Cruises

Yukon River Safari

2008 Preview (page photo credits to Richard Hartmier)

One of last epic journeys of Canada’s North has now been revived in true Safari style. Few rivers conjure the excitement of a bygone era quite the same as The Yukon River. Here at the turn of last century steamboats plied between Whitehorse and Dawson City carrying passengers and freight to the goldfields, returning with pure gold. With no roads and only a rail link to Skagway, the ‘mighty’ Yukon River as it was known, was the lifeline through the fledgling territory. Today times have changed but the river remains much the same, popular with canoe adventurers where the journey takes almost two weeks to complete.

Now in 2008 The Yukon River Safari has opened a whole new way to travel this epic river route in comfort and style through the heart of the Yukon Territory. A unique combination of power boat cruising, seaplane flights and the most comfortable accommodation ever seen on the Yukon river blend to make this a journey of a lifetime.   

Day 1:  Arrival Whitehorse - Seaplane safari flight to Upper Laberge Lodge
On arrival you are transferred to city centre for a private tour of National Historic Site, “S.S. Klondike” . This classic steamboat once operated regular passenger service between Whitehorse and Dawson City – the same route that you will experience. Introduction outlines the Yukon’s gold rush history and importance of the Yukon River. This afternoon you board a seaplane for the scenic 15-minute flight over the Yukon River; overnight at ‘Upper Laberge Lodge’.

Day 2:  Upper Laberge Lodge
Guests have a full day to explore the Lake Laberge area. Choose from a leisurely walk through the Ta’an village, a more challenging hike and mountain bike ride to the ridges above. Additional activities include bird watching, fishing and kayaking. Overnight: Upper Laberge Lodge’

Day 3:  Upper Laberge Lodge to Homestead Lodge
Travel by riverboat across Lake Laberge and journey down the picturesque “Thirty Mile” section of the Yukon River. At Steamboat Island, a waiting seaplane takes you on a one-hour safari flight to Homestead Lodge.

Day 4:  Homestead Lodge
After breakfast, guests make the short boat trip across the river to Fort Selkirk, a designated Yukon historic site. After exploring the buildings and area during the day you return to Homestead Lodge for the night.

Day 5:  Homestead Lodge to Wilderness Outpost
Aboard the riverboat you journey a truly wild section of the Yukon River, where opportunities abound for wildlife viewing. Here guests at the Wilderness Outpost  “rough it” in African style, comfortable, en suite tents.

Day 6:  Wilderness Outpost to Dawson City
Enjoy the final day on the water as the great river sweeps you past the historic Klondike Gold fields as it flows north to Dawson City. Upon disembarking you are welcomed at the hotel accommodation in the heart of town.

Day 7:  Dawson City
Together with a guide, guests have the full day to explore the many historical, cultural and natural attractions of Dawson City and the surrounding area. This iconic region is the heart and soul of Yukon’s modern history and here you will visit the place where gold was first discovered in 1896. Dawson City still retains the character, charm and frontier spirit of the bye gone era. Overnight Dawson City.

Day 8:  Dawson City Departure
This morning is the conclusion of the River Safari; you may return by scheduled airline to Whitehorse or have the option to stay longer.

Great River Journey Highlights

• Travel 600 kms through the heart of the Yukon Wilderness aboard a riverboat with a pilot and an experienced local guide.
• Frequent landings are made to view wildlife, explore the wilderness, visit historical and geological sites.
• Overnight in small, private, remotely situated lodge facilities.
• Fine cuisine featuring local ingredients and traditional foods served throughout the journey.

2008 Patrons Tour Prices

Great River Journey is operating two tours per week during the 2008 season. The departure dates are from June 6 – September 14. Departures are Fridays and Sundays. Our regular price is $7,800. During 2008, our first full year of operation, the Great River Journey Patrons Tour is offering these unique value prices

Package Includes

Lodge accommodation and meals, transportation via river boat with pilot & local guide, air charter(s) as per the itinerary, group equipment (canoes, kayaks, fishing gear) and guide services.

Package Does Not Include

Alcoholic beverages. Gratuities. Fishing license (optional). Transfers to and from Whitehorse. Goods and Services Tax (GST). Transportation out of Dawson City. Trip Cancellation Insurance.

2008 Departure Dates