Drift silently by raft through the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve — home to the world's largest concentration of bald eagles — then step into Haines for a guided introduction to living Tlingit culture at one of Southeast Alaska's most authentic Indigenous communities.
What to expect
The fast ferry skims across Lynn Canal in under an hour, eagles wheeling overhead even on the crossing. At Haines, you board a raft on the Chilkat River and drift through cottonwood forest corridors where eagles perch in their hundreds, unfazed by quiet human observers. Your guide explains the salmon cycle that draws them here and the Tlingit spiritual relationship with the eagle clan. Afternoon time in Haines allows exploration of Fort William H. Seward's historic buildings and a visit to a local artisan.
Good to know
The ferry departs Skagway's main dock; book the fast ferry directly at alaskafjordlines.com and the float separately at chilkatguides.com. Allow at least 6–7 hours total. Late-season (Oct–Dec) sees peak eagle concentrations, but summer visits still offer impressive numbers. Waterproof layers are essential on the raft.