By: TravelPerks
Alaska is home to some of the most incredible landscapes in the world- and taking an Alaskan cruise is one of the best ways to visit! Traveling to Alaska by cruise allows you to fully relax as you immerse yourself in the landscape and truly enjoy everything Alaska offers.
Glacier Bay
Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of many Alaskan cruises! Located in Alaska’s Inside Passage, this 3.3 million-acre park is part of a 24-million-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest protected areas in the world. Glacier Bay is one of the most unique areas in the world, as it encompasses glaciers, mountain peaks, foothills, rivers, forests, plains, and fjords within its boundaries.
You can also look forward to seeing the wildlife! One of the best parts about Glacier Bay National Park is that it’s not accessible by roadway, meaning there’s little human interference. It’s a globally significant marine and wilderness sanctuary, and wildlife has been allowed to thrive! It’s not rare to see humpback whales, sea lions, orcas, harbor seals, otters, and porpoises. On land, you can also expect to see brown and black bears, moose, mountain goats, wolves, and more than 200 different species of birds.
Juneau
At the northern edge of Alaska’s inside passage, you’ll find Juneau- Alaska’s capital city that can only be reached by air or sea. As Alaska’s number one tourist destination, this picturesque town is a stop on almost all Alaskan cruises! Known for its seafood and recreation, you’ll find many incredible food establishments here and seemingly endless activities. The Mendenhall Glacier is a popular attraction and is easily accessible through downtown Juneau. Take the Tramway to the top of Mount Roberts for even more amazing views. You can visit the nature and raptor center, get delicious Alaskan cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful views only Alaska can offer.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is located at the southernmost entrance to Alaska’s inside passage and is in the Tongass National Forest, close to the Misty fjords national monument. It’s also an important area for the salmon industry, so you’ll find activities here that revolve around salmon and halibut fishing. Besides the fresh seafood you’ll enjoy during your time here, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the unique cultures of Native Alaskan nations. You’ll see handcrafted totems at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bright State Park and experience the Tlingit culture at the Saxman Native Village with a dance show and totem carvers!
Skagway and the White Pass Railroad
Skagway, Alaska, is located in the state’s southeast region and is well-known for being a home base for gold rush miners in the 1800s. Many historical structures and buildings from the gold rush era have been preserved here, giving the town an authentic frontier feel! The activities here are often centered around the town’s fascinating history and surrounding natural areas, like tours to the Gold Rush Cemetary or demonstrations at a mushers camp. From Skagway, you can ride on the White Pass Railroad, a historic railroad that offers one of the best views of Skagway and its surrounding areas. Relax in old-fashioned, climate-controlled cars as you make your way through tunnels and across trestles, catching glimpses of iconic landmarks like Dead Horse Gulch, Inspiration Point, and Bridal Veil Falls.
