best princess cruise alaska excursions

3 min read 19-12-2024

Meta Description: Planning your Alaska cruise with Princess? Discover the best shore excursions in iconic destinations like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. From wildlife encounters to glacier trekking, find your perfect Alaskan adventure! Book now and make unforgettable memories. (158 characters)

Cruising Alaska with Princess: Unveiling the Best Shore Excursions

Alaska is a land of breathtaking beauty, and a Princess cruise offers the perfect way to explore its majestic landscapes and wildlife. But the real magic often lies in the shore excursions you choose. Selecting the right ones can transform your cruise from enjoyable to unforgettable. This guide highlights some of the best Princess Cruises Alaska excursions, categorized by destination for easier planning.

Juneau: Majestic Glaciers and Wildlife Encounters

Juneau, the state capital, offers a plethora of exciting shore excursions.

Glacier Exploration:

Mendenhall Glacier & Wildlife Tour: This popular excursion combines a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier with opportunities to spot bears, eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife. Princess often uses comfortable motorcoaches for transport, ensuring a pleasant journey.
Flightseeing Tour over Juneau Icefield: For a truly awe-inspiring experience, consider a flightseeing tour. Soar above the Juneau Icefield, witnessing breathtaking glaciers and stunning mountain vistas from a unique perspective. Many tours include glacier landings for a closer look.

Wildlife Encounters:

Whale Watching Tour: Juneau's waters are home to various whale species, including humpbacks. A whale-watching tour offers a chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to check reviews to gauge the success rate of past tours.
Alaska Rainforest & Wildlife Sanctuary: Immerse yourself in the lush Alaskan rainforest and discover its diverse inhabitants. This excursion often includes guided walks through the rainforest, providing opportunities to spot bears, eagles, and other wildlife.

Skagway: History, Adventure, and the Klondike Gold Rush

Skagway's history is inextricably linked to the Klondike Gold Rush, offering unique historical and adventurous excursions.

Historical Exploration:

White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: Take a scenic train journey along the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This iconic railroad played a vital role in the Klondike Gold Rush, and the journey offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Skagway Historic Walking Tour: Discover the rich history of Skagway through a guided walking tour. Learn about the Klondike Gold Rush, its impact on the town, and the lives of those who sought their fortune.

Adventure Activities:

Whitewater Rafting: For the adventurous, whitewater rafting on the Skagway River offers an exhilarating experience. The rapids provide an adrenaline rush, while the surrounding scenery adds to the excitement.
Ziplining: Soar through the Alaskan wilderness on a thrilling zipline adventure. Experience the breathtaking views from a unique perspective as you glide through the trees.

Ketchikan: Totem Poles, Salmon, and Misty Fjords

Ketchikan is famous for its totem poles and rich Native American heritage.

Cultural Experiences:

Creek Street & Totem Heritage Center: Explore Creek Street, a historic red-light district, and visit the Totem Heritage Center, showcasing stunning totem poles and the art of the Tlingit and Haida peoples.
Saxman Native Village: Visit Saxman Native Village, a Tlingit village where you can learn about their culture, traditions, and see beautiful totem poles carved by local artists.

Wildlife and Nature:

Misty Fjords National Monument Cruise: Experience the dramatic beauty of Misty Fjords National Monument on a scenic cruise. Witness stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. This is a must-do for nature lovers.
Salmon Hatchery Visit: Learn about the life cycle of salmon at a local salmon hatchery. Many excursions combine this with other activities, like a visit to a local cannery or a scenic walk.

Choosing the Right Excursion for You

The best Princess Alaska excursion depends on your interests and preferences. Consider:

Your Physical Fitness: Some excursions, like hiking or whitewater rafting, require a certain level of physical fitness.
Your Budget: Prices vary significantly between excursions.
Your Interests: Are you interested in history, wildlife, nature, or adventure?

Remember to book your excursions in advance, especially during peak season. Enjoy your Alaskan adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How far in advance should I book my Princess Alaska excursions?

A: Booking in advance, ideally several months before your cruise, is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Popular excursions can sell out quickly.

Q: What is included in the price of a Princess Alaska excursion?

A: The price typically includes transportation to and from the port, guided tours, and sometimes meals or snacks. Specific inclusions vary depending on the excursion. Always check the detailed description.

Q: Can I book excursions independently?

A: While Princess offers a range of excursions, you can also book independently. However, doing so means you're responsible for your own transportation and may need to manage your time carefully to ensure you return to the ship on time.

Q: Are there excursions suitable for families with children?

A: Yes, Princess offers various family-friendly excursions. Look for those that advertise kid-friendly activities like wildlife viewing, scenic train rides, or gentler activities.

Remember to check the Princess Cruises website for the most up-to-date information on available excursions and pricing. Enjoy your Alaskan adventure!