Pacific Coastal 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.

Travel through Juneau’s downtown to the Mendenhall Glacier. Stroll the many walkways or enjoy the Visitor Center, then board your motorcoach for a trip to Macaulay Salmon Hatchery. Your hatchery visit will start off with viewing the lifecycle of the salmon in action. From May through mid-June you'll be able to feed salmon fry in the hatchery waters. From late June through September different species of salmon begin returning to hatchery facility to complete their lifecycle. The hatchery also boasts several exotic aquariums rich with Juneau area sea life and a touch tank that allows a more hands-on experience. From the hatchery your guide will drive you a short distance to the Gold Creek Salmon. From the hatchery your guide will drive you a short distance to the Gold Creek Salmon. At the Gold Creek Salmon Bake, wild Alaskan caught salmon is grilled over an open alderwood fire. Enjoy baked chicken, baked beans, wild-rice pilaf, a variety of fresh salads, corn bread, blueberry cake, and lemonade, coffee or tea. Beer and wine are available for an additional charge. Dine beside Salmon Creek, nestled in the lush foliage of Southeast Alaska’s rainforest, under translucent domes that protect you rain or shine. Afterwards, roast marshmallows over a crackling campfire and view the beautiful Salmon Creek waterfall; remnants of the historic Wagner Mine can also be seen. Return to your ship at your leisure aboard one of the Salmon Bake shuttle buses. Note: The salmon served is always wild Alaskan Salmon. This tour operates in all weather conditions. For more details about this tour please visit: http://www.bestofalaskatours.com/NCL/ less

This tour visits Juneau’s hallmark attraction, the Mendenhall Glacier. Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau and the city’s highlights as you make your way to Mendenhall Valley, home of the mighty Mendenhall. Upon arriving at the Mendenhall, your guide will point out many of the attractions that you’ll want to see during your approximate 2 hour stay. Included are scenic Photo Point and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center where you’ll want to take time to watch the short film about the Mendenhall and the 37 other glaciers that make up the Juneau Icefield. The area boasts several self-guided scenic trails that allow you to learn about the role the glacier had in carving the landscape. Meander through the Tongass National Forest as you explore the Moraine Ecology Trail and the Steep Creek Trail - the latter of which offers multiple views of wild sockeye salmon during the mid to late summer months. Each of these trails offers a different view of the Mendenhall through trees or along the shores of Mendenhall Lake. Due to occasional bear activity, food consumption is prohibited in the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. Note: This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. Wheelchair access may be limited - for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. less

This tour visits Juneau's hallmark attractions, the Mendenhall Glacier and Mount Roberts Tramway. Your journey begins with a narrated tour of downtown Juneau and the city's highlights as you make your way to Mendenhall Valley - home of the mighty Mendenhall. Upon arriving at the Mendenhall, your guide will point out many of the attractions that you'll want to see during your approximate 1 1/2-hour stay. Included is scenic Photo Point and the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center where you'll want to take time to watch the short film about the glacier and the 37 other glaciers that make up the Juneau Icefield. The area boasts several self-guided scenic trails that allow you to learn about the role the glacier had in carving the landscape. Each of these trails offers a different view of the Mendenhall through trees or along the shores of Mendenhall Lake. Next, you’re off to Mount Roberts Tramway and it's terminus at the 1800 foot level of Mount Roberts above downtown Juneau. Enjoy a stroll along an alpine trail and gaze at the vistas and distant waterways and islands. Visit the Nature Center and learn about the surrounding alpine ecosystem and be sure to stop by the raptor center. Inside the tram's main building you'll enjoy Native arts & crafts and goods for sale. Downstairs in the theater you can view a local documentary or have a snack at the Tram's cafe'. The Tram will always be your last stop, so you can either return to your coach for the transit back to your ship at the designated time, or spend as much time on the mountain as your port time allows. Note: This tour operates under a special use permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service. Wheelchair access may be limited - for details, please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking. less

Get ready to catch Dolly Varden, Sockeye and Pink Salmon on this one of a kind excursion. You’ll be met and taken to the small boat harbor to board your ferry for the journey to Haines. Keep an eye out for seals, whales and other wildlife as you listen to the stories of Skagway, Haines and upper Lynn Canal. Upon arrival in Haines you’ll be transported to Chilkoot Lake for your fishing adventure. There’s a maximum of 6 anglers per boat and everyone is in control of their own rod and reel. Experienced guides take care of all the baiting, netting and tangled lines so you can enjoy yourself fishing.

Keep a look out for some of the lakes locals, the majestic Bald Eagle and great coastal brown bears make this picturesque valley home and are fairly cooperative in posing for pictures. Be sure to bring layered clothing and extra film. “The fish you catch make the best pictures, the ones that got away make the best stories, and the time you spend make the best memories.” All gear, rods, reels, bait, lures, snacks, some rain gear, and safety equipment are provided.

Note: Participants must be at least 5 years of age. Fishing duration is approximately 3 hours. Alaska State Law requires a fishing license that can be purchased on the fishing boat for $20. Guests 15 and under do not need licenses. Fishing is conducted on a catch-and-release basis.