Join us for a unique boat-based photo expedition to the secret coastlines of the iconic Katmai Coast. This photo adventure is designed with a singular focus: to put you in the best bear photography locations on the planet with a backdrop of Alaska's breathtaking coastal landscapes. The Katmai Coast is renowned for hosting the highest densities of brown bears worldwide, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities. But, this trip is exclusive. Why? Read on.

Our journey takes us to pristine stretches of the Katmai Coast, areas rarely tread by people and even fewer photographers, providing a truly exclusive experience. Aboard our comfortable private charter ship, we gain access to these untouched locales, ensuring our expedition reaches the heart of untouched bear territories with beautiful coastal mountains.

Backcountry Journeys Founder & CEO Russ Nordstrand lives in Homer, Alaska and has used his excellent local connections to organize this trip. It simply would not be possible without his local knowledge and partnerships in Alaska.

This expedition sets sail from Homer, Alaska, steering towards the Katmai Coast's secluded realms, where the landscapes are untouched and the brown bears abundant. Our focus is singular: to offer you unparalleled opportunities to photograph bears in settings few have ventured, making this the centerpiece of our expedition. In addition to bears, opportunities for marine wildlife, like otters and humpback whales also exist.

As we navigate aboard our privately chartered vessel, we control our itinerary. This means we can navigate to areas where bear activity is high and explore untouched stretches of coastline where day tour flights never venture.

Our vessel is optimally equipped for this adventure, manned by a crew with over 15 years of experience navigating the Cook Inlet and Katmai Coast. The ship features four cabins, each with four beds. For extra space, there will be two guests per cabin and with two empty beds providing additional space for gear storage. Dining onboard is a highlight, with a menu that ranges from classic Alaskan seafood to succulent steaks, and we can accommodate dietary restrictions upon request.

Guided by experienced photographers and local guides, we'll utilize a skiff for shore landings, our approach is respectful and informed, allowing for close yet safe interactions with the bears.

The main objective of this expedition is to offer you an unparalleled opportunity to photograph the brown bears of the Katmai Coast. We aim to take you to the world's most beautiful habitats for brown bears, locations that provide the backdrop for truly remarkable images. Thanks to the adaptability of our private charter, we have the freedom to adjust our itinerary, ensuring we're always in the best position to find and photograph active bears during the best light periods. This comfortable photo expedition presents a rare opportunity to venture into Alaska's remote wilderness and capture images of bears and locations that few photographers will ever get to see.

Join us for a photography adventure that places you at the heart of Katmai's coastal wilderness and face-to-face with the majestic brown bears that call it home.