Alaska

Alaska cruises

Embarking on an Alaskan cruise is an adventure into a world of majestic glaciers, rugged coastlines, and abundant wildlife. Each port, from the historic Skagway to the vibrant Ketchikan, opens a door to diverse experiences like glacier calving, dog sledding, and whale watching. The cruise experience is enriched with cultural insights into native Alaskan tribes and Gold Rush-era towns, complemented by a culinary journey featuring fresh, local seafood. Whether it’s the serenity of Glacier Bay or the thrill of the Northern Lights, an Alaskan cruise is a harmonious blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Featured ports

Mountains in Juneau, Alaska.

Juneau

Better known as the capital of Alaska, Juneau is filled with rich history, amazing culture and nonstop adventure. Walk around and get some amazing pictures featuring nature as a backdrop or stroll the various art galleries and boutique shops. Feeling more adventurous? Don't miss out on venturing through the Mendenhall Glacier which lead back to the mid 18th century or go whale watching. If you are lucky enough you may see one of the 280 species of birds or bears that call this place home. While there, try some fresh local seafood including salmon and halibut.

Skagway train from gold rush era

Skagway

Nestled at the northern tip of Alaska's Inside Passage, offers a window into the past, particularly the Klondike Gold Rush era. This small town, with its well-preserved historic buildings, transports visitors back to the late 19th century. The main street, Broadway, lined with wooden sidewalks and vintage buildings, is part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad is a highlight, offering scenic train rides that traverse steep cliffs and stunning waterfalls, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gorges. Skagway's natural beauty is complemented by its rich history, with the Chilkoot Trail and the Klondike Gold Fields offering ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. The town's cultural tapestry is enriched by its Tlingit heritage, evident in local art and storytelling.

Houses over the water in Ketchitan, Alaska

Ketchitan

Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan is a vibrant port city and the southeastern gateway to Alaska. It's famous for its rich Native American heritage, particularly the totem poles that dot the city – the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world, found in places like Saxman Native Village and Totem Bight State Park. The city's historic Creek Street, once the red-light district, is now a charming boardwalk of shops and galleries built on stilts over Ketchikan Creek. Ketchikan's lush rainforest setting offers nature enthusiasts a plethora of activities, from hiking in the Misty Fjords National Monument to wildlife viewing and kayaking. The city's waterfront buzzes with activity, with fishing boats and float planes coming and going, reflecting Ketchikan's deep connection with the sea and its natural surroundings.

Destination highlights

Snow filled mountains and pine trees view from sea in Alaska.

Tradition and culture

Alaska's rich cultural tapestry weaves together the traditions of its indigenous peoples, including the Inupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Eyak, Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian, and Northern Athabaskan cultures. This heritage is evident in the vibrant native art forms such as totem carving, mask making, and basket weaving. Traditional music and dance play a central role in Alaskan communities, with regular performances and cultural displays, especially at the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage. Many Native communities continue to uphold a subsistence lifestyle, deeply connected to the land through fishing, hunting, and gathering. Modern Alaskan culture also celebrates its history through events like the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, commemorating the historic Serum Run, and Alaska Native Heritage Month every November, honoring the state's rich indigenous heritage.

Food and cuisine

The cuisine of Alaska is a delightful reflection of its bountiful natural resources and the culinary traditions of its Native peoples. Seafood lovers are in for a treat with the state's famous salmon, halibut, and king crab. Traditional dishes often feature wild game such as moose, caribou, and elk. Alaska's wild berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries, are local treasures used in a variety of desserts and jams. Indigenous cuisine offers unique tastes like akutaq (Eskimo ice cream) and muktuk (whale skin and blubber), providing a glimpse into the traditional diets of Alaska's Native communities. Sourdough, a staple dating back to the Klondike Gold Rush days, remains a beloved part of Alaskan households, highlighting the fusion of historical influences in the state's culinary landscape.

Alaska FAQ

When is the best time to cruise Alaska?

Alaska cruises are from April to October. During this time the weather is warmer and there are more daylight hours which allows for more outdoor activities and spotting a greater amount of wildlife. If you are interested in the Midnight Sun visit during June which has the greatest number of daylight hours, but if you want to go for the Northern Lights the best time to cruise Alaska is late summer.