Imagine soaring over millions of acres of glistening fjords or sampling freshly caught Pacific salmon amidst majestic glaciers. It’s adventures like these that have made Alaskan cruises so enticing. Whether you enjoy an adrenaline rush or a relaxing reprieve, these excursions are a must for your next Alaskan cruise.
Ketchikan: Float Plane Tour Over Misty Fjords
Rise over majestic waterfalls, sheer granite cliffs, and diverse wildlife from a dramatic perspective. A float plane gives passengers a bird’s eye view of Misty Fjords National Monument. Its vertical cliffs were created in the last Ice Age, and the pristine Alpine Lakes are unattainable by foot while bald eagles soar in their natural habitat.
Juneau: Gold Mine, Panning and Salmon Bake
Journey back to 1880, and follow the path of Joe Juneau and Richard Harris as they set off in search of gold. A prospector leads a group with a chance to pan for some gold of their own. End the day at Gold Creek for a salmon bake; serving the freshest caught Alaskan salmon grilled over an open Alderwood fire and good old-fashioned campfire s’mores.
Skagway: Dogsledding
Set out on an epic adventure at an authentic dogsled summer training camp and embark on an exhilarating ride, led by a pack of Alaskan huskies and their handler. The scenic adventure throughout beautiful ice fields are not just for the winter months; dogsledding exercises are offered year-round after the pups oblige for photo ops and of course, a belly rub.
Sitka: Salmon and Halibut Fishing
This world-class fishing destination sits directly on the ocean, allowing anglers to catch all five species of Pacific salmon. Even the non-fishers in the group will get hooked on the sport, catching a variety of the world’s best salmon and even halibut. Choose whether you catch or release, and while the cruise ship won’t let you bring your catch on board, the excursion captain will arrange to have your fish commercially processed and shipped home. Note: you do need a fishing license, which you can purchase on board the cruise ship.
Icy Strait Point: Zipping
Soar over the treetops of Icy Strati Point and Glacier Bay on the largest zip-line in the world. Sitting 1330 feet above the ground and over 5400 feet long, thrill seekers will zip down the mountain at speeds of up to 60mph. Open your eyes to take in views of the untouched beauty of the Strait and Port Frederick. After, reward yourself with a local brew at Duck Point Bar.
