Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Enjoy a magical evening cruise that features guaranteed whale viewing! Following a short ride to scenic Auke Bay, you’ll board a waterjet-powered catamaran specially designed for wildlife viewing. Relax in the warm, spacious cabin as you set out to explore Stephen’s Passage, a pristine marine wilderness surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This is a favored summer feeding ground for humpback whales. Once whales have been sighted, your Captain will maneuver the vessel to provide you with exceptional viewing and photographic opportunities. You’ll be amazed by the grace of these ocean giants as they slowly arc their massive tail flukes into the air. Be sure to bring a warm jacket to wear on the topside observation deck, the whales are often close enough to hear them breathe. If conditions allow, an underwater hydrophone will be deployed so that you hear their incredible “singing”. Your onboard naturalist will explain the behavior and habitat of the humpback whale and other wildlife you may encounter, including killer whales, sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, bald eagles and more. While enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Alaska’s long evening glow you’ll be treated to a variety of appetizers, desserts and complimentary beverages. A no-host bar offers wine, beer and soda for an additional charge. The operators of this excursion guarantee you'll be able to view at least one whale, or you will receive $100 cash as you disembark the vessel. Don't anticipate a refund - whales have been sighted on every tour conducted in the past 10 plus years. Note: This tour is only available for guests on Norwegian Pearl and 2 sailings in September for Norwegian Jewel. Wheelchair access may be limited - for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. less

Be among the select few, under a limited U.S. Forest Service permit, to travel by canoe for an unprecedented experience near the face of the majestic Mendenhall Glacier. Paddle across Mendenhall Lake, navigating past icebergs, surrounded by one of the richest samplings of Alaskan wildlife you’ll find anywhere. Birds including arctic terns nest in the towering cliffs and eagles, goats, salmon and bears are all common sights. Then, venture within a safe distance of the massive, awe inspiring face of the living Mendenhall Glacier. Grab a thrill ride by skirting the base of the beautiful and powerful Nugget Falls. Then refuel with a snack of Alaskan-style fare for the return. You’ll make your trip in a traditional Tlingit-style canoe, an exceptionally stable 28 foot watercraft, with all modern safety gear supplied. Because of the close approach to the glacier face, the U.S. Forest Service tightly controls the number of participants. Be one of the lucky few to experience this one-of-a-kind adventure. Note: Participants must weigh at least 40 lbs. All guests must be able to participate in paddling the canoe. Paddling duration is approximately 1 1/2 hours. Outerwear is provided at the site. less

Hold on for a safe but exhilarating river-running experience! Begin with a scenic tour up the Mendenhall Valley. On the shores of Mendenhall Lake, receive protective raingear and life jackets and board your raft. Each holds up to twelve, and is rowed by an experienced guide. Or, if you’re looking for a hands-on experience, join a paddle-raft team. Glide across the iceberg studded lake, marveling at the 150-foot-high, 1.5-mile-wide glacier face and set course downstream. The six-mile route combines meandering stretches with Class II and III whitewater. The rapids are perfectly safe, just exciting enough for beginners and appropriate for all ages. A treat for experienced rafters, too! Encounter river features such as Moon Flats and Pin Ball Alley. Where the river levels out, soak in the views of the riverbank, lush forests and 7,000-foot mountains above the valley floor. Learn about the natural history of the river. Be on the lookout for bald eagles, black bears, otters, seals and salmon during spawning season. At the haul-out, celebrate with an Alaskan-style snack. You can purchase a cup of “Martha’s Mendenhall Madness” to toast your adventure or an action photo of yourself as a lasting memento of a trip you’ll never forget. Note: Participants must weigh at least 40 lbs. Float duration is approximately two hours. Outerwear is provided at the site. During the float trip, there is a short portion which goes through Class Two rapids. Please note this is not a white water experience. Each raft carries eight to twelve people and is rowed by an experienced guide. This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. For more details about these tours please visit: http://www.bestofalaskatours.com/NCL/
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Juneau is a spectacular place of diverse, natural habitats from valley glaciers, to temperate forests and natural fjords. This exploratory journey introduces you to this pristine wilderness in an intimate setting with a Certified Naturalist Guide as your leader. Whale sightings are guaranteed on this small group outing combining a marine exploration with a gentle hike at the Mendenhall Glacier on a rain forest trail. Your trip begins with your guide sharing stories and perspectives as you travel out to the Mendenhall Glacier. A short hike takes you along a wooded path once completely covered by the massive glacier. Spend an hour exploring amid forested moraines and sweeping glacial landscapes—even track the glacier's recession over the past 100 years. This small corner of the Tongass National Forest is home to beavers, eagles, salmon, porcupines and black bears. Following a short drive, you’ll climb aboard an exploration vessel specifically designed for up-close wildlife viewing. The customized covered watercraft puts you eye-to-eye with the denizens that thrive in these protected waters. Humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, porpoises, seals and sea birds are commonly seen. Keep a camera handy as you travel from place to place or drift quietly to capture the behaviors and antics of these notable marine residents. The small group size of this tour ensures a personal and interactive atmosphere making the most of this authentic Alaska experience. Note: Participants must be able to walk on their own for over an hour covering a distance up to a mile. Infants must be carried in an infant backpack. We recommend you dress in layers and wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes. Walking distance is approximately 1.5 miles on an improved level trail. This tour operates in all weather conditions. Liability waiver required to be signed in the presence of the tour operator. Whale sightings are guaranteed or you’ll receive $100 cash back as you disembark the whale-watching vessel. All tour participants on this excursion are eligible to enter to win cash prizes in the tour operator's Capture Juneau Photo Contest. For more details please visit: http://ncl.stepintoalaska.com/ less

Get ready for an Alaskan wilderness adventure on the Takshanuk Mountain Trail in Tongass National Forest! ake the wheel of a 4X4 Kawasaki Mule and join your guides as you journey through spectacular mountains and forests. Start with a scenic cruise aboard a high-speed catamaran down North America’s longest and deepest Fjord to the town of Haines. After your safety briefing, you’re ready to board your 4X4 and start your adventure.

Get your camera ready to snap the breathtaking scenery including mountain streams, a cascading waterfall, a scenic alpine lake, and the occasional eagle or bear! At the meadow, take in the panoramic view of Lynn Canal, Chilkoot Lake and the snow-capped mountains. Stop at mountaintop lodge for a freshly prepared meal of Halibut and chicken meal, with all of the fixings! (Vegetarian meals are available with a 24 hrs. notice). Make your way back to the trailhead and board your bus for a short tour of Haines and Fort William H. Seward.

Note: Participants who are going to drive the Mule must be at least 21 years of age and must provide a valid driver’s license. Pregnant women or guests with back or neck injuries are not able to participate.

Experience Skagway with Alaska’s original city historical tour for an informative fun filled 90 minutes. Skagway character Martin Itjen came here looking for gold in 1898 and became the town’s most celebrated storyteller. He gave Alaska’s first motorized sightseeing tour on his “Skagway Street Car” for U.S. President Warren G. Harding in 1923 and delighted visitors for decades. Today, Martin’s tour lives on! Aboard your yellow 1927 sightseeing bus, your costumed “conductor” passes on a century of history, behind-the-scenes tales and stories.

Explore the waterfront and National Park Historic District, enjoy the panoramic views from the scenic overlook and have your camera ready for the recounting of the Soapy Smith gunfight at the Gold Rush Cemetery. Highlighting the history of this gold rush town and the pioneer families that built it, you’ll motor through the residential neighborhoods of Skagway, famous for its flower gardens. A stop is made in town for those who want to get off to shop or explore before the tour continues back to the ship.