Neil Nickerson

Hello there!

Welcome to the official blog of Alaska Wilderness Charters. My name is Neil Nickerson, and I am the owner and captain of Glacier Bear. While this page is technically an introduction to who I am, its primary purpose is to help you plan your Alaska Adventure.

Planning a trip to the Last Frontier is a significant undertaking. It requires careful logistical planning, an understanding of the geography, and a desire to see beyond the typical tourist traps. My goal for this platform is to provide you with the resources, stories, and practical advice necessary to craft an unforgettable itinerary. Whether you are looking to hook a silver salmon or navigate the hidden coves of the Inside Passage, I am here to help you see Alaska through the eyes of a local.

A life spent on Alaska's waters

Credibility is essential when selecting a guide for your wilderness experience. My maritime career began in 1988 as a U.S. Coast Guard officer. During my service, I worked aboard cutters, tugboats, and passenger ferries, navigating waters stretching from the Arctic Circle to the Aleutian Islands. Currently, I hold a U.S. Coast Guard National Master of Self-Propelled Vessels of Unlimited Tonnage Upon Oceans or Near Coastal Waters license. This certification allows me to captain a vessel of any size on any ocean. Additionally, I maintain certification in First Aid and CPR to ensure that Glacier Bear consistently meets 5-Star Coast Guard safety ratings.

What you can expect from this blog

The best way to experience Alaska is to immerse yourself in it. However, achieving that immersion requires knowledge. I created this blog to serve as a comprehensive resource for prospective travelers. Here is what you can expect to find in future posts:

• Trip Planning Advice. Detailed guides on how to craft the perfect family-friendly charter or adventure-focused itinerary.

• Honest Reviews. Unbiased assessments of local fishing excursions, family activities, and shore excursions.

• Local Insights. Information on the flora, fauna, geology, and history of the region to enrich your understanding of the landscape.

• Behind-the-Scenes Access. Stories from the galley and the engine room of Glacier Bear.

This is not merely a collection of travel tales. It is a structured repository of advice designed to make the planning process easy and exciting.

Life behind the helm of Glacier Bear

Running a charter vessel requires wearing many hats. When I am not piloting the boat from the wheelhouse, you will likely find me in the engine room ensuring all mechanical systems are running smoothly, or at the chart table mapping out our next destination with guests. I also spend time in the galley, where our gourmet chef, Andrea Bjazevich, prepares meals using fresh, local seafood. These moments—sharing food, reviewing charts, and discussing the day's wildlife sightings—are often the highlight of the journey. My passion is to bring this majestic destination to life for you, providing the tools and confidence you need to embark on your own Alaskan journey long before you even step aboard.

Let’s connect and plan your journey

If you are ready to explore Alaska's pristine waterways, glaciers, and wildlife, I invite you to reach out. Whether you have specific questions about our itineraries or want to chat about your travel dreams, I am available to guide you every step of the way. You can contact me directly to discuss your plans or follow us on social media for daily updates from the water. Let’s work together to create a safe, authentic, and unforgettable Alaskan experience.