National Geographic Traveler: Coastal Alaska

This beautifully illustrated guidebook by Alaska and Northwest expert Bob Devine covers ports of call large and small all along the Inside Passage and Alaska's ragged southern coastlines, including Seattle, Vancouver, Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, Haines, Skagway, Cordova, Valdez & Whittier, Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park, Homer & Kachemak Bay, Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve, Kodiak Island, and Alaska Peninsula & Aleutians. You'll find vital information on making the most of each port city, including how to get to the sights from the port; what to see in a short amount of time ashore; and how to avoid pricey excursions.

Beginning with the fascinating history of the 49th state, the guidebook then explores, maps and details the popular starting points of Seattle and Vancouver. Subsequent chapters describe ports of call in the Panhandle (Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, gorgeous Glacier Bay); South-Central Coast (Kenai Fjords, Homer, Anchorage); the Aleutian Islands; and much, much more. Each port description ends with invaluable need-to-know information.

This guidebook includes detailed, four-color maps; more than 75 full-color images by National Geographic photographer Michael Melford; insider tips from National Geographic experts who know Alaska well; cultural sidebars that provide a deep appreciation of Alaska's nature and history; guided walking tours (including downtown Vancouver) complete with maps; and details of additional ferry, bus, and train rides to maximize your experience.

A handy Travelwise section includes restaurants as well as don't-miss festivals, the best shopping venues, and information on both cultural events (concerts, theater, etc.) and outdoor activities (kayaking, fishing, sailing, etc.) that will help you plan ahead for your Alaskan trip of a lifetime.

BOB DEVINE writes about the environment, natural history, and outdoor travel from his home in Oregon. National Geographic has published several of his works, includingGuide to America's Outdoors: Western Canada and Alien Invasion: America's Battle with Non-native Animals and Plants. He first traveled to Alaska on assignment in 1987 and has since returned as often as possible.