Some cruise destinations, like Barcelona or Sydney, are perfect for independent exploration—you can step off the ship and easily visit top attractions. However, this isn’t the case for most Alaskan ports.
To fully experience an Alaska cruise, it’s advisable to book excursions at nearly every port you visit, focusing on tours that take you beyond the towns and into the stunning Alaskan backcountry.
Many of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring attractions—think majestic mountains, glaciers, fjords, and wildlife like breaching whales and feeding bears—are found in nature, not in town. Staying within the towns may mean missing out on the true essence of Alaska.
Related: The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler
Choosing the Best Alaska Shore Excursions
For over two decades, I’ve covered Alaska cruising for major publications and co-authored Frommer’s “Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call.” My experience includes exploring most major cruise ports and trying numerous shore excursions in towns like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.
The key takeaway for anyone planning an Alaska cruise? Venture beyond the towns. Book tours—hiking, rafting, fishing—that immerse you in Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.
Here are some pro tips for selecting the best Alaska shore excursions:
- Experience the aerial views. While prices can start at $250 per person, seeing Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane is unparalleled. The Juneau Icefield, spanning approximately 1,500 square miles, offers spectacular views, particularly on flightseeing tours that may even land on the ice.
- Don’t miss whale watching. Alaska’s humpback whales are mesmerizing, and boat tours from Juneau or Icy Strait Point get you up close. Even if you’re not a wildlife enthusiast, witnessing these giants can be a highlight.
- Indulge in Misty Fjords National Monument. This stunning wilderness area near Ketchikan features icy blue lakes, beautiful waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Accessible only via boat or floatplane, tours typically start at over $200.
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While many of Alaska’s best excursions can be pricey, it’s wise to allocate a similar budget for your excursions as you would for your cabin. However, not every outing needs to be extravagant. For example, in Juneau, a trip to nearby Mendenhall Glacier costs around $45 per person via bus—though it can be steep. Taxis are a better deal, averaging $35 each way.
Mendenhall Glacier offers hiking trails and a visitor center, where you might even spot salmon in a stream. Just remember, seeing a bear up close is thrilling until it’s not!
Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples
The towns themselves are not without attractions. For instance, Juneau has popular food tours featuring local delicacies like king crab bisque. The Alaska State Museum is also worth a visit. Skagway is a charming gold rush-themed town, while craft beer lovers might enjoy a locally brewed Spruce Tip Blonde Ale.
In Ketchikan, stroll along Creek Street for a classic Alaska selfie spot as you watch salmon run.
Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle for every type of traveler
How to Book the Best Alaska Shore Excursions
The easiest way to book excursions is through your cruise line. You can select options online before your trip or while onboard, and you’ll receive a ticket in your cabin. A guide will be waiting for you when you disembark.
Alternatively, you can book directly with local tour operators, but be aware that many of these operators partner with the cruise lines, meaning you might not find substantial differences in pricing.
In some cases, cruise lines even have ownership ties to local tour operators. For example, Princess Cruises and Holland America share ownership stakes in attractions like the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.
While discounts can sometimes be found by contacting operators directly, success varies.
Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money
Top 6 Alaska Shore Excursions
Here are six of my favorite Alaska excursions, all available through major cruise lines. Names and prices may vary across lines, but I’ve referenced current details from Princess Cruises, the largest operator in Alaska.
Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line
Helicopter Dogsledding Adventure
Cost: $799.95 per person
Available at: Juneau
This iconic excursion combines breathtaking helicopter flightseeing over the Juneau Icefield with a thrilling dogsled experience on a glacier. Despite the hefty price tag, the stunning views and unforgettable dog interactions make it worthwhile.
Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest
Cost: $224.95 per person
Available at: Juneau
This excursion guarantees sightings of humpback whales as you cruise the rich waters around Juneau, with opportunities to see seals and sea lions.
Klondike Rock Climbing and Rappelling
Cost: $129.95 per person
Available at: Skagway
Ideal for climbers of all skill levels, this adventure includes gear, instruction, and a chance to rappel down a granite cliff.
White Pass Scenic Railway Ride
Cost: $159.95 per person
Available at: Skagway
A scenic journey through the mountains, this ride offers breathtaking views and insights into the area’s history.
Laughton Glacier Hike and White Pass Rail Adventure
Cost: $479.95 per person
Available at: Skagway
This extensive tour combines a train ride with a guided hike to witness Laughton Glacier, showcasing Alaska’s stunning wilderness.
Misty Fjords National Monument by Seaplane
Cost: $519.95 per person
Available at: Ketchikan
A floatplane trip to Misty Fjords offers breathtaking vistas of fjords, cliffs, and lush rainforests. Be prepared for possible misty weather!
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