Discover the untouched wilderness of Alaska where few lenses have been able to capture its pristine glaciers and glorious landscapes. Join Backcountry Journeys on a once-in-a-lifetime photography expedition aboard the historic Alaska Endeavour to Icy Bay and Mount St. Elias!


Icy Bay, with its towering tidewater glaciers, floating icebergs, and rugged coastline, offers a visual feast for landscape photographers. The dramatic contrast between the icy blues of the glaciers and the deep greens of the surrounding forests creates stunning compositions. Standing at 18,008 feet, Mount St. Elias is the second-highest peak in both the United States and Canada, and it will serve as a majestic focal point during our journey. Its snow-covered summit and sheer cliffs are a striking backdrop for any photograph.


Not only is Icy Bay a bucket list item for landscape photography, but it is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. We'll have the opportunity to photograph seals basking on ice floes, playful sea otters, and the occasional humpback whale breaching in the bay. The skies are filled with seabirds, from elegant gulls to majestic bald eagles. On land, you might spot brown bears, moose, and a variety of other Alaskan fauna.


Icy Bay really is truly extraordinary place. There are five glacier terminuses that meet with the water in the north bay and the Agassiz/Malaspina glacier which creates the short Gaetani River in the south bay. There are great options for anchoring in Riou Bay, Moraine Island Cove, Gull Island, and the ship captain's favorite: Taan Fjord. Taan Fjord is known for its steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the surrounding rugged terrain. In 2015, a massive landslide caused a megatsunami in excess of 600 feet. This significantly altered the fjord's landscape and is studied for its geological impact.


Our home for this voyage will be aboard the research vessel Endeavour. Built in 1954 for the U.S. Army, the Endeavour was repurposed for peace time work after the Korean War ended. It served as a transport ship for both Alcatraz and McNeil Island prisons, and in the late 70's it was converted into a comfortable liveaboard. The hull was extended (to 72 feet) and ample headroom was added below deck. In 2007, it obtained a new purpose aiding scientific work and it was heavily renovated again in 2020 when it was certified by the U.S. Coast Guard as a research vessel. Captain Bill Urschel does extensive work with conservation non-profits and supports student and professional researchers from across the globe. On this once-in-a-lifetime trip, Captain Bill's expertise will help us discover locations and hidden gems of the Alaskan coastline few individuals have ever experienced.


This Alaskan adventure is more than just a photography trip — it’s an expedition into one of the last great wildernesses. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned professional, the landscapes and wildlife of Icy Bay and Mount St. Elias will inspire and challenge you. Don’t miss your chance to capture the raw, untamed beauty of this remote Alaskan destination with Backcountry Journeys!