Wildlife and Culture Tour of Prince of Wales Island
Tour of Prince of Wales Island, Alaska + Alexander Archipelago Wolf Study
To Benefit the Alaska Wildlife Alliance
May 30 - June 06, 2026
Tour of Prince of Wales Island and
Alexander Archipelago Wolf Study
7 Days - 6 Nights
May 30 - June 05, 2026
$7550.00 No Single supplement
Small Group, Max 4 Guests
10% of your ticket cost is a tax-deductible donation in your name to
Alaska Wildlife Alliance
Our Tour of Prince of Wales Island
Prince of Wales Island is the largest of the Alexander Archipelago islands of the inside passage. Map: ©Russia Olinchuk
Prince of Wales, the largest of the Alexander Archipelago islands, is about the size of New Jersey.
The Island is home to about 5,000 human residents, Sitka deer, found only in old-growth forests, black bear, and the fascinating, island-hopping Alexander Archipelago Grey Wolf.
It is also ground zero for the ongoing three-pronged debate on wolf, Sitka deer, and old-growth timber logging.
This debate spurred a 10-year study on the habits of these unusual wolves. Among the questions being researched are: How many wolves are actually on the islands? Are they eating all the Sitka deer? If not, what are they preying on? And where?
Our expedition will follow the lead scientist as she collects physical samples and trail-cam images for her ongoing study to determine the size of the wolf population and what they are preying on.
We will overnight in Ketchikan, Alaska, a small town steeped in history, then ferry across the storied Inside Passage to Prince of Wales Island and our wolf study expedition.
Highlights of our Tour
. Image: ©Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven
Detailed Tour Itinerary
Alexander Archipelago Wolf Study and Indigenous Culture
on Prince of Wales Island
Day 1
Arrival Day! Saturday, (May 30, 2026)
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska
We will gather in this storied town on the inside passage, check into our hotel and enjoy our welcome dinner.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Accommodation: The Inn at Creek Street
Day 2:
Sunday, (May 31, 2026)
Ketchikan to Prince of Wales Island
This morning, we will enjoy an early breakfast near our hotel, after, we will have a few hours to explore Ketchikan.
After lunch, we will head to the ferry dock for our 3 PM ferry to Prince of Wales Island. The ferry ride is about 3 hours through a very beautiful country. We are going crosswise, west, through the inside passage.
We will pass many small islands where the Tongass Rainforest, the last old-growth temperate Sitka Spruce rainforest in North America, is in full view - so are the clear-cut scars and sections of new growth. This old-growth clearcutting has been a contentious debate for decades. The Trump administration is pushing to overturn the Roadless Act that has protected some of the last old-growth tracts. Read this article to understand what is happening
We may see marine life, including whales (humpback) and porpoises. The ferry has a full cafe (no alcohol) on board.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Fireweed Lodge, Prince of Wales, Alaska
Gathering wolf hair for DNA analysis on Prince of Wales Island. Image: ©Roberta Kravette
Days 3, 4, and 5:
Monday - Wednesday, (June 01 - 03, 2026)
After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, we will pack our lunches at the Fireweed’s picnic lunch fixings bar and head out to meet Kayla Fratt to observe and help her in the wolf study sample gathering. Kayla will have her specially trained scat dog with her. We will check the trail cams to count and study wolf captures, and monitor other species using the area. Hopefully, we will see documentation of a wolf predation event.
There will be two days on land and one on open water, depending on the weather.
During the open-water day, we will visit some of the other islands that the wolves are known or thought to inhabit. We will disembark (please note, there is no dock, we will get wet), following trails for signs of wolves, collecting evidence for DNA testing, and checking trail cams.
While on the water, we will also look for returning humpback whales and their calves, orca, dolphins, and sea otters.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Fireweed Lodge
Day 6:
Thursday (June 04, 2026
Today, we will explore the island together, perhaps learning more about the Island’s thriving Haida or Tlingit cultures.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation:
Day 7
Ketchikan, Alaska : ©Adelaipenguin
Friday (June 05
This morning, we will rise early, leaving for the ferry at about 6:00 AM to be at the boat the requisite 1 hour before the 8 AM ferry to Ketchikan. We may have breakfast - or a second breakfast on the ferry.
Once in Ketchikan, we will drop our bags at the hotel reception. Our rooms may not be ready until 3 PM, but I have requested early check-in - fingers crossed.
We will have some time to explore the shops and the area a bit, and have lunch.
Tours are possible, for example, a 3-hour guided tour run by the Haida people, available at 2 PM or 4 PM. Or we can explore the city as the spirit moves us.
Meals B,L,D
Accommodations:
Tourists learning about Haida Long House in Ketchikan. Alaska
Day 8 :
Saturday, (June 06)
This morning, after an early Breakfast at the hotel, we will head off to the ferry, which will take us to the airport to begin our flights home with hearts and minds full of a new understanding of the Alexander Archipelago wolves and the wonder of Prince of Wales Island.
Meals: Breakfast
Sunrise on a Maui Beach Image Billy McDonald
Accommodations
Our Accommodations
Image thanks to Residence Inn Wailea
1 The Inn at Creek Street
The Inn at Creek Street is actually many small properties on the historic Creek Street, once the red-light district in Ketchikan's historic downtown.
“Near Port of Ketchikan, The Inn at Creek Street is in the heart of Ketchikan, within a 10-minute walk of Stedman–Thomas Historic District and Port of Ketchikan. This hotel is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Creek Street and 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Dolly's House Museum. Stay in one of 26 guestrooms featuring Smart televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include coffee/tea makers and portable fans, and housekeeping is provided daily. Satisfy your appetite at The New York Cafe, a café which features a bar/lounge. Dining is also available at the coffee shop/cafe.”
The INN is actually eight small properties in the historic district. Read More
2. Fireweed
A family-owned and operated lodge for three generations, the Fireweed is a noted fishing lodge, not surprising since most tourists arrive on the Island for fishing or hunting. Owners Josh and Chase pride themselves on running a comfortable, welcoming lodge that the entire family can enjoy.
What to Expect
What to Expect on Prince of Wales Island
The lush Tongass temperate rainforest provides a beautiful frame of this view of the Inside Passage. Image: ©Roberta Kravette
-
• Accommodations at hotels noted on the itinerary or equal
• Inter-island ferry between Ketchikan and Prince of Wales Island round trip.
• Ferry to and from the airport in Ketchikan
• Meals: Some breakfasts or lunches may be picnic style. We will be enjoying dinner at the Fireweed.
• Transportation on the island will be in a Chevy Suburban
• One day, a private boat with a captain for use with Kayla and Michael for wolf research.
-
• Flight to Ketchikan, Alaska
• Excess baggage fees on flights between islands
• Trip Insurance fees
• Laundry services
• Items of a personal nature
• Gratuities
-
Theme: Alexander Archipelago Wolf Study and Introduction to Haida Culture
Trip Duration: 7 Nights / 8 Days
Trip Type: Exploratory expedition to Prince of Wales Island to meet with and help, as much as possible, the head research scientist in her DNA study of Alexander Archipelago wolves.
Service Level: Good
Activity level: Walking, moderate hiking on uneven ground and elevation gain. Slippery conditions may be encountered. Note: When we are on the water, there are no docks. We will be in water, wading to shore.
-
► Activity Level: Moderate - expect to walk/hike and some elevation gain on uneven ground. Possibly wet or slippery conditions
► Weather and Temperature Changes: Weather in May and June is cool. Expect temperature ranges from low 40’s to 60 degrees. Expect rain and wet conditions, although this is considered the “dry season”, we will be in a temperate rainforest.
► Drinking water: Precious clean drinking water is essential to all life. Please bring a refillable personal container for daytime use.
► Single-Use Plastics: The policy at Destination: Wildlife is to ban or limit Single-Use Plastics on our tours, as much as possible. That includes beverage bottles, plastic bags, containers, single-use straws, etc. Clean drinking water will be available in the vehicle. Please bring your own refillable water container.
► Group Size: 2-3 guests, plus your host from Destination: Wildlife, and a professional naturalist guide.
► Packing: Pack as lightly as possible in one soft-sided bag plus your carry-on. A packing list will be provided.
► Recommended Equipment: binoculars, camera, short lens, long lens, personal, reusable water bottle or canteen, insect repellent, sunscreen, and hat. A walking stick can be useful.
► Travel insurance: ** Travel insurance is mandatory ** Ask us about the best policy for your needs.
The view from the banks of one of the Alexander Archipelago of the inside passage. Image: ©Roberta Kravette
Travel Insurance
For all Destination: Wildlife tours, guests must have a minimum level of travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies. We highly recommend comprehensive travel protection for your tour. If you decide against Travel insurance, you must sign a waiver of release before departure. Travel insurance may cover you for cancellations due to illness, lost baggage, missed flights, and other unexpected events. Please see our cancellation policy on our General Terms and Conditions page.
Important note: Most travel insurance does not cover preexisting conditions unless purchased within 14 days of the initial deposit (7 days for some carriers). A pre-existing condition can be anything from an allergy to a back problem to high blood pressure. We highly recommend purchasing your travel insurance immediately after making a deposit. Additionally, if your job, business, or the condition of a family member may cause you to cancel after your deposit, ask about specific plans to help protect your investment.
Please contact us if you need assistance.
Terms and Conditions
Your deposit holds your spot. We strongly recommend Travel Insurance.
Due to the nature of our tours, no refunds are available once a tour has started or for any package, accommodation, meals, or other services included. We understand that sometimes, even the most eagerly anticipated plans may need to be canceled. We strongly recommend that every traveler purchase travel insurance. Cancellation Policy.
Cancellation: More than 120 Days
Forfeiture of 10% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.
Cancellation 120 to 90 Days
Forfeiture of 50% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
Cancellation 90 or Less
Forfeiture of 100% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
*Where another guest fills the space, a portion of your fees may be eligible for an additional partial refund, subject to Destination: Wildlife's sole and exclusive discretion.
Please Note: No chasing, touching, riding, feeding, or otherwise interfering with wildlife's natural behavior is permitted. Such actions at any time during the tour period will result in the violator being removed from the tour without refund, and at their own expense.
Making a Difference
How Your Trip Makes A Difference
How Your Trip Helps Wolves and Biodiversity on Prince of Wales Island, Alaska
This trip helps to support an ongoing study of the Alexander Archipelago Grey Wolf, their prey habits, and population numbers on Prince of Wales Island and the surrounding islands in Alaska’s Inside Passage.
10% of your trip cost is a tax-deductible donation in your name to a 501(C)(3) organization dedicated to the conservation of wolves
Reviews
Reviews for Destination: Wildlife
Read more reviews for Destination: Wildlife’s Unforgettable Journeys that Do Good!
Liz G, New York State
Southern Spain Birding and Culture, 2025
The GBT [Grassland Bird Trust] trips are a sparkling jewel that lights up our year. Each day was totally different and totally wonderful. Nacho was amazing -full of knowledge, tireless, sensitive to individuals’ needs and skills. I constantly marveled at his vocabulary. He totally understood our humor, and I felt he liked our group a lot. I feel we get very personal attention with Destination Wildlife, and the group size is terrific.
Isabella, K, Illinois
Winter Wolf Watching and Learning in Yellowstone, 2025
On a scale of 1 to 10
10, I’ve already been bragging to everyone.
What was your favorite part of the trip?
..my heart’s/soul’s desire was to visually experience a Wolf in the wild, simply being Wolf, and this trip afforded me that.
Is there anything Destination: Wildlife could have done to improve your experience?
For me, the trip, as a whole, was perfect. From the L&C in Bozeman (best beds ever!!) and all points in between. I can find no fault. I must say, the people that made up the group, less included, were the best 💖 What a fortunate stroke of serendipity as a group’s makeup can easily make or break a trip.
Cara was magnificent, I couldn't imagine a better guide!! How fortunate we were! Exceeded expectations.
Roberta R., New York
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
Exceed - Roger was amazing… talented, professional, passionate about his work, skilled, kind, helpful in every way, and a good sense of humor.
Cathy H., Maryland
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
It was a 10+. Communication was great. I feel taken care of on your trips.
Kathy R., New York
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
We were so impressed with Destination Wildlife's meticulous organizational skills as well as the wonderful choice of lodges. Marc (the guide) more than exceeded our expectations. What was your favorite part of the trip? Seeing new birds for the first time with all of our new friends on the trip.
John C., Connecticut
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
[What was your favorite moment?] I am at a loss, as the whole trip was filled with so many memorable moments. One just has to go and see, and they’ll understand. The guides were more than expected and so knowledgeable in so many other areas. Roberta, Les, and Destination Wildlife met my expectations 100%. The whole experience for me was a 10.
Kate S, New York state
Birding in Costa Rica
10, it was an amazing trip (Please rate from 1- worst to 10 – best)
Liz and Alan G, New York state:
Birding Costa Rica and Private Sail Cruise 2021
We are in awe of the care that you took to make our trip successful. The attention to detail and your ready availability when things didn’t go as planned. Your excitement as our trip progressed and the supervision to the very end to make sure everything turned out alright. Thank you for all that you do. Liz & Alan
Noreen Q, New York State
Exploring Women’s Winter Wolf Trek
The trip was fabulous and couldn't have been much better. My one suggestion is around the Zoom call. I was impressed that you did a Zoom call rather than just sending a gear list - it is an example of how much personal attention you devoted to us.