UnCruise to More Than Double Aleutian Islands Capacity in 2028
The 1976-built Wilderness Explorer is being renovated in Seattle with steel work, a new water-maker and updates to its galley, lounge, bar and dining room.
UnCruise Adventures will more than double capacity on its “Aleutian Islands Adventure with Dutch Harbor & Kodiak” itinerary in 2028, replacing the 36-guest Safari Explorer with the 74-guest Wilderness Explorer. The U.S.-flagged operator will run eight 10-night sailings between Seward and Dutch Harbor in both directions, from June 2 through August 15.
The vessel change will provide up to 592 guest berths across the 2028 program. UnCruise introduced overnight cruises in the region in 2025, and departures have sold out within days each year.
“There is strong demand for this type of adventure exploring remote, scenic areas along the Alaska Peninsula,” Captain Dan Blanchard, owner and CEO of UnCruise Adventures, said.
Eight sailings across the Alaska Peninsula
The itinerary includes Kenai Fjords National Park, Katmai National Park, Ugashik National Wildlife Refuge, Aniakchak National Monument, the Shumagin Islands and Akutan Village.
Its activity program covers kayaking and skiff trips in search of seals, puffins and sea otters, as well as brown bear and eagle viewing in Katmai and Ugashik. Guests can also join hikes and nature walks through remote bays, forests, sea caves and shorelines, while the route provides access to tidewater glaciers and ice-filled inlets.
Hiking, nature walks, skiff excursions, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are included in the cruise fare. All meals are also included, with locally sourced ingredients and fresh Alaskan seafood featured in many dishes.
Wilderness Explorer refit underway
Wilderness Explorer is one of nine vessels in the UnCruise fleet. The 1976-built ship is approximately 185 feet long and accommodates 74 guests in 37 cabins, with a crew of about 26 to 28.
The vessel is undergoing renovations in Seattle, including steel work, new carpeting and wallpaper, installation of a new water-maker and updates to the galley, lounge, bar and dining room. It also has a platform for launching kayaks and skiffs and carries a team of expedition guides.
Bookings are open. A $350 per-person discount applies to any 2028 departure reserved by October 31.
