Alaska Cruise Ports
Written on September 12, 2024
Alaska is a playlist of nature’s greatest hits. Snow-capped mountain peaks. Stunning glaciers. Impressive wildlife. Blue water stretching to the horizon. For many travelers, it’s the bucket list destination that captures their imaginations.
In a previous post, we introduced you to the various scenic cruising destinations in Alaska. In this post, we’ll explore a few of the ports you can explore across the itineraries of several of our preferred suppliers.
Sitka
An island community nestled between the mountains and the Gulf of Alaska, Sitka embraces its strong ancient native culture and shows off its abundant wildlife.
Suggested excursions*:
Visit Sitka National Historical Park, which was established in 1910 and is Alaska’s oldest national park. Hike its coastal trails and view an extensive totem pole collection.
Tour the Alaska Raptor Center or Fortress of the Bear to get a closer look at these non-profit care and rescue facilities and learn more about the wildlife that call Sitka home.
Skagway
The Gold Rush town of Skagway charms visitors with its rustic Victorian architecture and violet-dotted fields, but it used to be the largest town in Alaska serving gold-rushers with its hotels, saloons, and dance halls.
Suggested excursions:
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway takes passengers on a breathtaking 41 mile-roundtrip excursion to the 3,000 foot summit of the White Pass.
Learn about the Gold Rush as you pan for nuggets, tour camps, and meet a few costumed characters who bring its history to life.
Juneau
Juneau is unlike any other capital city in the United States – it’s remote, rugged, and quiet. Outdoor activities abound, from glacier viewing to orca spotting.
Suggested excursions:
Located only 12 miles from Juneau, the Mendenhall Glacier awaits and is one of the prime features in Tongass National Forest.
Juneau is a great port for whale watching – humpbacks are the star of the show here.
Haines
A port not as commonly known on Alaska itineraries, Haines is smaller and feels less crowded and touristy than nearby Skagway. While not nearly as rich in its history, Haines is a phenomenal port for observing nature. If a relaxed, quiet day in one of the most photogenic towns in Alaska sounds delightful, it’s a perfect stop. (You can also visit Haines from Skagway.)
Suggested excursion:
Visit the Kroschel Wildlife Center to encounter bears, moose, wolves, foxes, and reindeer. If you prefer feathers to fur, head to the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve and watch more than 200 eagles soaring through the skies and perching in the trees.
Icy Straight Point
Remote Icy Straight Point on Chichagof Island is the perfect backdrop for adventure by water, land, or even sky!
Suggested excursions:
Sail down the world’s largest zipline of 1,300 feet at 65mph while taking in the stunning snowcapped mountains and emerald forests. (At six cables wide, you can even challenge your friends to a race!)
If you prefer your aerial views on the tamer side, soar over the wilderness on the Sky Peak Gondola which takes passengers up 1,500 feet to the top of Hoonah Mountain. At the summit, transfer to a tram for a guided tour of the forest.
However you choose to immerse yourself in the natural wonders and wildlife of Alaska, you’re sure to have a memorable experience!
*Excursions vary by cruise line and itinerary.
