primorsky Krai To Ryukyu
Otaru (Sapporo), Japan to Keelung, Taiwan September 1-16, 2014
Expedition Highlights:
• Ceremonies and performances by the locals, such as the traditional Cossack song and dance.
• Visits to military and historical museums, including the highly regarded Arsenyev Regional History Museum.
• Vladivostok Railway Station – terminal of the Trans-Siberian railroad.
• Board a C-56 WWII submarine.
• Peer into Mt. Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan.
• Tour Kumamoto Castle.
• Behold Buddhasugi, a 2500 year old cedar and the massive 400 year old Sakishimasuou tree, the largest of its kind in Japan.
• Explore the Ryukyus ( Okinawa ) Islands.
Day 1 — Otaru, Japan
Embark the Silver Discoverer for this stunning Silversea Expedition – Primorsky Krai to Ryukyu. This afternoon, you will be introduced to your Expedition Team and attend a safety briefing, and tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.
Day 2 — Korsakov (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Sakhalin Island, Russia
Today we clear into Russia. Time permitting, we will explore part of this city founded in 1853 as Sakhalin’s first Russian military post. From here we drive to Yuzhno‐Sakhalinsk, the capital of the island. Founded as a small Russian settlement in the 1880s, the city became a Japanese prefect capital when the southern half of Sakhalin was declared a Japanese colony in 1905; after WWII it was returned to Russia. Highlights include a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, the Regional Museum housed in an impressive former Japanese mansion, and the bustling market. We’ll also celebrate with the locals and enjoy a performance of traditional Cossack song and dance.
Day 3 — At Sea
A leisurely day at sea to exchange notes with fellow travellers and take advantage of the luxurious amenities aboard Silver Discoverer. Help our birders spot some of the seabirds found far away from their nesting grounds. Enjoy a lecture, an interesting book, or just relax in the comfort of your suite and watch a movie on the in-suite interactive television.
Days 4 — Olga Bay, Russia
Today we arrive by Zodiacs at Olga Bay, located in the Sea of Japan, at the East coast of Primorsky Krai. Olga Bay is quite calm and inviting at only (11 km long, 4 km wide). Upon arrival we will be treated to a ceremonial greeting by the locals, after which a visit to the local lore museum is in store.
Day 5 — Petrov & Zakatnaya, Russia
Join your Expedition Team for a walk across the wide tundra valleys where once – ages ago – stood an enormous glacier.
Days 6-7 — Vladivostok, Russia
Charming and picturesque, Vladivostok will draw you in with its unique nature, lovely sceneries, military-historical monuments and shade of sea romance. Take in the culture and history of the area as we visit the Vladivostok Railway Station – terminal of the Trans-Siberian railroad, the C-56 WWII submarine on the harbor embankment, and the highly regarded Arsenyev Regional History Museum.
Day 8-9 — At Sea
A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day’s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure and learn more about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields.
Day 10 — Kumamoto, Japan
From emerald fields to architectural wonders of a time past, Kumamoto is a real treat for the eyes. We’ll begin our day at Mt. Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, as well as one of the largest in the world. Taking the ropeway cable car, we’ll arrive at the top of the mountain for an up close view of the caldera, which measures 75 miles in circumference. After a delicious lunch, we’ll head to the awe-inspiring Kumamoto Castle for a tour of this magnificent structure.
Day 11 — Yakushima, Japan
As if out of a storybook, the island of Yakushima, famous for its “Yaku-sugi,” cedars more than 1000 years old, will fill you with childlike wonder. On our hiking tour through Yakusugi land park, we will pass through the groves of ancient Yaku-sugi where Buddhasugi, a 2500 year old cedar mightily stands. The Yaku-sugi and indigenous fauna earned the island a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1993.
Day 12 — Motobu, Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa is a typical Japanese subtropical region with a warm climate where cherry blossoms bloom in late January, and the swimming season lasts from April to October. There are more than sixty islands between the main island, Okinawa, in the North and Yonaguni Island at the southwestern end.
Once called Ryukyus, these Islands were unified into a kingdom in the 12th century, while a dynasty was established in the 15th century by the Sho Clan. In the 17th century, the Islands had come into the joint possession of China and Shimazu Clan of Japan. Later, the region became a prefecture of Japan.
Today we explore the Yambaru Discovery Forest. Here, you will walk along the nature trail with a local guide for about 1.5 hours. At the beginning of the trail, you will see a small traditional house with a thatched roof. The house was relocated from the small village of Kunigami, which is located in the north of this forest. If you are lucky, you will see some indigenous species such as, Ishikawa frogs, hanasaki frogs, and some of the migratory birds that stop by this area in winter.
Day 13 — Miyako-Jima, Japan
320km southwest of the Main Island of Okinawa, this Miyako-Jima Island is the largest of the eight islands of the Miyako Island Chain. The island bears many historical relics and beautiful white sandy beaches including Maehama, Painagama, Sunakawa, and Shigira Beach.
A scenic drive tour and glass bottom boat ride are the best ways to experience Miyako-Jima, mostly known as one of the world’s best diving destinations. Plenty of photo opportunities will also be had at Higashihennazaki Cape and Ikema Ohashi Bridge.
Day 14 — Iriomote-Jima and Taketomi Island, Japan
Often known as the Galapagos of Japan, Iriomote-Jima is one of today’s wonderful treats. Unique animals such as the Iriomote wildcat and crested eagle, along with the various and rare flora and fauna indigenous to the island will dazzle. A one-hour mangrove cruise tour is one of the best ways to see the Island, and features the massive 400 year old Sakishimasuou tree, the largest of it kind in the country.
We continue on to Taketomi Island. The many hibiscus and deigo flowers fascinate as they create an unforgettable colour scenario. The Ryūkyū village, at only 9 km, is a National Traditional Architecture Preservation District. This beautiful village boasts houses topped with red clay roofs, coral stone garden walls, and sandy streets. A water buffalo carriage tour will move us slowly through the quaint village.
Day 15 — Hualien, Taiwan
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