Description
Pristine Wilderness Where the Bigger Ships Can’t Reach
On our Alaska small ship cruises, we explore natural wonders aboard a classic, wooden tugboat designed for the ultimate in guest comfort. Expeditions provide an opportunity to personally connect with the natural and cultural history of Alaska’s rugged Southeast, each day becoming more in tune with the rhythm of the coast. Travel with just a few guests, guided by the expert crew, naturalist, and guides of Maple Leaf Adventures.
Trip Name
Cruise Alaska’s Inside Passage
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Schooner
Length: 92f / 28m
Passenger Capacity: 8
Maple Leaf is a 92-foot wooden schooner built in 1904, designed for intimate coastal exploration with a maximum of eight guests. She offers a deeply personal, human-scale experience that prioritises direct engagement with the natural world, accessing remote coastlines, rivers and anchorages unreachable by larger ships. Accommodation is simple but warm: four semi-private sleeping areas, shared washrooms, and communal spaces centred on conversation, observation and shared meals prepared onboard. Stability under sail, long range, and a highly experienced crew make her exceptionally capable despite her modest size.
Constructed from Douglas fir, yellow cedar and mahogany, Maple Leaf blends working-vessel toughness with Edwardian craftsmanship and modern functionality. Life on board revolves around open decks, zodiac landings, kayaking, wildlife observation and, for those inclined, hands-on sailing under crew guidance. Her long history — from luxury yacht to high-performing halibut fishing vessel to pioneering expedition ship — gives the experience a sense of continuity and authenticity. Travel aboard Maple Leaf is immersive, physically engaging, and deliberately unpolished, favouring depth, access and presence over luxury conventions.






