

Tour 132
St.
Paul Island is located approximately 500 miles west of the
Alaska mainland in the North Pacific. The Pribilof Islands are
known for their stark beauty, significant seal populations and
migrating bird populations. St Paul (14 miles long) is home to
the world's largest fur seal rookeries, with an estimated
population of 600,000 animals. In May, the beachmasters, largest
of the male species, arrive on the island to claim and defend
their mating grounds until the females arrive in June to give
birth. Visitors observe from behind blinds, one of the most
sophisticated social networks in the mammal kingdom. Seal pup
sightings are a favorite with animal lovers photographers. Bird
watchers will find the island fascinating, it is host to over
two million nesting sea birds annually. Common sightings include
red-legged kittiwakes, thick-billed murres, fulmars, harlequin
ducks, least and crested auklets, rock sandpipers, red-faced
cormorants, and puffins.

(Three
days/two night minimum)
Day
01: Fly
from Anchorage to St. Paul, Pribilof Islands, flight duration is
approximately 3.5 hours. On arrival, the orientation and
naturalist tours start immediately enroute to the King Eider
Hotel. An afternoon visit to a nearby seal colony will be made.
The hotel is in the heart of St. Paul, largest of the Aleut
communities, and ideally situated to explore in the evening.
Overnight at King Eider Hotel (shared bath only).
Day
02: Today
the nature tour itinerary includes visiting the seal rookeries,
sea bird cliffs and learning about the tundra and volcanic
terrain with expert guides. Small busses are used to approach
sites and the balance of distance is on foot. Blinds and viewing
areas allow photographers access to seals and sea lions. An
Aleut dance group usually will perform a traditional ceremonial
dance. A tour of the Russian Orthodox Church is available plus
evening guided tours for those who wish to participate. All
meals are served in St Paul. Overnight at King Eider Hotel.
Day
03: Hikers
will find a visit to the Pribilof Islands a pleasure, almost
unlimited scope is at your doorstep. Guides will help arrange
logistics for hikers and birders to reach the sea lion and seal
colonies plus bird cliffs. This morning is free for personal
interests in St Paul. Guides will advise transfer time to the
airport and expedite luggage.

Round-trip
flight from Anchorage to St Paul, daily guided naturalist tours,
accommodation at King Eider hotel (shared bath only), service of
nature guides and staff.

Flight
times subject to weather. We are not responsible for costs incurred
due to delays. The King Eider Hotel is simple and comfortable (typical
of many rural Alaskan hotels). Each room has wash basin with a shared
bathroom located in the center of each floor. Limited capacity for
single accommodation, may be requested at time of booking for
additional $75 per day. St. Paul has a sub-arctic maritime climate
with temperatures between 40-50F. Bring good rain gear and warm layer
clothing. Sturdy waterproof shoes or boots recommended. Tours will
operate mid-May through August.

Available May 16 through
August 29, 2005 !

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Tour
Duration
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Departure
Schedule
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Double/Triple
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3 days/ 2
nights
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Monday, Wednesday&
Friday
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$1361 |
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4 days / 3 nights
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Friday
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$1570 |
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5 days / 4
nights
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Monday
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$1766 |
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