7 Alaska Cruise Destinations

Introduction to Alaska Cruise Destinations

Alaska is a paradise for cruise lovers, offering a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. An Alaska cruise is an unforgettable experience, with numerous destinations to explore. From the stunning glaciers of Tracy Arm Fjord to the vibrant city of Juneau, there’s something for everyone on an Alaska cruise. In this article, we’ll delve into 7 Alaska cruise destinations that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Juneau - The Capital City of Alaska

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is a popular stop on many Alaska cruises. Surrounded by the Tongass National Forest and nestled between the Gastineau Channel and the Coast Mountains, Juneau offers a mix of urban charm and wilderness adventure. Visitors can explore the city’s historic downtown area, visit the Mendenhall Glacier, or take a whale-watching tour. Juneau is also a great place to try some fresh seafood, including salmon, halibut, and crab.

2. Glacier Bay National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular destinations on an Alaska cruise. The park is home to over 1,000 glaciers, including the famous Margerie Glacier and the Lamplugh Glacier. Visitors can take a boat tour or kayak through the park’s stunning fjords, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot humpback whales, sea lions, and puffins, while nature lovers can hike through the park’s lush forests and meadows.

3. Skagway - The Gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush

Skagway is a charming town with a rich history, situated at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage. This former gold rush town is now a popular stop on many Alaska cruises, offering a range of activities, including: * Hiking the Chilkoot Trail, a historic trail used by gold prospectors * Taking a scenic train ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad * Visiting the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park * Exploring the town’s many shops, restaurants, and museums

4. Icy Strait Point - A Premier Destination for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Icy Strait Point is a remote wilderness destination that’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Located on Chichagof Island, this former cannery village is now a popular stop on many Alaska cruises. Visitors can: * Take a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life * Go bear viewing at the nearby bear sanctuary * Hike through the island’s lush forests and meadows * Learn about the local Tlingit Indian culture at the Huna Cultural Center

5. Ketchikan - The Salmon Capital of the World

Ketchikan is a charming town with a rich fishing heritage, situated on the southernmost point of the Inside Passage. This vibrant town is known for its: * Fresh seafood, including salmon, halibut, and crab * Historic Creek Street, a former red-light district turned shopping and dining area * Totem pole parks, showcasing the local Tlingit Indian culture * Nearby Misty Fjords National Monument, a stunning wilderness area with glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls

6. Tracy Arm Fjord - A Stunning Glacial Destination

Tracy Arm Fjord is a narrow, 30-mile-long fjord that’s home to the stunning Sawyer Glacier. This glacier-calving destination is a highlight of many Alaska cruises, with towering mountains, waterfalls, and glaciers. Visitors can take a boat tour or kayak through the fjord, spotting wildlife such as bears, eagles, and whales.

7. Hubbard Glacier - The Largest Tidewater Glacier in North America

The Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America, located in Disenchantment Bay. This 400-foot-tall glacier is a highlight of many Alaska cruises, with its stunning blue color and glacier-calving activity. Visitors can take a boat tour or kayak through the bay, spotting wildlife such as seals, sea lions, and whales.

🚨 Note: When visiting these destinations, be sure to respect the local environment and wildlife, and follow all guidelines and regulations to minimize your impact.

As you can see, an Alaska cruise offers a wide range of exciting destinations and activities. From the stunning natural beauty of Glacier Bay National Park to the vibrant city of Juneau, there’s something for everyone on an Alaska cruise. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, an Alaska cruise is an unforgettable experience that you’ll always treasure.

In summary, Alaska cruise destinations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and culture, making for an unforgettable experience. With its stunning glaciers, fjords, and mountains, Alaska is a paradise for cruise lovers. By visiting these 7 destinations, you’ll get a taste of the best that Alaska has to offer, from the vibrant city of Juneau to the stunning Hubbard Glacier.