Top 10 Shore Excursions in Alaska

If you’re in search of unique and extraordinary experiences, an Alaska cruise might be just what you need.

Visiting Alaska is like receiving a grand gift from Mother Nature! Located northwest of Canada, Alaska boasts diverse landscapes, expansive wilderness, breathtaking mountains, and rich wildlife, making it an ideal cruise destination for unforgettable adventures.

To ensure you fully enjoy your cruise vacation, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit spots in Alaska.

Exciting Adventure Activities

If you're looking for activities in Alaska, adventure should be your first choice! There are numerous exciting Alaskan shore excursions to ensure you have the best vacation possible.

1. Soar Down a Zip Line

Experience the thrill of flying through the treetops at the Klondike Zipline Adventure Park! Start with a brief guided tour of the charming seaside town of Skagway. After a quick nature walk from the bus stop, you'll be equipped with safety gear and ready to zip! Test your skills on the challenging ropes course and enjoy the adrenaline-pumping aerial zip lines.

2. Discover Mountain Trails

Kick off your morning with a thrilling catamaran ride down North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Then, hop into your four-wheel drive vehicle and prepare to navigate past stunning vistas of magnificent waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. Breathe in the fresh northern air as you ascend to the highlight of your adventure – breathtaking views of sub-alpine meadows from a 1500-foot elevation. Wrap up your day by a cozy fire, enjoying a gourmet lunch and some relaxation before heading back to the ship with unforgettable memories.

3. Experience Glacier Watching in Style

Take a flight in a classic seaplane oVisit Sitever the Juneau Icefield to witness five stunning glaciers. After the excitement of your aerial adventure, you’ll land at a riverside lodge for a sophisticated and leisurely dinner featuring local wild-caught salmon. This is an Alaskan excursion you won't forget.

4. Journey on the Yukon Railway

Experience the legendary Yukon Territory by train. Starting from Skagway, you’ll ascend 3,292 feet above sea level in your luxurious motor coach en route to White Pass. Once you cross into Canada, you’ll have the chance to discover the genuine Yukon town of Caribou Crossing, admire shimmering lakes, and more. With a fantastic lunch spot, knowledgeable guides, fascinating stories of bygone days, and breathtaking scenery, this combined excursion is sure to impress.

Water-Based Adventures

There’s nothing quite like spending time on the water, especially in a place as enchanting as Alaska.

5. Maritime Adventures

Immerse yourself in the daily life of commercial fishermen. This tour takes place aboard a renowned crab fishing vessel, equipped with a unique on-deck aquarium to observe as the crew retrieves their daily haul. In addition to giant crabs and other fascinating marine creatures, you might spot whales, octopuses, sea lions, porpoises, sharks, and seals.

6. Discover Fjords and Glaciers

Embark on a journey through the renowned Tracy Arm Fjord on this popular catamaran excursion. Be awed by the stunning cliffs soaring 4,000 feet above the winding sea. Witness glaciers, observe wildlife, and experience the phenomenon of “white thunder” for a true northern experience.

7. Everything in One

For those seeking a taste of it all, the Best of Juneau combo tour is your ideal choice. Experience three of Alaska's top attractions in a single thrilling day. Explore a humpback whale feeding area, indulge in a delicious salmon bake on a wilderness island, and marvel at a majestic glacier. It doesn’t get any more exhilarating than this!

Uncover the Wonders of Wild Alaska

8. Glacier & Wildlife Adventure

Walk alongside a glacier, observe salmon spawning in a nearby stream, and seek out wildlife in their natural environment – this tour offers it all. After your glacier visit, embark on a wildlife viewing adventure aboard a high-speed catamaran designed for your experience. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, and Sitka black-tailed deer.

9. Encounter the Bears

Alaska offers more than just sea life! This unique wildlife expedition from the port of Ketchikan showcases the majestic black bears of southeast Alaska. Get a close-up view of the bears in their natural surroundings.

10. Experience Mushing

Attention dog enthusiasts! This adventure is tailor-made for you! Discover the world of mushers and their sleds, enjoy a genuine mush ride, and interact with the dogs, all set against a breathtaking outdoor backdrop. You’ll also catch a glimpse of the charming town of Skagway on your journey to the mush.

From the untouched beauty of Glacier Bay to the wild mountain forests, Alaska remains one of the last true frontiers. This natural paradise is still largely unexplored and enchantingly wild. A cruise to Alaska is an essential experience, and it can be yours now.

Please be aware that onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may differ depending on the ship and the destination.