(00:00:00) 17. Discovering Alaska with Captain Dan Blanchard
(00:04:11) Small Ship Advantage
(00:06:58) Best Time to Go
(00:10:21) Wild Encounters At Sea
(00:13:12) Passion behind UnCruise
(00:15:18) Responsible Travel Choices
(00:19:52) Why it is called UnCruise
(00:21:25) Tlingit Adoption Story
(00:24:04) A Day on Expedition
(00:28:59) Wifi and being present
(00:32:02) Planning a Trip
(00:35:37) Measuring Success

In this episode, host Sue Stockdale is joined by Dan Blanchard, captain, entrepreneur, and founder of UnCruise Adventures, to explore what makes Alaska one of the world’s most remarkable expedition destinations.

Dan shares his deep connection to Alaska’s vast wilderness, describing a landscape of towering glaciers, remote waterways, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. He explains how small-ship expedition travel offers a fundamentally different experience from traditional cruising, allowing guests to reach secluded locations, navigate narrow fjords, and immerse themselves in places that larger vessels simply cannot access.

The conversation explores the best times to visit different regions of Alaska, depending on whether travellers hope to see bears, whales, seabirds, or dramatic glacier landscapes. Dan also recounts some of the unforgettable wildlife encounters and human moments that have stayed with him throughout his years on the water.

Sue and Dan discuss the philosophy behind UnCruise Adventures and the decision to create what Dan describes as an “anti-cruise” experience—one centred on adventure, flexibility, learning, and genuine connection with nature. They also examine the role of technology onboard, the benefits of disconnecting from constant connectivity, and the importance of being fully present in remote environments.

The episode concludes with a discussion on responsible travel, including practical measures to reduce environmental impact, support local communities, and encourage a slower, more meaningful approach to exploration.

Whether you’re considering your first expedition voyage or simply fascinated by Alaska’s wild places, this conversation offers valuable insights into experiencing the Last Frontier with curiosity, purpose, and respect.

Featured Cruises To find out more about expedition cruises contact Jane Middleton on +44 (0)7971 568155 or [email protected]

Plan your next cruising adventure with Authentic Travel company 

Producer: Sue Stockdale  
Sound Editor: Matias de Ezcurra