Embarking on an Alaska cruise is the adventure of a lifetime, offering breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.
From towering glaciers to historic towns, Alaska’s cruise ports are gateways to the Last Frontier. This guide highlights the must-visit ports, the best excursions, and essential tips to ensure your journey is unforgettable.
Juneau: Alaska’s Capital City
Juneau, nestled amid towering mountains and lush rainforests, is a popular stop for cruise ships. The capital of Alaska offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and adventurous activities.
Top Attractions in Juneau
- Mendenhall Glacier: A must-see, this 13-mile-long glacier is accessible by a short bus ride from the port. Visitors can hike trails or explore the visitor center.
- Mount Roberts Tramway: Take a ride to panoramic views of the Gastineau Channel and surrounding peaks. The top offers hiking trails and a cultural center.
- Alaska State Museum: Learn about Alaska’s history, from Native cultures to the Gold Rush era.
Popular Shore Excursions
- Whale Watching Tours: Spot humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions in their natural habitat.
- Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing on a glacier with a team of sled dogs.
- Kayaking in Gastineau Channel: Paddle along the scenic coastline and enjoy close-up views of wildlife.
Cruise Tips for Juneau
- Dress in layers; weather can shift quickly.
- Try local seafood like king crab legs or salmon at nearby restaurants.
- Book excursions early to secure your spot on popular tours.
Ketchikan: The Salmon Capital of the World
Ketchikan is renowned for its rich fishing history, vibrant Native culture, and scenic beauty. This charming port is often the first stop on an Alaska cruise.
Top Attractions in Ketchikan
- Creek Street: A historic boardwalk built over the water, featuring shops, galleries, and restaurants.
- Totem Bight State Historical Park: Home to beautifully carved totem poles and a traditional Native clan house.
- Misty Fjords National Monument: Known as the “Yosemite of the North,” this area features dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and serene waterways.
Popular Shore Excursions
- Fishing Charters: Try your luck catching salmon or halibut.
- Flightseeing Tours: Fly over Misty Fjords for a bird’s-eye view of glaciers and rainforests.
- Ziplining Adventures: Soar through lush canopies and enjoy thrilling views.
Cruise Tips for Ketchikan
- Wear waterproof gear; it’s one of the rainiest cities in the U.S.
- Shop for authentic Alaskan souvenirs like hand-carved totem poles and jewelry.
- Visit the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center for an educational experience.
Skagway: Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush
Step back in time in Skagway, a historic town that played a pivotal role in the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. Its well-preserved buildings and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among cruisers.
Top Attractions in Skagway
- White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: A historic train ride offering stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and trestle bridges.
- Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: Explore restored buildings and learn about the town’s gold rush history.
- Skagway Museum: A treasure trove of artifacts and photographs from the gold rush era.
Popular Shore Excursions
- Hiking Trails: Explore paths like Lower Dewey Lake or Yakutania Point for nature-filled adventures.
- Dog Mushing Tours: Learn about sled dog culture and meet the adorable canine athletes.
- Gold Panning: Try your hand at panning for gold in a recreated gold rush setting.
Cruise Tips for Skagway
- Book train excursions early, as they are highly popular.
- Enjoy a drink at the historic Red Onion Saloon.
- Don’t miss photo ops of the stunning Chilkat Mountains.
Sitka: Where Nature Meets Russian Heritage
Sitka stands out for its mix of Native Tlingit culture and Russian influences. Surrounded by islands and forests, this port offers history, wildlife, and breathtaking views.
Top Attractions in Sitka
- Sitka National Historical Park: Known for its totem poles and serene walking trails.
- St. Michael’s Cathedral: A historic Russian Orthodox church in the heart of downtown Sitka.
- Fortress of the Bear: A rescue facility for orphaned bears, offering educational tours.
Popular Shore Excursions
- Wildlife Boat Tours: Spot sea otters, bald eagles, and whales while cruising through Sitka Sound.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional Tlingit storytelling, dance, and music.
- Fishing Excursions: Experience Sitka’s world-class salmon and halibut fishing.
Cruise Tips for Sitka
- Take a walking tour to explore the town’s compact layout.
- Visit Sheldon Jackson Museum for insight into Native art and artifacts.
- Dress warmly for outdoor activities, even in summer.
Glacier Bay National Park: A Natural Wonder
Unlike other ports, Glacier Bay is a scenic cruising experience. Ships glide past massive glaciers, pristine fjords, and diverse wildlife.
Highlights of Glacier Bay
- Margerie Glacier: Witness this stunning tidewater glacier calving into the sea.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot seals, bears, mountain goats, and humpback whales.
- Ranger Talks: Learn about the park’s ecosystem from onboard naturalists.
Cruise Tips for Glacier Bay
- Bring binoculars for a closer look at wildlife.
- Dress warmly and enjoy the views from an open deck.
- Use your camera’s zoom to capture glacier details.
Icy Strait Point: A Private Native-Owned Destination
Icy Strait Point offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures in a pristine setting. It’s owned and operated by the Huna Tlingit people.
Top Attractions in Icy Strait Point
- Hoonah Village: Visit Alaska’s largest Tlingit settlement and learn about local traditions.
- Historic Cannery Museum: Explore the site’s history as a salmon cannery.
- ZipRider: Ride one of the world’s longest ziplines for an adrenaline rush.
Popular Shore Excursions
- Whale Watching: Hoonah is one of the best places to see humpback whales.
- Bear Watching: Take a guided tour to spot coastal brown bears.
- Kayaking Tours: Paddle along remote coastlines teeming with wildlife.
Cruise Tips for Icy Strait Point
- Take your time to explore the cannery exhibits and trails.
- Support local businesses by purchasing handmade crafts.
- Book bear-watching tours in advance for the best chance of sightings.
Hubbard Glacier: The Galloping Glacier
Known for its rapid calving activity, Hubbard Glacier is a must-see for cruisers seeking dramatic glacier views.
Highlights of Hubbard Glacier
- Calving Events: Witness massive chunks of ice breaking off into the water.
- Expansive Size: Stretching 76 miles long, it’s one of the largest glaciers in North America.
Cruise Tips for Hubbard Glacier
- Arrive on deck early for the best viewing spot.
- Listen for the thunderous sounds of ice calving.
- Keep a jacket handy, as temperatures near the glacier are cooler.
Seward: Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park
Seward, often a departure or arrival port, is an adventure lover’s paradise with proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park.
Top Attractions in Seward
- Alaska SeaLife Center: An interactive marine wildlife center featuring puffins, sea lions, and more.
- Exit Glacier: A short drive from town, this glacier is accessible for hiking and exploration.
- Kenai Fjords Boat Tours: Cruise through fjords to spot whales, glaciers, and rugged cliffs.
Cruise Tips for Seward
- Spend extra time here if your itinerary allows.
- Try local delicacies like reindeer sausage.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking trails.
Final Tips for Alaska Cruisers
Cruising to Alaska is an unforgettable experience, but preparation is key to making the most of your journey. Follow these essential tips to ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
1. Pack Smartly
- Dress in Layers: Alaska’s weather can change rapidly, so pack items you can easily add or remove, like base layers, fleece jackets, and raincoats.
- Waterproof Gear: Bring a rain jacket, waterproof pants, and water-resistant shoes to stay dry during excursions.
- Comfortable Shoes: Many excursions involve walking or hiking, so sturdy footwear is a must.
2. Plan Excursions Early
- Book popular activities like whale watching, dog sledding, and train rides as soon as possible. These fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
- Check your cruise line’s excursion offerings and compare them with independent tour operators for pricing and availability.
3. Stay Flexible
- Weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and excursions may be canceled or adjusted. Have a backup plan for port days.
- Be open to exploring the port towns on your own if tours are unavailable.
4. Bring Binoculars
- Wildlife sightings are common, and having a pair of binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, whether you’re spotting whales, eagles, or bears.
5. Prepare for Cold Weather
- Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly. Pack a hat, gloves, and scarf to stay comfortable.
- Don’t forget thermal socks, especially if you’re visiting glaciers or participating in outdoor activities.
6. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
- Staying hydrated is important, especially on long excursions. A reusable water bottle is eco-friendly and convenient.
7. Use Sun Protection
- The sun reflects off glaciers and water, so bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
8. Research Local Cuisine
- Don’t miss out on trying Alaskan specialties like fresh salmon, king crab, and reindeer sausage. Look for locally owned restaurants and markets.
9. Bring a Camera or Smartphone with Extra Storage
- Alaska’s landscapes are stunning, so ensure you have a good camera or smartphone with enough storage and spare batteries to capture the memories.
10. Be Mindful of Wildlife Safety
- Follow the guidance of local guides when encountering wildlife. Keep a safe distance and never feed animals.
11. Budget for Souvenirs
- Alaska is known for unique gifts like handcrafted jewelry, Native art, and smoked salmon. Set aside some money for meaningful keepsakes.
12. Learn About the Culture
- Read up on Alaska’s Native cultures, Gold Rush history, and Russian influences before your trip. Many ports feature museums and cultural centers where you can deepen your understanding.
13. Check for Cruise Line Discounts
- Many cruise lines offer discounted excursions, drink packages, or onboard amenities when booked in advance. Take advantage of these deals.
14. Pack Motion Sickness Remedies
- Alaskan waters can sometimes be rough. Bring seasickness bands, ginger candies, or medication if you’re prone to motion sickness.
15. Prepare for Limited Connectivity
- Wi-Fi can be expensive and unreliable on cruises. Download maps, books, and entertainment before you board, and let loved ones know you may be out of touch.
16. Carry Small Bills for Tipping
- Many local guides and shuttle drivers appreciate tips. Carry small bills in U.S. dollars for convenience.
17. Be Early for Glacier Viewing
- Prime spots on the ship’s deck can fill up quickly during scenic cruising. Arrive early and claim your spot to enjoy uninterrupted views.
18. Respect the Environment
- Alaska’s pristine wilderness is a treasure. Follow Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect local ecosystems.
19. Take Advantage of Onboard Activities
- On sea days, enjoy the ship’s amenities, from educational talks about Alaska’s wildlife to spa treatments and fine dining.
20. Pack a Day Bag
- Bring a lightweight backpack for port days to carry essentials like water, snacks, extra clothing, and your camera.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to maximize your Alaskan cruise experience and create lasting memories in this extraordinary destination.
Conclusion
Alaska’s cruise ports offer a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling adventures.
Whether exploring glaciers, learning about Native culture, or enjoying wildlife encounters, your Alaska cruise will be filled with unforgettable moments. Plan ahead, pack wisely, and savor every stop on this incredible journey.