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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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The 11 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions in 2024

By Janice Wald Henderson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The best Alaska cruise excursions can range from the thrilling to the serene. Passengers can fly on sleds led by huskies , ogle bald eagles and salmon-gobbling grizzlies , and soar over towering glaciers in a helicopter. And the best part? All these activities are planned for you as part of the cruise itinerary—as a way for travelers to sample the diverse wonders of The Last Frontier in one fell swoop.

Wildlife sightings may be the more popular Alaska cruise shore excursions, but travelers shouldn't overlook incredible opportunities to learn about the state’s Indigenous cultures , as well as culinary experiences centered around local delicacies such as fresh salmon, halibut, berries, and craft beer.

Just know that the real Alaska , teeming with natural beauty and wildlife, primarily lies away from crowded touristy ports. (Pro tip: for fewer people and more animals, the best time to cruise Alaska is in the spring.) Know, too, that different cruise lines can offer similar excursions, so first choose a ship that speaks to you, then immediately book excursions (popular ones sell fast). Here, an array of Alaska-bound ships with the best cruise excursions, sure to resonate long past your vacay.

Take in Alaska's glaciers and ice fields from above during this Princess Cruises excursion.

Princess Cruises: Dogsledding and Glacier Adventures by Helicopter

Family-friendly Princess Cruises, in its 55 th season plying Alaskan waters, delivers exemplary excursions that include learning about gold rush history and gold-panning, as well as fishing trips on which one of the ship's chefs cooks your catch. The Dog Sledding and Glacier Adventure by Helicopter, created by an Iditarod musher (they lead huskies on annual 1,000-mile races over Alaska’s roughest terrain), combines two top-notch thrills. Don glacier overboots, board a helicopter, and fly over the Alaskan ice field as the pilot points out icefalls and rock formations. After landing on Norris Glacier, meet top Iditarod race veteran mushers and their dogs. Soon you’ll be whisked on a sled pulled by a team of exuberant huskies for the ride of a lifetime.

Ships and sailings to know: From May to September 2024, Princess offers Alaskan cruises ranging between 7 and 17-days on seven ships, including the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess .

Assist crew in pulling in crab pots and indulge in fresh Dungeness crab during this popular Celebrity Cruises excursion.

Celebrity Cruises: Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feasts

Adventurous couples relish Celebrity’s adult-oriented amusements, including inviting bars and lounges, fine restaurants, and relaxing spas. Big spenders book the Retreat, a luxurious private enclave—its Luminae restaurant showcases dishes by famed French chef Daniel Boulud. In Ketchikan , a four-hour Wilderness Exploration and Crab Feast in Tongass National Forest (America’s largest national forest) scores big buzz. Drive past jaw-dropping sights, like Native Alaskan totem poles, snowcapped mountains, and thunderous waterfalls. Relish a sightseeing vessel ride, assist crew pulling in crab pots (if you like), before tearing into unlimited fresh Dungeness crab with warm clarified butter, and cheesecake drenched in Alaskan blueberries.

Ships and sailings to know: Three premium ships, Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Solstice, and Celebrity Edge , cruise in Alaska from May until September 2024. The newest and most glam, 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge, on its maiden Alaska season, offers eight-day voyages between Vancouver and Seattle .

Several cruise lines operating in Alaska offer whale watching excursions.

Holland America Line: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest

Holland America Line serves sustainable wild Alaskan seafood, with park rangers and local Indigenous tribe members often boarding for presentations. In Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest rocks everyone’s boat. Gawk at one of North America’s most spectacular glaciers and learn about glaciers’ remarkable force in a compelling visitor center. Ride to Auke Bay and board a water-jet-powered expedition vessel designed for superior wildlife viewing. When sailing Stephens Passage—renowned as a summer breeding ground for humpback whales—you may well get close enough to hear these giants breathe.

Ships and sailings to know: This cruise line has plied Alaskan waters for more than 75 years, with seven ships sailing 6-19 day itineraries from May to September 2024.

The Klondike Highway runs from the Alaska Panhandle to Yukon, Canada.

Crystal: Klondike Highway and White Pass

Formerly Crystal Cruises, the ultra-luxury two-ship Crystal, now owned by global travel leader Abercrombie & Kent, has been beautifully remodeled while maintaining its primary lures: beyond-attentive crew and superb dining. Note this sensational Skagway outing offered on Crystal Serenity Alaskan cruises: Motor along on iconic Klondike Highway to White Pass, reaching its 2,865-foot majestic summit and the Yukon Suspension Bridge. Take an exhilarating walk on this iconic bridge, suspended some 57 feet above Tutshi River’s churning rapids below, if you dare. (Make sure somebody gets a pic.) Even if you beg out, you still get the astonishing view and a hearty bison chili lunch.

Tom Vanderbilt

Alex Erdekian

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Ships and sailings to know: The 740-passenger Crystal Serenity offers eight-and-nine-day Alaska voyages in July and August 2024.

Several cruise lines offer bear viewing and photography excursions.

Seabourn: Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography

The outings on this adventure-minded Alaskan cruise exceed typical cruise ships, featuring Ventures by Seabourn excursions with Zodiac explorations, kayaking, and hiking led by expedition experts. In Wrangell, sign up for Anan Creek Bear Viewing and Photography, joining the expedition team bear expert and a photography specialist for this rousing small-group bear-viewing experience. Travel by boat to the Anan Estuary and Wildlife Observatory in the Tongass National Forest (Anan Creek has Southeast Alaska’s largest pink salmon run) and climb to the observation deck overlooking cascading waterfalls. Expect an electrifying view of salmon jumping and black and brown bears snatching their next meal.

Ships and sailings to know: The ultra-luxury 458-passenger Seabourn Odyssey offers seven-day sailings between Vancouver and Juneau, as well as 10- and 11-day roundtrip Vancouver cruises from May to September 2024. Seabourn fares include all-suite accommodations, dining, alcohol, WiFi, gratuities, and 24-hour in-suite service.

Several Alaska cruises stop in Icy Strait Point, a remote area ideal for observing wildlife in their natural habitats.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Spasski River Valley and Wildlife

Looking to cruise Alaska with your family in tow? Consider Norwegian Cruise Line. On offer are children and teenage clubs, plus families can come together to play video arcade games, laser tag, and race cars. During a Glacier Bay passage, a park ranger hops aboard to narrate scenic sights. Explore majestic Icy Strait Point—one of the world’s few places where wildlife outnumbers humans—with family-minded excursions like the Spasski River Valley and Wildlife tour. Motor to an elevated observation area in a postcard-perfect remote valley to safely observe bears, deer, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Learn, too, about Tlingit Indigenous Alaskans who reside in nearby Hoonah, Alaska’s largest such settlement.

Ships and sailings to know: NCL primarily offers seven-to-10-day voyages, April through October 2024, on multiple ships.

Passengers on Seven Seas Explorer Alaska cruises can enjoy fresh-caught salmon at the Taku Glacier Lodge.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Taku Lodge Feast and Seaplane Discovery

The Alaska-sailing 746-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is mega glam, with a museum-worthy art collection. This writer gives a shoutout to the Taku Lodge Feast and Five-Glacier Seaplane Discovery excursions. Soar by floatplane over the majestic Juneau Icefield, land in a river near Hole-in-the-Wall Glacier, and feast on fresh-caught wild salmon by a roaring fire at a 100-year-old lodge. On this outing, I inhaled two salmon filets that slid down my throat like silk. Spoiler alert: After this culinary escapade, I couldn’t eat salmon for two years anywhere else.

Ships and sailings to know: Regent's Seven Seas Explorer mostly offers eight-day cruises running between Seward and Vancouver, from May to September 2024. On this ultra-luxury line, fares include airfare, unlimited shore excursions (other than select tours), alcohol, dining, WiFi, valet laundry, and gratuities.

The Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Haines, Alaska is home to orphaned and rescued animals.

Royal Caribbean International: Kroschel Wildlife Refuge

Animal lovers of every age relish visiting the Kroschel Wildlife Refuge in Haines, a popular excursion among Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise passengers. Steven Kroschel, a wildlife expert who devoted decades to training wild animals for TV and films, owns the center that is home to orphaned and rescued animals, like lynx, Kodiac bears, arctic fox, porcupines, and wolverines. It’s also interactive; get close for photos and learn how the refuge protects these animals.

Ships and sailings to know: Royal Caribbean's nearly 4,000-passenger megaships, Quantum of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas , thrill families via free-fall skydiving, outdoor movies, and escape room games. Their Alaska cruises run from 8-14 days, April to September 2024.

The Alaska Railroad is one of the most scenic train journeys in the US.

Viking: Scenic Train and Rafting

The Scenic Train and Rafting excursion delivers an inspired eight-hour shore tour, beginning with a train ride on the Alaskan Railroad through the vast wilderness. Gaze out windows, eying otherworldly views of the Placer River Valley and soaring peaks of Spencer Glacier, while enjoying a box lunch. Then meet guides to go rafting, paddling between dramatic icebergs and down the serene and scenic Placer River.

Ships and sailings to know: Viking’s adults-only 930-passenger Viking Orion sails 11 days May to September 2024, between Seward, Alaska and Vancouver. Viking ocean-liner fares include amenities like king-bed accommodations with spacious baths equipped with heated floors and anti-fog mirrors, dining, complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and spa access.

Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program highlights Alaskan ingredients and recipes.

Silversea: Sitka Culinary Adventure

Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program features Alaskan ingredients and recipes on all its S.A.L.T. Kitchen menus, S.A.L.T. Lab culinary classes, and S.A.L.T Bar mixology offerings. Soon-to-be-scheduled S.A.L.T excursions will showcase regional chefs and ingredients. Meanwhile, foodie fun unfolds with Sitka’s Culinary Adventure shore excursion. Visit a tap room, tasting beers made with filtered glacial water. Then graze about town, tasting pelmeni (popular dumplings evoking Sitka’s Russian heritage), and other local goodies like chowders, shrimp, black cod tips, and “reindeer dogs.”

Ships and sailings to know: Three ultra-luxury Silversea ships offer 7-16 day sails from May to September, but only the 728-passenger Silver Nova presents Silversea’s lauded S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program. Fares include all-suite accommodations, butler service, most dining, alcohol, a shore excursion in each port, caviar, WiFi, and gratuities.

Through this UnCruise excursion, passengers can explore one of the most remote national parks in the US.

UnCruise Adventures: Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback

Attracting high-energy explorers drawn to less conventional shore excursions, this expedition-driven small-ship line visits bays and coves inaccessible to larger cruise ships. Traditional ships just cruise UNESCO World Heritage Site Glacier Bay; on Wilderness Discoverer , the captain drops anchor in Fern Harbor, Sawmill Bay, and Dundas Bay during the Explore Glacier Bay National Park’s Rarely Visited Outback excursion. Count on a full day of activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, skiff expeditions, and beach strolls. Expert-led hikes take you deep into the breathtaking beauty of the backcountry of one of Alaska's most remote national parks . Few Alaskan cruisers can ever claim this experience.

Ships and sailings to know: The 76-passenger Wilderness Discoverer offers eight-day voyages from April to August 2024.

Recommended

Tutka Bay Lodge

Alyeska Resort

North America Travel Guide

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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 be looking for the best Alaska shore excursions that get you out into the Alaska backcountry.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

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, snow-capped 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 place 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 when you walk off the ship, a tour guide will be waiting for you.

Another way to go is to book directly with a tour operator in one of the ports. 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.

That said, you can sometimes get discounts by calling a tour operator directly. I've had some luck with that over the years. 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. That said, 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: $669.95 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. 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: $189.95

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: $149.95

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: 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: $299.95

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 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 in length and only includes flightseeing and a slightly longer version that includes a water landing within Misty Fjord National Monument.

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Alaska cruise Viking - Inside Passage

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• Inside Passage

Alaska cruise Viking

The inside passage is well worth taking with the most beautiful scenery on display! Try to take a cruise that takes you to the Hubbard Glacier and also gives you an option for the boat trip to the Columbia Glacier. Out trip with Viking was a beautiful trip on ship. We would not recommend that you take their pre Vancouver extension or their post Denali extension as they are both disorganized and not worth the extra. Book your own flights as well as Viking has a problem with their flight department. If you stick to the cruise alone, it is a beautiful trip.

I write this review with a heavy heart. Someone needs to tell people that they won’t see glaciers at glacier bay other than one last little one that will probably be gone by the time you make it there. What you see on TV and news is all real, glaciers are melting before your eyes. The only way to see glaciers is to go on one of the plane excursions in Juneau which is what we did. The temperature was hot, not warm but hot. Scenery is still beautiful but only go if you’d like to see green forests and may be some wild life (All tours said, low tides, bear sightings today but I haven’t heard anyone seeing much of wild life), not glaciers. You need to go out on pretty much all the excursions to experience the natural beauty, there’s not much of a town anywhere, it’s all about hiking and fishing trips which we loved but it all looked like New England.

The Inside Passage is a great cruise route for beginners. I recommend the ten day versus the seven day trips. Try to get a cabin with a tub and not a shower = small.

Our first cruise together using Royal Caribbean. To say we were excited was an understatement! Not only a cruise but to Alaska, mind you we are Floridians. The pros - boarding the ship was easy and smooth and really started our experience off great! We have been impressed with the service especially the room steward, always present and attentive to our needs. The bed is hard as a rock but the steward was able to add “toppers” to make it where we didn’t wake up sore the next day. Majority of the staff have been pleasant, especially the waiters in the specialty restaurants. Wonderland was an exciting and different experience, the food was very unique with flavors we have never had before. The waiter and overall service in Wonderland heightened our experience. Jamie Alexander’s pasta was fresh, made from scratch and the service was great, waiter was very attentive. The shows were something we looked forward to especially on “sea” days, a lot of talent on the ship which was a pleasant surprise! The cruise director was hilarious and he was a fresh face to see with a positive attitude and passion. Our favorite part of the cruise was getting off the ship at the ports and exploring!! Taking a helicopter to see the glaciers and landing on the glacier was the highlight of our vacation, definitely at the top of the list for the most amazing experience we have ever had. Alaska’s scenery was amazing, each corner we turned there was something new to see. We liked the small town and nature feel. For perspective, we have been all along the Northeast coast and California so far. The cons - The food is awful in the main dining room. We ate at the main dining room the first night and the food was average. For a couple like us who are “foodies” and eat “clean”, this was a huge disappointment. We booked specialty nights for the remainder of the nights. Although as mentioned above the food got “better” in the specialty restaurants, it still wasn’t “great”. Overall, our experience on the ship wasn’t great, to where I dreaded the sea days. Although a great place to relax after a long day at port, would’ve preferred a hotel room with a more comfortable bed. Quality was lacking throughout all aspects of the cruise. If we were to cruise again, we would save longer and go on a cruise with Disney less frequently, quality and service goes a long way and RCI should take notes.

We had never been on a cruise prior to this one. We took the Alaskan cruise to see Alaska. As far as I'm concerned, there is no better way to see this state than by ship... especially if it is your first visit. Holland America Lines (HAL) has this tour down to a science. We went from Vancouver, BC, to Fairbanks, AK, and every detail was taken care of by HAL. Our luggage was where it was supposed when we arrived at each location. There were many activities on the ship to keep us entertained (during those "at sea" times), and we were free to decide what you wanted to do. We had our own freedom. And, if we need help... they were there to guide us. The good was fantastic. There was a huge variety of meals and deserts to choose from, and they were all delicious. We actually spent our whole time in the Lido Market (buffet), which meant that we didn't have to get dress-up for dinner. The have a great observation room to see all that is going on outside, and we spent a lot of our sea time in that room. (We spent very little time in our cabin. There are plenty of On-Shore excursions to purchase that we did that enhanced our trip even more. And, we really enjoyed the land trip to Fairbanks (By bus and train). We got to see much more of Alaska's beauty. The HAL staff was perfect, each and every one. We did not run into one member who wasn't in a good mood. The all appeared to be enjoying their jobs. And, they truly wanted to make sure we were having a good time. We went on this cruise to see Alaska, not to eat (which as I said the food was great), and not to live a grand and exotic ship life, so, here is wat we would do if we did it again. First, pack light and get the laundry package. They will pick up your laundry every morning, and have it back to you by the end of the day (usually). Secondly, unless you are going for the glamourous life, leave your dressy clothes at home. Jeans work fine, unless they are really a mess. Lastly, make sure you take clothes that are suitable for some cold, and or, rainy weather... It could happen. All in all, it was one of the best vacations we ever had. HAL does it right.

Unbelievable scenery, plenty whales, crisp air, luxurious ship, fabulous company, gourmet food, cold champage - what more can one ask for?

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Traveling with Sweeney

Inspiration and information for the best in luxury, cultural, and active travel, viking cruise shore excursions: should you take them, river and ocean cruise shore excursions — included and optional, should you take shore excursions on a viking cruise.

Of course! During our three river cruises and one ocean cruise (so far), we’ve taken every opportunity to see the sights and have special cultural experiences when at port. The guided tours in each destination provided a good overview of key highlights in each city while still providing free time for our own sightseeing. On each cruise, Viking offered tours that are included in the cruise fare as well as many optional tours at an additional cost.  Some passengers may like to just stay on the ship to relax and partake in onboard lectures and activities, but since Viking cruises are very destination-oriented , there is much to be discovered at each port.

At Heidelberg Castle on a panoramic tour

Included excursions

Each of the included tours that we’ve taken has given us a great introduction to a place. On panoramic coach tours or in-town walking tours, our guides have provided insights on history, background, current events, and local culture. Panoramic tours will allow some time at landmarks and at vista points for photo opportunities. Most often, we’ve also had time to explore on your own before getting back on the coach to return to the ship.

We found the local Viking guides (on included and optional tours) to be fun, knowledgeable, and proud of their cities and/or regions. They are locals who know the destination and have insider perspectives that they can share. In our experiences, they’ve also had engaging personalities and senses of humor. Viking Cruises does a great job of running a smooth process and transporting everyone on their comfortable coaches to tour locations or on scenic drives.

Portuguese guides on Viking shore excursion

Optional excursions

Although taking only included tours can still make for a fulfilling cruise (in my opinion), you should consider optional cruises and make decisions about whether and which to take any based on your interests and budget. The groups are often smaller and the excursions typically focus on more in-depth experiences, including under-the-radar attractions, historical perspectives, and cultural immersion. Privileged access to sites is often provided, too. Some examples of the recreational, cultural, and culinary experiences include bike tours, small boat tours, hikes, wine tasting, cooking classes, concerts, and dance performances.

Ready for a walking tour of Cologne, Germany

Excursion tips:

• After your cruise is booked, Viking’s “My Viking Journey” website will help you plan your agenda and you can always contact Viking service representatives by phone or online chat for assistance and advice.
• To get excursion inspiration, follow #MyVikingStory on Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see photos and read what current cruisers are sharing as they take excursions. (Of course, don’t forget to check out more cruise-related articles on Traveling with Sweeney , too.)
• Duration of tours listed on the itinerary show the time the tour group leaves the ship to the time returned to the ship. This is helpful to know as you decide upon multiple tours per day.
• On the river cruises, if your excursion occurs during the planned lunch or dinner times, a meal will part of the tour. With so many options for open dining on the ocean cruise, we were able to fit in meals and snacks before, after, or in between excursions.
• The QuietVox audio devices supplied by Viking in the staterooms are very good for being able to follow along with your tour guides on your excursions. Don’t forget to charge them at night and bring them along for the tours.

Our favorite optional excursions

On one of Viking’s comfortable coaches

I’ve compiled below a few photos and excerpts from previous posts (with links for more information) about some of the optional excursions we particularly enjoyed. I hope they’ll give you some inspiration about selections you might consider on these or similar cruises. Specific tours  may change by cruise season, so there may be different options on the current cruise itineraries.

Romantic Danube Cruise

Heurigen evening in vienna.

Heurigen Evening in Vienna, Austria

An optional Viking excursion in Vienna, the “ Heurigen Evening” provided a high-spirited authentic Viennese gemütlichkeit  experience. A shuttle from the ship took our small group of five couples and our guides to the city’s 19th district where numerous vineyards are located with their wine taverns called Heurigen . The  Heuriger became part of Austrian culture in the 18th century when Emperor Joseph II proclaimed that anyone who made their own wine could sell it to the public in their establishments. — Good Cheer and High Spirits in Vienna

Rhine Getaway Cruise

Medieval village of colmar.

Picturesque medieval buildings of Colmar

We’re so glad that we took an optional excursion into Colmar, France. Such a charming city center with colorful old buildings like these. There’s much World War II history to explore here, too. — A Rhine River Cruise Getaway

Alsatian Wine Tasting

Alsace wine country

During our Viking River  Rhine Getaway cruise , we got a chance to experience some of the flavors and characteristics on both sides of the Rhine. A favorite activity for me was an Alsatian wine tasting excursion. It was our first visit to this area of France, and we were enthralled — even a little surprised — and even overcast weather did not darken the day or our enthusiasm. — Wine on the Rhine: A Taste of Alsace

Portugal’s River of Gold

Sailing along Northern Portugal’s Douro River was our very first river cruise experience and we were quickly convinced that this was a wonderful travel option.

Wine cellars and estates

Douro wine country of Portugal

The sweet grapes used to make authentic port wine, Portugal’s most famous export, are only grown in the Douro Valley. There are many styles of port, several of which we sampled at wine estates throughout the Douro region and on board the Hemming. — Cruising Portugal’s River of Gold: Our Favorite Things

Medieval Guimaraes

The city of Guimarães in Northern Portugal was the country’s first capital and the birthplace of Portuguese national identity. The city center of Guimarães was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 and there are many monuments and museums attesting to this history. But Guimarães also has a contemporary side with a thriving modern culture and economy. — Medieval Guimarães: Portugal’s First Capital

Viking Homelands  (ocean cruise)

View of Viking Jupiter and Stockholm skyline on a panoramic tour

There were many choices of special experiences available during our cruise on the Baltic in Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Gdansk, and St. Petersburg. With two days to spend exploring St. Petersburg we decided to take advantage of several optional excursions in this amazing Russian city. Each of the optional excursions mentioned below (and other St. Petersburg activities) are described further in our article, Two Days in St. Petersburg: Russia’s Venice of the North.

St. Petersburg by Metro and on Foot

Avtovo Metro station

I’d heard about the  St. Petersburg Metro System  and looked forward to going on the “St. Petersburg by Metro and on Foot” excursion. We rode the Metro from Avtovo Station (considered by many to be one of the most beautiful stations in the world) to Nevksy Prospekt Station with transfers in between.

Russia’s Native Songs and Dances

Performance of Russia’s Native Songs and Dances

St. Petersburg is a cultural capital and renowned for its famous musicians, dancers, and writers.  The heritage of traditional folk music and dances is key to the culture and passed down through the generations. We enjoyed “Russia in Fairytales” performed at Youth House on Vasilyevsky Island (the performance venue varies) during the “Russia’s Native Songs and Dances” shore excursion.

St. Petersburg Canals, St. Isaac’s & Church of Our Saviour on Spilled Blood

Boats on a canal in St . Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg is nicknamed the “Venice of the North” for its rivers (the Fontanka, Moyka, and Neva), canals, and decorative bridges crossing them. In the summer, visitors can actually float on Venetian-style gondolas on the city’s canals. Our canal and river cruise excursion also included a visit to two stunning churches — the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood and St. Isaac’s Cathedral.

Pre- and post-cruise extensions

If you can extend your trip, either before or after the cruise, Viking has organized options. Thus far, our schedules haven’t allowed us to do that, but we always wish that we could. We’ve talked to many fellow passengers who expressed satisfaction in the extensions they had experienced.

Do you enjoy shore excursions when you cruise? Have a few favorites to share?

For more information about our Viking shore excursions: Mediterranean Odyssey cruise shore excursions

Disclosure: Viking Cruises has sponsored our wonderful cruise experiences, but our opinions and perspectives are totally our own — as always.

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13 thoughts on “ Viking Cruise Shore Excursions: Should You Take Them? ”

Wow! All of these tours sound wonderful! I’ve never sailed with Viking, but it sounds like they are experts at this. I’m hoping to do a Russia cruise with them in the next year or so. Can’t wait!

Thank you for your informative article! We are getting ready to go on the romantic Danube Cruise in October I found this information useful. And all of my searches though I have not been able to find out if when you are on a panoramic cruise in a particular town, are you able to get off the bus at any point and just go on your own and then join the boat later at the dock? Or are you required to stay with the tour for the entire time and then if you want to explore the city further, you would have to leave from the boat after the panoramic tour arrives back at the boat? Trying to save time by remaining in the city instead of having to go back to the boat with the tour and then retrace the steps to go back into the city. Thanks in advance.

Glad you found the article useful. I’ll try to answer your question based on my experiences. On the river cruises, the ship is often docked right in the heart of the cities where it may be possible to walk into/out of town (like we did in Passau and Regensburg) or in some cases where there may be shuttle buses throughout the day to return to the ship. There have been some instances (such as our time on the Romantic Danube cruise) in Vienna) where we took the included coach tour into the city center had a walking tour, and then we had a few hours to spend at the Christmas markets and have lunch before catching one of the shuttles to stay in the city center. Some people went back, some stayed in town. I think it’s a good idea to stay with the group for the whole tour and then your guide will be able to point out where to meet the shuttle (if there is one)or how to walk back to the ship, later. The Viking Daily (the program left in your stateroom each day) will have more info about what will be happening the following day (including info about shuttles). Check with Guest Service when on board to get the official information. Sorry I can’t be more precise, but it all depends on location, itinerary, back on board times, etc. Have a fantastic trip! Let us know about your experience.

I will be taking the Romantic Danube cruise from Regenburg to Budapest in October 2023 and I wanted to see in more detail the free excursions in Vienna and Budapest on where they stop and let you take pictures so I can then plan seeing the rest of the cities on my own and do not want to duplicate sights that we have just seen on the Viking tours. On the Viking sight they do not give you much detail.

Hi Bill — thanks for your comment. I’m sure you’ll love the Romantic Danube cruise. Our cruise was several years ago and specific excursion information may have changed. To the best of my recollection, in Budapest we did not have stops on the Pest side of the Danube on the included tour. We were docked right in the city, so that evening we were able to go out on our own to explore more. (I don’t know if that will be the same situation for you.) The included tour did stop on the Buda side and we had time to walk around the Castle District visiting St. Mathias church, Fisherman’s Bastion, etc. In Vienna, the included panoramic tour and walking tour, we walked around the city center by St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, etc. It was December and the Christmas markets were open and we were able to spend time on our own for a few hours for lunch and visiting the markets before meeting a shuttle to take us back to the ship. Once again, I don’t know if your itinerary will have that kind of time on your own built in or not.

Have you checked with Viking customer service to see if they can give you more information? I hope this has helped. Check back and let us know about your trip!

Catherine – Thank you for this information. I have been searching for information about the included excursions that Viking Ocean provides on its Athens to Rome Mediterranean cruises on their Saturn ship. We have booked a cruise for March 2023 and this is our first time with Viking. If you have any insights as to what the included excursions are for the ports of call on this cruise, please share them (Athens, Ephesus, Crete, Sicily, Naples, Rome). Thank you. Rob

Thanks for your comment, Roberta. I’m assuming that you are on the Journey to Antiquities cruise. Here’s a link to the itinerary on the Viking website. If you click on each day’s itinerary, you’ll see “included” tours as well as optional excursions. Have a great cruise!

https://www.vikingcruises.com/oceans/cruise-destinations/western-mediterranean/journey-to-antiquities/index.html?return=true

Hello Catherine, I found your insights validating and helpful. My spouse and I are booked on the Viking Iconic Mediterranean Rome to Barcelona this summer. Honestly, I am disappointed in the included “overview excursions” and the optional excursions at such a cost. In particular Florence, Monaco and Barcelona. In both Rome and Florence, we are not booked in a city harbor as there are none. It appears that we will have to pay additional fees to arrange our own daytrip to sightsee IF we do not join the short free excursion or pay lots of money for a shore excursion. Had I known that we were not able to “hop to shore,” I probably would have chosen a river cruise. Any insight? Really feeling disappointed because Florence, Monaco and Barcelona are big destinations.

Thanks for your comment, Kris. I hope I can address your concern. I don’t know if you’ve visited any of these destinations before. Especially for first time visitors, the included tours are great introductions. But if you can budget for any optional excursions, you’ll find more immersive experiences. My thoughts about the places you mentioned (remember, these are totally my own options based on my experiences): Monaco (docked where you can “hop to shore” — the included walking tour of Monaco City is very nice and you can spend the afternoon on your own in Monte Carlo (easily reached from the dock – I just published an article about this https://www.travelingwithsweeney.com/what-to-do-shore-excursion-in-monaco/ . Although we’d previously been tno Barcelona it was many years ago and we were pleased to see the sights again and do some walking around Sagrada Familia, etc. The Florence day might be a good one to consider an optional excursion. We’d visited Florence before, so did the “Cooking in a Tuscan Castle” tour — loved it! You also might want to consider Lucca on your own — it’s closer to the port than Florence and it is a wonderful town — one of my favorites in Italy.

My prediction is that you are going to enjoy this trip no matter what excursions you choose. What we’ve found is that the introductions we get to some destinations are great for letting us know places to visit again sometime. I hope this has been helpful. Let us know about your experience!

Hi Catherine We came across your great site while researching for our Viking cruise in October/Nov (Fort Lauderdale to LA via Panama Canal). My wife and I are looking at the excursion options in preparation for when bookings open. I personally am keen to visit the Panama Canal – one of the optional excursions – before transiting but my wife prefers one of the other optional excursions. Are we allowed to book individually on different excursions or do you have to book ‘as one couple’ ? (ie for excursions, can you become ‘single passengers’) Hoping you can clarify from your experience. thank you.

Hi Marc — Thanks for your kind words! Lt Lauderdale – LA should be a great cruise! I’d like to do that sometime. In my experience, the excursions (optional and included) are reserved by individual passenger, not by stateroom, so you and your wife can make your own selections. I would assume that excursions for your cruise options will be handled the same way. Be sure to book as soon as you can for the optional excursions as the popular ones can go fast! But don’t be dismayed if one is’t available, there are sometimes cancellations so keep checking back. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

How many people generally on on any given Viking river cruise excursion? (15, 30 or more?) Thank you! Becky

In my experience that really varies. The included excursions can be 30 or more on a coach, optional excursions usually much smaller. I thinkt that our Corfu cooking and Tuscany cooking excursions were about 15 — something like that. You may find that the included excursions have more than one coach departing the ship at roughly the same time and you may arrive at sites roughly the same time. But it is easy to stay with your particular group and hear (via QuietVox) and follow your guide.

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Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska Cruises

Alaska is one of those majestic destinations with a beauty that cannot be adequately described in words or captured in a photograph – good thing Viking Oceans will take you there to see it in person! Experiencing its breathtaking glaciers, small towns with gold rush history, museums with native artifacts, national parks with scenic views, amazing wildlife, and fishing harbors with delectable salmon are every explorer's dream. Right from Ketchikan, Alaska's first city with its famous Misty Fjords National Monument, down to Seward, home of the Alaska SeaLife Center and a modest seaport named after William H. Seward, Abraham Lincoln's Secretary of State who signed a treaty with Russia for the purchase of Alaska for $7 million, your Viking Oceans cruise to Alaska will be a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. No matter your preference for exploration, Viking Ocean Cruises is ready to pave the way. Find out more about Viking Ocean Cruises to Alaska by giving The Cruise Web a call today at 1-800-377-9383.

Things to Do on an Alaska Cruise with Viking Oceans

Get Privileged Access to Alaska's pristine wilderness known as the "Yosemite of the North" in Ketchikan and view the light-colored granite carved into deep-shaped troughs by glaciers. Unearth Sitka's natural beauty from views of Mt. Edgecumbe, an extinct volcano on a nearby island. Be sure to do a walking tour to find out how Russians ended up here through fur trade. In Juneau, embark a small boat to the Mendenhall Glacier to spot whales and porpoises enjoying their natural habitat. Head over to the Alaska-Juneau gold mine to recapture the history of Juneau's gold discovery. Discover the history behind the Old West spirit of Skagway, admire fascinating collection of native arts and artifacts in Valdez and check out colorful species of sea animals in the Alaska Sealife Center in Seward. Find out more of our recommended excursions while cruising to Alaska with Viking Oceans:

• Misty Fjords and Ketchikan Duck Tour (Ketchikan, Alaska) Get lost in the magical wilderness and misty fjords of Ketchikan during your Privileged Access excursion exclusive to Viking Oceans guests at the Misty Fjords National Monument. Travel by floatplane as you soar into the skies above the wild and make an exciting landing in the watery canyon. Here, you'll get an up-close view of unspoiled wilderness and abundant wildlife. Head over to the town and harbor for a Ketchikan Duck Tour to see the salmon ladder on Ketchikan Creek.  

• Sitka Walking Tour (Sitka, Alaska) From the restored Russian Bishop's House to the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, there is no denying the immense Russian influence on this small city first settled by Russians in 1799. Join a local guide to hear the legends and lore of the port, and stroll through the lush Tongass National Forest with 18 majestic totem poles. Visit Sheldon Jackson Museum full of rich Native American artifacts and enjoy sweeping views of the city from the hill of Baranof Castle. Lastly, view an active salmon hatchery at the Sitka Sound Science Center.  

• Gold-Panning and Spectacular View (Juneau, Alaska) Recapture the history of Juneau's gold discovery in the authentic setting of Gold Creek and in the famous Alaska Juneau gold mine, one of the world's largest hard-rock mining operations. Here in Alaska's capital, you will trace the route taken by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris over 100 years ago in their search for gold. Get hands-on experience panning for gold and listen to tales and true stories of men who traveled countless miles for the promise of untold wealth. Don't forget to take in spectacular views of the "only US capital inaccessible by road" from Mount Roberts Tramway.  

• Passport to White Pass Summit (Skagway, Alaska) Take a scenic drive up to White Pass and trace thousands of Klondike stampeders' footsteps on the majestic 3,290-foot-high summit for a glimpse of the town that once acted as a gateway to the Canadian Yukon. Here, prospectors flocked in their numbers to reap the benefits of the Klondike gold rush so don't forget to capture every Kodak moment on this once-in-a-lifetime excursion. In case you're wondering about the authenticity of the legendary folklore of the ‘mythical woman who turned herself to stone at Skagway's bay', be sure to ask a native!  

• Old Town Walking Tour (Valdez, Alaska) Explore the rich past of Valdez, a picturesque Alaskan town named after a Spanish secretary of the navy. Riding off the hype of the Klondike Gold Rush, natives lured gold seekers to settle here in order to attain their dreams of striking it big over a century ago. Today, the town thrives on oil and fishing with colorful boats lining the harbor alongside the Trans-Alaska Pipeline terminal, so try your luck catching some of Alaska's famous salmon.  

• Alaska SeaLife Center and Katmai National Park (Seward, Alaska) Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Seward from a helicopter excursion or find your way to the Alaska SeaLife Center for independent exploration of cutting-edge marine research, North Pacific mammals, birds, fish, invertebrates and resident animals requiring medical treatment. Venture out to Katmai National Park to see the Exit Glacier or learn the history of the world-famous Iditarod dogsled race for which Seward is renowned.  

Top 10 Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska Cruises

• Viking Orion 10 Night Alaska & the Inside Passage Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2024 - Aug 2026)
• Viking Orion 10 Night Alaska & the Inside Passage Departing From Seward, Alaska (May 2024 - Aug 2026)
• Viking Sea 10 Night Alaska & the Inside Passage Departing From Vancouver, British Columbia (May 2025 - Aug 2026)
• Viking Sea 10 Night Alaska & the Inside Passage Departing From Seward, Alaska (May 2025 - Aug 2026)

Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska Departure Ports

Learn more about the potential embarkation ports for an Alaska cruise with Viking Oceans. Your Viking Oceans Alaska cruise could depart from any of the following ports:

Seward, Alaska

The beautiful small coastal town of Seward, which is most known for its picturesque scenic views and many visitors’ attractions, is a perfect addition for your next Alaska cruise.

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

Photo Gallery for Viking Ocean Cruises Alaska Cruises

Check out our photo gallery of Alaska cruising photos from Viking Oceans. Remember, this is only a teaser of the sights waiting for you on a Viking Oceans Alaska cruise vacation.

Wilderness near Ketchikan, Alaska

Iditarod Dog Sled Racing in Alaska

Totem Pole in Alaska

Salmon migration in Valdez, Alaska

Skagway Bay in Alaska

Juneau, Alaska

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Day Tours / Shore Excursions

Misty Fjords

Explore Alaska's glacier-carved masterpiece and one of nature's most spectacular creations while cruising in comfort aboard one of the best sightseeing vessels in Alaska. Delight in your unhurried exploration of the fjords, glide beneath 3,000 foot vertical cliffs and feel the mist from the many waterfalls cascading down ice-carved slopes - Misty Fjords National Monument is truly one of Alaska’s greatest treasures.

Best of Juneau

Come face to face with Mendenhall Glacier, marvel at humpback whales and top of your day with a local meal featuring wild Alaskan salmon grilled over an alder wood fire. Enjoy a guided transfer and tour of Mendenhall Glacier and it’s adjacent Visitor Center. From there you’ll be transported to Auke Bay and a state of the art 48-passenger jet boat, perfectly outfitted for whale watching. Following your cruise you’re off to the Gold Creek Salmon Bake where you’ll enjoy a truly Alaskan all-you-can-eat buffet while nestled in the rain forest.

Board the 56' Adventure Bound for an unforgettable cruise to the best of Alaska. Tracy Arm, a classic fjord has it all – snow capped peaks, shear rock palisades, waterfalls, rainbows and tidewater glaciers. Drift among the icebergs for the most close-up view of both the North and South Sawyer glaciers.

White Pass Railroad Excursion

This three-hour, forty-mile round trip climbs from tidewater at Skagway to the summit of the White Pass - A 2,865 foot elevation! The fully narrated tour features two tunnels, sky-high trestles, cascading waterfalls, historic sites and spectacular scenery! The historic White Pass Railway was built to serve gold miners in 1898.

Ask about our other tours on the historic White Pass Railroad to Lake Bennett and Canada’s Yukon

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Anan Bear Observatory

Start with a boat ride from either Wrangell or Petersburg to Anan National Park. During the 1/2 mile walk to the observatory platform, your guide will point out various types of flora and fauna, birds and other wildlife. Enjoy the wonderful surroundings of majestic trees and rushing water as the bear feed on the salmon they catch out of Anan Creek. In 1999 a photo blind was built at creek level just across the stream from the main bear feeding area. This puts bear catching salmon about 20 feet in front of you!!! Bear viewing in this area may be best mid-July to mid-August.

LeConte Glacier

Cruise through the LeConte Bay to view the southernmost tidewater glacier in North America and also one of the most active in Alaska. Even on days when majestic icebergs make it impossible to get to the face of the glacier, this 4.5 hour boat tour travels through breathtaking scenery. We even have a tour option that combines LeConte Glacier with a moderate guided hike on a boardwalk trail through the Tongass National Rainforest. A great way to see two very diverse areas near Petersburg in one day!

Whale Watching

The inside waters of southeast Alaska are well protected from the weather and are incredibly rich with marine life. While there can be no guarantees with any natural system, these waterways a sure to produce a memorable whale-watching experience.

Kayaking Adventures

We have two great kayaking options for all experience levels. The 10-Hour Day Paddle in LeConte Glacier Bay is perfect for those seeking a more adventure and prior paddling experience may be helpful. This tour starts with a boat ride to the mouth of the bay where you’ll pull to shore and get outfitted in kayaks. Your guide will lead you through the striking icebergs and through the bay toward the face of LeConte Glacier. The other option is a six-hour tour combining both paddling around the icebergs and a visit to see the face of LeConte.

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Top Destinations

Juneau is the Capital city of Alaska and is surrounded by ocean, glaciers, ice fields, and mountains. The area is abundant with whales and other wildlife.

Skagway is a formerly lawless town that was once the start of the legendary Chilkoot Trail to the Klondike Goldrush.

Ketchikan is home to the famous Misty Fjords National Monument, which is a labyrinth of glacier carved mountains towering 3,000 feet high over canals.

Beautiful Sitka is located on Baranof Island and is surrounded by a maze of bays, islands, and waterways.

Icy Strait on Chicagof Island offers true wilderness for great wildlife viewing and adventures. Highlights of Icy Strait include bear viewing, salmon fishing, and whale watching.

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and is known as The Gateway to Denali. Nearby mountains and wilderness provide access to the interior of Alaska.

Seward is a coastal town located about 125 miles south of Anchorage. It is home to the Kenai Fjords National Park which provides a great variety of tours!

Whittier is only accessible by ocean or through a 2 mile one-lane tunnel under Maynard mountain. This coastal Alaskan town is home to only 200 year-round residents!

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Juneau Glacier Dog Sledding & Helicopter Tour

$661.00 / Person

Skagway White Pass Railroad Summit Excursion & Train Tour

$146.00 / Person

Juneau Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier Tour

$239.00 / Person

Icy Strait Premier Whale Watching Adventure

$180.00 / Person

Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour

$359.00 / Person

Skagway Glacier Helicopter Tour

$399.00 / Person

Deluxe Misty Fjords National Monument Tour

$375.00 / Person

Icy Strait Exclusive Wildlife and Bear Search Tour

$150.00 / Person

Recent Reviews

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Local Guides

18 Best Things to Do in Juneau

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10 Best Things to Do at Denali National Park

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Alaska & the Inside Passage

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• Vancouver, British Columbia to Seward, Alaska Seward, Alaska to Vancouver, British Columbia
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• Day 2 Scenic Sailing: The Inside Passage
• Day 3 Ketchikan, Alaska, United States
• Day 4 Sitka, Alaska, United States
• Day 5 Juneau, Alaska, United States
• Day 6 Skagway, Alaska, United States
• Day 7 Icy Strait Point, Alaska, United States
• Day 8 Scenic Sailing: Yakutat Bay
• Day 9 Valdez, Alaska, United States
• Day 10 Seward, Alaska, United States
• Day 11 Seward, Alaska, United States

Skagway, Alaska, United States

Skagway was once the gateway to the gold-rich Canadian Yukon and is set in a stunning glacial valley. One remnant of its mining past is the narrow gauge railway that follows the original Yukon trail to the historic White Pass high in the surrounding mountains. Completed in 1900 as a means of transit for prospectors to reach goldfields during the Klondike gold rush, the route is preserved as a heritage railway. About 100 of the town’s buildings date from the gold rush era. Legend says that the town was named for a mythical woman who turned herself to stone at Skagway’s bay.

Shore Excursions

Historic Skagway & White Pass Summit

Discover Skagway’s colorful past during a scenic drive through town and up to the famous White Pass summit.

Scenic Yukon by Road & Rail

Delight in stunning mountain scenery as you journey across the White Pass summit and into the Yukon.

White Pass Summit by Vintage Rail Car

Retrace the steps of the Yukon’s fortune seekers in their 19th-century quest for gold.

White Pass Summit by Luxury Rail Car

Board a luxury rail car for a journey back in time to Skagway’s late 19th-century gold rush.

Skagway by Street Car

Step into the world of Martin Itjen as you board a restored 1920s bus for an entertaining tour of Skagway.

Klukwan Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of Chilkat Valley and the Tlingit people during a visit to Klukwan.

Wilds of Alaska by ATV

Explore the backroads of Alaska during an exhilarating off-road ATV excursion through the Chilkat Peninsula.

Haines Wildlife Safari

Discover magnificent wildlife and inspiring natural views during an excursion through the Chilkoot Valley.

Wilderness Kayaking Experience

Paddle around picturesque Chilkoot Lake in a kayak during this idyllic excursion into the wilds of Alaska.

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve by Raft

Raft down the Chilkat River while experiencing the incredible beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Nine Holes at the Valley of the Eagles Golf Club

Enjoy a leisurely round of golf at the Valley of the Eagles Golf Club, located on the banks of the Chilkat River.

Chilkoot Trail Hike, River Raft & Summit Drive

Follow the gold rush trail of a bygone era, winding your way through its tranquil beauty.

Rock Climbing & Rappelling

Scale the smooth granite walls of White Pass during a rock climbing and rappelling excursion in the Alaskan wilds.

Alpine Lake by Canoe

Paddle through the waters of Summit Lake and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this pristine setting.

Flightseeing & Glacier Walk

Soar high above the wilderness as you take to the skies on a helicopter flightseeing tour.

Dogsledding & Glacier Flightseeing

Fly to the Denver Glacier to join man’s best friend and try your hand at Alaska’s favorite sport—dogsledding.

Chilkoot Trail by Bike

Pedal through the stunning Alaskan wilderness during a bike ride along the historic Chilkoot Trail.

Haines Wilderness Odyssey by Jet Boat

Cruise the Chilkat River on a leisurely jet boat ride in search of spectacular vistas and local wildlife.

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Viking Excursions How much $?

By stormz , August 22, 2020 in Viking Ocean

Recommended Posts

Considering a Viking Ocean Cruise.   They emphasize the cruise fare is “all in”.  When I look at the excursions on each itinerary I see one excursion is noted in the upper corner as “included”.   So all the others cost extra $?   How much typically? It appears the all in just includes a bus tour of the town? Thanks for any info.

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We have been on many Viking Cruises & as stated, the included is typically a 2 or 3 hour bus or walking tour of the town. We have done a mix of both included & paid Viking tours depending on the port. The cost of the paid tours really varies depending on the length & what it entails. Some tours are less than $100 and some $200 plus. We have also had good luck getting together with fellow cruisers on Cruise Critic and booking tours through local tour operators. Do your homework & explore the options available to you. Good luck.

Viking's included is an overview.  If you've seen the port before it might seem a little lack luster but it's not suppose to be an in depth look into anything in particular.  I loved the included in Alborg, Denmark and P   Croatia.  Both walking tours, maybe form 3-4 hours from my recollection.  I did the included to Berlin.  A 12 hour excursion: 3 hours on train to the city and then about 1.5 hour bus tour with a couple of stops and then about 4 hours on your own before being transported to the train and back to the ship.  It was fine since we had not been but some thought is wasn't enough to bother.  I would suggest another excursion that I feel had more to off but I was trying to save money so I thought it would be fine,  Now I know.  Dubrovnik, Croatia and Stavanger, Norway were nice walking tours that included some time in a museum.  Just depends on your interests.  The do have other excursions for a fee and you can compare these to other excursions for the same place On Trip Advisor or Viator to see if you think the price falls in line.  They do have other extreme excursions that could break the bank but that again would be if you think it has the value.  I have also arranged local tours I have found that are different than the ships or maybe the excursion I wanted on the cruise was not available by the time I could book(always a V cabin)

22 minutes ago, Dauntless said:   I loved the included in Alborg, Denmark and P   Croatia.  

"P   Croatia" was suppose to be Split,Croatia. 

Each port has an "Included" excursion, which is guaranteed. While many of them are walks or bus tours, during our cruise we found the included varied significantly from the Marquesas Islands, where it was a timed tender ticket for a non-guided wander ashore, to Safaga, which was a 10-hr tour to Luxor, and Komodo, which included the Komodo Dragon walk.

Compared to other cruise lines, we found Viking's optional excursions were more reasonably priced.

In many ports, when not booking a private tour, we could book the included and an optional. 

Before our Trade Routes of the Middle Ages cruise for September 2020 was cancelled we had picked all of the optional excursions we were hoping to book. They added up to just over $1600 for the 2 of us which I found rather shocking. This was not choosing an optional in every port but only in certain ports. It probably depends on the cruise and what you wish to see.  

Peregrina651

Keep in mind Viking is not a budget cruise line and those who sail with Viking expect the tours to be of the same quality as the accommodations. While the prices are in general reasonable for what you get, Viking still is not contracting for the cheapest tours in town. They work with the most experienced providers in each port and they expect the best bang for our bucks.

Spent nearly $2,700 on Homelands optional tours. $600 of that was 2 days TJ Travel in St Petersburg...Excellent!

RED not worth the $; do it yourself  

BLUE Exceptional!

14 minutes ago, philw1776 said: Spent nearly $2,700 on Homelands optional tours. $600 of that was 2 days TJ Travel in St Petersburg...Excellent! RED not worth the $; do it yourself   BLUE Exceptional! 2017 prices!!!

Which of these were half day and which were full day? How many days were you in St. Petersburg?

Two days in StP.  Private tour with 12 of us in a Mercedes van. Guide flawless english and 27 yr old PhD from the Hermitage. Two Russian lunches. One basic and one fancy, for contrast. Loved both. Saw everything long days. Flam on the Flamsbana railroad was all day with bus to & fro.  Excellent. Vasa included a nice lunch but easily done by self. Pulpit Rock major price ripoff vs ~$65pp from locals. Problem being not a lot of margin on return time with local.

CORRECTION: Loved the Palmse Manor tour. Included delicious family style lunch and a walk thru woods to the seacoast 

Copenhagen, Roskilde  & Marlbork were single prices, others for 2.

Thanks good info, so I can expect to add another $1000 easy to our budget if we choose non inclusive tours.    Any guess on the average age of Viking Ocean guests?

in the end it appears the excursions will all be first class.  When you add it all up you can look at regent and crystal and be close to same Total costs?

Agree w above posters.   Have had many good experiences with the Viking included yours on both ocean (Estonia especially) and river.  But  It's all about doing your homework and making priorities.

Thanks to fellow CC'ers, for our Homelands cruise, we learned about booking the Pulpit Rock via Rodne Cruises on our own and saved $$$.  Only thing we did not get was the waffle 🙂   Likewise, how easy to do the Vasa Museum on  our own  - took the hop on hop off boat cruise!  

Likewise, we did not take advice to do a smaller private tour while in ST/ Petersburg and very much regret it. We tend to DYI, but sometimes its worth the peace of mind to book through Viking - especially if you have to worry about getting back to the ship.

Planning, and doing your homework, can make your trip very enjoyable.  I like to pull out the map, and get a sense of how much bus travel etc is involved.

For our (Viking) Trade Routes of the Middle Ages trip in 2019, many people opted for the Paris trip from LeHavre. Left at 7 am, back about 9 pm as I recall.  It was a long trip, from what I was told.

Sunflower & The Scientist

We liked using the included tours as overviews, so we booked them at ever port along with whatever tour looked good to us.  There were times we cancelled the included and just headed out on our own.  Some were really good, others not so much.  We found that once onboard, the talks they gave the day prior to a port, were most helpful.  We were able to see what the included was going to offer us, and judged from there. 

I would highly suggest watching the daily port information talks.  

lackcreativity

Viking often arranges free shuttle service in a port, and for us, that combined well with the included excursions. We often stayed after a tour for time on our own. I am not certain what excursions will look like when cruising resumes, so that time on our own may not be possible at first.

With Covid 19 it seems most lines will want to retain control over the excursions rather than have passengers do their own thing.   Refer to the first MSC cruise that just went out.   It would not let a family back on as they wondered off on their own. Just a reality of this pandemic.

16 hours ago, philw1776 said: Two days in StP.  Private tour with 12 of us in a Mercedes van. Guide flawless english and 27 yr old PhD from the Hermitage. Two Russian lunches. One basic and one fancy, for contrast. Loved both. Saw everything long days. Flam on the Flamsbana railroad was all day with bus to & fro.  Excellent. Vasa included a nice lunch but easily done by self. Pulpit Rock major price ripoff vs ~$65pp from locals. Problem being not a lot of margin on return time with local. CORRECTION: Loved the Palmse Manor tour. Included delicious family style lunch and a walk thru woods to the seacoast  Copenhagen, Roskilde  & Marlbork were single prices, others for 2.

Somebody beat me to the waffle.

11 hours ago, stormz said: With Covid 19 it seems most lines will want to retain control over the excursions rather than have passengers do their own thing.   Refer to the first MSC cruise that just went out.   It would not let a family back on as they wondered off on their own. Just a reality of this pandemic.

And then again, by the time Viking returns to operations, the situation will have changed and creating a bubble may not be necessary. In the meantime, I am happy to let the other cruise lines do the experimenting.

Also, there is no doubt in my mind that a lot of the advice to fellow travelers that we have shared in the years in this forum will be obsolete once we start sailing again. A goodly portion of what we tell people about how Viking handled things before the pandemic will change and we will be waiting with baited breath for the first returnees to share their experiences.

On 8/22/2020 at 12:29 PM, stormz said:     Any guess on the average age of Viking Ocean guests?  

It probable depends on the itinerary and the time of year.

When we cruise in the summer of 2019 (Empires of the Mediterranean), many of our fellow passengers were teachers on summer break .

I estimate the ages ranged between 30 -  60 for the teachers on board.

As a general rule I would say Viking passengers are older than what you might find on more mass market lines.  No kids and most Viking cruisers are experienced travelers who have sailed on a number of other lines.  I would guess around 65 as the "norm" with 30 definitely being the lower end.  But then there was a couple in their 50s on the Inaugural World Cruise on their very first cruise.... A World Cruise.  Might as well start at the top. 😎

9 hours ago, Peregrina651 said:   And then again, by the time Viking returns to operations, the situation will have changed and creating a bubble may not be necessary. In the meantime, I am happy to let the other cruise lines do the experimenting.   Also, there is no doubt in my mind that a lot of the advice to fellow travelers that we have shared in the years in this forum will be obsolete once we start sailing again. A goodly portion of what we tell people about how Viking handled things before the pandemic will change and we will be waiting with baited breath for the first returnees to share their experiences.  

Very true. There is hope, however, given the success of the NBA Bubble--not a single case.

On our two Viking cruises (Cuba in October, 2018) and Trade Routes (October 2019), I'd say the average guest age was in the mid 60s, maybe a little older.

For what it's worth, my brother won't take Viking as he prefers to sponsor his kids and grandchildren, making cruises a mini-family reunion. 

My non-scientific observation: river cruises median age = 65; ocean cruises = 60.

Viking Ocean demographics are older. Guessing avg age mid 60s.  Silversea cruises were noticeably younger, and not because of kids.

35 minutes ago, philw1776 said: Viking Ocean demographics are older. Guessing avg age mid 60s.  Silversea cruises were noticeably younger, and not because of kids.

I would have agreed with you 2 years ago, but there was a big difference in my last VO cruise (late November, 2019). More honeymoon couples and 30-somethings. In fact, my 42 year old cousin had one booked for this summer - he is rebooking. I think some of his friends went or are going too.

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Far East & Alaska

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Combine Far Eastern Horizons and North Pacific Passage for an epic 37-day journey. From imperial treasures to the magnificent natural beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, you will accompany locals as they reveal what they love most about the varied places they call home. A crossing of the historic Pacific Ocean links these diverse cultures, and overnight stays in five ports let you explore fully and take in the nuances and complexities of the North Pacific.

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