In 1788, Russian explorers first set foot on St. Paul Island. In July of 2009, it’s your turn.
Although small (only 14 miles long), and surrounded by the harsh Bering Sea, the island is a diverse ecosystem unto itself. It may lie 300 miles off the western coast of the Alaskan mainland, but many animals have made the journey. Over 240 species of bird, 1 of which is the puffin (both horned and tufted varieties), a local herd of reindeer, arctic fox, and over 500,000 northern fur seals. Between the auklets, kittiwakes, murres, cormorants, and various other birds they total near 1 million. Many of the birds nest high in the cliff faces that overlook the ocean crashing against rocky beaches below.
Inland, carpets of wildflowers (such as the arctic lupine) flow over the hills. The island has a volcanic history, and craters pockmark the landscape.
We will have exclusive use of a tour bus and a professional local wildlife guide to take us to the best locations - so bring extra memory cards, we’ll be shooting as much as the light allows.

Transportation from Anchorage to St. Paul Island, and all island transportation is included.

Lodging night of day 1 through night of day 5 included.

Meals (although not included) will be a great time to share stories and pic the brains of both of your guides, as well as fellow participants. Use this time to get to know each other, share all the great photographs you’ve taken, and just have a good time. Our tours are not only about photography, but also about making friends and building relationships. The average daily cost is $40 US.

Itinerary (subject to change)

Day 1
Meet at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport for introductions and flight to St. Paul Island, in the Pribilofs. Upon arrival in St. Paul, get settled in at our lodging. We will start shooting as soon as possible.

Day 2-5
We will maximize our time in the field, photographing several bird species as well as Northern fur seals

Day 6
If time allows, we will photograph in the early morning light and then begin our journey back to Anchorage where you will either catch your connecting flight or continue on in your exploration of Alaska.

Requirements & Recommendations
All participants must be in Anchorage the day prior to the tour.
Any emergency evacuation needs are not included in the cost of the tour and will be the responsibility of each participant.