Alaska Princess Cruise best shore excursions offer breathtaking glacier views, close wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences. From helicopter tours over icy fjords to dog sledding on glaciers, these handpicked adventures make your 2026 Alaska voyage unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and wild coastlines where orcas breach and eagles soar, then an Alaska Princess Cruise in 2026 might just be your perfect adventure. Princess Cruises has long been a favorite among travelers seeking comfort, reliability, and immersive experiences in the Last Frontier. But what truly sets their Alaska itineraries apart are the carefully curated shore excursions—each one designed to bring you face-to-face with the raw beauty and rich culture of this remote region.
Alaska isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. It’s the crisp air after a rain shower in Ketchikan, the thunderous crack of calving ice at Glacier Bay, and the quiet awe of watching a grizzly bear fish for salmon in a rushing river. And with Princess Cruises, you don’t just pass through these moments—you step into them. Their shore excursions are more than tourist traps; they’re thoughtfully planned adventures led by local experts who know the land, the wildlife, and the stories that make Alaska unforgettable.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, choosing the right excursions can make or break your Alaska experience. With so many options—from high-adrenaline helicopter rides to serene cultural walks—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions for 2026. We’ll walk you through the top picks, share insider tips, and help you match activities to your interests, fitness level, and travel style. So grab your parka, charge your camera, and let’s dive into the wild heart of Alaska.
Key Takeaways
- Glacier helicopter tours: Soar above massive ice formations like Hubbard Glacier for once-in-a-lifetime aerial views.
- Wildlife watching excursions: Spot humpback whales, sea otters, and bald eagles on guided boat tours in Juneau and Ketchikan.
- Dog sledding on glaciers: Experience the thrill of mushing on real ice fields with Iditarod-trained huskies near Skagway.
- Native cultural experiences: Learn Tlingit traditions through storytelling, dancing, and craft workshops in authentic village settings.
- Scenic railway journeys: Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route for dramatic mountain views and historic gold rush insights.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Glide through calm fjords and hidden coves for intimate encounters with nature.
- Photography-focused tours: Join expert-led excursions designed to capture Alaska’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.
📑 Table of Contents
Top Shore Excursions for Glacier Lovers
If glaciers are your thing—and let’s be honest, they really should be—then Alaska is your playground. Princess Cruises offers some of the most spectacular glacier-focused excursions in the industry, and 2026 promises even more access and innovation. From helicopter landings on ice fields to boat tours that glide just feet from calving glaciers, these experiences are nothing short of magical.
Helicopter Glacier Landing Tour (Juneau & Skagway)
One of the most popular—and unforgettable—excursions is the helicopter glacier landing tour. Available in both Juneau and Skagway, this adventure begins with a scenic flight over the Tongass National Forest and the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. As you rise higher, the landscape transforms into a vast expanse of blue ice and snow. Your pilot will land on a stable section of a glacier, where you’ll step out onto the frozen surface, booted and bundled in warm gear provided by the tour operator.
Imagine standing on a glacier that’s thousands of years old, surrounded by crevasses, ice caves, and the eerie silence of the Arctic. Many tours include a short guided walk, where you’ll learn about glacial movement, climate science, and the unique ecosystem of ice. Some even offer the chance to try glacier hiking or snowshoeing. It’s a bucket-list moment that’s as educational as it is exhilarating.
Pro tip: Book early—these tours sell out fast, especially during peak summer months. Also, dress in layers and wear waterproof boots if you have them. The glacier is cold, even in July!
Mendenhall Glacier Kayak Adventure (Juneau)
For a more intimate glacier experience, consider the Mendenhall Glacier Kayak Adventure. This half-day excursion takes you by van to the edge of the Mendenhall Lake, where you’ll paddle in a stable, double kayak toward the face of the glacier. As you glide across the glassy water, you’ll pass icebergs that have calved from the glacier—some as big as cars—and listen to the haunting sounds of ice shifting beneath the surface.
Guided by local naturalists, you’ll learn about the glacier’s retreat over the past century and the impact of climate change on Alaska’s ecosystems. The tour is suitable for beginners, with instruction provided before you hit the water. And if you’re lucky, you might spot black bears foraging along the shoreline or a bald eagle swooping down for a fish.
This excursion is perfect for travelers who want a mix of adventure and education without the high cost of a helicopter. Plus, it’s a great workout—paddling against the current can be challenging, but the views are worth every stroke.
Tracy Arm Fjord & Sawyer Glacier Cruise (Skagway)
Another must-do for glacier enthusiasts is the Tracy Arm Fjord cruise. This full-day journey takes you deep into one of Alaska’s most dramatic fjords, where sheer granite walls rise thousands of feet above the water. The highlight? The twin Sawyer Glaciers, which calve ice directly into the fjord with a sound like thunder.
Princess partners with local boat operators to offer small-group, high-speed catamaran tours that get you closer to the ice than larger vessels. You’ll have binoculars, warm blankets, and hot cocoa on board, plus a naturalist who points out wildlife like harbor seals, mountain goats, and puffins. The cruise often includes a stop at the base of the glacier, where you can feel the cold mist and hear the ice groaning as it shifts.
This excursion is ideal for photographers and nature lovers. Just remember to bring a waterproof jacket—spray from the glacier can be intense—and charge your camera batteries. The light reflecting off the ice creates some of the most stunning photos you’ll ever take.
Wildlife Encounters You Can’t Miss
Visual guide about Alaska Princess Cruise Best Shore Excursions
Image source: seemamatravel.com
Alaska is one of the last great wildlife refuges on Earth, and Princess Cruises makes it easy to see animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re whale watching in Juneau, bear viewing in Ketchikan, or spotting sea lions in Sitka, these excursions offer safe, respectful, and thrilling encounters with some of the planet’s most iconic species.
Whale Watching & Marine Wildlife Cruise (Juneau)
Juneau is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales, and Princess offers a top-rated whale watching tour that delivers. Departing from the downtown marina, the cruise heads into Stephens Passage, a hotspot for marine life. With a naturalist on board, you’ll learn about whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts while scanning the horizon for spouts and flukes.
The tour uses hydrophones to listen for whale songs—yes, you can actually hear them underwater—and often spots orcas, sea lions, and porpoises along the way. Many travelers report seeing humpbacks breaching, tail-slapping, and even bubble-net feeding, a cooperative hunting technique that’s both fascinating and awe-inspiring.
This excursion is family-friendly and typically lasts 3–4 hours. Dress warmly, even in summer, and bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness. The boats are stable, but the waters can get choppy.
Bear Viewing at Anan Creek (Ketchikan)
For a truly wild experience, head to Anan Creek near Ketchikan for a guided bear viewing tour. This remote estuary is one of the few places in Alaska where you can see both black and brown bears fishing for salmon in the same stream—sometimes just 50 feet away.
The tour begins with a scenic flight over the Tongass National Forest, landing on a gravel bar near the creek. From there, you’ll hike a short trail to a viewing platform, where you’ll spend several hours watching bears in action. Naturalists provide commentary on bear behavior, diet, and habitat, and help you identify individual animals by their markings.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but it’s not for everyone. The flight is short but can be bumpy, and the hike requires moderate fitness. Also, tours are limited to small groups to minimize impact on the bears and their environment. Book well in advance—spots fill up months ahead.
Sea Otter & Puffin Kayak Tour (Ketchikan)
If you prefer a slower pace, try the sea otter and puffin kayak tour in Ketchikan. This gentle paddle takes you through protected inlets where sea otters float on their backs, cracking shellfish with rocks, and puffins dive for fish in the clear waters.
Guided by a local expert, you’ll learn about the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem and the challenges facing these species. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, and kayaks are stable and easy to maneuver. Plus, the scenery—lush rainforest, rocky cliffs, and quiet coves—is straight out of a postcard.
This excursion is perfect for travelers who want a peaceful, immersive experience. Just bring a dry bag for your phone and snacks, and don’t forget your camera—puffins are incredibly photogenic.
Cultural Immersion: Connecting with Alaska Native Heritage
Alaska’s indigenous cultures are rich, diverse, and deeply connected to the land. Princess Cruises partners with Native-owned tour operators to offer authentic cultural experiences that go beyond souvenir shops and staged performances. These excursions provide insight into Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian traditions, from storytelling and dance to art and subsistence practices.
Tlingit Cultural Village Tour (Ketchikan)
In Ketchikan, don’t miss the Tlingit Cultural Village Tour. This immersive experience takes you to a recreated village where local elders share stories, demonstrate traditional crafts like totem pole carving and weaving, and perform ceremonial dances in full regalia.
You’ll learn about the clan system, the significance of totem poles, and the importance of salmon in Tlingit life. Many tours include a hands-on workshop where you can try your hand at beadwork or drum making. It’s a respectful, educational, and deeply moving experience that fosters understanding and appreciation.
This excursion is ideal for families and culturally curious travelers. Be sure to ask questions—locals love sharing their heritage—and support Native artists by purchasing authentic crafts directly from the creators.
Native Heritage Center & Canoe Journey (Juneau)
In Juneau, the Native Heritage Center offers a different kind of cultural experience. This modern facility hosts rotating exhibits, film screenings, and live performances that highlight the history and contemporary life of Alaska Natives.
One of the most unique offerings is the canoe journey, where you can paddle a traditional dugout canoe on a calm lake with guidance from a Tlingit instructor. It’s a peaceful, meditative activity that connects you to the water and the ancestors who traveled these same routes for centuries.
The center also offers storytelling sessions, where elders share legends and personal histories. These intimate gatherings provide a rare glimpse into the oral traditions that have sustained Native communities for generations.
Adventure Excursions for Thrill-Seekers
If you’re the type who lives for adrenaline, Alaska won’t disappoint. Princess Cruises offers a range of high-energy excursions that combine physical challenge with jaw-dropping scenery. From dog sledding on glaciers to ziplining through rainforests, these adventures are perfect for travelers who want to push their limits.
Dog Sledding on a Glacier (Skagway)
One of the most iconic Alaska experiences is dog sledding—and doing it on a glacier takes it to the next level. This excursion begins with a helicopter ride to a remote ice field, where you’ll meet a team of huskies and their musher. After a safety briefing, you’ll take the reins and guide the team across the snow.
The dogs are energetic, friendly, and trained for the Iditarod, so you’ll feel the power of the sled as it glides over the ice. Many tours include a visit to the dog camp, where you can pet the puppies and learn about mushing history. It’s a magical, heart-pounding adventure that’s equal parts fun and awe-inspiring.
This tour is physically demanding—you’ll be standing on the sled for 20–30 minutes—and requires warm, waterproof clothing. But for many, it’s the highlight of their entire trip.
Zipline Canopy Tour (Ketchikan)
For a different kind of thrill, try the zipline canopy tour in Ketchikan. Soaring high above the rainforest, you’ll fly through the trees on a series of cables, bridges, and platforms. The views of the Tongass National Forest and the surrounding islands are stunning, and the rush of speed is unforgettable.
Guided by certified instructors, the tour is safe for all ages and fitness levels. Most courses include 6–8 ziplines, with the longest reaching over 1,000 feet. It’s a great way to see the forest from a new perspective and get your heart racing.
Whitewater Rafting on the Chilkat River (Haines)
If you’re up for a real challenge, consider whitewater rafting on the Chilkat River near Haines. This full-day adventure takes you through Class III rapids, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine wilderness. You’ll paddle through fast-moving water, dodge rocks, and work as a team to navigate the river.
The tour includes all gear, a riverside lunch, and expert guides who know the river inside and out. It’s physically demanding, but the sense of accomplishment—and the views—are worth it.
Scenic & Relaxing Options for Every Traveler
Not every excursion needs to be high-octane. Alaska is also a place of quiet beauty, and Princess Cruises offers plenty of relaxing options for travelers who want to soak in the scenery at a slower pace.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway (Skagway)
One of the most scenic train rides in the world, the White Pass & Yukon Route takes you on a historic journey through the mountains. Built during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow-gauge railway climbs steep grades, crosses towering trestles, and offers panoramic views of Skagway and the surrounding fjords.
The train cars are comfortable and climate-controlled, with large windows and open-air platforms for photos. Onboard guides share stories of prospectors, engineers, and the challenges of building a railroad in such a remote location. It’s a relaxing, educational, and visually stunning experience.
Scenic Motorcoach Tour to Glacier Viewpoint (Juneau)
For a low-key way to see a glacier, take the motorcoach tour to a scenic viewpoint near Juneau. This half-day excursion includes a guided drive through the rainforest, with stops at overlooks and interpretive centers. You’ll learn about local flora and fauna, and enjoy views of the glacier from a safe distance.
It’s a great option for travelers with limited mobility or those who prefer not to hike or kayak. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and leaves plenty of time for shopping or exploring downtown.
Tips for Choosing the Best Shore Excursions
With so many options, how do you choose? Here are a few tips to help you pick the best Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions for your trip:
– **Book early:** Popular tours like helicopter landings and bear viewing sell out months in advance. Use Princess’s online portal to reserve spots as soon as your itinerary is confirmed.
– **Match activities to your fitness level:** Some excursions require hiking, paddling, or standing for long periods. Be honest about your abilities to avoid disappointment.
– **Check the weather:** Alaska’s weather can change quickly. Pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes—even in summer.
– **Support local operators:** Choose excursions run by Alaska Native or locally owned companies to ensure your money supports the community.
– **Bring a camera and extra batteries:** You’ll want to capture every moment. Consider a waterproof case for kayaking or boat tours.
– **Ask questions:** Talk to the excursion staff on board. They can help you customize your experience and recommend hidden gems.
Conclusion
An Alaska Princess Cruise in 2026 is more than a vacation—it’s a journey into one of the world’s last true wildernesses. And with the right shore excursions, you can experience the best of what Alaska has to offer: towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, rich Native cultures, and adventures that will stay with you forever.
Whether you’re soaring over ice fields, paddling beside whales, or learning ancient stories from a Tlingit elder, these excursions bring the spirit of Alaska to life. So as you plan your trip, remember: the best experiences aren’t always the most expensive or the most extreme. Sometimes, it’s the quiet moment watching a glacier calve, or the laughter of a husky team pulling your sled, that stays with you longest.
Choose wisely, pack warmly, and open your heart to the wild. Alaska is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions for first-time visitors?
The Mendenhall Glacier Kayak Adventure, whale watching in Juneau, and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway are excellent for first-timers. They offer a mix of scenery, wildlife, and culture without requiring extreme fitness.
Are Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions suitable for families with kids?
Yes, many excursions are family-friendly, including whale watching, cultural village tours, and scenic train rides. Check age and height requirements for activities like ziplining or dog sledding.
How far in advance should I book Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions?
Book as early as possible—ideally when you book your cruise. Popular tours like helicopter glacier landings and bear viewing often sell out 6–12 months in advance.
Can I customize my shore excursions or go off on my own?
Yes, you can book independent tours, but Princess excursions offer added safety, convenience, and local expertise. Independent tours may not be covered by cruise insurance.
What should I wear on Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions?
Dress in layers, wear waterproof outerwear, and choose sturdy, non-slip shoes. Even in summer, temperatures can drop near glaciers and on boats.
Are Alaska Princess Cruise shore excursions refundable?
Most excursions are non-refundable once booked, but some offer partial refunds if canceled 48+ hours in advance. Check the terms when booking.