Cruise Alaska and Expect the Unexpected

Taking a cruise is a fantastic way to see amazing sights while vacationing with ease. But if all your cruising daydreams take you only to palm trees and tropical beaches, then you’re missing out.

Have you ever considered an Alaskan cruise?

If you love nature and the great outdoors – or have ever dreamed of visiting the 49th state – a cruise is one of the best ways you can experience Alaska’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Intrigued? Read on to learn more about the unique experiences an Alaskan cruise has to offer.

Natural beauty

The Last Frontier is home to spectacular natural phenomena, much of which is best enjoyed from the water. From the comfort of your cruise ship you’ll witness amazing wildlife and stunning views. Here are just a few of the incredible sights on your Alaskan cruise for which you’ll have a front row seat.

The Inside Passage: Weaving between islands and fjords, mountains and glaciers, few routes in the world can rival this waterway’s scenic views. It’s also home to a thriving ecosystem of marine life. Typical sights include whales, bald eagles, sea lions, porpoises and sea otters.

Tracy Arm: Located near Juneau, this narrow fjord is home to some of Alaska’s largest glaciers and is surrounded by forested mountains, waterfalls and vibrant wildlife on sea and land. Watch and hear the thunderous sound of “calving” – icebergs breaking off from the glaciers and falling into the sea!

Hubbard Glacier: Known as “the galloping glacier,” this 600 foot tall glacier races toward the sea at an impressive 80 feet per year. With its stunning blue color and constant calving activity, Hubbard Glacier is spectacular to behold.

Fun excursions

While there’s so much to see from the grand vantage of your cruise ship, you will be equally amazed at the host of fun land excursions to pick from.

Ketchikan Zipline: Ready for adventure? The Ketchikan Zipline is an exhilarating ride through the canopy of the lush Tongass National Forest. Enjoy a stunning bird’s eye view of the rainforest and see how many bald eagles you can spot!

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: Hop aboard a vintage train car and follow in the literal tracks of the Klondike gold prospectors. This narrow-gauge railway ascends nearly 3000 feet in elevation in only 20 miles, providing nonstop panoramic scenes and an impressive view from the summit.

Misty Fjords: Travel via floatplane to this vast wilderness stretching along the Inside Passage, and admire the pristine lakes, waterfalls and jaw-dropping granite cliff faces.

Denali National Park: Visit the interior of Denali National Park on a cruisetour. With six million acres of breathtaking wilderness and the highest peak in North America, this park is chock full of things to do and ways to explore! From hiking and snowshoeing, to white water rafting and helicopter tours, to zooming through in a jeep or ATV. Learn to drive a dog sled, or grab some down time by playing with the puppies at the Husky Homestead.

 Fascinating destinations

From bustling cities to charming mountain towns, Alaska’s settlements are home to rich history, breathtaking views and a thriving lifestyle.

Skagway: Step back in time and explore Alaskan history through this picturesque mining town. Take a walking tour through the historic district and be transported back to the 1898 gold rush. Have a pint of spruce tip ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. Take a (shockingly) refreshing dip in the glacial waters of Lower Dewey Lake. Or explore what nature has to offer in the stunning alpine environment.

Juneau: This city has the distinction of being the second largest in the US (by area), and is the only state capital that cannot be reached by road. Explore the easily accessible Mendenhall Glacier. Take a thrilling tramway ride up 1,800 feet to the summit of Mt. Roberts. Watch for whales, bears, eagles and more on a wildlife tour. Or set out on Juneau’s impressive 250+ miles of hiking trails with panoramic views of lakes, glaciers, mountains, and the city itself.

Ketchikan: There are so many opportunities to play and learn in this quaint mountain town. Watch the incredible journey of King Salmon swimming up Ketchikan creek. Learn about the history and arts of native peoples and view the world’s largest collection of totem poles. And don’t forget to save some time for flightseeing, snorkeling, and a spin on the famous zip lines.

Luxurious onboard experiences

Just because you’re touring wild, rugged Alaska, doesn’t mean your Alaskan cruise will lack luxury. When you’re not out adventuring, there are plenty of amenities to enjoy from the comfort of your ship.

Food: Sip cocktails and enjoy fine dining, or relax in a casual atmosphere. Your ship offers a variety of specialty restaurants, bars, and lounges to choose from. Traveling by cruise allows you to enjoy the culinary expertise of world class chefs – even in the world’s most remote areas.

Spa & fitness: There’s no need to neglect your wellness during your trip! Take advantage of the luxurious spa and fitness facilities onboard. Relax in the sauna, keep up with your normal workout routine, or pop in for a yoga or spin class.

Events, parties and entertainment: It wouldn’t be a cruise without incredible entertainment. Enjoy live music and exciting performances, then dance the night away when the DJ takes the stage.

Activities for kids and teens: The cruise experience can be magical for the whole family! Engage in fun, family-centered activities that are great for all ages. Let your teens do their thing in a (supervised) teen hangout space. Keep learning at the center with an exciting summer camp program. Drop your little ones off at a kid-focused event or employ a babysitter so you can squeeze in a few hours of adult time.

What about you? Are you ready for your own Alaskan cruise adventure? Happy adventuring!

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