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Top 10 Alaska Shore Excursions

07 August 2023

Alaska

Offering something entirely different, an Alaska cruise is a truly unique experience. Set against a stunning backdrop of soaring, snowy peaks and glacial waters, you are able to observe nature at its rawest.

However, the breathtaking views are not the only amazing feature about a cruise to this part of the world. With Alaska shore excursions offering everything from adrenaline-pumping rock climbing to more leisurely activities such as watching local performances, keep reading to find out how you can immerse yourself in life in the most northern state of the US.

1. Rock Climbing and Rappelling, Skagway

Rock climbing in Skagway
Rock climbing in Skagway

This exciting Alaska shore excursion offers you a fun climbing adventure on the smooth granite walls of the White Pass. There are many stunning views on your climb - not only the incredible and wild surroundings, but also the Skagway River and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

The tour will start with a short drive through Downtown Skagway, and then your hike will begin from the Klondike Highway. There are various routes to choose from with varying levels of climbing difficulty - but most importantly each ends with an amazing view of the Skagway River. This excursion is perfect for those looking to do something a little different.

2. Helicopter Ride and Glacier Trek, Juneau

Helicopter landing on glacier
Helicopter landing on glacier

There is no better way to discover the huge areas of this picture-perfect state, and properly take in all its natural beauty, than by seeing it from above during your Alaska cruise excursion. A helicopter ride over this stunning area really is a special experience. As you ride over the incredible views, your tour guide will point out the main places of interest before you touch down on the 1,500 square mile Juneau Icefield. Once you exit the helicopter you are given all the necessary equipment before setting off to explore the icescape.

3. Whale Watching, Icy Strait Point

Whale watching in Alaska
Whale watching in Alaska

Icy Strait Point offers one of the best chances for you to see whales during your cruise, so a whale watching excursion here is a must. One of the best ways to do this is to take a catamaran tour, as the vessels are specially designed, allowing you to see the whales from all around, and even underneath the boat.

To see whales naturally in the water is truly spectacular, and there is no better place to see them than on an Alaska shore excursion. You might be able to see humpback whales feeding at the surface, pairs of whales catching fish together, and sometimes even a super-pod of around 20 whales together.  

4. Trolley Tour, Anchorage

Anchorage at night
Anchorage at night

See Alaska's largest city on a fun and interesting trolley tour. The bright red trolley will navigate 15 miles of Anchorage, while an informative guide gives you details of the history and traditions of the town. You will see cultural sites, mountains, ocean views, seaplanes over Lake Hood, and the well-known Earthquake Park whose landscape was shaped by the terrible 1964 earthquake. Meet a range of friendly characters on the way, including the infamous urban moose that frequent the town!

5. Tribal Dance & Cultural Show, Icy Strait Point

Totem pole
Totem pole

Become immersed in the culture and traditions of this part of Alaska, at a Huna Tlingit performance. The Tlingit people are indigenous to Southeast Alaska, and this cultural show depicts the lifestyle of the Huna clan specifically.

Through music, dance, song, and storytelling, you will discover how the wild landscape in this part of the world affected its people, and all about their relationship with the environment. The history of this community has long been passed down through the ages orally, and so to be invited to become privy to the tradition is a truly unique and unforgettable opportunity.

6. Whitepass Rail Road, Skagway

Skagway
Skagway

This train will give you an unforgettable journey, and offer you the chance to see some of the best scenery in the world during your Alaska shore excursion. You will board the train in Skagway, close to where the ship docks, and finish at the summit of the White Pass - a 2,865 foot elevation!  

In the train you can relax in a vintage-style carriage, while enjoying the panoramic sights of mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, tunnels, and historic sights. The journey will include an enthusiastic guide who will re-trace the steps of Alaskan history.

7. Bear Watching, Ketchikan

Bear cub
Bear cub

Experience the Alaska shore excursion of a lifetime at this world renowned bear observatory. The tour starts on a floatplane that will fly you from Ketchikan, over the stunning mountains and lakes, before arriving at Traitor’s Cove. A short guided hike will then lead you to the observation platforms that overlook Margaret Creek Falls, which is where you will be able to see magnificent black and brown bears. They can be seen fishing, playing, and relaxing in the falls. This is an experience that brings pictures to life.

8. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise, Seward

Kenai Fjord National Park
Kenai Fjord National Park

This Alaska shore excursion is extremely popular when cruising in Alaska, and provides an in-depth opportunity to see Kenai Fjords and all its wildlife, alpine, and glaciers. The tour will take place on a two-deck boat that travels through the heart of the beautiful National Park. You will cruise through rocky coastlines and glaciers - be sure to look out for sea lions, puffins, and other sea birds. You may even be lucky enough to see Humpback and Minke whales.

9. Alaska Zipline, Juneau

Alaska Zipline, Juneau
Alaska Zipline, Juneau

Located in the beautiful Alaskan rainforest, this Alaska cruise excursion gives you the opportunity to learn about Alaska as you are zipping over salmon spawning streams and beautiful mountains - what could be more inspiring!

The ziplines are in a series, and you go from one tree to another, plus walk across aerial suspension bridges. This excursion offers a different way to see Alaska, and takes you deep into the forests that you may not otherwise be able to see. On completion of the adventure, you will return to a traditional lodge where you can get yourself a locally brewed Alaskan beer.

10. Lumberjack Show, Ketchikan

Lumberjack show
Lumberjack show

For a fun-filled Alaskan adventure, the whole family can enjoy the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show. Watch as Alaskan and Canadian world-class lumberjacks battle out in a number of exhilarating challenges including axe-throwing, log-rolling, and of course chopping and sawing great pieces of timber.

The host of the event will explain how the lumberjack trade has shaped Alaska, and about how it has changed over the years. Close to the port, this event is walkable from the ship, and is suitable for guests of all ages. Improve your knowledge and understanding of Alaskan culture while experiencing something miles apart from what you can find at home.

Now you've read our guide to the top Alaska shore excursions, all that's left to do is browse our fantastic Alaska cruise deals and choose the voyage of your dreams. Whether you opt for an Alaskan cruise from Vancouver, an Alaskan cruise from Seattle or another type, you'll have a wonderful time.

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