Encompassing more than 600,000 square miles, Alaska is a staggeringly large state, and not one whose spread-out treasures are always easily accessed. That’s why so many intrepid travelers opt for an Alaska cruise — it’s hands-down the best ways to see the sights while also having a plethora of options for exploring on your own while you’re in port. No matter where your itinerary takes you, you’ll have access to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery you can imagine, not to mention cultural, historical, and culinary delights. Here are just a few things to do in Alaska on a cruise.
Behold Massive Glaciers
This is one thrilling activity you can enjoy from the comfort of your stateroom. On an Alaska cruise through the Inside Passage, a balcony cabin gives you a front row seat for enjoying the majesty of these icy behemoths. Want to get up close and personal? Splurge on an exhilarating helicopter or seaplane sightseeing tour — these are some of the most popular Alaska shore excursions for a reason!
View Wildlife
The options are seemingly endless when it comes to wildlife viewing in Alaska, as its brimming with land- and sea-based creatures. Whale-watching is easy right from your cruise ship, though you can also sign up for a shore excursion on a smaller vessel that can better navigate the whales’ known stomping grounds. Humpback whales are the species most frequently spotted in the summer months when most Alaska cruises sail, though you may spot the occasionally orca as well.
Though there’s nothing more thrilling than seeing animals in the wild, there are safe ways to get an up-close view of some you may not encounter otherwise. At the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward, a variety of Alaska’s native species await, such as sea lions, octopuses, ducks, and seals.
Most visitors to Alaska would consider a bear viewing a bonus, though meeting face-to-face with one deep within the state’s remote wilderness is less than ideal. Head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center just outside of Anchorage to have a not-so-scary bear encounter. You’ll also get to say hello to resident reindeer, elk, bison, wolves, moose, and more.
Explore National Parks
When you cruise Glacier Bay National Park you will see it features more than 50 named glaciers, as well as mountain peaks reaching three miles high. You can behold its majesty on an Inside Passage cruise, and with any luck, witness glaciers calving and plunging into the sea.
Heading to Ketchikan? Opt for an Alaska shore excursion that gets you to Misty Fjords National Monument, accessible only via boat or plane. Hike in lush rainforests to see waterfalls, or kayak along protected coves while keeping your eyes peeled for brown bears, mountain goats, wolves, river otters, and many more species.
Get Active
Alaska is pure heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. There are opportunities for every imaginable activity here, regardless of skill level or athletic ability. Sign up for a whitewater rafting excursion along Denali’s Nenana River, surrounded by verdant mountain slopes. Rent bikes in Anchorage and cruise along the 11-mile Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, brimming with wildlife despite its urban location. Kayaking, ziplining, skiing, snowboarding, river-rafting—there are limitless ways to interact with Alaska’s legendary terrain.
Nothing compares to experiencing the natural splendor of the 49th state, and the experts at Cruises.com can help you pinpoint Alaska cruises that cater to your interests and preferred ports of call. You’ll get the best value and secure extras and perks you won’t get anywhere else! We give you our exclusive bonus offers, plus all qualifying cruise line offers, plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits. Book online at Cruises.com or call 800-288-6006 today.
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