Alaska is a northwestern U.S. state that borders Canadian provinces with plenty to offer travelers. It is known for its thriving natural environment which many travelers enjoy cruising through. Alaskan cruises have grown in popularity due to the allure of witnessing the grandeur of such a culturally rich and vibrant destination. There are an estimated 100,000 glaciers in Alaska and all of them are not easily viewed by land.
Cruises offer travelers unique and breathtaking views of the Alaskan landscape. The natural beauty of the land is unparalleled and cruises provide travelers with an affordable and thorough exploration. Surprisingly, Alaska has some of the busiest cruise ports. In fact, among North American travelers, Alaska is the most popular cruise destination. The novelty of Alaska’s stunning glaciers and snowy peaks attracts millions of cruisers each year. Alaskan cruises have grown in popularity due to the allure of witnessing the grandeur of such a culturally rich and vibrant destination.
During cruises, the activities that travelers partake in during port days can really impact their overall trip satisfaction. Considering that tours and activities in Alaska have limited availability, travelers should be sure to book early. But without prior experience in Alaska, it may be hard to determine what is worth doing and what is not. This truly depends on the preferences of the traveler, but there are some activities that should not be missed. We scoured the reviews of Alaska cruise connoisseurs to inform potential travelers of the best excursions. Whether travelers are exploring solo, on a romantic cruise or with a group, these are the most worthwhile things to do. Check out some of the best adventures available to Alaska cruisers for shore excursions.
The 10 Best Excursions for Alaska Cruises
These excursions and experiences provide the most exciting opportunities for travelers. In just a few hours they show off some of the best features of Alaska. These excursions also offer excellent photo opportunities and will be exciting for a range of travelers. Learn more about the tourism offerings of Alaska and what tourists should not miss out on.
Dog Sledding
For travelers who want to actualize their Snow Dogs Disney dreams, dog sledding is the perfect excursion. Alaska is known for dog sledding, so it is a perfect opportunity for travelers to get more familiar with the local culture. The best dog sledding experiences are had on top of glaciers. This exhilarating experience behind 10 Alaskan huskies will be the ride of your life. Generally, tourists take a helicopter ride up the mountain and then get to ask dog trainers questions about the art of dog sledding. After that, the dog sledding commences which is followed by a return flight to the cruise terminal. Participants commonly pay around $600 per person for this experience.
Kayaking Glacier Tours
For athletic travelers that want a leisurely view of the mountains, these tours are a good match. These experiences offer an intimate boat tour with an opportunity to see local wildlife. While the views of the Mendenhall Glacier take the cake, participants can also view whales, sea lions and seals while floating along. This opportunity is even open to travelers that do not have extensive kayaking experience. Participation in this water tour costs around $140 per person.
Glacier Trek
Hikers and hands-on adventurers will appreciate these types of tours. They include canoeing, hiking and are great for groups. These tours usually operate out of Juneau. Usually travelers are flown up to the glacier, but some travelers prefer to hike up to it. Once tourists make it to the top they can take in the sights and take photographs to document their adventure. This sport is best observed from April until October.
Whale Watching
This experience is a perfect opportunity for visitors to enjoy the splendor of nature’s magnificent creatures. In Juneau, the capital city, travelers can embark on an adventure to view humpback whales. The peace and gracefulness of these animals will only add to the views that surround them. These tours are best taken between April and October. Travelers can expect to pay around $170 per person for this close (but not too close) encounter.
Alaskan Northern Lights
This iconic natural phenomenon is best seen between August and April. Tours of the famous Aurora Borealis provide an informed guide and the best viewing spots. Some tours even include warming elements and hot beverages, so that tourists are more comfortable. The best views are from the Denali or Fairbanks areas. To get to Denali, it is a two hour train ride from the Fairbanks port. The Northern Lights tours will cost travelers around $150 per person.
Wilderness Safari
This glacier experience takes guests on a journey through the rainforest and mountains to view wildlife. Travelers even get to observe the expansive Davidson Glacier. This amazing excursion will take travelers a staggering six hours and is located near the Skagway port. The duration of this tour should be taken into consideration before adding to a port day itinerary. This tour costs around $250 per person.
Flight-seeing Tour
Tours will have travelers jet-setting across Juneau. To get aerial views of the city, ice fields and mountains, board a 10-passenger floatplane. This tour offers some of the best views there are to see. Tours like this may be a better fit for travelers who have limited mobility or prefer less strenuous activities. Travelers who book these types of tours can even add on a dining experience in the glacier lodge. Plane rides across Alaska usually cost around $300.
Rainforest Adventure
The Glacier Gardens is the name of the popular Alaskan Botanical Garden. Travelers get the chance to explore the lush flowers and natural history of the Tongass National Forest. On top of that, there is a wildlife viewing that gives participants a sneak peek into the mighty Eagle’s nest. This experience in the temperate forest is one nature lovers will not soon forget. This garden tour costs around $30 per person.
Mountain Trail Tour
These tours provide unique experiences for travelers since they are somewhat self-led. A tour guide will lead the way through off-road trails. Participants get to drive their own ATV and witness the striking beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Once the final destination is reached (1,500 feet high), travelers can take in views of the Chilkoot Lake. Participation in tours like this cost around $150 per person.
Salmon Bake
For travelers who want to experience the unique culinary offerings of Alaska, there are plenty of mouth-watering options. One of the most popular experiences is the Gold Creek Salmon Bake. It offers enlightening information on the history and traditions of Alaska. Then travelers get to partake in an Alaskan feast, which includes locally fished and fresh salmon along with other staples.
