Alaska Cruises: Excursions

Take a scenic drive up the spectacular Klondike Highway and into Canada’s historic and beautiful Yukon Territory. Your mountain guide and mini bus with big windows will transport you up the original White Pass “Trail of ’98.” Along the way, you’ll be greeted by the rugged expanse of land that both Infuriated and enchanted gold seekers over 100 years ago. Pass waterfalls, glaciers, and peaks before crossing the mountain cradling the 3,292 ft. summit and following a jewel-like string of lakes that feed the Yukon River.

In the Yukon, you’ll visit the village of Carcross. Rich in history, you’ll be charmed by its picturesque log cabins, hotel and General Store. Further north, see the “smallest desert in the world,” and then continue to Emerald Lake, truly a gem in its green valley setting. Lunch is a home-style affair at the Spirit Lake Lodge, famous throughout the Yukon for its wonderful pies. You’ll then return to Skagway with plenty of time left for exploring the historic downtown or shopping.

Note: This excursion enters Canada, all participants are required to carry a valid passport.

Your guide will meet you in the Fish House Excursion Lounge to escort you to the tram departure area. A leisurely walk will take you to board the tram for this 2 1/2 hour tour where you will discover firsthand the natural wonders of the wild southeast Alaskan rainforest. Along with your local guide, you'll ride a covered wheeled- tram approximately two miles through an old growth rainforest and along the shoreline where Chichagof Island meets the bountiful waters of Icy Strait. Your guide will describe the ecological and cultural significance of the forest's unique plants and animals and how the island's Native Tlingit people are bound to its rich landscape. Upon your return to Icy Strait Point gather at the Heritage Center Native Theater for the Tribal Dance and Cultural Legends performance where outstanding performers will entertain and educate you by sharing their culture and history through song, dance and storytelling. Note: We recommend you bring a raincoat. less

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

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.

Note: For foreign language translation this tour utilizes a GPS activated audio narration. Guests wear comfortable headphones that deliver the complete tour narration in their chosen language. In addition to German, French and Spanish, the audio narration is also available in Dutch, Japanese, Mandarin and English.

Your host will meet you at the Fish House Excursion Lounge for a short walk to Alaska's Wildest Kitchen. Here you'll experience a 1 1/2 hour hands-on tasting session hosted by an experienced Alaskan fisherwoman, wilderness chef and storyteller extraordinaire. Learn what sets Alaskan seafood apart, including local fishing, preserving and cooking techniques. Watch an expert filleting demonstration and grill your own sample of the catch of the day over our custom-made alder-wood grill. You'll enjoy a tasting menu which may include fresh and canned salmon dishes, grilled halibut and seasonal herbs and vegetables. One alcoholic beverage and printed recipes included in the tour. If you love food and are interested in hearing about a unique Alaska woman's way of life, this is the tour for you. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. less

Begin your Ketchikan adventure with a "splash" as you ride on Alaska’s only "Duck" tour. A modern, state-of-the-art amphibious vehicle will take you through the rustic streets and literally into the scenic harbor for a fun-filled adventure that will showcase all the best that Ketchikan has to offer. See picturesque Whale Park with its beautiful flowers and antique clock; travel by the salmon ladder on Ketchikan Creek, viewing the spawning grounds and live salmon in season; loop through the Totem Heritage Center, where you’ll discover and listen to tales of Alaska Native totem poles and stop at Creek Street and learn of Ketchikan’s colorful past and salty beginnings. Pick up your feet and put your hands in the air as you drive (literally) into Ketchikan’s bustling harbor. You’ll motor down the channel for up-close views of local fishing canneries, seaplane docks and Ketchikan’s waterfront community. See neighboring islands and the spectacular scenery of Southeast Alaska’s temperate rainforest. Bald eagles are everywhere when in season and there’s always a chance to view other local wildlife. Your guide will entertain you on your journey aboard this Coast Guard-certified and inspected amphibian that doubles as a boat and a bus. Note: For more details about this tour please visit: www.akduck.com
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