Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Experience Puerto Vallarta in all its glory. Travel along the main highway to Old Town, along the city’s cobblestone streets for a stop at City Hall and the Cathedral of the Lady of Guadalupe. Pass the elegant area of Conchas Chinas on your way to the southern end of town. Finally, stop at a charming restaurant for a complimentary beverage before heading to Old Town for some shopping. You’ll be assigned a time to rejoin your coach for the return trip to your ship. You may choose to stay in town on your own or return to your ship. Note: Short pants are not permitted in the cathedral. less

See the best of Cartagena with a tour of the city accompanied by local guide experts. Your first stop will be a view of the imposing military fort of San Felipe de Barajas situated outside the walled city and considered to be the most outstanding feat of Spanish military engineering in the New World. You'll then continue to the historic Colonial city characterized by its walls which took 194 years to be completed. These immense walls enabled Cartagena to defend itself from the numerous attacks of English pirates and other invaders. You’ll be able to walk through Spanish Colonial architecture, some of the best preserved in South America with its imposing merchant’s houses, narrow streets, flower bedecked balconies, civic buildings and beautiful churches. The city is dotted with many squares and public spaces which are now home to sidewalk cafes and restaurants where locals and visitors relax and enjoy the magic of this city. Your next stop will be Bocagrande, which in contrast with the old city is modern with high rise apartment complexes, hotels and restaurants, a great place for visitors. You’ll then have a brief stop for shopping at the Pierino Gallo shopping center famous for its wide variety of jewelry shops. Note: There is a 30 minute continuous walk-in old town. Bring comfortable attire, hat and sun block. less

Immerse yourself in the magic of Chiapas’s natural environments as you head off the beaten path to explore beautiful mangrove streams and lagoons. After being greeted by your boat captain, just sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views surrounding as you navigate through the waterways. Experience the wildlife, especially the region’s diverse array of birds, that appear along the way. Your guide will share information about the area’s eco-system and point out various species of flora and fauna. You may see pelicans, herons, ospreys, cormorants, hummingbirds, egrets, spoonbills, storks, turtles and much more. This nature reserve also provides a way of life to the local fishermen who use the same methods of catching shrimp and crab. You might have the opportunity to watch them at work as you float towards the end of your exotic journey. Note: Guests should wear a hat and comfortable shoes. Bring eco-friendly sunscreen and bug repellent. less

Head out with a prospector/guide in authentic 19th century dress for a historical tour of Juneau including the state capitol. Then, turn up the road to Gold Creek and “Last Chance Basin”, where Joe Juneau and Richard Harris struck gold in 1880. In a secluded setting alongside Gold Creek your prospector shows you how gold panning is done. Then, it’s your turn, as you learn how to expertly work the pan with helpful tips and advice. You’re guaranteed to find gold! And, all that glitters is yours to keep. Around you are remnants of the original buildings of the Alaska-Juneau Mining Company. You’ll learn about the mining techniques that were used and more about the quest for gold that is so much a part of Alaska’s history. Take home a souvenir Gold Claim Certificate, all the gold you find, and an appreciation of what it was like to seek your fortune in the wilds of Alaska more than a century ago. The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is an all-you-can-eat adventure in a unique outdoor setting that’s been grilled to perfection for more than 30 years. Savor the aroma of wild salmon, grilling slowly over fires of fragrant alder wood while enjoying entertainment provided by local musicians. The sumptuous spread has something for everyone. Choose from salmon, chicken, baked beans, wild rice pilaf, potatoes and other sides, salads, beverages and desert. After dinner, roast marshmallows over a campfire. Stroll through forest to Salmon Creek waterfall. Visit the trading post to purchase a souvenir. less

Take a short drive to the Dolphin Center at the Nuevo Vallarta Marina. After a brief presentation, head down the dock to a 14,500-square-foot holding pen and as you stand waist-deep in the water, you’ll be introduced to the beautiful Pacific bottlenose dolphin in a hands-on, up-close encounter for approximately 15 minutes. They are as curious about you as you are about them. Take full advantage of this unique opportunity to pet them gently and you’ll even receive a dolphin kiss. During your encounter you’ll also learn ways to ensure their preservation and foster the well-being of these amazing creatures. After your activity with the dolphins, enjoy a complimentary lunch at the dolphin marina and free time to purchase souvenirs or photos to remind you and your family of this incredible experience. Note: Participants must be at least 1 year old. Infants 1 to 3 years of age can join at no charge in the arms of a participating adult. Children age 4 to 8 who are less than 4’ 5” in height may also participate in the arms of a participating adult, but they will be charged. Do not wear jewelry or sunscreen lotion as it may be harmful to the animals. Wear your swimsuit under your clothing and bring a towel. Lockers available free of charge. less