FGSCruise2015: Destination Tracy Arm Fjord

Nestled between 3,000-foot-high granite walls, the narrow, twisting slice of ocean called Tracy Arm Fjord weaves through the Tongass National Forest for roughly 35 miles. The shoreline is spotted with waterfalls created by melting snowcaps and trees sprouting at odd angles from rocky outcroppings.



Tracy Arm, a classic fjord, has it all: snow-capped peaks, shear rock palisades, rainbows and tidewater glaciers. Some of the rock formations are shiny smooth from years of glacier wear, plunging almost vertically into the water that is a thousand feet deep.



Drift among icebergs and waterfalls that cascade thousands of feet for the most close-up view of Sawyer Glacier. Watch for bergs shearing off the snout of the glacier, creating dramatic waves that travel for miles.



You'll see incredible mountains and emerald green water, and be able to watch for whales, bear, eagles, mountain goats, and seals. These are the sights you don’t want to miss!

The FGS 2015 Alaskan Cruise will offer a full genealogy conference during sea days that does not encroach on time to enjoy mainland excursions. Register for the cruise at https://www.fgsconference.org/cruise/.

FGSCruise2015: Cruising the Alaska Inside Passage

The FGS Alaskan cruise sets sail on August 28, 2015, departing from Seattle.  After a full day of cruising, the ship will reach the Alaska Inside Passage on August 30 for a day of sightseeing aboard the ship.

Millions of years ago, southbound glaciers carved out the Inside Passage, leaving majestic fjords, islands and bays in their wake. Icebergs that have drifted from the Tracy and Endicott Arms can be seen floating in Stephens Passage.

Alaska's Inside Passage is awash with pristine water mountain views. From the lush greenery of Tongass National Forest—the world's largest and northernmost temperate coastal rainforest—to the brilliant blue glaciers, you'll see jaw-dropping beauty everywhere you look.

A cruise among the fjords and islands takes you into prime habitat for bald eagles and sea lions.  There is a major sea lion rookery on the mainland, and they can often be seen sleeping on buoys.  Humpback whales like to breach in the passage, so keep an eye out for them, as well as orcas.

The Inside Passage is home to the totem poles of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Indians. This area has seen many Russian setters, prospectors, lumberjacks, and fishermen in years past—all have added to the tapestry of this area's history.

Don’t miss out on seeing these beautiful sights!  The cruise will also offer a full genealogy conference at times during sea days when there are not sights to be seen.  Register for the cruise at https://www.fgsconference.org/cruise.