When listing the ultimate cruise destinations in the world, Alaska simply cannot be ignored. Combining cultural intrigue with landscapes that boggle the mind, this state offers so much to the adventurous cruiser, and that’s why we’re here to list our favourite seven experiences that await in ‘The Last Frontier’. In…
Read MoreWhen listing the ultimate cruise destinations in the world, Alaska simply cannot be ignored. Combining cultural intrigue with landscapes that boggle the mind, this state offers so much to the adventurous cruiser, and that’s why we’re here to list our favourite seven experiences that await in ‘The Last Frontier’.
In this guide, you’ll discover some of the best activities and experiences available on a cruise along the Alaskan coastline, as well as answers to some of the most common questions about this iconic cruise.
Alaska is beloved because of its wilderness, and with so much untouched nature, guests can expect to come across some sensational animals throughout their voyage. Perhaps most impressive are the bears that roam Alaska, ambling through pine glades and scooping fish from rushing rivers during the salmon rush each summer. Black bears, brown bears and grizzly bears all call Alaska home, and some ports visited by ships like Azamara Pursuit even host guided tours to find these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
In addition to bears, there are thousands of bald eagles soaring the skies of Alaska, so there’s a chance of spotting these giant birds at any time. Ports like Juneau also provide the chance of seeing 20-tonne humpback whales breaching the surface to say hello.
So much of Alaska’s landscape is remote, meaning much of it isn’t easy for guests to walk or trek through. That’s why there are ample opportunities throughout the state to go on flightseeing tours, boarding a small plane or helicopter to marvel at the wintry peaks and lush forests from above.
An Alaskan cruise can visit plenty of locations where flightseeing is the best way to make the most of the landscape. Some of North America’s best reserves, such as Glacier Bay National Park, are ready and waiting to be enjoyed from the best vantage point possible.
Cruisers seeking an adrenaline rush will be in their element on an Alaskan cruise thanks to the abundance of whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities available. Hear the rushing water in your ears before taking on the rapids yourself, feeling the speed of the current and appreciating the magnitude of the surrounding landscapes as you proceed along these unforgettable thrill rides.
Of all the places along the Alaskan coast where you can plunge into the fun, our pick of the bunch is Mendenhall. Here, you can become immersed in nature with Mendenhall Glacier looming large above as you take on the rushing rapids.
At Bolsover Cruises, we offer an incredible range of Alaska cruises that combine unbelievable wilderness with the luxuries of modern sailing. Explore our itineraries and sailings today to find the Alaska cruise you’ve always dreamed of.
Perhaps nowhere else in the world allows cruisers to lace up their boots, step off their ship and wander into untouched nature like Alaska. Breathe in the fresh air as you explore the steep yet serene cliffs of Tracy Arm, home to waterfalls and the famous Sawyer Glacier, or go in search of sea lions along Icy Strait Point’s 1.5-mile walkway.
Hiking experiences in Alaska can also bring guests closer to local communities. In Ketchikan, you can walk along the historic boardwalk of Creek Street and visit the restaurants, shops and museums that tell the stories of Alaska and its people.
Even cat people won’t be able to resist the beauty and power of Alaskan Malamutes and Siberian Huskies when they head out on a dog sledging excursion. These intelligent and loved dogs have pulled sledges in Alaska since the early 1700s, and you can experience their teamwork and speed firsthand.
When you aren’t mushing along the smooth tundra, get ready to meet the dogs and their owners, getting to know how they live and what it takes to train such a strong, adorable unit!
You can walk, boat and sledge through Alaska, but did you know that you can also take the train? Railways have played an integral role in the development of the USA and Canada, and cruisers can settle in for a journey that chugs between towering mountains and through tunnels that open out onto endless forests.
At Bolsover Cruise Club, we’re particularly fond of the Yukon Route Railway, which guests can access from the Skagway port stop. This experience takes them on immersive routes through glaciers, waterfalls and rivers, offering photographers a dream day out.
During select times of the year, Alaska provides cruisers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the swirling colours of the Northern Lights. From late August to late April, the chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis is at its highest, making nights spent out on the deck of your cruise ship an exciting event in itself!
Many of the world’s best cruise lines offer voyages to Alaska, including:
Determining the best month to cruise Alaska depends on the experiences you’re looking for. July provides the best wildlife spotting opportunities and weather conditions, while the shoulder seasons of May and September provide better deals and quieter voyages. Many experiences have peak periods, so we recommend browsing the itineraries at different times of the year to find the one that best suits your preferences.
Alaska cruises can range in length, from mini cruises setting sail from Vancouver, Canada, to voyages over 15 nights that stop along various points along the Gulf of Alaska. Determining the perfect cruise length comes down to identifying the destinations and experiences you want to prioritise, as well as your budget and time availability.
Get ready to book your next cruise getaway with all of the major cruise lines available here at Bolsover Cruise Club. If you need help booking a cruise, please don’t hesitate to contact us. A member of our team will be happy to assist you.
Embark on a cruise where unbelievable experiences are a daily occurrence with voyages to Alaska. Browse Bolsover Cruise Club’s variety of Alaska cruises and set sail on your next adventure.
