Rain Forest Wildlife Santuary & Photo Safari Tours Advice Needed

[twoatsea]

We are going on our HAL Westerdam Alaska cruise roundtrip Seattle, Hubbard Glacier, from 7/9-16/06. We are considering the above listed tours, offered by HAL. I would appreciate any info anyone can share:

 

Ketchikan, Wildlife Sanctuary -

1. In July, what wildlife season is it? I know sightings are not guaranteed, but wonder if the bears might be around? :cool:

 

2. Any comments on this tour, the sanctuary?

 

3. Is visiting the sanctuary something we could do on our own, rather than a HAL tour? If so, how do we get there & how far away is it & what would the cost be (HAL is $79pp)?

 

Juneau Photo Safari by Land & Sea - This is a new tour offered by HAL. Anyone been on it; if so, opinions? The description states "professional photography coach", part walking/boat, Juneau's Channel Islands. It is 4 1/2 hours. Obviously, we are interested because of the photography angle, rather than just taking a wildlife tour.

 

Really appreciate all of the help on this board.

[miami]

I was interested in this one also. Maybe since it is new not many people have had a chance to try it.