Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I get to Sitka?
A: Alaska Airlines and Delta offer daily flights to and from Seattle. Upon arrival, a Takeena Adventures crew member will transport you and your group to the vessel.
Q:What should I pack for my Alaskan excursion?
A: This packing list a good guideline to use to not pack too much or too little ~
• Layers are very important in Alaska. Pack multiple layers of short sleeve shirts, long sleeves, vests, fleece, and a lightly insulated jacket.
• Pants: both cozy pants to lounge around the boat in and outdoor pants for excursions. Jeans, fleece pants, etc. are fine.
• Bathing Suit for the hot springs or those daring souls that want to swim in our cold waters.
• Shoes: tennis shoes are fine, we suggest a water-proof or water-resistant outdoor shoe for beach excursions, hikes, (keens, bogs, etc.) We also provide the tried-and-true Xtratuf rubber boot. These are truly the best all-around option for Southeast Alaska’s outdoor activities.
• Rain apparel: lightweight pull-over rain pants and jacket for outdoor excursions on rainy days. We provide fishing raingear but you may find your own to be more comfortable on shoreside excursions.
• Lightweight gloves for those chillier days
• Any personal fishing rods/reels/tackle. We have all equipment needed but if you have some items you would like to use/try while afield we encourage you to bring it.
• We provide toiletries/linens just like a hotel would: such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, hand soaps, towels, hand towels, wash clothes, we suggest you bring other items needed.
• We request that our guests use duffels or soft-sided luggage for ease of storage while aboard.
• The boats are equipped with 110v outlets throughout.
• Sunglasses for those beautiful sunny days on the water!
• Binoculars, although we have some aboard too for your enjoyment
• Cameras, batteries, extra memory cards
Q:Do I need to buy a fishing license and/or king stamp?
A: Your fishing license, king stamp, and shrimp permit will be waiting for you to sign upon arrival and is included in excursion package.
Q:Is there a chance of Sea-sickness?
A: For our regular 5 day excursions we travel in protected waters as well as on the open ocean so sea-sickness needs to be addressed and preventative meds should be taken by those guests that are prone to motion sickness. For those that are particularly sensitive; we suggest the “3 day patches” or a product called “Gravol”, which is a time released tablet that has shown great results. Please be sure to bring an adequate amount for the duration of your excursion.
Q: What types of wildlife can we expect to see on our excursion?
A: Within our operating area, we have a plethora of birds, bears, and marine mammals. We have several remote islands which have tens of thousands of nesting seabirds that are truly a natural wonder to view in person. Several species of whales and porpoise are our nearly constant companions with their habits and behaviour always incredible. Bears are frequently seen grazing on beach grasses and salmon in the creeks later in the summer. If bear viewing is a MUST please inquire about trip dates as to make sure you are aboard during our peak salmon run dates. Wildlife is our strong suit and we would love to share them all with you!
Q: Are there laundry facilities onboard our boat?
A: Yes, we have laundry facilities. Our crew is happy to take care of your laundry requirements while you are on board. If possible, we try to minimize the use of the washing machine to save fresh-water.
Q: Is there Wi-fi or cell phone service onboard?
A: There is no Wi-Fi on the Takeena nor is there reliable cell phone service while underway. There is cell service while in port in Sitka. The vessel is equipped with a satellite phone for emergency situations.
Q: Should I bring my kids?
A: An Alaska yacht cruise can certainly be a family affair. Kids will enjoy the adventurous activities and parents will love the educational aspects of the trip. Our flexible itineraries and excursion options ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the voyage.
Q: Can you accommodate special meal requests?
A: Our dedication to providing truly customized trips extends to the dining room. If you have special dietary needs or allergies, our chef is happy to prepare delicious meals that accommodate any dietary restrictions, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten intolerant or nut allergies. Just talk with us about your needs when you book your custom excursion.
Q: Is it light all the time during the summer?
A: Known as the “land of the midnight sun,” Alaska experiences long periods of daylight in April through September, with the longest day of the year on June 21, summer solstice. The amount of daylight depends on where you are and when you are traveling, but in the height of summer, you can step out on deck at 11 p.m. and have splendid views of Alaska’s pristine scenery and abundant wildlife.
