holland america shore excursions skagway alaska

11 Must-Do Skagway Shore Excursions for Alaska Cruises

What are the best Skagway shore excursions? Is Skagway walkable from the cruise port?

After living in Alaska for nearly a year, we learned a lot about the best Alaska cruise ports with Skagway consistently being ranked in the top three! If you aren’t sure where Skagway is, it’s a small town located in Southeast Alaska and is known for its rich history during the Klondike Gold Rush.

Skagway is a very walkable town, with most of the main attractions and shops located within a few blocks of the cruise port. However, if you want to explore more of Skagway and its surrounding areas including its glaciers and mountainous regions known for epic wildlife viewing, that’s where the shore excursions come into play.

Don’t have time to read the entire post? No worries!

This Skagway Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of the Yukon is undoubtedly the #1 tour on this list!

⭐ 560+ 5-Star Reviews ⭐ Viator’s Badge of Excellence ⭐ White Pass, Klondike Highway

If you’re planning on visiting Skagway on a cruise ship, you may be wondering about the best shore excursions and if it’s actually worth investing the time and money into these tours. We totally get it!

In this guide, we’ll go over some of the top-rated Skagway excursions and include ample information on the best time to visit Skagway, our #1 pick when it comes to Skagway tours, and even what to pack for your tour!

11 BEST Skagway Shore Excursions

1. skagway shore excursion: full-day tour of the yukon.

Unquestionably one of the best tours on this list, the Skagway Shore Excursion: Full-Day Tour of the Yukon offers an unforgettable full-day expedition along the scenic Klondike Highway, providing stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and possibly even wildlife. Not to mention additional stops at the Yukon “Larger than Life” sign as well as Wild Adventure Yukon and an epic viewpoint overlooking Bove Island!

You’ll also visit the iconic Carcross Desert and witness the mesmerizing beauty of Emerald Lake, all with the guidance and knowledge of a seasoned local tour guide. Not only does this tour offer numerous photo opportunities of the untamed wilderness, but it also includes a hearty lunch to fuel your adventure.

Perfect for people of all ages, this tour invites you to cross the border between Alaska and Canada’s famed Yukon along one of the most scenic highways in the world!

2. Summit Lake Canoe Adventure from Skagway

Thanks to Skagway’s stunning location on the border of British Columbia, guests are treated to epic alpine lakes right at their door! The Summit Lake Canoe Adventure from Skagway offers a tranquil escape into nature, featuring a peaceful paddle across the stunning Summit Lake. With breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, this tour provides ample opportunity to escape the crowded cruise port and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

With the guidance of expert tour operators, this 4.5-hour excursion includes a scenic drive along the Klondike Highway and includes views of the White Pass, Denver Glacier, Bridal Veil Falls, and even the Tongass National Forest!

Providing ample opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, this amazing canoe adventure is perfect for those looking to get a good paddle in. But, don’t worry, the canoes come with an outboard motor to assist in your experience.

3. Skagway Shore Excursion: Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge

For those with limited time or seeking a shorter adventure, the Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge provides a fantastic taste of the region’s remarkable landscapes. This 4-hour tour will take you through some of the Yukon’s top sites including the historic Captain William Moore Bridge, Pitchfork Falls, and the exceedingly popular Yukon Suspension Bridge.

Prepare to be enthralled as you make your way to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, where you can walk across and gaze upon the roaring Tutshi River below. It’s quite high above the river (57 feet), so if you don’t like heights, bear this in mind.

Additionally, this exciting half-day trip offers the chance to explore the Yukon border and get photos at the “Welcome to the Yukon” sign! With dedicated and knowledgeable guides sharing insights into the area’s history and ecology, the journey is as educational as it is visually stunning.

4. Skagway Shore Excursion: Scenic River Float Tour

For those who seek a gentler adventure wrapped in the beauty of Alaska’s landscapes, the Scenic River Float Tour offers a serene way to take in the sights and sounds of Southeast Alaska’s Dyea Valley. This family-friendly 2-to-2.5-hour tour glides you down the Taiya River on a relaxing river float.

Once aboard the raft, guests are treated to the tranquility of the slow-moving waters, which provide an excellent platform for wildlife viewing! Your knowledgeable guides are also well-versed in the history of the Gold Rush era and the natural history of the surrounding flora and fauna.

This scenic float is perfect for those who want to experience Alaska’s grandeur without the exertion of a hike or climb. It’s a gentle, soul-soothing journey down one of the area’s most picturesque waterways, allowing for ample relaxation and wildlife-spotting opportunities.

5. Yukon Suspension Bridge and Summit Tour

A fantastic option if you’re seeking a quick tour that gets you to the White Pass Summit, the Yukon Suspension Bridge and Summit Tour invites guests to journey along the historic White Pass Trail, famously trodden by the prospectors during the 1898 Klondike Gold Rush. As you ascend the White Pass Summit in comfort, take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding peaks and the deep valleys below.

Afterward, upon reaching the Yukon Suspension Bridge, be prepared for an exhilarating experience as you traverse the sturdy, yet swaying, bridge 57 feet above the tumultuous waters of the Tutshi River. This bridge is not only a marvel of engineering but also serves as a vantage point offering unprecedented views of the wild, untamed landscape.

At just 3 hours long, this tour makes it possible for those on a short Alaska cruise stop to see some of the best views in the Yukon! Plus, cruise port pick-up and drop-off are included, so you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics.

6. Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition

The Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition presents an exhilarating canopy experience for those in search of adventure in Skagway, Alaska. During this 4-hour tour, thrill-seekers will find themselves soaring through a dense Alaskan rainforest, gliding across numerous zip lines with each line offering a unique vantage point of the stunning natural landscape, including pristine forest terrain and cascading waterfalls.

Guided by experts with a strong emphasis on safety, participants will also navigate suspension bridges, adding another level of excitement to the course. Plus, you even get to ride in a local Unimog when navigating wet terrain!

Suitable for adventurers of all skill levels ages 6 and up, this tour is a fantastic option for those visiting Skagway.

7. Skagway Highlights Electric Bike Tour with Gold Panning

Experience the best of Skagway’s scenic beauty and historical allure on the Skagway Highlights Electric Bike Tour with Gold Panning ! This 3-hour tour is a unique blend of active adventure and a journey into the captivating history of the Gold Rush era. As you pedal along Skagway’s panoramic coastal roadways on an easy-to-ride electric bike, the beautiful views of this charming Alaskan town provide a picturesque backdrop.

The tour begins with an orientation to the electric bikes, ensuring that riders of all experience levels can navigate with ease. You’ll trace the path along the historic railway, stopping at various strategic viewpoints for photo opportunities. Sharing tales from the late 1800s, your guide will transport you back to the days when fortune-seekers thronged the area and even stop by the Gold Rush Cemetery.

As you ride back into the heart of Skagway, the adventure concludes with a fun and informative session of gold panning, where you can try your luck at filling your pockets with gold!

8. Ocean Raft Alaska

Prepare for a heart-pumping adventure with the Ocean Raft Alaska Wildlife Adventure ! This 2.25-hour journey is an invigorating dive into Alaska’s wild side as you zip across the crisp waters of the Lynn Canal, North America’s deepest fjord.

Clad in a weatherproof exposure suit and mask, you’ll brave the elements aboard a high-speed ocean raft, allowing for a truly intimate encounter with Alaska’s breathtaking coastal environment.

Your expert captain and guide will lead you to the best spots where you could witness the majesty of local wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles. This tour not only promises adrenaline but also provides an unmatched opportunity to witness the raw beauty of Alaskan wildlife in its natural habitat.

Ideal for photographers and adventure enthusiasts, this is easily among the most exciting tours on this list!

9. Skagway Scooter Gold Rush Adventure

For those who crave adventure with a taste of history, the Skagway Scooter Gold Rush Adventure is an exhilarating way to see Skagway and learn about its Gold Rush past. Across 3 hours, you’ll hop on a comfortable scooter and zip along Skagway’s streets on a fast-paced 19-mile excursion!

The tour begins with a safety briefing and instructions on handling your scooter, ensuring a fun and secure experience. The route highlights Skagway’s most picturesque spots and historic sites, with frequent stops for photos and storytelling by your knowledgeable guide.

This adventure is suitable for all riders, whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced scooter enthusiast. Limited to just 8 riders, this small-group tour guarantees personalized attention from your guide and a more intimate experience of Skagway.

10. Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with the Glacier Point Wilderness Safari ! This 6-hour excursion takes you from the historic Skagway harbor to the pristine natural beauty of Glacier Point. You’ll journey through fjords via a high-speed catamaran, marveling at the sheer rock faces and lush greenery that border the waters while searching for local wildlife including whales, seals, sea lions, eagles, and more!

Upon reaching the glacier, you will transition to a special wheeled vehicle to traverse the beach, then set off on a short hike through the rainforest, leading to a point where you can stand face-to-face with the iconic Davidson Glacier.

The safari includes a guided canoe trip around the glacier’s meltwater lake, giving you the chance to glide along its iceberg-studded surface. The breathtaking scenery, with the glacier’s blue ice serving as a silent, powerful backdrop, offers an unparalleled experience.

Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this is easily among the best shore excursions in Skagway, Alaska!

11. Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Rafting

Congregating by the thousands, the Chilkat Preserve is one of the best places in the world to spot bald eagles fishing for salmon! And what better way to get up close than on a Chilkoot River Rafting Tour ?

This 6.5-hour guided adventure will have you gliding along the peaceful waters of the Chilkat River, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests.

Seasonal highlights include a chance to watch for bear and moose sightings along the shore, majestic bald eagles soaring above, and a brilliant display of wild salmon running in the summer months. With stable kayaks and comprehensive paddling instruction provided, this tour is suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

FAQ: Skagway Shore Excursions

In this last section, we’ve provided some helpful information regarding the best shore excursions in Skagway including the ideal time to visit, where you can see glaciers, how to get around the port, and more!

What is the Best Excursion in Skagway?

In our opinion, the best Skagway shore excursion is this Full-Day Tour of the Yukon ! It offers the most of any tour on this list including crossing the iconic Klondike Highway, visiting several stunning lakes including Emerald Lake, and even making a unique stop in the Carcross desert.

Undoubtedly one of the top tours on this list, the Full-Day Tour of the Yukon is perfect for all ages and provides an unmatched experience in terms of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and local expert knowledge from your guide!

Is Skagway Walkable from the Cruise Port?

Fortunately for travelers, Skagway is a small and very walkable town that can be easily reached from the cruise port !

Many of the restaurants and shops are located within a few blocks of the cruise port, making it easy to explore on foot. However, for those looking to venture further out or visit surrounding areas, booking a shore excursion is recommended.

Do Most Skagway Alaska Shore Excursions Depart from the Cruise Port?

Conveniently for guests arriving in Alaska via cruise, most shore excursions in Skagway depart from the cruise port or one of the streets very close by .

We’ve also noticed that even if the excursion doesn’t depart directly from the cruise port, they’ll have someone with the local company meet people coming off the ship right on the dock with a large sign so you know exactly where to go!

This makes it easy to plan and schedule your day without worrying about transportation to and from the port.

Is It Worth Taking a Skagway Shore Excursion?

It is undoubtedly worth taking a shore excursion in Skagway ! While the town itself is charming and walkable, the majority of worthwhile attractions lie a considerable distance outside of the main area and can only be accessed through an excursion or rental car.

We’ve talked about how Alaska isn’t necessarily a budget-friendly destination, however, if you’ll be visiting on a cruise, then it’s well worth budgeting for a shore excursion to get the most out of your time in Skagway.

Otherwise, you’ll just be spending the day some Alaska souvenir shopping which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re hoping for a rest day, but it’s also not very exciting either. Depending on your goals for Skagway, you may or may not want to consider a shore excursion for the day!

How Much Do Shore Excursions in Skagway Cost?

On average, you might expect to spend anywhere from $50 for simple walking tours to upwards of $300 for more extensive adventures, such as helicopter rides to glaciers or full-day train tours. However, the price of shore excursions in Skagway can vary widely depending on the type of activity and duration.

It’s essential to consider your budget and what experiences are most important to you when selecting an excursion. Many visitors find that investing in a unique experience, like trekking on a glacier or a scenic train ride through the White Pass, is a highlight of their Alaskan cruise, making the cost well worth it.

What Should I Pack for Skagway Shore Tours?

Packing for Skagway shore tours means being prepared for Alaska’s temperamental weather. Here is a list of some items we’d recommend having with you on your excursion:

• Layers of clothing : The weather in Skagway can change quickly, so it’s always best to dress in layers. Bring a waterproof jacket, warm sweater or fleece, and long pants.
• Comfortable walking shoes : Many shore excursions involve hiking or walking, so make sure you have sturdy and comfortable shoes with good traction.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses : Even on cloudy days, the sun in Alaska can be quite strong and may cause sunburns. Protect your skin and eyes by packing sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Camera : You’ll want to capture all the beautiful scenery and wildlife you encounter on your excursion. Don’t forget to pack a camera or fully charged phone with you!
• Bug spray : Especially if you’re planning on hiking or spending time in nature, bug spray is a must to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
• Cash or credit card : Be sure to have some form of payment with you for any extras on your excursion, such as souvenirs or snacks. Some tours may also require cash tips for the guides.

Overall, it’s always best to pack for a variety of weather conditions when visiting Alaska, so you can be prepared for whatever comes your way during your shore excursion in Skagway. Some tour operators will also have their own list of recommended items to bring, so be sure to check with them as well!

Can You See Glaciers in Skagway?

Yes, you can see glaciers in Skagway and they are one of the city’s most popular attractions ! The most famous of these is the Davidson Glacier, which is often visited on boat and canoe excursions.

These trips allow you to witness the breathtaking beauty of the glacier up close and provide an opportunity for epic photos. Additionally, helicopter tours can offer an aerial view of the glaciers, providing a unique perspective on their vastness and the intricate crevasses and ice formations.

What is the Best Time to Visit Skagway Alaska?

The best time to visit Skagway, Alaska is during the summer months, from May to September . This period provides the warmest weather and the longest days, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the outdoor excursions and breathtaking scenery.

The summer season also coincides with the peak of the cruise ship arrivals, ensuring that all tours, shops, and attractions are open and fully operational. However, those looking for a quieter visit might consider the shoulder months, May and September, when there are fewer tourists and the natural beauty of the region can be enjoyed in relative solitude.

What Cruise Lines Visit Skagway?

Several major cruise lines visit Skagway, including:

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Princess Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line

These are just a few of the many options that offer itineraries to Skagway. Be sure to research and compare different cruise lines to find one that best fits your interests, budget, and preferred travel dates.

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Whether you’re interested in visiting the iconic White Pass Summit, taking a canoe ride around a glacier, or wildlife sightings, there’s an excursion for everyone in Skagway! A Skagway shore excursion is an excellent way to make the most out of your visit to this charming Alaskan town, even if you’ll just be visiting for a day via cruise.

Emily and Sean Concannon are passionate travelers, photographers, and adventurers at heart. This intrepid duo is always on the move, exploring the wild corners of the world and stepping out of their comfort zone for the thrill of discovery and the majesty of nature.

Their adventures are amplified by their love for wildlife, a passion that drives them to capture the earth's stunning biodiversity through the lens of their camera. Their faithful canine companion, Leska, adds a touch of enthusiasm to their journeys.

Together, they encapsulate the spirit of wanderlust, driven by love, curiosity, and a relentless thirst for life's next great adventure.

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30+ Things To Do in Juneau Alaska (from a Local!)

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Yukon Suspension Bridge & Summit Tour

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• Things to know
• Reviews (74)

Excursion Overview

A world-class tourist attraction, yukon suspension bridge.

This small group tour provides a wonderful opportunity to view the stunning scenery of the White Pass and the surrounding area with a local, high quality guide. Meet your guide, board the comfortable vehicle and enjoy a short tour of Skagway's historic district before climbing steeply towards the Chilkoot Mountains. The dramatic scenery of the White Pass summit soon surrounds you. This is a wonderland of impressive peaks, azure lakes and stunted forests. The pace is unhurried; you will have ample time to enjoy the view with stops at choice scenic locations. Past the summit visit the Yukon Suspension Bridge, where you can venture out onto the bridge to get stunning views of the turbulent waters of the Tutshi River below. Learn about the Gold Rush history and the natural history of the area. Walk along the boardwalk and immerse yourself in the miniature world of alpine wildflowers. The tour will return to Skagway with an optional visit (time permitting) to the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls. A short nature walk through the forest takes you to the base of Lower Reid Falls. The water drops over one hundred feet as it pours out of the forested granite mountainside above. Return to your ship having had an experience you won't forget.

Cruising to Alaska in 2025? Complete our excursions inquiry form.

Click here to sign up to be notified about excursions for 2025. Once your requested tour becomes available, our team will notify you via email. All of our tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so completing our Excursion Inquiries Form gives you the best chance of booking all of your desired experiences for next year.  

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Roundtrip transportation from cruise ship
• Admission to the Yukon Suspension Bridge

Requirements:

• Minimum of 2 passengers required to book
• Passport or Passport ID card (and Visas - USA and Canada if necessary - single entry Visa is OK) are required for all passengers 16 and over. No photocopies of any identification are allowed.
• Children 15 and under are required to have a Passport OR an original raised seal birth certificate (USA citizens only). No photocopies of any identification are allowed.
• Please note: Children traveling with only one parent or without both parents must have a permission letter from the absent parent/parents, giving permission to the person bringing the child on tour to allow them to go to Canada with that person. Documentation should be signed with parent name, address, cell phone contact number, and give the child's legal name and person's legal name they are traveling with. If the single parent or guardian has sole custody, they should travel with a letter to that effect.

Duration: 3 hours (Roundtrip from cruise ship terminal.)

• 15 minutes - meet guides and board tour van
• 1 hour - a scenic drive to White Pass Summit with photo stops
• 30 minutes - stopover at Yukon Suspension Bridge
• 45 minutes - scenic drive return to Skagway
• 15 minutes - photo stop at Reid Falls waterfall
• 15 minutes - return to the ship

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets on the cruise ship dock. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is limited mobility accessible but is not recommended for limited mobility guests. Guests must be able to climb 4 steps into and out of the bus independently and with relative ease. There is limited space for collapsible wheelchairs and walkers. There is no storage available for motorized scooters. Please leave a comment during checkout if accommodations for collapsible equipment will be required on tour.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. There is a minimum of 2 guests and a maximum of 14 guests per departure.

This tour does not have an age limit. If a child requires a car seat, please provide advance notice.

Yes, a representative will meet you just past security.

Yes. Folding wheelchairs only, passengers must be able to get in and out of vans independently with relative ease.

We recommend that you dress in layers. It can be cold enough that you want a wool cap, gloves, and a jacket, or it could be so warm you will be in a T-shirt with sunscreen and sunglasses. The weather can change quickly.

Our maximum group size is 14. Our typical tour has around 6-8 guests at one time. We can charter large buses for large groups with advance notice.

Depending on the size of the group and the tour, we utilize everything from an SUV like the Toyota Sequoia or Sienna to the 14-passenger Ford Econoline Van to the 14- passenger Airporter-style bus.

Please advise, car seats are required for children under 4, and boosters for children 4-7. Please indicate if you will need either during checkout.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On sep 2024.

We have been to Skagway before and done the train, it's a beautiful ride but very crowded. We got the same views plus more as the van takes you further up! We much preferred this tour! The views were gorgeous, the bridge was fun and our guide, Nikki, was the best!! She was so knowledgeable and just a delightful tour guide. We would do this again!!

Nikki did a great job, she was very knowledgeable and was very personable. Great experience.

On Aug 2024

The excursion was amazing. Definitely recommend.

Nikki was our tour guide. She was courteous, very friendly and helpful to all of us. She made several photo stops helping us with our photos always ensuring our comfort and enjoyment. of all the shore excursions we have taken over the years in various parts of the world this one of the best. Many thanks,

Wonderful experience! Beautiful sights. Attentive tour guide.

• Reviews Showing: 74

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Duration: 3 hours

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Adult (13+): $ 126.25

Child (2-12): $ 101.25

Infants (Under 2): $ 20.00

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20 Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska Cruise Port – Complete Guide

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Skagway, Alaska is a popular cruise port with a fascinating history. Cruisers who stop in Skagway will find a town that has retained its gold rush era charm and activities and excursions that will appeal to a variety of ages and interests. 

In fact, Skagway may just be a highlight of your Alaska cruise !

In 1898, Skagway became a base camp and supply station for thousands of Yukon gold rush miners. People seeking their fortunes would start in Skagway and then choose either the steep (but shorter) route over the White Pass Trail or the Chilkoot Pass Trail located in nearby Dyea. 

Growing up in Alaska, I was able to experience many historical gold rush towns. It is enthralling to step into the past and learn about the grit and determination of early Alaskan settlers.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Skagway on a cruise, including shore excursions as well as inexpensive or free activities. I’ve also included the information you’ll need to know about visiting the Skagway cruise port for the day and answered common questions.

Skagway Cruise Port 

Most cruise ships arriving in Skagway will dock at at one of three locations right on the edge of town: Ore Dock, Railroad Dock or Broadway Dock. 

The city of Skagway is within easy walking distance of the cruise port. There are many shore excursions to choose from, including the popular and historic White Pass Trail, that are accessible to cruise passengers.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Skagway Cruise Port

Although close to Canada, Skagway is located in Alaska (USA). The official currency is the USD (United States Dollar). 

Businesses in Skagway will accept cash, credit and debit cards.

In Alaska, you might hear some unusual vernacular including “Lower 48” (the 48 contiguous United States), “break-up” (spring time when ice and snow finally melt) and “cheechako” (a newcomer), but the primary language is English. 

90% of Alaska (including Skagway) is within the Alaska Standard Time Zone. Alaska Standard Time Zone is one hour behind Pacific Time and four hours behind the Eastern Time Zone. 

In Skagway, the weather will range from the 40s to the low 60s during Alaska cruise season.  Skagway has the driest climate of any of the Southeast passage port towns, which means you’ll probably enjoy sunny weather during your visit. 

Tip: When considering what to wear on your Alaska cruise , it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Mornings will start off cool, but the weather can warm up significantly later in the day.

Getting Around Skagway

It is very easy for cruisers to get around Skagway on foot. It’s only a short walk from the dock to downtown Skagway. Overall, this city is very walkable. 

Public Transit

The Skagway Municipal And Regional Transit (SMART) offers a SMART shuttle bus. Their  “Dock to Downtown” Loop runs every 15 minutes during cruise season.  

An all-day SMART bus pass costs $5 per person or you can pay $3 per person for a one-way pass. 

Electric Bikes (EBikes) 

Renting an E-Bike will give you independence and speed as you explore Skagway. 

You can also book a self-guided tour through Klondike Bikes, and even arrange to have a picnic lunch ready for pickup when you arrive. All rentals include helmets and bike locks. 

Car Rentals

There aren’t many car rental options in this small town. DIY Jeep Tours is one innovative option that combines a rental car with a built-in tour guide. Each rental includes a CD that will give you mile-by-mile guide explaining historic and scenic spots. 

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The 10 Best Skagway Shore Excursions

The variety of shore excursion options is one reason why Skagway is such a popular stop for cruise ships. From gold mining history to rainforest bicycle tours, it might be hard to narrow down your list of things to do.

Here are some of the best Skagway excursions.

1. Ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway 

This breathtaking train ride will take you on the White Pass Summit route  that gold miners took in 1898. You’ll see glaciers, waterfalls, mountains and even signs of the original Klondike trail worn into rocks. 

The train ride lasts from 2.5-2.75 hours and goes 40 miles round trip. You do not need your passport to ride the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, but be sure to bring your camera. 

If this is your first Alaska cruise , the White Rail Pass is a shore excursion to consider.

2. Feel the Rush of a Dog Sled Ride

Skagway offers a very unique opportunity to learn about the history of dog sledding and experience an exhilarating dog sled ride. 

There are several different companies that offer sledding experiences including a dogsled ride on a wheeled “summer sled.” Watching trained huskies pull a dog sled is an awe inspiring experience. Not only are sled dogs powerful, they also love what they do (and it shows). 

The dog sledding and musher’s camp shore excursion is a popular Alaska cruise line excursion.

3. Pan for Gold at Liarsville Goldrush Camp

You’ll be transported back to Skagway’s gold rush days with this entertaining excursion that takes two hours and includes transport to and from the cruise ship aboard a bus. 

An all-you-can-eat salmon feast awaits you once you arrive at the “Liarsville” camp. Afterwards, you’ll head to a gold rush era trail camp, for a melodrama performance with costumed 19th century characters. 

You’re guaranteed to strike gold as you learn all about gold panning. Use the rest of your time to walk through the camp’s laundry, bordello and gift shop. 

4. Head to the Yukon Boarder on a Mini Bus Tour 

On this guided tour, you’ll travel 100 miles roundtrip to the Yukon border. Along the way, there are numerous photo stops and opportunities to see wildlife including bear, moose, caribou and bald eagles. 

This narrated scenic tour will give you a better glimpse into the interior of Alaska and provide you with interesting gold rush history and nature information. 

This tour meets at the cruise ship pier. Because you’ll crosses over into Canada, passports are required for adults and children over age 16. Children under 16 need to have either a passport or an original raised seal birth certificate. 

5. Take in the Majesty of Glaciers with an Aerial Tour

It’s hard to describe the spectacular feeling of seeing a glacier in person. With an other-worldly blue color and colossal size, you won’t want to pass up the opportunity to see (and walk on) a river of ice. 

If you choose an aerial glacier excursion , you can book it through the cruise line, take a SMART bus or walk 5-30 minutes to the helicopter port (depending on your dock location). After 15 minutes of preflight instruction and safety training, you’ll put glacier boots over your shoes and climb aboard a helicopter for a 40 minute round trip flight. 

Guides choose the best route and landing spot depending on weather, but explorers will potentially land on either the Chilkat, Ferebee or Meade Glaciers. After landing, your experienced glacier guide will spend 40 minutes with you on the glacier, teaching you about glaciers and answering any questions you might have before you return back to the helicopter port.

6. Float the Taiya River

For cruisers wanting to experience Alaskan outdoors and wildlife, a Taiya River Float Trip is an excellent choice. Your 2.5 hour trip includes a 10-mile drive along the Dyea Valley and 35-45 minutes floating down the scenic Taiya River. 

Because this river is fed by glacier water, it has a gorgeous green-turquise color. Bits of rock called “glacial flour” reflect sunlight, resulting in a beautiful and unusual color. 

There is a good chance you will see Alaskan wildlife including bald eagles, otters, moose, and potentially bears.  

7. Rainforest Cycling Trip

Did you know that Southeast Alaska is home to the nation’s largest rainforest? You can experience the beauty of a temperate rainforest in this active excursion. 

Your adventure begins with a 25 minute van ride through Skagway, up the coastal mountains to the summit of White Pass. You’ll then begin a 15-mile downhill, 1.5 hour bicycle ride on the paved Klondike Highway past waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and historic sites. 

8. Explore the Shores of North America’s deepest Fjord in an Ocean Raft 

Skagway is home to Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. This is a high adventure excursion on a speed boat that will have you flying past gorgeous waterfalls, rocky beaches and wildlife. 

Each 17-25 person open air boat includes a captain and a naturalist that share interesting facts. The boats stop often for wildlife viewing and photo taking opportunities. 

This excursion is for ages 10 years and up, and you’ll be outfitted in a one-piece “exposure suit” (basically a giant warm and waterproof jumpsuit), a balaclava hat, goggles and gloves. 

9. Explore the Chilkoot Trail 

The 33-mile Chilkoot Trail is called “The World’s Longest Outdoor Museum” because of the artifacts left behind by hundreds of gold rush miners in the late 1890s. 

Cruisers can get information about the historic Chilkoot trail and a hiking permit at the Trail Center in Skagway, located on Broadway between 5th and 6th Avenues.

If you decide to Explore Chilkoot Trail, all hikers must watch a 30 minute mandatory trail orientation video scheduled at 8am, 10am, noon, 2pm, and 4pm daily  at the Trail Center during the permit season.

The trailhead starts in Dyea, a 10 mile drive from Skagway. SMART Bus has a shuttle that runs to Dyea for $15 a person. 

10. Rainforest Ziplining

You’ll get a bird’s eye view of North America’s largest temperate rainforest as you soar down a zipline in this active excursion. 

The Grizzly Falls Ziplining Expedition includes 10 ziplines and four suspension bridges. You’ll begin with a 35 bus ride from the cruise ship dock to Dyea. After safety training, you’ll have two hours to fly through the rainforest at speeds over 45 miles per hour over spectacular sights including glacier fed waterfalls. 

Cruisers of all ages will love this active adventure in Skagway. 

10 of the Best Free Things do do in Skagway Cruise Port

1. Stroll Down a Gold Rush Main Street 

Skagway’s mainstreet is home to darling shops, restaurants and museums. You could easily spend a few hours enjoying the boardwalk and perusing shops that sell jewelry, furs, and unique-to-Alaska gifts and souvenirs.

The downtown boardwalk is about a 10 minute walk from the docks.

2. Enjoy a “Ranger’s Choice” Daily Talk

Every day from Early May to Late September, you can hear rangers from the National Park Service talk about their favorite Alaskan subjects at the Visitor Center. 

The NPS Visitor Center is less than a half a mile from most cruise ship docks, at 2nd and Broadway in the old White Pass & Yukon Route Depot building.

Talks range from 10-30 minutes and include a variety of subjects. 

3. Watch a Movie About the Gold Rush in Skagway

A free 25-minute film “Gold Fever: Race to the Klondike” is shown at the NPS Visitor Center. 

Check in to find out what time(s) the film is shown that day. You’ll leave with a great understanding of Skagway’s part in the Yukon Gold Rush. 

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4. Shop and Learn at Corrington’s Alaskan Ivory & Museum

If you love history and shopping, you’ll want to stop in at Corrington’s. The museum is tucked in the back of this high-end gift store and specializes in native artwork. It tells the history of Alaska in scrimshaw: artwork that is carved into ivory, whalebone and other materials. 

The museum itself takes 30-45 minutes to walk through. Afterwards, you can shop for your own scrimshaw, or another unique souvenir, to take home.

5. Marvel at the Snow and Ice Cutting Train on Broadway

Make your way down Broadway Street in downtown Skagway to get a picture of the snow and ice cutting train formerly used by the White Pass & Yukon Railroad. 

This massive train/snowplow was built in 1898 and cleared the tracks here until 1964. It was restored in 1995 and is now on display for visitors to enjoy. 

6. Take a picture of “The Most Photographed Building In Alaska”

The exterior of the Skagway Visitor’s Center, located in the historic Arctic Brotherhood Hallm is a tourist destination all on its own.The outside of this building is intricately decorated with over 8,800 pieces of driftwood. 

If you step across the street, you can see the letters “AB” (Arctic Brotherhood) and “1899” above the door. This unique building is a must-see!

7. Go Birding at Yakutania Point 

The trail head begins 15 minutes from the NPS Trail Center downtown. You’ll cross the Skagway River on a footbridge, then hike through trees until you come to a glorious overlook of the Lynn Canal fjord and docked cruise ships. 

Yakutania point is a great bird watching spot year round. You can read about the birds you might see and get a  Skagway bird species checklist here . 

This hike is 1-2 miles and will take you 1-2 hours roundtrip. 

8. Step Into History at the Gold Rush Cemetery and Lower Reid Falls

This historical cemetery is 4 mile round trip walk from downtown Skagway. You can also take the local SMART bus shuttle, which will drop you off about a half mile from the cemetery. 

There’s a fascinating list of people interred in the Gold Rush cemetery. You can see their ages and the common (and uncommon) ways that people died during in Skagway during the Gold Rush. 

Lower Reid Falls is a 10-15 minute hike behind the cemetery. This path is suitable for anyone with mobility issues. 

9. Experience the Tranquility of Lower Dewey Lake

If you want more a more challenging hike away from the cruise crowds, head to Lower Dewey Lake. 

It’s a little less than a mile to get to the trailhead frown downtown, and then 3.6 miles around the lake. 

The trail starts out with an uphill climb, but quickly evens out and becomes a leisurely loop. Chances are good that you’ll spot some wildlife as you experience peace and quiet.

Plan to spend 2-3.5 hours on this hike, depending on your speed. 

10. View Gold Rush Artifacts at the Skagway Museum & Archives

If you want to learn about the Yukon Gold Rush, the Skagway Museum and Archives is a fun (and inexpensive!) option. 

Located in a historical building on 7th Avenue & Spring Street, this museum now houses artifacts from Gold Rush Days, historical documents, photographs and even a taxidermied Alaskan brown bear!

A $2 donation is suggested. Your money will be well spent as you walk away with a better understanding of the importance of Skagway in Alaska’s history. 

Eat & Drink in Skagway

It can be an Alaska cruise mistake to not eat or drink in the ports of call. Consider having lunch or a local beer at one of the family owned restaurants.

Skagway Brewing Company is a popular favorite for locals, cruise travelers and cruise ship crew. Try a pint of Spruce Tip Ale for a unique taste of this Alaska beer.

The Red Onion Saloon is another popular restaurant in Skagway. Originally established in 1898 as a bordello for lonely gold miners during the Klondike gold rush era, the Red Onion Saloon is a historic landmark in Skagway. Now, you can grab a bite to eat while visiting the on-site brothel museum.

What is the best time of year to visit Skagway? 

Skagway has the mildest weather of any port town in Southeast Alaska, so it is a pleasure to visit any time during cruise season. The best time of year to visit is in July or August when the majority of shops and excursions are in full operation and the weather tends to be the driest. 

How far is downtown Skagway from the cruise port? 

Downtown Skagway is a quick walk from the cruise port. There are four different ports available for cruise ships to dock in Skagway. Depending on which port your ship is docked in, the walk from the cruise port to downtown Skagway is between half to three quarters of a mile long. 

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Final Thoughts On Things to do in Skagway Cruise Port

The charming port town of Skagway, Alaska lets cruise passengers step back in time to gold rush days through exciting excursions. Whether you walk through a historical museum, try your hand at panning gold or explore nature, this port will be a memorable stop on your Alaska cruise. 

In this post, I shared a complete guide of the 20 best things to do in Skagway Alaska when you’re on a cruise. 

Have you been to Skagway on a cruise? Please let me know what you enjoyed most in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio:

Stephanie Yrungaray grew up in gorgeous Eagle River, Alaska and now calls Utah her beUtahful home. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her husband and five kids any way she can, from cruising to RV camping and everything in-between! When she’s not out exploring, you’ll find her writing about travel, finances and parenting as well as gift ideas on her website,  www.TheGiftyGirl.com . 

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The 5 Best Skagway Shore Excursions for Your Alaska Cruise (2024)

It’s hard to choose, but among Alaska cruise ports, Skagway is probably my favorite . Skagway is a weird, wild, wonderful destination: it has been home to a confluence of history, culture, and outdoor adventure that dates back to the late 19th century. The best Skagway shore excursions reflect that, too!

After all, Alaskan Natives called this area home for centuries, and most gold rushers in 1898 passed through Skagway on their way to the goldfields. Their ‘wild west’ lifestyle also drew shady businessmen and intrepid ladies of the night… all of whom left their mark on the region. Add in beautiful scenery and opportunities for outdoor adventure, and Skagway is a unique place that’s well worth exploring during your port stop on an Alaska cruise .

I’ve visited Skagway several times during my various adventures living in and traveling to Alaska , including during my Windstar cruise in 2022. During my most recent trip, I picked an excursion to ride the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad, then spent the rest of my time just exploring the historic downtown.

As you plan your Alaska cruise and compare Skagway cruise excursions, it’s hard to choose one. To help, I’ve reviewed all of the excursions offered by Alaska cruise companies, and have ranked the best 10. I also keep in mind some of the other  tips on choosing Alaska cruise excursions . Read on for that top 10 list, as well as the top 5 I think best match different traveler styles and desired experiences.

(If you want to do Skagway on your own, I recommend checking my guide for how to make the most of one day in Skagway !)

In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the Lingít Aaní (traditional lands) of the Tlingit peoples. With respect, I make a formal land acknowledgment, extending my appreciation and respect to the past and present people of these lands. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to explore  Native Lan d .

This post was originally published in March 2020, and was updated most recently in December 2023.

Table of Contents

Skagway vs Haines: Excursion Differences Explained

As you start planning your Alaska cruise and choosing an excursion in Skagway, be aware: some excursions don’t actually happen in Skagway, they take place in nearby Haines.

Haines is a small Alaskan community with Native Alaskan roots and plenty of its own unique history. It’s also a 45-minute fast-ferry ride from Skagway. Both Haines and Skagway have limited moorage spots, so some boats moor in one and transfer guests to the other by said fast ferry; this is what happened when I visited Skagway (Haines) with Windstar in 2022.

It’s important to read the description for any Skagway excursions you’re interested in, since they may actually occur in Haines – but all of the ones on this list are actually in Skagway. (And I’m working on a list of Haines excursions coming soon.)

The Best Skagway Shore Excursions

Given how many cruise companies offer a number of interesting and unique shore excursions in Skagway, it was hard to choose which ones to recommend. But, I’ve weighed the options and consider these nine to be the best Skagway cruise excursions.

Here’s how I calculated the scores:

• I went through all of the Skagway shore excursions (238) on every company (7) that has any cruise(s) that stop there in 2024.
• I looked at the number of cruise companies offering that excursion this year.
• I force-ranked the excursions by “uniqueness” with no ties.
• I calculated what the cruise should cost with my  “Money-to-Time” calculation  and then gave a bonus (or penalty) based on the actual excursion price.
• Finally, I added up the metrics to come up with a final score.
• To break ties, I used the “uniqueness” score, since I want to encourage you to try new things in Alaska!

For 2024, here’s my list of the best Skagway excursions:

As you can see, the top options for cruise excursions in Skagway have changed a lot recently; many of the shore excursions I recommend are new on the list this year, and most of those are more traditional Alaska cruise excursion activities you’ll see in other ports (ziplining, flightseeing, etc.) – but there are a few great ones that have held on to the list in 2024.

For the rest of this post, I’ll highlight five of the excursions on this table and which type of Alaska traveler I think each is best for. Let’s go!

🥾 Best for Adventure Travelers: Chilkoot Trail Hike & River Float

As a community born of the adventurous spirit of making one’s fortune and pushing the limits of human endurance to do it, it should be no surprise that there are some really cool adventure-oriented shore excursions in Skagway… or should I say in the neighboring ghost town of Dyea, which is where the actual Chilkoot Trail sets out for those prospectors seeking gold.

In any case, the Chilkoot Trail Hike & River Float is an excellent option if you want a two-fer of Alaskan adventure experiences: you’ll start with a two-mile hike on the Chilkoot Trail – not the steepest part you might have seen in photos! – followed by a calm river float back down to Dyea.

You’ll also have a scenic 30-minute drive each way between Skagway and Dyea to learn about the history of the area and the Gold Rush. Best of all, this tour is limited to groups of 10 or fewer, so it’s also not a long straggling trail of hikers like those historic photos.

For an alternative, the “ Klondike Rock Climbing & Rappelling ” excursion is even more adventurous and will help you burn off plenty of cruise calories in a safe environment – with stunning views.

🗿 Best for Culture Vultures: White Pass Scenic Railway

As I updated this post for 2024 Alaska cruisers, I was shocked to see that the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway was not on my list! I think this is mostly because the cruise companies have been renaming and re-organizing their tours in the past few years, and this experience was included in the “Best of Skagway” tour that was always on my list. In any case, if you only have time for ONE excursion in Skagway, this has gotta be it!

The White Pass & Yukon Route (also called the White Pass Scenic Railway in many excursion titles) sets out from the heart of Skagway, climbing up to White Pass and – depending on which of the many railway excursions you book – traveling further into the Yukon to Bennett Lake or Fraser. When I rode this train in 2022, we only went as far as the Canadian border before returning back by rail (due to Canadian border restrictions at the time), but some excursions continue all the way to the Yukon, or have you disembark for a drive back to Skagway, or have other activities added on while up in the pass… there are lots of options to ride the train and do more, if you want to!

Best of all for you culture vultures, this tour is narrated with an excellent history of the region and what makes Skagway a significant location to the native peoples, the prospectors of the Gold Rush, and visitors today.

For a couple of alternatives to the many White Pass Scenic Railway excursions available, two other tours I think are worth doing are the “ Skagway Street Car City Tour ” and the “ Ghosts & Goodtime Girls Walking Tour ” – both give you a nice, nuanced look at Skagway’s history. Additionally, you could just strike it out on your own to visit the Klondike National Historical Park which is easy to visit in the heart of town.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families: Gold Fever & Sled Dogs

Whenever I’m looking for a good tour to recommend for families, I have two main criteria: would Baby V enjoy this (when she’s older, of course), and is it offered by Disney Cruise Lines? Disney – say what you will about them – knows what kids like ( and what parents are willing to pay for! ) so the excursions they offer are usually family-oriented; this Gold Fever & Sled Dogs excursion exactly fits the bill.

Over the course of the three-hour tour, you and your family will visit the recreation of a historic town (harkening back to the Gold Rush era in Skagway), try your hand at gold panning, learn about the importance of dog sledding in Alaskan history and industry, and meet some pups! It really hits all the high notes for both animal-loving kids and history-interested adults.

If you want to add-on and have the money, this tour is also offered as a combo with the White Pass Railway, called something like “ Gold Nugget, Sled Dogs & Exclusive Scenic Railway ” by the cruise companies that offer it.

🦪 Best for Foodies: Hands-On Kitchen Science With Alaskan Chef

You might be looking at the table of excursions above and thinking –  hey, this one isn’t on that list! And you’re totally right: there’s an alarming dearth of food tours in Skagway (though you could easily use my post about where to eat in Skagway and draw up your own foodie tour).

There is one though: the Hands-On Kitchen Science tour that’s offered by just three companies (Carnival, HAL, and Princess). It seems to have been designed for this family of cruise companies alone, so I’m not sure your chef will be local for the tour – but you will have the chance to try your hand (literally) at cooking with Alaskan ingredients. Using a local garden, fresh Alaskan fish (salmon or halibut), and other fresh ingredients, you’ll sample some delightful flavors – including ice cream (because we Alaskans love ice cream!).

It’s worth noting this excursion doesn’t substitute for a meal, so you may still want to grab a bite elsewhere in town.

🐋 Best for Wildlife Seekers: Head to Haines!

I’m deviating from my top 10 Skagway shore excursions table above again: Skagway is not a wildlife destination, so none of the best cruise excursions are wildlife-oriented. Luckily, as I mentioned at the top of the post, Haines is quite close by – a 45-minute fast ferry ride away – and Haines is a great wildlife destination.

While I’m still working on my list of the best Haines excursions, here are the ones I’d recommend booking if you’re keen to do as much wildlife viewing as you can in Alaksa, including your Skagway port stop:

• Bear & Eagle Quest
• Eagle Preserve Rafting & Wildlife Quest
• Kroschel Wildlife Refuge
• Wilderness & Nature Exploration
• Wilderness Odyssey By Jet Boat

Any of these will transport you from Skagway to Haines, then set out in search of wild animals – rather than the wild humans you might find in Skagway’s Red Onion Saloon or elsewhere in town. (As a bonus, the fast ferry can be a really nice ride so that’s an added bonus experience on all of these excursions!)

There you have it – my take on the best Alaska cruise excursions in Skagway.  Have other questions about visiting Skagway, taking an Alaska cruise, or choosing Alaska cruise excursions? Let me know in the comments below.

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The 16 best alaska cruise excursions for 2024.

Venture off the boat to see wildlife, glaciers, railways and more.

The Best Alaska Cruise Excursions

Courtesy of Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season .

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Home Trends Inspiration Blogs Holland America Best Shore Excursions In Alaska

Holland America: Best Shore Excursions in Alaska

By Tully Luxury Travel | 05-24-2023 |

Cruise Alaska

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E normous ice shelves, sparkling fjords, astounding wildlife – a cruise to Alaska with Holland America Line is the trip of a lifetime. The 49th state is filled with incredible things to do, both onboard and ashore, with the combination of land and sea a breathtaking deep-dive into the rugged Alaskan beauty. From seven to 28 days, Holland America cruises in this beautiful part of the world hit many highlights, but here are a few of our top picks.

Relive the Gold Rush in the town of Skagway.

Once the gateway to the Gold Rush, legendary Skagway was Alaska’s biggest town, a frontierland filled with gold fever, fortune-seekers, trading posts, saloons and hotels. Today, the flavor of the past remains, the old town within walking distance of the cruise ship pier, just ripe for a walking tour. Visit the museums, learn about the regional history from experts in period dress, listen to live music and take to the saloons for a drink.

Hop on a train for the White Pass.

The Yukon Route Railroad is a 120-year-old rail journey through rugged terrain. Visitors ride the rails, through tunnels and over trestles, in a restored vintage railway car to the summit of the White Pass. Points of interest include Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch with the summit at the pass reaching almost 3,000 feet. Interestingly, the railroad is a historic engineering landmark on par with the Panama Canal and Eiffel Tower.

Spend the day in Glacier Bay.

John Hopkins Glacier, Lamplugh Glacier and Margerie Glacier – untouched natural beauty surrounds you in stunning Glacier Bay, which is only accessible by air or water. Holland America has been bringing guests here for more than 75 years, and it never seems to be any less beautiful each time. Learn all about the science behind the formation of the glaciers, experience the calving of the ice – accompanied by a rumble called the “white thunder” – and get your passport stamped by a park ranger. Some tours here also include whale-watching at Icy Strait Point.

Keep on the lookout for wildlife.

Sink into the silence of the wilderness and have your binoculars ready to spot magnificent Alaskan marine life, mammals and birds. The unspoiled marine ecosystem is a rich habitat for humpback whales and harbor seals. There are more than 200 different species of birds in Glacier Bay National Park, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, black-legged kittiwakes, tufted puffins and the small, elusive ruby-crowned kinglet. And the forest is home to everything from huge moose to tiny brown bats. Let the park rangers show you all the best viewing spots.

Commune with brown bears and eagles.

At Fortress of the Bear near the town of Sitka in Sitka Sound, visitors have the chance to view orphaned bear cubs who have been rescued and cared for. Learn about bear behavior as they eat, swim and play, and hear stories about the recent residents, some of which can weigh up to 900 pounds. The nearby Alaska Raptor Center is an education and rescue refuge for various kinds of eagles, falcons, hawks and owls. Experience flying demonstrations while you learn about these amazing creatures. You even have the chance to sponsor the recouperation of one of the birds.

Get in touch with Tully Luxury Travel today.

Your Tully Luxury Travel Designer would be happy to book your passage to Alaska. Holland America Line has been showcasing Alaska for 76 years – they are the first in Alaska and offer exclusive access to the Yukon – no other line has our breadth of experience and destination immersion. Offering more cruises to Alaska from Vancouver than any other cruise line, they are sure to have an itinerary that will make its way to the top of your list.

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The 6 best Alaska cruise shore excursions — from heli-hiking to whale watching

There are some cruise destinations — Barcelona, for instance, or Venice — where you really don't need to sign up for shore excursions . You can just walk off the ship and head to the major attractions on your own.

For the most part, the ports of Alaska aren't like that.

To get the most out of an Alaska cruise, you'll want to sign up for a tour in most, if not all, of the ports you visit. And not just any old tour. You'll want the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

In Alaska, many of the biggest "attractions" — breathtaking mountain landscapes, glaciers, fjords, breaching whales and feeding bears, for instance — are related to the Great Outdoors. As a result, many of the best Alaska shore excursions for cruisers are found outside of the towns where ships stop. If you just stay in the towns and explore on your own, you'll miss a big part of what Alaska is all about.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Picking the best Alaska shore excursions

People who know me know that I love talking about Alaska port towns. This isn't just because I spent more than two decades writing about Alaska and other cruise destinations for major newspapers. For many years, I was the co-author of Frommer's "Alaska Cruises & Ports of Call" guide. In researching nearly half a dozen editions of that book, I spent many days exploring each of the major cruise ports in the state. I've tried a large number of the shore excursions in places such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. I've also poked around these towns a lot on my own.

As noted above, my biggest message to anyone planning an Alaska cruise is to get out of the towns . Sign up for something — a hike, a rafting trip, a train ride, a fishing outing — that gets you out into Alaska's spectacular outdoor settings.

But I also have a few specific, top-line pro tips when you're thinking about the best Alaska shore excursions:

• Get up in the air . It'll be expensive. We're talking $250 or more per person. But there's nothing like seeing the grandeur of Alaska from a helicopter or floatplane. The Juneau Icefield, in particular, is a sight to behold. It covers around 1,500 square miles. You can see it on a flightseeing tour from Juneau, with some tours including landings on the ice.
• Don't miss the whales. Even if you're not a big wildlife person, you'll be mesmerized by the humpback whales of Alaska. They are huge (at up to 52 feet, longer than a Greyhound bus), and there are boat tours that will get you up close to them. The best places to do this are out of Juneau and also Icy Strait Point if your ship stops there.
• Splurge for a trip to Misty Fjords National Monument . This glacier-carved wilderness area, not far from Ketchikan, is another don't-miss sight. It's everything you think of when you think of Alaska: icy blue lakes, waterfalls, snowcapped peaks and glacial valleys. The only way to get there is on a boat or floatplane tour, and they typically start at over $200 a person.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the above, many of the most spectacular excursions in Alaskan ports are expensive. But Alaska is not a place to skimp. Alaska is a destination where you may want to budget almost as much per person for your shore excursions as you do for your cabin.

That said, you don't have to splurge for a big outing at every call. In Juneau, for instance, you can get an outdoor experience with a relatively inexpensive trip to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. It's just 12 miles from the cruise ship docks and reachable by bus or taxi. The bus will set you back an astounding $45 per person round-trip, which I find an intolerable gouge (but ... it is what it is). If you have a few people, you're probably better off with a taxi, which runs around $35 each way. For two or three people traveling together, it's not all that pricey a trip.

Either way you do it, you'll find some nice hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier and a visitor center. There's a creek there, too, where I've sometimes seen salmon running. One time, I even saw a bear. Speaking of which: A bear is something you think you want to see in Alaska until you actually see one. Then you're just hoping you don't get eaten.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for couples

I should also be clear that the towns themselves aren't devoid of attractions. While I highly encourage Alaska-bound cruisers to get out into the wilderness, there are plenty of worthwhile things to do in each of the main port towns.

In Juneau, food tours have become popular; think King crab bisque and Alaska salmon. The Alaska State Museum is beautiful and worth a visit. Skagway is like a Gold Rush-themed movie set. You should at least walk its main street (Broadway), with its wooden-board sidewalks. If you're a craft beer fan like me, you also might want to sample a Spruce Tip Blonde Ale at the Skagway Brewing Company. It's made with Sitka spruce tips picked locally in the spring.

In Ketchikan, you should save a few minutes to stroll up Creek Street along Ketchikan Creek, where you might spot salmon running. It's the ultimate Alaska selfie spot.

Related: The best cruises to Alaska from Seattle

How to book the best Alaska shore excursions

The simplest way to book an Alaska shore excursion is through your cruise line. You check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. They send a ticket to your room, and a tour guide will be waiting for you when you walk off the ship.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. That said, many of the tour operators you'll find in Alaskan ports are the same tour operators that operate the ship-sponsored excursions. Often, the tours that the local tour operators will sell you are the same tours that the cruise lines are selling you at the same price . Shopping around isn't necessarily going to get you anywhere.

Indeed, in some cases, the cruise lines own the tour operators in Alaska ports, or at least a piece of them. For instance, the parent company of Princess Cruises and Holland America is a part-owner of Skagway's big attraction, the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

Note that you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I've had some luck with that over the years, but it's hit or miss.

Related: 8 tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

The 6 best Alaska shore excursions

Below, I've listed six of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions. These all are tours that you'll find in the tour lineups at every major cruise line that operates in Alaska. Different lines sometimes have different names for these tours — and sometimes different pricing.

For the listings below, I've used the tour names and pricing listed in the current tour sheets at Princess, which along with sister line Holland America, is the biggest cruise operator in Alaska.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Dog-sledding and glacier adventure by helicopter

Cost: $849.95 per person

Port where available: Juneau

For those with a hefty bankroll, this might be the ultimate Alaska shore excursion. Combining helicopter flightseeing over the seemingly endless Juneau Icefield with a landing on a glacier for dog sledding, it hits two of Alaska's most iconic experiences.

It's also insanely expensive, as I know from firsthand experience. I once took my entire family of five on this excursion, dropping more than $2,000 in the process (this was back when the pricing was half what it is today). That's a huge chunk of change for an outing that lasts three hours.

But I'll tell you this: I don't regret doing it. Not one bit. For starters, the views of the Juneau Icefield as you fly to and from the dog-sledding camp are incredible (assuming the weather cooperates). But the real joy was seeing my three young girls interacting with the teams of Alaskan huskies that live at the camp.

Once you arrive at the camp, you'll meet the dogs and their mushers, see where they live, get a quick tutorial in mushing, and then head out for a spin around the camp on a dog-pulled sled.

Related: These are the best times to visit Alaska

Whale watching and wildlife quest

Cost: $204.95

If it's Alaska's famous humpback whales that you want to see, you'll want to book a whale-watching tour. The waters around Juneau are particularly known for humpback whales — so much so that the operator of this excursion offers a whale-sighting guarantee.

Setting off from the Juneau harbor in a whale-watching boat, you'll cruise to nearby areas to see not just humpback whales but harbor seals and sea lions, too. You might even spot a killer whale or porpoise.

The boat used for this excursion has both inside and outdoor viewing areas. The trips last about four hours, including transfer time from your cruise ship to the whale-watching boat.

Related: The ultimate list of Alaska cruise tips

Note that if you have a big enough group, it sometimes pays to arrange a private boat out of Juneau to take you to see humpback whales. Many lines offer a private boat charter for whale watching as a tour option, or you can arrange one through a local company.

Klondike rock climbing and rappelling

Cost: $119.95

Port where available: Skagway

If you're like me, you may be a little terrified at the idea of climbing the sheer face of a rock cliff. But don't let that scare you away from this 3 1/4-hour tour. It's a hoot.

Experienced climbing guides will meet you at your ship and drive you up the Klondike Highway to an area of granite cliffs that's the perfect playground for beginner and more seasoned climbers alike. Upon arrival, the guides provide you with all the gear you need — climbing shoes, helmets and harnesses — for a safe scramble up a 70-foot-high wall. They'll also offer plenty of instruction (and encouragement), plus a snack of trail mix and hot chocolate.

If it all sounds a bit daunting, know that you don't need any experience at climbing to do it; I sure didn't have any when I tried it, nor did my young daughters, who absolutely loved it. There are multiple routes up the cliffs, some perfect for beginners. After making it to the top, you'll rappel back down — an entirely different kind of thrill.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

White Pass & Yukon Route Railway ride

Cost: $254.95

Call it the iconic attraction of Skagway, Alaska. A ride into the mountains on this narrow-gauge railroad is the tour everybody takes when visiting the Gold Rush town-turned-tourist hub. And for good reason. It offers an easy way to get deep into the Great Alaskan Outdoors.

Truth be told, I'm a fan of more active excursions. But for someone who isn't going to hike, bike, horseback ride or raft their way through the wilderness around Skagway (there are tours for all of those things, too), a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway is one of the best ways to get a glimpse of the area's classic Alaskan scenery.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

From the comfort of a vintage rail car, you'll get stunning views of mountains, gorges, glacial rivers and waterfalls as you climb nearly 3,000 feet to the summit of White Pass — the headwaters to the mighty Yukon River. Designated an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, the 20-mile route is a marvel in its own right, with improbably steep grades at times and segments that pass over soaring wooden trestles and around tight, cliff-hanging curves.

Heli-hike and rail adventure

Cost: $399.95

This is another tour with a sky-high cost. But, in my opinion, it's well worth the money. Indeed, it's one of my all-time favorite Alaska shore excursions.

The five-hour, Skagway-based outing begins with a transfer from your ship to a nearby helicopter pad, where you'll find a helicopter waiting to whisk you high into the surrounding Sawtooth Mountain Range.

On a quick flight to your destination — a mountain trail in the Tongass National Forest — you'll get spectacular views of the mountains and Goat Lake. You'll land at Glacier Station, a remote mountain helicopter pad alongside the White Pass & Yukon Railway tracks. From there, you'll set off on a two- to six-mile guided wilderness hike on a trail along the Skagway River. The highlight of the hike is a magnificent view of Laughton Glacier.

Returning to Glacier Station, you'll end the day with a ride back to Skagway on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, which makes a special stop to pick you up.

Misty Fjords National Monument by seaplane

Cost: $329.95

Port where available: Ketchikan

There's nothing that says Alaska quite like a trip in a floatplane. And, if you're going to do a floatplane ride, there's nowhere better than in Ketchikan. You'll find a small armada of floatplanes waiting to take you to the nearby Misty Fjords National Monument.

Misty Fjords is one of those quintessential Alaska destinations that's so beautiful you just want to cry. That is, if it's not too "misty" to see it. It got its name for a reason. The area is often shrouded in clouds and drizzly rain. Ketchikan is known as one of the rainiest places in North America, with over 13 feet of rain each year. So, yeah, bring a rain jacket.

But, also get ready for lovely views of glacier-carved fjords, cliffs and rock walls jutting thousands of feet out of the ocean. The whole thing is covered with temperate rainforests and features huge waterfalls (thanks to all that rain). It's definitely a sight to see.

Note that there often are two versions of this tour available: One that is about two hours long and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

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Holland America Alaska Review (Excursions)

For many, Alaska is a bucket list trip, with its rugged terrain and incredible wildlife. We thought a Holland America Alaska Excursions review might be helpful for those who are planning a trip to the Last Frontier.

If you love seeing the amazing sights of Alaska but aren’t quite ready to go roughing it, a voyage on one of the cruise lines that sail through Southeast Alaska and beyond is the way to go.

By booking Holland America Alaska excursions, you can see all of the sights and still have the convenience and fun of a cruise vacation.

Our Alaskan cruise was on the cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam . This was my second trip with Holland America.

My first was 20 days in Southeast Asia on the Massdam, which has been replaced by the Westerdam. See that article for a long list of things to do on the ship , which is standard for most Holland America cruises.

I was very excited to cruise again! The cruise experience in itself, plus the exciting destination, made this a trip to remember. Read on to learn more about our Holland America Alaska Cruise excursions review.

Table of Contents

Why We Love Cruising with Holland America

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you may be surprised at how many activities there are on board the ship.

This isn’t just a convenient way to get around Alaska – with a Holland America Alaska cruise, getting there is half the fun!

On the Nieuw Amsterdam, you will find stage shows, live music, a casino, onboard movies, the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, and clubs for the kids to attend so you can fully enjoy your relaxation time.

There’s an abundance of special activities for a sea day, but there are also activities when the ship is in port, which is why I thought this excursions review might be helpful.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a cruise without so many incredible things to eat.

The main Dining Room, poolside Dive-In grill, New York Pizza, casual dining at Lido Market, and even 24-hour room service are included in your cruise fare.

There are also specialty restaurants at an additional cost, including Nami Sushi, Explorations Cafe, Tamarind (a pan-Asian dining experience), Canaletto (authentic Italian cuisine), and Pinnacle Grill steakhouse.

Holland America features a variety of staterooms for every need and budget. Even the most basic inside stateroom still has plush Euro-Top mattresses on the queen-size bed and premium massage shower heads.

For more space, you can upgrade to ocean view, verandah, or Signature Suite. For the ultimate experience, the Neptune and Pinnacle suites are incredible.

Cruise ship rooms are extremely functional, and they make great use of all available space, with places to sit and watch TV, and closets for plenty of storage.

One feature of a Holland America cruise that has to be mentioned is the incredible staff. I always enjoy them so much!

From the stateroom attendants to the dining staff and every role on board the ship, the staff is incredible at providing excellent service and willing to help with any needs you might have.

It’s impossible to say enough good things about the Holland America crew members!

Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

Summer is the best time to cruise to Alaska to see whales . We were there in July and the weather was perfect. 

The only time I was cold was when we spent time in Glacier Bay National Park out on the deck. I was glad I packed gloves, though this was the only time I needed them.

This was the day we were served Holland America’s famous pea soup out on the deck as well as hot drinks like coffee with optional Grand Marnier, Jameson Whiskey, or other liqueurs. 

When we were out exploring on the Holland America Alaska Excursions, I carried my puffy coat in my backpack just in case. The weather was very comfortable.

Our Holland America Alaska Excursions Review

Our cruise visited several ports of call including Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway, with a trip up to Denali and on to Anchorage. Each of the cruise ports offers a variety of Alaska shore excursions. The excursions offer something for everyone and let you see and experience unique things in each port.

Best of Ketchikan: Totems, Wildlife Cruise & Alaska Appetizers

The area around Ketchikan was a summer fishing camp for the Tlingit people and eventually became an incorporated city in 1900, settled by cannery workers who came up from Oregon.

The area has the world’s largest collection of standing totem poles as well as abundant wildlife.

We took a comfortable motorcoach from the ship for a drive through downtown Ketchikan.

Our guide filled us in on a little history of the area, including the colorful shops and the story of how this area was once a red-light district.

It was enough of a teaser to warrant a visit back in our free time to look for souvenirs and see the famous Dolly’s , Star House , and 20 Creek Street . 

Alaska Appetizers

Our tour stopped at the George Inlet Cannery and we were able to explore the interactive exhibits before taking a tour to learn about the history of the cannery.

The history of fish canneries in Alaska dates back to 1878. This particular cannery was built near Beaver Falls on George Inlet in 1914. It was leased by Libby, McNeill and Libby in 1926 and purchased by them two years later. Libby Cannery would operate until 1958. It reopened as a historic landmark in 1996. 

At the cannery, there were fresh pastries and wine or local beer. They also had incredible baked salmon with pineapple and grilled salmon. 

Totem Poles 

Our next stop was Saxman Native Village , home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles. These colorful totem poles are authentic replicas of original poles from the Tsimshian, Haida, and Tlingit peoples.

Each totem pole tells a unique story about the legends of the land and the people who lived there. We also had free time to visit the village gift shop.

Wildlife Cruise

Our final segment of this excursion was on the water. We boarded a boat to explore the coastline of George Inlet.

On our sailing, we visited Walden Rocks where seals hang out. We saw so many bald eagles we lost count, as well as many sea lions.

We didn’t see any porpoises or humpback whales on our sailing, though they are often seen on the trip.

Mendenhall Glacier & Juneau Tram

One of the must-see attractions in Juneau is Mendenhall Glacier . This glacier is about thirteen miles long and dates to around 3,000 years ago! 

This excursion takes you to Mendenhall Glacier by way of a narrated tour of downtown Juneau. For being a capital city, Juneau has a very small-town feel.

At the Mendenhall Glacier visitor center, we got to see a 450-year-old tree, along with a Tlingit man who was carving a totem pole for the city. There’s also an informational movie in the Visitor’s Center, and the glacier observation area. 

If you want a closer look at the glacier and its surroundings, there are several hiking trails around Mendenhall Glacier, including a short walk that takes you to an overlook of the glacier.

You can also hike out to Nugget Falls and down the challenging East Glacier trail.

If you want to see the glacier up close, there is a helicopter tour that takes you right up to the top. Of course, you will see glaciers on the ship, too.

That was an amazing day as we were able to stay for hours to watch the glacier calving when the pieces of ice crash into the bay.

After this tour we had plenty of time to do some exploring, so we decided to make our own tour of the Best Juneau Breweries . 

Evening Whale Quest & Meal

In the evening, we opted for another excursion, this time to go out on a whale watching cruise . Keep in mind that although this is an evening excursion, the sun sets really late in the summer in Juneau, so an evening excursion will mean gorgeous sunset views.

This whale watching trip guarantees spotting whales, and we did see whales on our trip. We sailed out in Stephens Passage on a catamaran that was ideal to maneuver this area. 

While on board, dinner was an assortment of local cuisine, from fish stew to reindeer sausage to halibut, as well as a dessert bar with Alaska wild berry brownies and more.

Skagway Street Car City Tour

For our time in Skagway, we took the Skagway Street Car City Tour . This tour hit many of the main sights in Skagway in a fun 1927 sightseeing bus.

This is a relatively short excursion, but it hit some neat locations, like the Gold Rush Cemetery.

This cemetery is a short distance from town and is the oldest cemetery in Skagway. There are gravesites for many famous characters of the Gold Rush like kingpin Jefferson “Soapy” Smith and Martin Itjen, who promoted tourism to Skagway by displaying “the world’s largest gold nugget”.

Because this excursion is shorter, we had a great experience visiting other locations in town.

In the name of “research”, we hit the Klondike Brewing Company and Skagway Brewing Company . I’d heard that beer is better in Alaska , so of course I had to try out some of the signature brews.

We also visited historic locations like Jeff Smiths Parlor Museum (with artifacts and stories about the legendary life of Soapy Smith), the Red Onion Saloon (with its Gold Rush bordello history.)

A photo in front of Camp Skagway No. 1 (the historical home of the Arctic Brotherhood in a building covered with driftwood and sticks) is a must, too.

We also learned some interesting trivia in our travels. For instance, in Skagway, salmon production is its largest industry, and tourism comes in second.

We also learned that Skagway high school graduates have their graduation on Holland America, even if there’s only one graduate, and they can bring a date! I thought that was pretty sweet.

Denali Extension

One of the “peak” parts of a trip to Alaska is visiting Denali , a national park with 6 million acres of wilderness and a boreal forest. It’s actually the largest forest in the world.

This means that freezing temperatures can occur for more than half the year, and trees have to be able to grow to a minimum of five meters with a canopy cover of 10%.

Due to weather conditions, the peak of Denali may not be visible all the time. The best chances to see the mountain are very early in the morning, so an earlier tour may be a better choice.

How to Get There

For this excursion, we took a motorcoach to Denali National Park from Whittier. We did stop a couple of times as it’s a long day to be on a bus that long.

It left at 8:00 a.m. and arrived at 5:30 p.m. Again, it is a very long trip, and the excursion has you staying in Denali to be able to experience things there.

We took the motorcoach option, but you can take the train from Whittier, which would be my choice if I had to do it again.

Where to Stay

At Denali, we stayed at the McKinley Chalet Resort , which was lovely. We had a spacious room and beautiful views.

Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour

You will find many different tours to book once you’ve booked your cruise. Our tour there was the Tundra Wilderness Tour. You never know what you will see on this tour because nature is on its own schedule.

The tour before us got to see moose and brown bears – and we got to see squirrels and groundhogs! The area was still beautiful.

The tour was over five hours on a revamped school bus and not very comfortable.

Needless to say, this was a disappointing tour for us, but had we seen more exciting wildlife, we probably would have been raving about it, even with the uncomfortable bus ride.

We met a couple who saw a moose with a baby nursing! That would have been amazing. I can’t believe I’ve never seen a moose in the wild.

Other Things to Do

In the evening, we went to the Music of Denali Dinner Theater at the Gold Nugget Saloon. This was a silly show but with incredible singing talent. The food wasn’t the greatest, but what you would expect from a family-style meal with a show. You’re going for the show, not the food. 

You can’t take photos or video in the show, so I have nothing to share as far as that wonderful singing!

If you’re looking for a much better meal, the food at Karstens Public House was fantastic. You will find several good restaurants within walking distance of the resort.

That being said, be aware of your surroundings as there is wildlife everywhere in this area.

Be Aware if You Do Encounter Wildlife

We did learn a lot about moose and bears just in case we ran into some, which does happen at the resort – though not often.

If you come across a moose by itself, they are not a threat to you and you are not a threat to them.

However, a mama moose is the most dangerous animal in Alaska. If you get too close it will charge you, stomp on you, and possibly kill you.

Run in a zigzag, get behind a tree, and keep the tree between you and mama.

If you see a grizzly bear, do not run because it makes them think you are prey and their natural instinct is to chase their prey. Stay still. 

How to Get to Your Final Destination in Alaska

After our time in Denali, we took the Alaska Railroad McKinley Explorer to Anchorage before flying home.

Many people travel from Anchorage to Seward , which can also include Denali, and is another beautiful route.

If you’ve been a reader for any length of time, you know how much I’ve enjoyed the luxury train travel in Canada .

This train is similar, though not quite as luxurious.

This railroad travels through some incredibly picturesque scenery. In fact, the next time I visit, I think I’d like to do an Alaska National Parks Road Trip , just so I can see more of the state.

In addition, the food was good on the railway, and drinks were included. 

Tips for Cruising with Holland America

Read up on the excursions before you book them. Excursions come in all sorts of styles, from relaxing tours to hiking adventures. Some may only take a couple of hours, but others can last all day.

Before you commit to an excursion, make sure that it meets the needs of everyone in your traveling party.

Plan to have an early start. Many excursions begin early in the morning to take full advantage of the long hours of daylight in the summer.

Try not to overpack. This is always a struggle for most people who cruise. It is easy to try and pack everything you might possibly need.

A good packing list can help, but also keep in mind that you can have laundry done on the ship. There’s a large laundry bag in the room that you can fill up and have washed for $20.

Making use of that, you can even pack for a 10-day adventure in a carry-on like we did!

One other note, if you are ending in Anchorage as we did, Orso restaurant is fabulous and I’d highly recommend a reservation. The food there was outstanding.

We hope this Holland America Alaska excursions review helps you to plan the best bucket list trip to Alaska ever!

Frequently Asked Questions

It is always a good idea to have a passport when you travel on a cruise in case you need to be transported home from another country. In particular, Alaska cruises often start, end, or travel to Canada for one port of call. We began our cruise in Vancouver.

The demographic for Holland America cruises is older than some other cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean or Disney, but you will find families with children of all ages on Alaska sailings with Holland America. And remember, there are usually more kids during school breaks, like spring break or over the holidays.

During each week-long cruise, there are usually two formal nights. For other evenings, dinner dress is “smart-casual”, which includes slacks and collared shirts or sweaters for men, and skirts or trousers with a sweater or blouse for women. For the rest of the time, casual attire is appropriate.

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So much fun to relive our Alaska cruise through your eyes! So many good memories!!!

Yes!! Which excursions did you do? I should add your thoughts for people who are thinking of going! Hope we can see each other again soon!

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Experience the Yukon & Suspension Bridge

Skagway, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 8¼ Hours

Meals Included

Meals included

Experience majestic White Pass and Canada's legendary Yukon region. Breathtaking scenery, a picturesque Native town, and a delicious barbecue lunch make this an exhilarating day.

Travel by air-conditioned motorcoach on a narrated drive through historic downtown Skagway. You're headed to White Pass by way of a scenic drive up the Klondike Highway . The road parallels the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad and peaks at 3,290 feet above sea level. Marvel as the scenery changes dramatically from lush rain forest to stark granite. All around you, mountains tower and lakes of all sizes dot the valleys. Photo stops allow you to capture some amazing images. Your driver tells stories of the gold rush that shaped this region.

Continue to the Yukon Suspension Bridge , located above the whitewater rapids of the Tutshi River. It's a dramatic walk across the bridge in fresh mountain air with the river raging beneath you. Learn about the area's natural and human history at the interpretive exhibits of this outdoor museum.

At the Caribou Crossing Trading Post , satisfy your wilderness appetite with a delicious chicken barbecue lunch and all-you-can-eat homemade donuts.

The Yukon's most extensive Wildlife Museum awaits you. Stroll among creatures of Yukon's past and present, with favorites including a steppe bison, grizzly bears, monster moose, a woolly mammoth and the world's largest mounted polar bear.

Absorb some authentic Canadian culture at Caribou Crossing's newest exhibit -- the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Center . This interpretive display focuses on the history of Canada's Mounties and highlights their role during the Klondike Gold Rush.

Visit the Dog Mushers' Village to meet Iditarod dog handlers. Pictures with the sled dogs and husky puppies are undeniably cute. For an extra fee (at your own expense), join them for a dog-cart ride. Kids of all ages will enjoy the petting farm.

Do some sightseeing and souvenir shopping in the Native town of Carcross (Caribou Crossing) before heading back down the highway to the ship.

This adventure crosses the US/ Canadian border; US and Canadian citizens must carry a passport and ship ID. All other nationalities must have a valid passport, visa and ship ID. A vegetarian lunch is available; please notify the Shore Excursions team at least 24 hours prior to the tour. Crossing the suspension bridge is optional.