Cruising through the Pacific Northwest and Southeast Alaska
We travel through the Pacific Northwest and Alaska on the historic MV Gyrfalcon. We get to experience the intimacy with nature that comes from a small ship experience. We explore beautiful scenery and wildlife from the Gyrfalcon’s decks, and by kayak, dinghy, and foot.
Accommodations
The guests share 2 showers and 2 heads. The Coast and Geodetic Survey crew would think the current staterooms are luxurious. Modern-day guests find our rooms cozy but adequate. Each room has a double berth, a few drawers for storage, and hooks for hanging jackets. Each stateroom has USB and 110V outlets near the berth, general lighting and a reading light, and opening portholes to provide fresh air.
Common Areas
The common areas on the main deck are large and comfortable. The spacious saloon has expansive windows, comfortable seating, an extensive book collection, and a music system and TV for entertainment. The pilothouse is a favorite place to sit while cruising. Other places to relax include the outside decks, and outdoor seating on the fantail or the pilot house roof. The galley is equipped with a gourmet stove, large refrigerator, eat-in counter and coffee bar.
Activities and Toys
Kayaking: The Gyrfalcon has 4 stable kayaks, along with safety vests and radios.
Fishing, crabbing, and shrimping: There is a 12-foot custom aluminum skiff with an electric pot puller and a “landing-craft” bow for easy beach access.
Sportfishing: During your trip, we can arrange for you to meet up with one of the many fishing guides in Alaska.
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities for wildlife abound.
Photography and photo instruction: There are endless opportunities for photography of landscapes, wildlife, and the interesting vegetation of the area.
Hiking: We will be going to shore frequently to hike through varied terrain and visit glaciers, waterfalls, and sites with cultural or historic significance.
Crew
Captain and Photographer Nancy Everds:
Nancy is responsible for piloting the Gyrfalcon. Nancy has spent almost her entire life living near and boating on large bodies of water. She and Peter Mann have co-owned boats for the last 20 years, but took the big leap to a much larger boat when they bought the Gyrfalcon. A graduate of MIT, University of Illinois, and Purdue, Nancy is a veterinary pathologist in the biotech world. She is has her 100-ton USCG Master's License, and holds Red Cross First Aid and CPR certificates. Nancy is an accomplished wildlife photographer and a Photoshop geek.
Chief Engineer, Chef, Birdwatcher, and Itinerary Planner Peter Mann:
Peter is responsible for all things other than actually steering the boat. He's knowledgeable about systems maintenance for the complicated machinery and electronics on the Gyrfalcon. He also is responsible for most of the cooking, and for doing the detailed itinerary planning. Peter is a graduate of Washington University and University of Missouri, and is a retired consulting veterinary pathologist for pharmaceutical companies.
Testimonials
David and Susan W
Another wonderful adventure, this time in southern Alaska. We were fully immersed in the beauty of the place and learned a great deal about the history here as well as the flora and fauna. The whale bubble net feeding was thrilling. Peter and Nancy work overtime to make our experience memorable. Love Peters Dan Dan noodles. The crab ain't so bad either. Another fantastic trip on the Gyr. --David and Susan W
Stefano
Such an incredible experience… We saw a sperm whale, humpbacks, bears, eagles, sea lions, sea otters, porpoises. We caught salmon, crabs, and saw many stranded wrecks. Excellent food and an incredibly enriching atmosphere. Thanks for your friendship. To Gyrfalcon is a great ship, and I wish her, captain Nancy and chief engineer-first mate Peter many more years of happiness. --Stefano B
Anonymous
What an amazing week. It was like living in a floating maritime museum. The Gyrfalcon is a fascinating vessel.
Anonymous
You are the best hosts. Thanks for your hospitality.
Anonymous
We saw so much – wonderful views, spiny dogfish, all the birds and some amazing crabs to fill our bellies.
Anonymous
So sad to see the end of a wonderful trip.