Our Top Picks For Shore Excursions in Southeast Alaska

Introduction

Embarking on a cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of Southeast Alaska is a journey of a lifetime. While the mesmerizing scenery onboard is a treat in itself, the real adventure awaits on the shore. Let’s dive into the myriad of shore excursions that can transform your cruise experience into an unforgettable escapade.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Discounted Tickets on Popular Cruise Destinations

When you are planning an Alaska cruise, booking your excursions through trusted third party companies can save money and give you more choices. Three of the most popular and reliable options for cruise travelers are Viator, Shore Excursions Group and GetYourGuide. Each one offers discounted tickets, strong customer reviews and a wide variety of excursions in every Alaska port.

Viator

Viator is known for huge selection and great prices. Cruise travelers love being able to compare tours and read thousands of honest reviews from people who were just there. Prices usually beat the cruise lines and there are no inflated onboard commissions. It is an easy way to see all your options in one place and make a confident choice.

Shore Excursions Group

Shore Excursions Group is popular with cruisers because they focus on cruise friendly experiences. They offer full refunds if your ship cannot make it into port and they arrange excursions that fit ship schedules. All tours here come with a strong back to ship guarantee. If a tour ever runs late and you miss your ship, Shore Excursions Group will arrange and pay for all meals, accommodations, and travel needed to get you to the next port of call. They also provide one thousand dollars for each person in your party for the inconvenience. They work directly with local Alaska operators which gives you high quality tours at very good prices.

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is another excellent place to explore excursions. Their platform is easy to use and the customer reviews are extremely helpful. Many travelers enjoy browsing here because the photos, videos and descriptions make it simple to see exactly what the experience looks like. They also offer flexible cancellation options which is a bonus for Alaska where weather can change quickly.

Booking through any of these three companies is a smart way to stretch your budget, read real reviews and find memorable excursions that fit your family and your cruise schedule. You get more control, more choices and often better prices on the same tours offered onboard!

For Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Sitka

KETCHIKAN

Salmon Fishing in the Salmon Capital of the World

If you want real Alaska excitement, this is the one! Your guides have the freedom to go straight to the fish and the fleet runs fast, modern aluminum boats with top notch sonar and electric downriggers. When a salmon hits, that quiet troll instantly turns into pure adrenaline. This is classic Ketchikan sportfishing at its best and one of the most thrilling experiences you can book!

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour

This tour takes you aboard a real commercial crab boat where the crew shares what life is like on the Bering Sea. You’ll watch live crab pots come up, hear incredible stories from the deck and see the best eagle show in Alaska right from the rail. It’s authentic, energetic and one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Ketchikan!

You can book at alaskacrabtour.com or call 1-888-239-3816 and mention code LaDonna with the cruise group when you call or enter LaDonna in the coupon code box online to receive a complimentary signed cookbook from me when you’re onboard.

Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour

If you want something peaceful, scenic, and full of wildlife, this kayak tour is a wonderful choice! You paddle through beautiful Clover Pass where the Tongass National Forest meets the ocean and it is stunning. Sea lions, eagles, starfish, even humpback whales can show up here.

The groups stay small, the guides are fantastic and no kayaking experience is needed. It is calm, relaxed and one of the prettiest ways to experience Ketchikan from the water. It’s an unforgettable Alaska moment!

Out to Sea Expedition

You’re going to love this one! Out to Sea Expedition is a small-group wildlife tour run by my friends Delaney, a naturalist, and her husband Eric. They create the kind of experience that feels personal and a little bit magical. You can see eagles, harbor seals, whales, starfish and all sorts of birds with wonderful photo moments everywhere you look. It’s a favorite with locals for a reason and a fantastic tour for kids, families and birders!

Visit OuttoSeaExpeditions.com or call 907-247-6441 to book. Use code KETA10 for ten percent off and be sure to let them know that LaDonna with the cookbooks sent you!

Mahoney Lake Off Road UTV Tour

This is pure Alaska adventure! The Mahoney Lake Off Road UTV Tour takes you deep into the Tongass National Forest on rugged backcountry trails with big views of George Inlet and the fjords. You ride in comfortable UTVs, stop for wildlife and follow the trail all the way to a quiet little lake tucked into the trees.

The guides make it fun from start to finish and the stop for smoked reindeer links with hot chocolate and coffee adds that perfect Alaska touch. It’s exciting, scenic and a fantastic choice for families!

Saxman Native Village Ketchikan Highlights and Lumberjack Show

This tour wraps two Ketchikan favorites into one unforgettable experience! You begin at Saxman Native Village where you see the beautiful totem poles, watch a traditional dance performance and learn the stories behind the carvings from people who carry this culture forward today. It feels meaningful and special.

Then you head to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show and it is pure energy! The athletes are incredible, the atmosphere is fun and the entire sixty minutes flies by. It’s lively, entertaining and a great pick for families who want culture, history and excitement all in one!

Distillery Tour and Signature Bottle Infusion Experience

This experience is such a fun change of pace in Ketchikan! You start inside the historic fire station with a look at how their small batch spirits are crafted, followed by tastings that showcase the flavors of Alaska. Then the real magic begins. You sit down with botanicals, herbs and spices and blend your own custom infusion bottle by hand.

Once you’re happy with your creation, you design your own label and bring your signature bottle home to enjoy with friends and family. It’s relaxed, creative and a wonderful option for adults looking to try something unique in Ketchikan!

Alaska Wildlife Safari and Sightseeing Tour

This tour gives you a little bit of everything Ketchikan is known for! You visit the salmon ladder, look for bears at Herring Cove and watch for whales and marine life at Rotary Beach. It’s a great mix of wildlife and scenery.

You also stop at Saxman Native Village to see the totem poles and learn about Tlingit and Haida culture, then head to Creek Street, the iconic boardwalk filled with salmon in summer and rich local history.

You finish with a smoked salmon or reindeer sausage lunchable. It’s relaxed, fun, family friendly and a wonderful all in one Ketchikan experience!

Rainforest Canopy Ropes and Zipline Adventure Park

Get off your cruise ship and your adrenaline going on this half-day shore excursion to a Ketchikan zipline adventure park. Soar through the Alaskan rain forest on seven ziplines and eight canopy ropes. This natural jungle gym includes suspended logs, rope bridges, a climbing tower and staircase, meaning thrill seekers of all experience levels will share in the excitement. Round-trip port transport included. Find outdoor excitement on ziplines, canopy ropes, suspended logs, rope bridges and a climbing tower Enjoy amazing views of Alaska’s treetops and waters down below All necessary safety instruction and equipment provided Covered by Viator’s worry-free shore excursion policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship

Read more about Ketchikan Shore Excursion: Rainforest Canopy Ropes and Zipline Adventure Park

Ketchikan Duck Tour

Get acquainted with Ketchikan on this 90-minute tour on a state-of-the-art amphibian vehicle that goes on land and water. Take a tour of the harbor, going through Tongass Narrows and then pass through the city of Ketchikan, stopping often to marvel at the beauty of it all, including the many gorgeous totem poles. 1.5-hour tour of Ketchikan with an amphibian vehicle Cruise through the Tongass Narrows, your guide explaining the history and geology of the area Driver around the beautiful town of Ketchikan and learn the history of the town from the guide Marvel at the many totem poles sprinkled around Ketchikan

Alaskan Bear Encounter by Land & Sea

The Neets Bay Bear Observatory is closed to the public without a permit. Our company has the exclusive rights to the permits which means that only a select number of guests will get to experience this. Guests will experience something few people ever will being in safe but close proximity to bears in the wild.

JUNEAU

Helicopter Dog Sledding

Experience one of Alaska’s most unforgettable adventures on this Helicopter Dog Sledding excursion. Fly by helicopter over the breathtaking Juneau Icefield, then land on a glacier where you’ll climb aboard a dog sled and glide across ancient snowfields pulled by a team of huskies. This once in a lifetime experience combines high flying glacier views with authentic Alaskan dog sledding and includes a back to the ship guarantee for peace of mind.

Helicopter Ice-field Excursion

Experience an unforgettable helicopter ice field adventure in Juneau. Soar by helicopter over the stunning Juneau Icefield, flying above dramatic icefalls and rugged rock formations before landing directly on a glacier. Step out onto the ice to explore, take photos, and snowshoe while learning about the glacier’s natural history from your guide. With incredible aerial views and time spent on the ice itself, this heli excursion offers a true once in a lifetime Alaska experience with a back to the ship guarantee.

Juneau’s Premier Whale Watching! – More time on the water!

Auke Bay, with its harbor of whale watching vessels, lies about a half-hour’s ride from Juneau. This whale watching trip saves you the trouble of getting to the harbor and back with a round-trip shuttle directly from your cruise ship dock or a designated meeting point. Includes courtesy shuttle from Juneau to Auke Bay’s boat harbor Departures nearly every half hour make it easy to fit tour into your schedule Views of Mendenhall Glacier from Brotherhood Bridge

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of Juneau’s most impressive natural wonders, stretching over 13 miles (21 kilometers). On this half-day tour, enjoy spectacular views of the glacier from the viewing platforms and walkways, and learn more about the mighty glacier at the Visitor Center. Then, set sail on a thrilling whale-watching cruise along the coast and look out for humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as bald eagles and blue heron. Magnificent views of the Mendenhall Glacier See humpback whales in their natural environment Hassle-free round-trip transfers from Juneau Choice of departure times throughout the day.

Mendenhall Lake Kayak Tour

Hit the Alaskan waters on this 3.5-hour Mendenhall Lake kayak tour in Tongass National Forest. Journey across the lake in a kayak with group members in your same expertise level. Maneuver around glaciers as you take in stunning sights of the lake’s natural beauty, and catch sight of wildlife as you go. Paddle by Nugget Falls and the 3,000-year-old Mendenhall Glacier. See native wildlife in their natural environment Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience Small-group tour Family friendly Free snacks included

3.5 Hour Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska…skip the crowds with us!

Get away from the crowds and experience Alaska’s grandest marine life from an intimate, 20-person vessel. Less disruptive to wildlife, you’ll get a front-row seat to the 49th State’s most beloved creatures—including whales, sea lions, eagles, and more. You’ll also get to scope out ice-blue glaciers, rocky shorelines, and hidden inlets from the comfort of the heated cabin or right from the catamaran’s bow. View Alaska’s best wildlife from a 40′ catamaran with wrap-around deck Follow a local naturalist’s narration to deepen your Alaska education Hassle-free pickup from the Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal Area Limited to 20 travelers, you’ll get a more intimate whale-watching experience

SKAGWAY

White Pass Summit Rail & Yukon Suspension Bridge Excursion

Experience one of Skagway’s most iconic adventures on this White Pass rail and bus excursion. Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad into British Columbia, then visit the breathtaking Yukon Suspension Bridge with sweeping views of the canyon below. Explore the outdoor museum with fascinating exhibits including mammoth bones, tusks and a tooth. Return to Skagway by scenic motorcoach with new photo stops along the way, all with a back to the ship guarantee.

Skagway Shore Excursion

Travel from Skagway into Canada on a scenic White Pass tour that climbs to over 3,000 feet with sweeping views stretching toward the Yukon. Along the way you’ll pass waterfalls, glaciers, alpine valleys, mountain lakes and snow capped peaks, with chances to spot wildlife. The highlight is a hands on dog sled experience where you’ll meet the dogs and puppies and learn what life is like for a Yukon musher. You’ll also try your hand at gold panning and hear engaging stories from the Gold Rush era. Transportation, guide, activities and dock pickup and drop off in Skagway are included.

White Pass Summit Rail and Bus Excursion

Experience the best of White Pass on this scenic rail and bus excursion from Skagway. Ride the historic train to the top of White Pass Summit, surrounded by dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and sweeping views. Continue by bus along the Klondike Highway with photo stops at Pitchfork Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. This combination tour offers classic Alaska scenery, fascinating history and the comfort of a back to the ship guarantee for peace of mind.

Ocean Raft Adventure

Experience the thrill of Skagway’s Ocean Raft Adventure as you explore Lynn Canal, North America’s longest and deepest fjord. Travel in a fast US Coast Guard equipped raft designed for comfort and safety while navigating along dramatic coastlines. Discover hidden coves, waterfalls, and remote beaches while watching for wildlife such as seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and mountain goats. With multiple stops for incredible photos, this high energy excursion offers unforgettable scenery and adventure, all with a back to the ship guarantee for peace of mind.

Yukon Dog Musher Adventure Tour

Experience one of Skagway’s most memorable adventures on the Yukon Dog Musher Adventure Tour. Travel by scenic motorcoach through British Columbia into the Yukon with a photo stop at Emerald Lake. Visit a real dog mushing camp for an immersive experience where you’ll learn about professional sled dog racing, enjoy a dog cart ride and share a Yukon style lunch. The tour also includes time at Caribou Crossing Trading Post, featuring Ice Age exhibits and local history, all with a back to the ship guarantee.

SITKA

Best Whale Watching and Wildlife Shore Excursion in Sitka

Experience Amazing Wildlife with a born and raised Sitkan! This personal tour will guide you through the breathtaking beauty of Southeast Alaska , teaming with migrating humpback whales, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, rafts of sea otters, lumbering brown bears, and perched bald eagles. This tour is perfect for families and photographers.

PREMIUM Sitka Scenic Tour

Skip the impersonal, large-group bus tour and explore Sitka on a small-group day trip to the city’s top landmarks, with a range of departure times offered to fit your schedule. Your guide, who navigates for you, brings you to four highly-rated attractions, including Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park. All entrance fees are included for your convenience. Visit Sitka’s top attractions on a day-long excursion Visit Silver Bay, Fortress of the Bear, the Raptor Center and more See totem poles at Alaska’s oldest national park Groups are limited to 10 for a personalized experience.

Hiking the Tongass National Forest

For the nature lovers and hikers, the Tongass National Forest provides trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness.

Conclusion

Southeast Alaska’s shore excursions are a kaleidoscope of experiences, each offering a glimpse into the region’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, these excursions will leave you with cherished memories.

FAQs

Q: Are these excursions suitable for all age groups?
- A: Yes, most excursions are designed to accommodate various age groups. However, it’s advisable to check individual excursion details for specific restrictions.
Q: Can I book these excursions on the cruise ship itself?
- A: Absolutely! Cruise ships usually offer excursion packages, and you can conveniently book them onboard.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Southeast Alaska for a cruise?
- A: The cruising season typically runs from May to September, with July and August being popular months for milder weather.
Q: Are these excursions wheelchair accessible?
- A: Many excursions provide accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges, but it’s recommended to check in advance.
Q: Can I expect to see glaciers on these excursions?
- A: Definitely! Glacial sightings are a highlight of several excursions, particularly in Juneau and Skagway.