Pacific Coast: Juneau, Skagway & Ketchikan

Get ready for amazing views and wildlife like nowhere else as you sail through the islands of Alaska's Inside Passage.

Thanks to its abundant rainfall, Ketchikan is surrounded by some of the world's most lush wilderness. Its Tlingit Indian name, Kach Khanna, means “spread wings of the eagle.” Chances are you'll see one of these magnificent birds perched atop a Sitka tree during your Alaska cruise to Ketchikan (Ward Cove).

Juneau has been called “Alaska's peak experience,” certainly due in part to its unparalleled glacier viewing from such places as Tracy Arm Fjord, the Juneau Icefields and Glacier Bay National Park. Kayak up one of the area's many protected waterways, go flightseeing, tour historic downtown or try your hand at panning for gold. The majestic Mendenhall Glacier lies nearly 12 miles outside Juneau, a treck worthwhile.

In a single year from 1896 to 1897, this remote town along the Inside Passage grew from a few tents to a city of 20,000 gold seekers. Today, travelers come in search of other riches – to experience yesteryear along Skagway's charming boardwalk lined with buildings that replicate those Gold Rush days.

Seattle sits on the slip of land between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop for this oh-so cosmopolitan city. Soar up the futuristic Space Needle and experience the views atop this stunning landmark created for the 1962 World's Fair.

Founded by millionaire John Jacob Astor in 1811, Astoria was the oldest settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. Today, this lovely harbor town boasts original Victorian homes that still line its beautiful and superbly maintained streets. Climb to the top of Astoria Column for a truly breathtaking view.

Come see why so many people end up leaving their hearts in this city by the Bay. It's a place where little cable cars rise up steep hills to reveal magnificent vistas and winding streets meander past candy-colored Victorian homes. With so many sights you may want to plan a few extra days to take it all in.

Take a cruise from San Diego or make it a stop within your itinerary. It's not just a cliché – San Diego really does have some of the most enjoyable weather anywhere. This Southern Cal city also offers 70 miles of soft-sand beaches, a world-renowned zoo, spectacular golf course, and memorable destinations like Coronado, La Jolla and Del Mar.