Alaska cruises offer some of the most breathtaking excursions on Earth, blending natural wonders with cultural depth. Whether you’re chasing glaciers, spotting whales, or learning about Indigenous heritage, the right excursions can transform your voyage into an unforgettable adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Glacier tours are a must: Don’t miss heli-hikes, boat tours, or kayaking near massive tidewater glaciers like Hubbard or Mendenhall.
- Wildlife viewing is top-tier: Book whale-watching, bear-viewing, or sea otter tours in places like Icy Strait Point or Ketchikan.
- Dog sledding on glaciers is iconic: Experience this Alaskan tradition via helicopter to a remote glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime ride.
- Native cultural experiences add depth: Visit Tlingit or Haida villages to learn about art, storytelling, and traditions.
- Adventure activities suit thrill-seekers: Try zip-lining, rafting, or mountain biking in scenic coastal towns.
- Book early for popular excursions: High-demand tours sell out fast—reserve online before your cruise.
- Consider mobility and weather: Some excursions require moderate fitness; always check conditions and dress in layers.
[FEATURED_IMAGE_PLACEHOLDER]
Introduction: Why Alaska Cruises Are a Bucket-List Experience
There’s something almost magical about cruising through Alaska’s rugged coastline. Towering snow-capped peaks, endless evergreen forests, and icy fjords stretch as far as the eye can see. But what truly sets an Alaskan cruise apart isn’t just the scenery—it’s the chance to step off the ship and immerse yourself in the wild heart of the Last Frontier. That’s where excursions come in.
These guided adventures are your ticket to experiencing Alaska up close. Whether you’re gliding past a calving glacier in a Zodiac, hiking across a frozen ice field, or sharing stories with a Tlingit elder, excursions turn a scenic cruise into a personal journey. They’re not just add-ons—they’re the soul of your trip.
But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Should you go whale-watching in Juneau or try dog sledding on a glacier? Is a cultural tour in Ketchikan worth your time? And how do you choose between a helicopter tour and a kayaking adventure? This guide will help you navigate the best excursions to book on an Alaskan cruise, so you can make the most of every port stop.
Top Glacier Excursions: Witness Nature’s Frozen Giants
Glaciers are Alaska’s crown jewels, and no cruise is complete without seeing one up close. These rivers of ice move slowly but powerfully, carving valleys and shaping the landscape over centuries. Fortunately, there are several unforgettable ways to experience them—whether from the water, the air, or right on the ice.
Helicopter Glacier Tours and Dog Sledding
One of the most iconic Alaskan experiences is dog sledding on a glacier—and doing it via helicopter makes it even more thrilling. Companies like Alaska Glacier Adventures in Juneau or Seawolf Adventures in Skagway offer helicopter rides to remote ice fields, where you’ll land on a glacier and meet a team of energetic sled dogs.
After a brief safety talk, you’ll ride in a sled pulled by a team of huskies, guided by a professional musher. The silence of the glacier, broken only by the panting of dogs and the crunch of snow underfoot, is surreal. Many tours include a visit to a dog camp, where you can cuddle puppies and learn about the history of dog sledding in Alaska.
Tip: Book this early—it’s one of the most popular excursions and often sells out months in advance. Wear warm, waterproof layers and closed-toe shoes.
Glacier Bay National Park Boat Tours
If your cruise includes a stop in Glacier Bay, you’re in for a treat. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over a dozen active glaciers, including the famous Margerie and Lamplugh Glaciers. While the ship often sails through the park, a dedicated boat tour lets you get closer to the ice.
Operators like Alaska Boat Company offer small-boat excursions that navigate narrow inlets, giving you front-row seats to calving events—when huge chunks of ice break off and crash into the water. The sound is thunderous, and the sight is awe-inspiring.
These tours often include naturalist guides who explain the science behind glacier formation and the impact of climate change. You might also spot sea lions, harbor seals, and even humpback whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.
Kayaking Near Mendenhall Glacier
For a more intimate glacier experience, consider kayaking near Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. This 13-mile-long glacier is one of the few accessible by road, making it a favorite for active travelers.
Tours typically begin at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you’ll gear up and paddle across the tranquil lake. As you glide across the water, the glacier looms ahead, its blue ice glowing under the Alaskan sun. Some tours include a short hike to a viewpoint, where you can walk right up to the edge of the ice.
Tip: Kayaking is moderately strenuous—be prepared for a workout. Most companies provide dry suits, but dress warmly underneath.
Wildlife Viewing Excursions: Spot Alaska’s Iconic Animals
Alaska is a wildlife paradise, and excursions here offer some of the best chances to see animals in their natural habitat. From breaching whales to foraging bears, the state’s diverse ecosystems support an incredible array of species.
Whale-Watching Tours in Icy Strait Point and Juneau
Whale-watching is a highlight for many cruisers, and Alaska’s waters are prime feeding grounds for humpback, orca, and gray whales. Icy Strait Point, near Hoonah, is especially famous for its high whale sighting rates—some tours boast a 98% success rate.
Tours typically last 2–3 hours and use quiet, eco-friendly boats to avoid disturbing the animals. Naturalists on board help identify individual whales by their tail flukes and explain their behaviors, like bubble-net feeding. You might also see sea lions, porpoises, and bald eagles.
In Juneau, companies like Alaska Sea Adventures offer similar tours, often combining whale-watching with visits to remote hot springs or rainforest hikes. Some even include a stop at a historic fish hatchery.
Tip: Bring binoculars and a waterproof jacket. Seas can be choppy, so take motion sickness medication if needed.
Brown Bear Viewing in Katmai or Kodiak
For a truly wild experience, consider a bear-viewing excursion. While most cruises don’t go directly to Katmai National Park, some extended itineraries or pre/post-cruise packages include flights to Brooks Falls—one of the best places on Earth to see brown bears fishing for salmon.
Alternatively, tours from Ketchikan or Sitka may include visits to nearby islands where black bears forage along the shore. These excursions are usually led by wildlife biologists who share insights into bear behavior and conservation.
Important: Bear-viewing tours often require small planes or boats and can be expensive. They’re best booked as part of a longer Alaska adventure, not a standard cruise.
Sea Otter and Puffin Cruises in Ketchikan
Ketchikan, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” is also a hotspot for marine wildlife. Excursions here often focus on sea otters, puffins, and other coastal creatures.
Tours like Alaska Travel Company’s “Wildlife & Waterfalls” cruise take you through the misty channels of the Tongass National Forest. You’ll glide past waterfalls, old-growth cedar trees, and rocky outcrops where sea otters float on their backs, cracking clams with rocks.
Puffins—those adorable, colorful-beaked seabirds—nest on nearby islands during summer. Some tours include a stop at a bird sanctuary, where you can observe them up close (from a respectful distance).
Cultural and Historical Excursions: Connect with Alaska’s People
Alaska’s beauty isn’t just natural—it’s deeply cultural. The state is home to over 20 Indigenous nations, each with rich traditions, languages, and art forms. Excursions that focus on culture offer a meaningful way to understand Alaska beyond the postcard views.
Native Village Tours in Ketchikan and Sitka
Ketchikan is a great place to learn about the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. The Totem Heritage Center houses original 19th-century totem poles, while guided tours of nearby villages like Chief Johnson’s Village include storytelling, traditional dancing, and craft demonstrations.
In Sitka, the Alaska Raptor Center and St. Michael’s Cathedral offer insights into both Native and Russian colonial history. The Sheet’ka Kwaan Aaniinga (Sitka Tribe) cultural center hosts performances and workshops on weaving, carving, and subsistence practices.
These tours are led by Indigenous guides who share personal stories and answer questions with honesty and pride. It’s a chance to move beyond stereotypes and appreciate the resilience and creativity of Alaska Native communities.
Gold Rush History in Skagway
Skagway is a living museum of the Klondike Gold Rush. Walking its boardwalks feels like stepping back in time. Excursions here often include visits to the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where costumed interpreters reenact life in the 1890s.
One popular tour is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, a narrow-gauge train that climbs 2,865 feet through steep mountain passes. The ride offers stunning views and stops at historic sites like the “Dead Horse Trail,” where thousands of pack animals perished during the gold rush.
Another option is a guided walking tour of Skagway’s red-light district and saloons, where you’ll hear tales of outlaws, prospectors, and the infamous Jefferson Randolph Smith—better known as “Soapy” Smith.
Traditional Craft Workshops
For a hands-on cultural experience, look for excursions that include craft workshops. In Haines, you might learn to weave spruce root baskets with a Tlingit artist. In Ketchikan, try your hand at carving a small totem pole or painting a traditional design on a cedar board.
These activities not only support local artisans but also give you a tangible connection to Alaska’s heritage. Many tours include a take-home souvenir, making it a meaningful alternative to mass-produced trinkets.
Adventure Excursions: For Thrill-Seekers and Active Travelers
If you love adrenaline and outdoor challenges, Alaska won’t disappoint. From zip-lining through rainforests to white-water rafting down glacial rivers, there’s no shortage of ways to get your heart pumping.
Zip-Lining in Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point is home to one of the longest zip-line courses in North America. The ZipRider tour features seven lines, including a 1,350-foot zip that soars over a waterfall and rainforest canopy.
The experience begins with a short hike through old-growth forest, followed by a safety briefing and harness fitting. Then it’s time to fly—some lines reach speeds of up to 60 mph. Guides are knowledgeable and encouraging, making it fun even for first-timers.
Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and avoid loose clothing. The tour operates in light rain, but may be canceled in high winds.
White-Water Rafting on the Chilkat River
Near Haines, the Chilkat River offers Class II–III rapids perfect for beginners and families. Tours like Alaska Zipline & Raft combine rafting with wildlife viewing—you might spot eagles, moose, or even bears along the riverbanks.
The trip usually includes a riverside lunch and a stop at a historic fish wheel, used by Indigenous people for centuries to catch salmon. Guides provide all equipment and instruction, so no experience is necessary.
Mountain Biking in Juneau
For a different perspective of Juneau, try a mountain biking tour. Companies like Alaska Mountain Guides offer guided rides through coastal trails, rainforest paths, and even old mining roads.
One popular route follows the Perseverance Trail, a historic path used during the gold rush. The ride is moderately challenging, with some steep climbs and descents, but the views of the city and surrounding mountains are worth it.
Tip: Bring layers and a helmet (usually provided). Tours often include transportation from the cruise terminal.
Practical Tips for Booking the Best Excursions
With so many options, planning your excursions can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to make smart choices and avoid common pitfalls.
Book Early—Especially for High-Demand Tours
Popular excursions like helicopter dog sledding, bear viewing, and certain whale-watching tours sell out months in advance. Most cruise lines allow you to book online before your trip—take advantage of this.
Pro tip: Compare prices between the cruise line and third-party operators. Sometimes independent companies offer lower rates or smaller groups.
Check Physical Requirements and Accessibility
Not all excursions are suitable for everyone. Glacier hikes and kayaking require moderate fitness, while cultural tours are usually more accessible. If you have mobility concerns, look for “easy” or “accessible” options.
Always read the fine print: some tours involve stairs, uneven terrain, or long walks. If in doubt, call the operator or ask your cruise line’s excursion desk.
Dress for Success: Layering Is Key
Alaska’s weather is unpredictable. It can be sunny and 60°F one moment, then foggy and 45°F the next. Dress in layers: a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell.
Don’t forget:
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (yes, even in Alaska!)
Be Flexible and Respect the Environment
Weather can cancel or delay excursions—especially helicopter and boat tours. Have a backup plan, like visiting a museum or exploring the town on foot.
Also, practice Leave No Trace principles. Stay on marked trails, don’t feed wildlife, and respect cultural sites. Alaska’s beauty depends on responsible tourism.
Conclusion: Make Every Moment Count on Your Alaskan Cruise
An Alaskan cruise is more than a vacation—it’s an immersion into one of the world’s last great wildernesses. The right excursions can turn scenic views into personal memories, whether you’re standing on a glacier, watching a whale breach, or learning a traditional dance.
From glacier hikes and wildlife tours to cultural experiences and adrenaline-pumping adventures, Alaska offers something for every traveler. The key is to choose excursions that match your interests, fitness level, and sense of adventure.
Remember: book early, dress smart, and stay open to the unexpected. Some of the best moments happen when plans change—like spotting a bear from the deck or sharing a laugh with a local guide.
So go ahead—dare to zip-line over a rainforest, paddle beside a calving glacier, or listen to a Tlingit elder’s story. These are the experiences that define an Alaskan cruise. And they’re waiting for you.
FAQs
What are the most popular excursions on an Alaskan cruise?
The most popular excursions include helicopter dog sledding on glaciers, whale-watching tours, and visits to Glacier Bay National Park. These high-demand tours often sell out early, so booking in advance is essential.
Are Alaskan cruise excursions worth the cost?
Yes, especially for unique experiences like glacier hikes or bear viewing. While some tours can be pricey, they offer access to remote areas and expert guides that enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Alaska.
Can I book excursions independently instead of through the cruise line?
Absolutely. Many third-party operators offer similar or better deals, often with smaller groups. Just ensure they’re reputable and have good reviews to avoid scams or missed pickups.
What should I wear on Alaskan excursions?
Layered, waterproof clothing is key. Wear a base layer, fleece or sweater, and a waterproof jacket. Closed-toe shoes, hats, gloves, and sunglasses are also recommended, even on sunny days.
Are excursions suitable for children and seniors?
Many tours are family-friendly, but some require moderate fitness. Look for “easy” or “accessible” options for seniors or young kids. Always check age and mobility requirements before booking.
What happens if weather cancels my excursion?
Most companies offer refunds or rescheduling if weather cancels a tour. Cruise lines typically provide credit if the ship can’t dock. Always confirm the cancellation policy before booking.
This is a comprehensive guide about what are the best excursions to book on alaskan cruise.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding what are the best excursions to book on alaskan cruise: Provides essential knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions
What is what are the best excursions to book on alaskan cruise?
what are the best excursions to book on alaskan cruise is an important topic with many practical applications.