Prince William Sound is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the world. Its jumble of islands and 2,414 kilometres of ragged coastline, with hundreds of coves, bays, lagoons, narrows, and deep fjords provide plenty of opportunities to explore. The surrounding land has been graced wit thick rain forest, tidewater glaciers, and the craggy Chugach Mountains.

Valdez is the gateway to the sound’s eastern half. A full day boat tour out of Valdez may cruise west through the upper reaches of Valdez Arm, staying about 200 yards off the forested northern shore. Dozens of waterfalls course down slender channels through the green tundra on the steep mountain slopes, sometimes ending with a swan dive off a sheer cliff.

Sea kayaking is a popular activity in Prince William Sound, where new vistas open around each bend.