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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 Destination Shore Excursions as a cruise ship traveler, you’ll love the benefits of discounted shore excursion tickets through Viator. They beat cruise line prices, avoiding inflated commissions. Plus, you can make informed choices by checking authentic reviews from fellow travelers. It’s not just savings; it’s a smart way to enhance your cruise experience with top-notch excursions and activities!

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for Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Sitka

Salmon Fishing Fun

TRADITIONAL KETCHIKAN SPORTFISHING

For those seeking hands-on experiences, try your luck at salmon fishing. Learn the art of casting your line and enjoy the thrill of a potential catch.

The Baranof Fishing crew enjoys how easy it is to exceed a family or small group’s expectations when they charter their own boat, as a private Alaska fishing charter allows Baranof to completely customize a client’s experience with their timetable. We can depart the dock and head back to our marina completely on your schedule, and we have a plethora of options available to make your trip unique.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour

If you’re a fan of the Discovery Channel’s hit TV show ‘Deadliest Catch,’ you saw the Aleutian Ballad, a commercial fishing boat, escape a rogue wave in the Bering Sea. On this fisherman’s tour from Ketchikan, hop aboard the Aleutian Ballad and navigate through the tranquil, protected waterways of the Inside Passage with a seasoned fishing crew, and marvel at the variety of marine creatures caught in barrel pots and hauled up on deck. Touch some of the catch, take photos, and listen to entertaining sea lore. Alaskan fishing cruise from Ketchikan Travel through the beautiful Inside Passage aboard the Aleutian Ballad Watch the crew prepare long-line barrel pots and 700-pound king crab pots See king crab, box crab, prawns, rockfish, eel, octopus and more as they’re hauled on deck Look for other wildlife like whales, sea lions and eagles Listen to amazing stories about life as a commercial fisherman in the wild waters of Alaska Choose one of several departure times, from early morning to mid-afternoon

Ketchikan Kayak Eco-Tour

Navigate the waterways and islands of Clover Pass on a small-group kayak eco-tour from Ketchikan. Along the way, spot native Alaskan wildlife that inhabit this protected region where the thick foliage of the Tongass National Forest meets the sea, from sea lions and migratory humpback whales to eagles’ nests and exposed starfish colonies. Paddle with two guides and a small group of no more than eight people for a more personalized wildlife-watching journey. Small-group kayak tour from Ketchikan Paddle through Clover Pass, surrounded by Tongass National Forest Explore the unique ecology where northern rain forest meets the ocean See starfish, sea urchins, and other marine life in vibrant tide pools Look for sea lions, humpback whales, eagles, and other Alaskan wildlife No kayaking experience necessary Includes pickup and drop-off from the cruise port or hotels.

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

Alaskan Cultural, Culinary and Lumberjack Show Experience

From Alaskan history and native culture to a culinary tasting, enjoy all aspects of what makes Ketchikan unique! Begin your tour with an action-packed performance at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show where these world champion athletes wearing spiked boots and hard hats, compete in 12 athletic events that utilize seven-pound axes, six-foot razor-sharp saws, tree climbing gaffs, and souped-up chainsaws. Join us in Saxman Native Village for a culinary experience to learn all about Alaskan ingredients and their uses in a modern cooking environment. The culinary tasting will offer a unique setting to enhance your culinary knowledge and expand your palate with true Alaskan ingredients. The culinary demonstration is complemented by a cultural showcase of Alaska Native art. This tour also includes a scenic drive throughout Downtown Ketchikan. The Driver will point out historic sights and popular landmarks.

Read more about Alaskan Cultural, Culinary and Lumberjack Show Experience

Misty Fjords Seaplane Tour

Misty Fjords National Monument is a remote, road-less wilderness area that can only be reached by air and sea. This floatplane flightseeing tour takes you into the heart of the park where you can see untouched areas of Alaska far from the hoards of cruise ship passengers that flock to more accessible areas. The tour includes a water landing—a unique experience only a floatplane can provide. Explore Misty Fjords National Monument on a floatplane tour Noise-canceling headsets enable you to ask questions as the pilot narrates the journey The 6-passenger planes guarantee a window seat for everyone Enjoy convenient port pickup at the Ketchikan Visitors Bureau (cruise ship berth 2)

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’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 Shore Excursion

While in Skagway port, spend the day discovering the treasures of the Yukon, Canada’s westernmost territory. This comprehensive tour travels along the Klondike Highway by minibus, with mountain scenery that will impress you. Many photo stops are made and wildlife sightings are a good possibility. Once in Carcross area, visit the Caribou Crossing Trading Post, with its wildlife museum and a dogsled camp. Enjoy soaking up the wild beauty of southeast Alaska, the northern tip of British Columbia, and the Yukon Territory on this Skagway shore excursion. Note: All travelers must bring their valid passport. Full-day shore excursion of the Yukon from Skagway by minibus Lots of scenic photo stops along the Klondike highway route Good potential wildlife sightings Gorgeous green Emerald Lake, Tutshi, Tagish, and Bennett lakes Unique Carcross desert Browse through exhibits at the wildlife museum Learn about the history of the Gold Rush and nature of the area on this narrated tour Covered by Viator’s worry-free policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship.

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.