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TRAVEL BLOG

Discover the Top 5 Alaskan Cruise Ports of Call

Amber Robinson

Cruising Alaska is like waking up in a dream, it is nothing short of miraculous. The untouched wilderness, dramatic glaciers, and wildlife make Alaska one of the most inspiring travel experiences. After exploring the region, I’ve come to love certain ports of call that truly capture the essence of Alaska. Whether you're drawn to its cultural history, spectacular landscapes, or thrilling adventures, these ports should be at the top of your list for an Alaskan journey. Let’s dive into the highlights of Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway and Sitka.


Alaska Shore Line

1. Glacier Bay: Nature’s Icy Masterpiece

When I think of natural beauty that is untouched, few places on earth compared to Glacier Bay National Park. This is considered one of Alaska’s crown jewels and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Picture this: your ship gliding through icy waters, towering blue glaciers surrounding you, some stretching over a mile wide.  Where the silence and stillness of the bay is only broken by the thunderous sounds of calving glaciers – where pieces of ice break off and crash into the sea.  Being able to watch it happen is an experience you will never forget and is nothing sort of awe inspiring.   



Glacier Bay view from the middle

 

Travel Tip:  Bundle up, grab your binoculars, and take in all the deck time you can. the wildlife here is extraordinary. Imagine spotting humpback whales breaching, sea otters floating by, or even brown bears roaming the shores. Glacier Bay is a pristine unspoiled wilderness—where you can truly connect with nature.



Glacier floating


2. Juneau: A Capital Full of Adventure

Juneau is a startling blend of vibrant culture and rugged wilderness. Nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, this city is full of adventure. The most popular attraction is the Mendenhall Glacier, just a short drive from downtown. You can either hike to the glacier's viewpoint or, if you crave a more adventurous trek, kayak across the serene waters of Mendenhall Lake to get closer to this icy giant.


Mendenhall Glacier

Whale watching opportunities are plentiful in Juneau. From May to September, humpback whales migrate through the area, and watching one breach is a highlight of any trip. I still remember my first whale watching tour—seeing a humpback breach just a few feet from the boat left me speechless.


Sizzle  Humpback Calf Breaching

And don’t forget to explore the town itself! Juneau has a charming downtown filled with local art galleries, quirky shops, and exceptional seafood. Treat yourself to freshly caught Alaskan king crab or salmon—it doesn’t get much fresher than this.


3. Ketchikan: Alaska’s First City and Totem Pole Capital


Ketchikan, often the first port of call when cruising, sets the stage for an incredible Alaskan adventure. The towering totem poles and Native Alaskan heritage have made Ketchikan a cultural and historical gem.   Ketchikan has some of the world’s oldest totems in the world.


Totem Poles

Once a bustling gold rush town, take a stroll down Creek Street in Ketchikan and discover its colorful history as a former red-light district. Perched on wooden stilts along the Ketchikan Creek, this boardwalk was once the heart of the town's nightlife. Today, the historic wooden buildings house charming local shops, galleries, and cafes. As you walk along the creek, you can also witness thousands of salmon swimming upstream during spawning season, offering a glimpse into Ketchikan's deep connection to the fishing industry.


Tongass National forest



For nature lovers, Ketchikan is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest—the largest national forest in the U.S. Explore it by taking a hike through the lush rainforest, or, if you’re up for something more thrilling, try a flightseeing tour to the nearby Misty Fjords.







4. Skagway: Gold Rush History and Stunning Scenery

Are you ready to step in a page from the history books, then Skagway is where you want to be! During the late 1800s, this small town was the gateway for prospectors heading to the Klondike Goldfields. Today, Skagway has maintained much of the gold rush charm, making it a fascinating place to explore.


Gold Rush Town

One of the best ways to experience Skagway is by taking a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This scenic railway was built in 1898 during the gold rush and takes a winding path with breathtaking landscapes of mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. As the train climbs the steep cliffs, the views transform to something spectacular—it’s like traveling back in time while surrounded by Alaska’s natural beauty. Skagway’s downtown is a designated National Historic District, with wooden boardwalks and old saloons that transport you to a bygone era.


Alaska RailRoad  Yukon

For those seeking adventure, Skagway offers fantastic hiking opportunities. The Lower Dewey Lake Trail is one of the most popular choices, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets.

 

Sitka: The Best of Russian and Native Alaskan History

Sitka is unlike most Alaskan ports, carrying a strong Russian influence adding to its unique charm. The town was once the capital of Russian America.  One of the top landmarks is the iconic St. Michael's Cathedral, a striking Russian Orthodox church in the heart of Sitka.

The Sitka National Historical Park, is a must see offering insight into the region's Tlingit culture. The park features historic totem poles and offers walking trails through a lush coastal rainforest.


Sitka

Sitka is also known for its wildlife. Sitka offers some of the best sea kayaking opportunities in Alaska. Paddling through Sitka Sound, you can often spot sea otters, seals, and even humpback whales.


 

The Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture

Each of these Alaskan ports has its own unique charm, offering a blend of history, culture, and incredible landscapes. Glacier Bay’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, Juneau’s adventure-filled opportunities, Ketchikan’s rich heritage and rainforest, Skagway’s gold rush history and hiking opportunities, and Sitka’s charm create a perfect balance for any traveler seeking the ultimate Alaskan cruise experience.


No matter where your cruise takes you, the memories you’ll make in these extraordinary places will last a lifetime. So, pack your layers, charge your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Last Frontier! We have several options and will be with you every step of the way!

Blog Written By: Amber Robinson

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Amber Robison

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Seize the day, steal the moments, and let me help you create memories through unforgettable vacation experiences

Whether it’s spending a week beneath swaying palm trees in the Caribbean, island hopping in the Mediterranean, or galavanting around Tuscany, I am here to map it all out, and make it happen in a way you never knew it could. Let’s get started!

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