A secluded bay with dramatic glacier views.
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Overview
Icy Bay is a spectacular glacial bay located in the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska, USA. It is a dynamic and relatively new geological feature, having only recently opened up due to the dramatic retreat of the immense Bering, Malaspina, and Guyot Glaciers over the last century. This retreat has revealed a stunning landscape of deep fjords, towering ice walls, and newly exposed land.
Icy Bay is a pristine and incredibly remote wilderness, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the raw power of glaciers, observe abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife, and experience a truly untouched corner of Alaska. It is a destination almost exclusively explored by small expedition cruise ships and specialized tours, making it a unique and unforgettable natural spectacle.
The primary draw of Icy Bay is the chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of glacial calving. As the vessel approaches the towering ice face of one of the tidewater glaciers (like Guyot or Yahtse), immense chunks of ice break off, crashing into the water with thunderous roars, creating dramatic splashes and waves.
Tip: Position yourself on an open deck with a clear view. Have your camera ready, but also take time to simply absorb the monumental sight and sound. Patience is key, as calving is unpredictable.
Enjoy hours of dedicated scenic cruising through the ice-choked waters of Icy Bay. Navigate among countless icebergs, ranging from massive bergs to small "bergy bits," marveling at their sculpted forms and varying shades of blue.
Tip: The ship will typically perform a 360-degree turn to ensure all passengers get panoramic views. Bring binoculars for closer inspection of ice features and distant wildlife.
Icy Bay is teeming with wildlife. Keep a keen eye out for harbor seals lounging on ice floes, sea otters floating on their backs, and various seabirds. The bay is also a fantastic spot for viewing humpback whales and occasionally orca (killer whales). On land, you might spot brown bears foraging on the newly exposed shorelines or mountain goats on distant cliffs.
Tip: Utilize the onboard naturalists or expedition team for guidance on spotting wildlife and understanding the ecosystem. Binoculars are essential.
If traveling on an expedition cruise, take advantage of the opportunity for kayaking or Zodiac (inflatable boat) cruises among the icebergs. This allows for an incredibly intimate and low-impact experience, getting much closer to the ice and wildlife (at a safe distance).
Tip: Dress in multiple layers, including waterproof outer shells. Follow all instructions from your experienced guides for safety in this dynamic environment.
Benefit from the expertise of onboard naturalists, geologists, and park rangers who provide insightful commentary and lectures throughout the day. They can explain the geological processes of glacial retreat, the ecology of the bay, and the history of the region.
Tip: Attend any educational presentations offered; they greatly enhance the understanding and appreciation of this unique place.
Capture the incredible scale, dramatic blue ice, and ever-changing light of the glacial landscapes through photography. The monumental ice walls, floating icebergs, and rugged mountains offer endless opportunities for stunning shots.
Tip: A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. Be prepared for mist and spray from calving events.
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Seward, Alaska
6 Sailings
Jun 10 - Aug 19, 2027
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Seattle, Washington
1 Sailing
May 27, 2027
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
14 Sailings
May 28, 2026 - Aug 26, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Silver Whisper
From
Vancouver, British Columbia
7 Sailings
May 28 - Aug 20, 2026
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