7 Experiences Cruising to Alaska

Tourism to Alaska dates back more than a century when Canadian steamships brought curious visitors for sightseeing tours of the interior of America’s 49^th state. However the phenomenon of ‘Alaska cruises’ - where ships ply the Inside Passage - has only been popular since the 1960s. In terms of geography, Alaska may be America’s ‘Last Frontier’, but when it comes to untamed natural beauty it is first without equal. As you weave your way north through this hauntingly beautiful watery maze, it’s time to decide which of the vast array of excursions from Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan is right for you. Here are our favourite seven tours on offer.

1. The White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion begins when you board the train in Skagway and travel 20 miles to the summit at 2,865-ft. Cosseted in vintage passenger coaches you retrace the Klondike trail through gorges, tunnels and across trestle-bridges, passing Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, and Dead Horse Gulch.

2. Climb aboard a floatplane in Ketchikan to discover the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument. You’ll soar over majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls and jewel-like lakes, but the highlight is a landing on an alpine lake or remote fjord.

3. Imagine riding in a dog sled behind a team of huskies as you race across the snow-covered Mendenhall Valley nestled in between picturesque mountains on the Juneau Icefield. This thrilling adventure is a great combination of dog sledding on snow and a helicopter tour over the glaciers. 

4. From Skagway enjoy a scenic boat ride through the world's second largest fjord system on your way out to the Davidson Glacier. From there, hop into an all-terrain vehicle for a fun ride through the forest while taking in the scenery and wildlife.

5. Humpback and killer whales, sea lions and porpoises are the highlights when you join specially designed boats from their anchorage close to Juneau and head out to Stephens Passage, Lynn Canal or Saginaw Channel. 

6. On a kayaking tour from Skagway knowledgeable guides will take you and your fellow paddlers through North America's longest and deepest Fjord. From your tandem kayak, you’ll enjoy stunning views and plenty of wildlife sighting opportunities. 

7. From Ketchikan set off on a scenic coastal drive to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary where you'll get a chance to observe bald eagles and black bears. This tour is perfect for families as kids will adore feeding the reindeer at the end of the excursion.

To stake your claim on an Alaskan cruise speak to our experienced team on 0800 484 0370.

Gary Buchanan