What Happens to Our Vessels in Winter?
A behind-the-scenes look at the work that happens between seasons
The season is nearly here.
Before we return to Southeast Alaska, we wanted to share a closer look at what the winter months actually hold.
For many years, our off-season operations were based in Reedsport, Oregon. This winter, we moved north to Nautical Landing, which now serves as our working harbor.
The shift brings us closer to Alaska, where our vessels spend the season, and places us within one of the country’s most active maritime hubs. It also puts us within reach of our reservations office in Poulsbo, Washington—home base for voices many guests know well, including Miri and Donna.
Inside our 6,000-square-foot warehouse, the off-season took shape. Tools, woodwork, parts, and planning all moving at once as we prepared both vessels for the season ahead.
This move opens up new horizons for our fleet in the years ahead.
Vessel Work & Milestones
Each winter, both vessels undergo routine maintenance. Some years also include larger projects—work that happens less frequently but plays an important role in long-term reliability.
On M/V Liseron, we replaced both generators with new Northern Lights 99kW units. These systems are known for their reliability, serviceability, and ability to perform in remote environments where consistency matters. For small ships operating far from major ports, dependable onboard power is essential.
Alongside that, Liseron’s woodwork received continued attention. Brightwork across cap rails, doors, and the Portuguese bridge was sanded, restored, and revarnished. This is all part of ongoing work that preserves both function and craftsmanship on a wooden vessel with a long history.
On M/V Mist Cove, we hauled her fully out of the water for inspection and maintenance. For the first time since her launch, her davit cranes were removed, allowing for deeper access to areas not typically reached during standard service.
Across both vessels, the work continued with paint, varnish, structural upkeep, and full systems checks.
We also completed our U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of Inspection (COI), an essential step in ensuring each vessel meets all safety and operational standards ahead of the season.
“Muster”: Bringing the Team Together
In early April, our team gathered in Seattle for what we internally call “Muster.”
For two weeks, crew and year-round staff from across the country came together for training and preparation ahead of the season. This included first aid and safety certifications, drills, HR sessions, and time out on the water.
Running drills with the Seattle skyline in view—boats moving through Lake Union with the Space Needle in the background—offered a very different setting than the remote anchorages we’re used to. It was a rare moment to see the vessels in a more urban environment before heading north.
We’re also happy to welcome Scott Irwin as Director of Engineering. Scott has already been working closely with both vessels and will continue supporting operations both onboard and from our Seattle base, helping manage systems, maintenance, and long-term planning across the fleet.
What This Work Supports
As an Alaska-based cruise line, this is the work that happens between seasons.
When our vessels aren’t exploring the Tongass National Forest, they’re in shipyards and working harbors—undergoing the maintenance and care that keeps them operating safely, reliably, and ready for what’s ahead.
From engine room systems to woodwork on deck, every detail plays a role.
When you step aboard each May, you’re stepping into the result of all of it—not just the past off-season, but every off-season that has come before.
Follow the Journey North
At the time of writing, both vessels have departed Seattle for their northbound journey to Alaska.
M/V Mist Cove departed ahead of M/V Liseron and has now arrived safely in Southeast Alaska. Liseron remains underway and will be for a few more days yet.
If you’d like to follow along, you can track their progress here:
Track Liseron (currently en route):
https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:436080Track Mist Cove (now in Alaska):
https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:427274
Looking Ahead
As the vessels arrive and settle into place, the focus shifts from preparation to adventure.
Shortly after arriving in Alaska and before our first passengers of the year step aboard, our boats and crew spend their days returning to the waterways, anchorages, and trails scouting for the ultimate adventure for the season about to unfold.
If you’re considering joining us this year, you can explore upcoming cruises below.