Panama Canal Cruises: Excursions

Catch “gold fever” and experience what it was like to seek your fortune during Gold Rush days! Learn to pan for gold (and keep all you find!) and discover Juneau’s colorful mining heritage for yourself. Head out with a prospector/guide in authentic 19th century dress for a historical tour of Juneau, including the state capitol, en route to “Last Chance Basin”, where Joe Juneau and Richard Harris struck gold in 1880. In a beautiful, secluded setting alongside Gold Creek — only accessible under our tour’s special permit — 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 can choose to pan in the creek, or in the waist-high demonstration trough. Every one of all ages and those with limited mobility can learn how to pan and capture the full gold rush experience. 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, which at the height of production was the largest operation of its type in the world. 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 Orelove Brothers Gold Claim Certificate, all the gold you find, and an appreciation of what is was like to seek your fortune in the wilds of Alaska more than a century ago. less

Experience the magic and the mystery of the famed Yukon Territory. From the comfort of your motorcoach climb up the South Klondike Highway to the top of the White Pass, 3,292 feet above sea level. Enjoy the majestic peaks, waterfalls and glaciers on this incredible drive. After leaving the White Pass and the U.S.A.,you’ll enter Canada and the unspoiled beauty of the Yukon Territory. Admire the chain of lakes that form the headwaters of the Yukon River, explore the rustic town of Carcross, see the “world’s smallest desert,” and listen to the tales of the Klondike Gold rush shared by your guide.

Enjoy a delicious chicken BBQ lunch complete with grandma’s famous homemade donuts. Afterwards visit the Yukon’s most complete museum exhibit of local wildlife and onto Dog Musher’s Village to meet the mushers, racing dogs and puppies. Back in Fraser, you’ll board the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad for a truly unforgettable ride on this historic narrow-gauge railroad.

Note: All guests must carry a valid passport as this tour will be crossing both U.S. and Canadian borders.

A feast as grand as Alaska itself! The Gold Creek Salmon Bake is an event that’s been grilled to perfection for more than 30 years. Savor an all-you-can-eat adventure, in a unique outdoor environment you’ll find nowhere else. Arrive at a beautiful setting, in a lush rain forest alongside a creek, under translucent domes that protect you from the elements, rain or shine. Savor the aroma of wild salmon, grilling slowly over fires of fragrant alder wood. This sumptuous spread has something for everyone. Choose from grilled salmon, Cheechako Chicken, Chilkoot Baked Beans, Tongass Wild Rice Pilaf, Gold Rush Potatoes and a robust selection of other sides, salads and beverages. Beer and wine are available for purchase. Vegetarians, take note that there’s plenty to tempt your palate! Come back for seconds, or thirds, while a local musician sets a festive mood. And, just when you think you’ve had enough — bring on the blueberry cake for dessert! After dinner, roast marshmallows over a campfire. Stroll through the forest to lovely Salmon Creek waterfall. View the remains of the Wagner Mine and try your hand at panning for gold. Visit the trading post to purchase a souvenir gold pan or other memento. There’s plenty to do, and shuttle buses run regularly, so your visit can last as long as you like. Don’t return until your tastes have been satisfied and you’re filled with great memories! less

Have a fun time at Atlantis. Wade into the waters of one of the world’s newest and largest dolphin habitats where you will touch, hug, and even kiss your new dolphin friends. Watch as they show off their playful side through some of their favorite behaviors. This intimate interaction begins with an orientation and includes 30-minutes in the water. Let the dolphins of Atlantis welcome you to join in the fun. Wet suits, personal lockers, beach towels, and non-alcoholic refreshments are provided. You’ll receive an Atlantis map, which will allow you to take a self-guided tour at your leisure of the Ruins Lagoon, a recreation of the sunken streets of mythical Atlantis and the Dig, a replica of an archaeological excavation site. Enjoy complimentary soft drinks while sunbathing at Dolphin’s Cay private beach. Note: Bring your swimsuit. Participants must be at least 2 years of age. For children under 10 years of age, a parent or appointed guardian must participate in the program. Wetsuits are mandatory. Children must be able to comprehend and follow instructions. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a considerable amount of walking once at the resort. This tour has access to Dolphin Cay private beach to sunbathe and watch the dolphins only; however swimming is not allowed. For the safety of everyone, observers must remain on the beach and are not permitted to enter the water. Dolphin Observer tickets are sold onboard only. This tour is non-refundable. The transportation for this tour is by bus, approximately 25-minutes each way depending on traffic conditions. Guests participating on an Atlantis Shore Excursion must arrive at the place and time stated on the Shore Excursion ticket. Atlantis tour tickets will not be honored at the resort. There is a considerable amount of walking on this tour (approximately 0.4 miles). Duration of tour may vary. To ensure availability, dolphin excursions must be booked no later than 24 hours prior to the port call. Last minute sales will not be available. Prices may vary by sail date. For infant bookings please contact us at 1-866-625-1167 for instructions. less

Our tour begins when you board your special bus for a ride through the beautiful landscape of Roatan Island. Your driver will take you through the Coxen Hole Commercial District and while in route, share the history of the island with you. Drive by the Municipal Building, the Fire Station and the commercial heart of Roatan and see how the street vendors wheel and deal their products, pass by the fish market and continue on to The Stone House where you'll learn about ancient art. Continue on to the First Methodist Church in Roatan (build in the 1800’s), drive through the hills to West End Beach and stop at El Mirador to see the east and south end of the island. There you'll be able to take pictures of your cruise ship and Roatan’s beaches and reefs. less