June 16-24, 2012
(9 Days, 8 Nights)

Few places in North America rival the scenic beauty and wildlife diversity of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage. These magical land and seascapes - the spectacular fjords, tidewater glaciers, and old-growth forests provide the perfect setting for our "Conservation in Focus" workshop. The 7-day voyage takes place aboard the M/V Pacific Catalyst, a 76-foot classic wooden boat built in 1932 as the floating laboratory for the University of Washington. The ultimate "classroom," Catalyst carries 12 passengers in superb comfort and is equipped with a full complement of sea kayaks and a motorized inflatable skiff to enable explorations both near and far.

The use of sea kayaks allows us a more intimate, seal's-eye view of the marine world - the perfect platform for photography. In addition to learning about the natural history of Southeast Alaska, we'll explore and discuss the impacts of climate change on the region's glaciers, and the threats facing marine and land-based wildlife. Most importantly, we'll learn how to shoot images that truly tell a story and have the strongest impact on the viewer. Workshop activities will emphasize image context, perspective, originality, composition, the use of light, and technical quality - honoring photographic integrity and the environment throughout the creative process.

Working singly and collectively, we'll produce a custom photo book that truly captures the trip's observations and discoveries - the "essence" of Southeast Alaska. The only "prerequisite" for this workshop is a strong desire to use photography as a tool for achieving your own conservation goals. Don't miss this rare opportunity to refine your skills and make a difference with your images!

Price: $4100
Group Size: 12
Moderate Activity Level

Price Includes: 6 nights/7 days aboard the M/V Pacific Catalyst, two nights lodging and two group dinners ashore (June 16 in Juneau and June 23 in Petersburg), all meals and beverages onboard the Catalyst, the services of our three photographer/naturalist leaders and the Catalyst's four-person crew, full sea kayak outfitting and expert instruction, gratuities to the Catalyst's crew, boat/hotel transfers, and a copy of the photo book.

The price quoted is per person based on double occupancy; a single supplement is required of participants preferring non-shared accommodations. Does not include roundtrip airfare from your point of departure to Juneau, Alaska or your return from Petersburg, Alaska.

Need more information? Contact Wendy & Bob at wendy@dancingpelican.com or visit http://www.pacificcatalyst.com to learn more about the Pacific Catalyst. To register for this trip, contact Audrey Benedict, Cloud Ridge Naturalists email: cloudridgeadb@earthlink.net or website, http://www.cloudridge.org/